S«f pkOTf mm^^m^ sj.y '^^ ^ MMy^i ■Mi --.-\ W mm 'U ^a^d&i^^^; kkJ^ ).d^; c^ra ^5& iy^w' ■^k^L^ ^:^ ^1 Mm^ iWV^ .'5*4^4pS'5r,rfW; ^8S5wgwvwwuu ^' .^te^'y^^' ^/^ c^ |> Wim ^t-^;^ 'lo'^z aQBmr-r'^ m^^^t'^ ??/?i'f''1'^" 'Ht!'^: ^.n6h^, .>v.,^ . ;.C*>i.ft5 '^m^' ^^4^ v^-?. .• J^>^ /I -^ A ^ '-s, ^ _ ^^a-'^ « ^^^^#^ JOIEXAL OF HnRTIi rniRE. C01TA(iE GAEDEXER. C O H' X T R V Of E N T L E M .^ X A JCA>^\rrvi or ^^ XAIO^ G7 --. TJ.TX 'niimii iiiiii I c ■■» •»E._-_»w» i. *■»-■■ 43SS.)|r THE JOUKNAL OF HOETICULTUPiE, COTTAGE GARDENER, COUNT I^Y aENTLEM^N, BEE-KEEPER. AND TOULTRY CHRONICLE. A JOURNAL OF GARDENING, RURAL AND DOMESTIC ECONOMY, BOTANY, AND NATURAL HISTORY. CONDUCTED BY GEOEGE W. JOHNSON, E.R.H.S., and ROBERT HOGG, LL.D. THE FRUIT AND KITCnEN OARDEXS. by Mr. .1. KobRon, (iardcucr to Vii^count Hoimcsdale, M.P., Linton Tai-k; and Mr. E. LackhoTst, Egcrton Honse Gardens, Kent. THE FLOWEU GARDEN, liy Mr. G. Abbey ; " Ayishiro Gardener ;" Mr. T. Record, Gardener to Colonel Lloyd, Lillesden ; and Mr. J. Will«, .\sbbnrntaam Park Nnrscry, King's Rood, Chclaea. STOVE. GREEXHOUiSE, nnd WINDOW GARDEN, by Mr. K. Fish, G:.rdener, I'littcridgn Bni-j-, near Luton. FLORISTS' FLOWERS AND FLORICULTURE, by tko Rev. H. H. Dombrain. GARDENING C.\LENDAR, by Mr. William Keane. POULTRY-KEEPING, by Mr. J. E.lily ; E. Hewitt, Esq.; and L. WrigUt, Esq. PIGEONS, .IVIARY BIP.DS, &c., by "Wiltshire Rector; V/. A. Blakston, Esq., and others. BEE-KEEPING, bv T. W. Woodbtury, Esq.; "E. & W.;" and Mr. S. Bevan Foi. HOUSEHOLD AKTS, by the Anthorcss ol " My Flowers," and others. LIBRARY NEW VQkK BOTANiCaL qakuen. VOLUME XVIII.. NEW SERIES. VOL. XLIII., OLD SERIES. LONDON: rUELISIIED FOR THE PROPEIETORS, 17], FLEET STREET. 1870. INDEX. AhKBft-IVKWXY POfH-TRT ShOW. 887 Aiooiafl-prxpatniinft 840; d«curren« mollis not hiiwuriiiXt *^J AcclinintiHatioii al the antipodes, 17 AchilK-ii clavi-nna', propaffRtinp, 125 AohimpnoH (olinKe l»r«»wnrj. s7 Adcluiddr, a. AuttiMlia, naraonlnB at. A«IlnntiimH fur tal>lp decnrntion, IJO .^Cohtnt-a Kl<"ineratii, 2'-i7 Aurnvo xvIoniioimtliH. HO AtfricnUural (Koyal) Socioty'n vrizc- fHsay on furm iindUry, b'i: roDltry Show at Biirv SI. KdiiiuiKlH. iVJ , AtrricuUnnil (KovuD Sntiety of Ii'C- i land's HouUi-y S1ii>>a-. H'. -VJilnarvptiuiK varitiTitii Itir ciisinp.M": All.Ttiin Poultry Sli.>w. 117, \iy^ i AlovHia ritriodora. hiirdinccM ot, Sit* Alpine pliuttH tt«Qnr-(l. »30 AltrrnanihoniP, 9:»: for beiUinn, IM, 11) ri Alysaum, varicifatr il. 'iill Aumryl.iH— vurlcticM, 'Ji ; in a wann tcri^'nlioaHO. B.'.*i Amateur— who ih an '.* 61, I'ftt Amtilanchipr tiotrvapinm hb an oma- aientai trof, lyS : irnit an-** preserve, 137 VmorioAn Micht, \ii AiittchariH alBinintiuin, S7: destroy- in (f, l'i> Artdropd^inn fonnosns, 304 Antniono blli-ht. train oil for, 450 AnmiidH, 120: boildins;, 'init ; for ex- hiliition, -^HX ; in pots. +!!» \nfN. pri-vt'iirin-j thoJr rtltHckH, lOfi Appl.'s trri- in piyRpry, ll; Knsrmar>" Kufl^ct. lit) ; dwun. on l>oiit.-iii stock, li*4 ; fitocks 'or, 'iSi : seU'ct desHcrt, a43; for stand irdM. SOI; What is a dish of? 819; for fixhibUi7 ; praninK newly planted, 481 Apricot -calriirf, 71, 111, 140, 19".; aphlB on, H7 ; bnd'lini,' atorkB, H7 ; in or- rhard'houMfS, pill ; in pole, winter lrea'm'nt.2;<0; li h, trunnpliLuting. :it>;; bloHHoni-* nol sf»ttiiit;.y73 \rftnc.iria imbrica'ii dtcayin^, 103 Arb'itiiH. propa utini:. 411 AriBlolooliia (inldicnnii.aCS) Arundn cunspicuii. 'Ml \Hhford Fotillry Show, 169 \t»i)araKUS — makniK' bedn, 2H5 : in Franco, 424; culture, 440; forcini^', 482 Asplcnfnm inouantbemum prolifc- rum, 356 AflBociation for Advancement of Soir.nee, 216 Aubrietia Kra:ca variepata, propafiat- iag. 135 Ancuna japonten— pollen preHervinfj, 2'23 : potiinir. aOO ; its h;irdine«B, 484 Auirust, plants tbnvennn in, 173 Aviary, bnnimK' cnkf in, ;tiil Axe. how to hanu'an, :iM) ATialeas—after blooniinc, 13. It.'; pot- lini;, 67 : loavoa brounintr, placinK oat of doors, 14r> ; tbripti on, 181 ; leaves browno. Hoddin;* pliiDtrt, propnualjon and ma- J^ liiiKruirn', .')il. 144. 160; jrnuno for. M^ I'l : pitB fur, 161; yellow, 173; ^vinlor• i2 inc,Sl7 Beddniu'-ont early, its reRoUe, £91 Bedfebnry, 269 BeoB— Payne's hive improved, honey hnrvftst In SomersetBhirc, Litniriana in Jersey, queen's pscursions, 17 ; rtesertlnR their hives, driving, Ifl ; makinc an artificial swarm. d«- sertiun a unicomh hive, swarms iinltintf, 85; time of cjucm'H brced- inft, does scarcity of honey in the ppriuR induce swuiinlni?, conse- quences of selling foul brood, 38; IntnidinK, M ; invention of the bar- nnd-frame hive, doings in BuckinR- hamshire, uniting weak stockH. pre- wervinK spare conibp, W; Major .^Iunn's hive, honey liarveht, cnter- inif supers, 70; vugariew of. in I'erth- Hhire, foul brood or chilled brood? 71 ; in decayed hive, Payne's hive, lemovinfT to a. distance, 7i; rais* ini; LiRiirinn queens, massacre of drones, 90 ; eonseqiiences of »ellinii foul brood, xmitin;? swarnis, yenr'a honey hiiivest, a qiinsi-{|ueen, 91; lioncv liarvest. (iah's hive, W'i, 24*?, 4:tfi : "nenr Biiniin-jham, slock not H-varnied, 1*2; 8^\arnI dtsertinsf its hive, 100; queens of the ciinent. j year leudinj; oil" swarms, appropri- ] atinj; impressed wax. supers, 110: Htrenj-'tlM-uinf: a weak stock, pro- | tfctiiii: hives, limit in!T drone-pro- dnetinn, l'i!>: loris of queens, honey I discoloured, Invinif a stock esta- blished in a roof, consequences of Bollinff foul brood, ehanpnc tloor- hoards, 130 ; in a soda cask, Lifrurians al Blackheath, "black," queen de- crensinn in size, fefdin-; a stray swarm. 148; protect inp hives, flowers lor, 167 ; drine with a whito head, hives tenantL'Ss, uniting stocks, ro- movinj: supers, bumble, 168: Likni- rianihinsr an apiary, iss, 207; cheap queens, lf*s : what will happen? re- medy for stinr. 'i07 ; uot^s of expe- rience. 20S ; stocks of drivn, hive- protector, jndfrinp snpers of honey, iioney dificolourtd, 227 ; flowers fur, 228 ; awardinp prizes for honey in supers, apiarian notes, 247 : a late swarm ; commencing kocp- inff ; deserted hive. 268; drone- b eeding queen : excluding; f r'>m supers, 288 ; feedintr, in South I^an- eashire. fonl brood, eollateral hive, 821; past seasons, humble in Aus- tralia, UOj ; drivinc, feeding. 806; pollen or flour? deserting hives, brood undeveloiied, shifting hives, nwarding prizes for honey, flat ob- servatory hives, leedine. 342; ex- clndine queeen from super, vir^n honey, .judaiu^f supers, ants in Jiousc, feedJBg, not takirg food, 860; Mack queen and Lipnrian dionoa, awflrdintr prizes for honey, in Cheshire, yellow ])ollen. 378; Bupplyinpt wax. effects of vibration, Liffurian in Jersey, pollen or tlonr. mijmonetto for, consumption of honey, protectintr. S'.'G: reviving?, utilitv of artificial swnrma, 415; in Lanarkshire, 416; Fifeshire, 43:.; remo\-inc, 436: clerical Sunday ad- venture, midland counties honey harvest, 453; renin\nnp, Golding's Grecian hive, 454 ; in Nonh Lincoln- shire, protectinc, 471; in Scotland in 1H67, E^ryption, 433 ; hives, ma- hoRtmy, 4!>i Beet— leaves insect-entcn, 61: Sea- kale, uses of, 124 : Bed, as an oma- in( ntal plant, 420 Beixunia — boh\'ienpiH. 140; Veiteliii, 21N1 : wiiiterini?. 320; PrcstoniensiB for bedding, 368 ; Clarkei, 369 ; rose- flora. 461 Berberry hedge, 46fi Beverley Poultry Exhibition, 15 Bideford Poultry Sliow, 164^ Biennials define-!, 162 Bird ca^es, mites in, 36 Birds, to prevent destroying fruit tree bads, 483 Birmingham Rose Show, 23; Pooltrv Show. 374. 430, 452; Summer, 469; schedule, 802 ; sales, 321 : auction at, 412 ; Colunibarian Society's Show, 413 Bingley Ponltrj- Show, 1R6 Black Currant bushes nijfruitfal,51 Blandlordia croeea potiinir, ;156 Blind, tree« for, IW Bone dust as a manure, 2^ Bi>ok worm, 860 Border, plants for north, 429 Botanic (Koval) Society'B Shows, 7,23 ; in lft6H, 462 Botanic garden, first In England. 483 B»iugainvillft-a — wpectabilis culture, 856 : a gi(.'untic, 401 Bouquets— wedding, 106; plants for, 42U Boussingaultia baselloides. 467 Bowood, an afternoon at, 345, 364 Box edgmg, planting, 4M Boxes fur exhibiting cut flowers. 161 Brahmas— T'cr«uii crosfi-bred Brobmas, 286; phininge, 87h; and Dorkings, cross between, 416: cock, food lor; weak legged, 454; Light. 469; pln- mnge, dark cock, bouse for, 474 Bramble, variegated. 105 BrighoUKe Poultry Show. 206 iJriglitnn Poultry Exiiibition, 16; Ca- narv Show, H.'.O Brinbane Br>tanic Garden, 82 Bristol and ClilLou Poultry Show,2«fl, :i2i. •••-,:,, -.-.'M, m Broceoli — t'omibh, 13S ; protecting 40H, 111 Broodiness, overcoming, 8(W Br>anstone Park, 7!) Buckwheat iiw food for poultry, W Biide poultry Show. 70 Buff Cochins atBury, 110 Bolbs, 223 : potting. 201 : planting in borders. 801 : planting in beds, 319; leaving in the ground. 373; Dutch. 423 Bullmiis roots, storing. 389 Bullfm.h featherlesM. 248 Burnlcv Puultry Sliow, 147 Bury St. Edmunds, guide to, 13: Show, " Journal of HortieuUure" prizes. 6. HO; and Variegated Peiar- goniums at, 6 Buttcs-Cliauiuont, ?.^ CiBBir.ES. ri-fn iv, 14* ; niiTHi:, 240; new sprouting, 406; and Cole- worts, idanting. 407 ; Winnigstadt, 480 Cacti, how to grow tliem. " (.'ages, destroying insects in. 306 Caladiums-wintering, 340; in warm greenliuuse.Srie C.'iIceolariaH- failure of. 113, 156. 173, 182; euttings, 161, 300, 317: cultnre, 1S9, 235. 271, 2iM; wintering, 221; diseased. '.!'J2; shrubby from peed. 284 ; pisacomensis. 461 Camellias— unheiUihv, 67. 161 ; placing out of doors, 14.S: bnds falling, 339; grafting. 411 : Coutessa Luvinia Maggi rosea, 461 Camphor fur chickens' Tonntikin, IS Canaries— not singing, leu's cramped, 168: management, no6 ; hardiness of. 895; blind, 360; moi-tality nmon^, 416 Canker worm and other grubs, 253 Canna indica out of dg up, 26.'I ; fur exhibition, POl ; earthing-up. 316. 371 Centaurea candidissima, propagatini?, 873 Ceru^itium -- tomentonnm, propagat- ing, 115: cnltint,'s.20I Cestnim elegans. 140 Cheiranthns Marshulli, 355 Chelmsford Poultry Show, 304, 323 Cherry-tree lifting, 319 Chester Poultry Show, 245 Chrkens. beueflt to of change of food and water, 52 ; what are ? 448 ; drooping, 248 ; beat times for rear- ing, 841 Chilwell Kurseries. 832, 985 Chippenham Poultry bbow, 433 Chitteprats. 241 Cbristmas Roec propagallon, 3« ChristmaB, a few words eniUble icr tbiH, 475 ChrysanthemnmB— cnttiD(r«, 145, 4W; wintering, 389; iryringing. 373; Sal- ter's, Forsyth's, at Stoke NcwingtoD and Temple, 884, 887; nnder nortb wall, 891 ; Ralt€r'e JapimcKe, 419, 47H; leaves withering. 4i7 ; notes en, 439 Cinerarias, seed sowing, 87 ; for ao tnmii blooming, IKJ Cleaning in gardens, 854 Clematitt.H. 449: (or a greenhons«. 243: for July flowering, 'J39 ; propa^ gation. 411 Cleveland Poultry Show, 108 Climbers— for an arcade, 'i43 ; with or- namental foliage, 839; conscrvaior\ , 411 Clover, sowing \VliJte, 356 ('Inb-root. 176 Cochm-Chinas— f^nnaraon and Bn£. 393; forexhibitioD, 378; pullete taii- lesH, 451 Cockerel lame, 860 Cockscomb dann)ing. 125 Cielogyiie bumilis, 369 Cola\ jugosns, 200 Coleus— wintering, IMS; for table o*.cr- ration, 12I : VorsehafTelti cnlt'irt . 460; dampini; on, mannorato, 466 Colours, varying arrongfrment in flower gardens. i)68 Colunibarian (City) Soci. ty, 183 : North British Society, 2(5 *"ompoBts for varions plants, 390 Conilera'. manaKcnii-nt of hardy, .tSS Conoriiniom iantbinnm culture, 61 CouHervatory- heating a smaJJ. 311, 125 : unique iron, 62: d'tined, 145; ever- greens for roof, l62, 374, 411 Coping-hoards for walls, 243 C«rdonn— spiral, training, ?3, 160; low. 437 Cordyline indivisa damping off, 145 Corn <'ockte, poisonons to birds, 167 Cornish mystic bars, 175,213 Cornwall, lungnajre and cUmat« of, IK Correa— propagating, WO ; cardinoli*' cultnre, 484 Cottage - gardens — societies, 117; prizes fur, 135; Carthorpe, 477; »n autumn, 201 Cotswold Hill;*, trees, Ac., for, 3*^ I Cottingham Poultry Show, aotl Covcnt ibed fur, 419; fur winter and soiumer. 449 Cnmberland Poultry Show prizes, 415 Cuprcssns, Lawsoniana, Iranafilant- Ing. 250 ; maeroearpa. 458 CnrrantB— list. 87 ; cultnre of late. 96?. : pruning. 874 ; trees, pruning, 42rt Cuthill. Mr. J..S69 Cuttings -time for taking. 39; makinc and managing. 160 ; sea sand for, 182 : of fruit trec«». 467 CyanophvUum magniflcuni projin- gatioD,161 Cyclamen persionm, management of seedlings, li*j , Cymbidium Iluttoui.sa ***'■ C^tisnees— in a room, 874 ; propa ting, 840 Dahliar — pjEnrniTioK twelve pele«1.301 Damson trees unfruitful, 450 Dandelions on la'wn, 67 Daphne propagation, 411 Daubeny, death of Dr., ieii Davaliia canarieusis, dividin^^ H7 Dendrobium— BensoniiE, 461: Buller- ianum.HO; den8iflorum,403: nobile culture, 856 ; pulchellum culture, 467 Deodoriaation by dry earth, 9 Dewabury Poultry Show, 107 ; Trum- peter Piffeonti at, 130 Dianthuaes, i94 Dicksonia antarctica culture, 320 Dictamnus fraxinella albus, 51 Dish of Apples, what is a? 319 Dolly Pentreatli'a epitaph, 194 Dorkinf; Poultry Show, 472 Dorkings— cockerGl'G comb crooked, 37.S; Gr-pt, Viceroy of, 335 Elder — trees, pruning, 182; and its uses, 237 ; hemes and poultry, 374 Endive — wiutcriug, 316 ; blanching, 339 Entomological Society's Meetings, 47, 402, 424, 462 Entomological cabinet, to avoid mites in. 391 Epid^ndram Cooperlanum, 27 : cne- midophorum, 140: BrasavoliP. 200 Epimedium alpinuni, vm-. rubriun, 297 Erodium macradenimn, 200 Erythrina crista-galli culture, 411 Eston and Normanby Poultry Show. 147 Evergreens— for a porch, 51 ; Conifers, &c., plautiu'^. 183; in pots for bod- ding, 239; for beds, 390 Eucharis amazonica culture, 60 Eugenia ugni, propagating, 339 Exhibited fowls injured, 412 Exhibition stands lor flowers, 31 Exhibitions — jottiags at some, 38; pnzes at, 124 Farm, TROUBLES er a kew, 436 " Fai-myard Poultry." 323 Famworth Poultry Show, 217 Feathers quill-bound, 324 Feraery, climbers for, 204 Ferns- in glass cases, 81 ; lor a glazed porch, 51 ; infested by scale, 28* ; infested bv thrips, 284, itVIt ; pro- liferous, 276, 284, 315, 350, 405, 460 ; moveable house for, 234 : m War- dian case, 3i^5 ; in greenhouse, 856; packing for importation, 411 Figs— White Marseilles and De la Ma- deleine, 212 ; on standards, 2G5 ; ripun- iag, SOI: removing fruit, 391 Filberts not beuring, 301 Finehley Horticultural Society, 25fl Findlay, testimonial to Mr. B., 77 Fine-foliaged plants for flower-atand. 356 Fines for neglect, 407 Fire management. 46ti Finn, the Long. 277 Fish, Mr. D. T.. ackuowledgmont to by Royal Horticultural Society, 47 Fleas in poultry-houses, 54 Fltche fowls, 145 Florists' flowers defined, 467 Flower gardeni— spring-planting a town, 106: plan. 177; planting, 339 Flower gardening, w^inter and spring, Flower-pots, sizes explained, 242 Flowers— sweet-scented, 111; in Ame- rica, 260; some hardy, 382; to pre- serve cut, 396 Flies— traps for,202 : destroying white, 856 Forcing shrubs. Ac, 372 Fowler's insecticide, 3S2 Fowls— d>-ing suddenly, 110; cooked meat for, 130 ; times for feeding, crossme. IGS; for early and late laying, 3iXi ; food requirpd for, 392: exhibited injured, a94, 435 ; sendin" to exhibition, 396; profitable age, 416 : preparing for exhibition, 436 Frames, covering for, 302 French polish, 36 French breeds of fowls, 236 French fo\.ld, 236; choice of, ulcers in, 92 French Plums, 92 ■ ' ■ French and Eoglish gardening, 383, 421,443,453 Frogs in a tank, 167, 483 Frost affected by altitude, 275 Fruit— thinning, 21 ; growing,86 ; fla- vour of, 107 ; how I educated my taste for, 19'J; storing-room, 390, 48l': estimate of sizes, 4i)0: stoneless, 483 ; trees, for clay si>il, 86 ; summer- pnining and pinching, 123; cover- ing, 1S2 : time of transplanting, 192 ; traiucd near the gi'ound, 275; on wooden palings, 284 ; for North Durham, 302: crossing, results in 1867,307; in pots, 353, 371 ; for walla. 356.390; for S.E. aspect, 373; training slopinglv, 417 Fuchsias— winteiiiig, 302, 339, 340, 357 ; Dommiana, 443 Fumigating a vinery, 30 Game fowt.s. 14 : breeding, SI, 88 : shape of the cock, 33 : shape of the hen, 51; defects in shape, 52 ; weight at shows, CS: white wing feathers in Brown Red, 130 ; prepiiring for exhibition, 268: hen diaordered. 288; cross between Dnckwing and Black Red, 396: judging, 418; Indian, 416; judging by col»ur, 452, 4S-4 ; cock mu- tilated, 4li9 Game, trees, Ac. injured by, 444 " Game and OmamcntallBird Manage- ment," 22-3 Garden, re-arranging, 339 Gardeners' Koyal Benevolent Institu- tion anniversary, 8, 481 Gardeners — arc they amateurs ? 265; examinations, 855, 462 ; removal ex- penses, 465 Gardening. French nnd English, 190 Garrya elliptica fruiting, 315 Gas, heating bv,277, 419 Gaultheria Shallon, 423 Geese— time for selling, 306; feeding the London market, for 492 " Geology. Page's Text Books, ' 403 Geraniums or Pelargoniums, 391 Gesuera zebrina resting. 429 Ghent, International Horticultural Exhibition at. 27 Gitiaachillea-folia, rd Gishurst compound, 403 ; syringing Grapes with, 5 Gladiolus — iu pots, treatment after blooming,125; select, 234; Souchet's, 309; at home and abroad, 379; cul- ture in heavy soil, 414 Glass— walls, 39, 172 ; writing on, 441 ; for gardening jiui'poses, 455 Glazed structure, uses nf, 356 Gloxinias— hypocyrtiflora, 27 ; winter- ing, 125 Goa£ moth and its caterpillar 318 Gold fish, 324 Gooseben-ies— list, 87 : Show at North- wich, 96; tree prunintr, S74, 429; list oi heaviest, 427 : cuttings, 450 Grapes— Muscats diseased, 31 ; judg- ing, 37. 56. 75, 97, 139, 149, 234, 250, 291, 444; admitting front air to, 50; dis- eased, 67; spot on, 87,124; spotted and shrivelled, 144 ; rusting, 176 ; diseased, 182; mildew on, 199; cracking. 203. 221 : the R«v. H. Cot- tingham's, 216; not colouring, 242; Chasselas varieties, 155; Muscats shanking, 242; Bicane or Chasselas Napoleon, 344 ; Chasselas Napoleon, 273. 818, 330. 344 ; Eseholata. 2S5 ; Olivette Noire, 813: keeping, 820; in orchard-house, 339 ; various, 878; spotting and cracking, 428; preserv- ing, 449 ; rotting, 465 ■ Grape Vine, Practical Treatise on," 78 Grass— on heavy soil, 30 ; land mosey, 285; field, manure for, 242; edging failing, 356 " Grasses, British," 9 Grasses, list of ornamental, 411 Gravel wiilks, munturemcnt, ISO Green food for fowls, 36 Green fly, 119 Gi'een Gage unfruitful, 243 Greenhouse,heatiug from a kitrhener, 13: glass for, 124; defined, 145; centre bed in, 222; erecting, 222; eonsti-ucting lean-to, 265, 285 ; doub- ling its width, 301 ; evaporation- trou"h for, 301; tender plants in, 410; heating a small, 449; plants lor exhibition, 467 Griffinia Blumenavia, 200 Growth, promoting rapid, 306 Guano lor liedding plants, 51 Gueldre fowl, 248 Gueldres Rose ben-ies, 320 Guildford Poultry Sliow, 453, 470 Guinea fowls, rearing, 72 Guiseley Poultry Show. 160 G>-mnostachyum VerschalTelti cu4- ture, 356 Habrothamnus, eleganp,140: train- ixn, 182 Hackle, fowls', defined, 494 Hiiiifax Poultry Show, 184 Hnmbm-ghB,— cock's ta^I notched. • Golden - pencilled pullets, 36 ; deaf ear streaked, 168 ; pullets losing their tails, 416 ; plumage and comb of SUver-spangled cock, 416, 474 Hamburgh Pigeon Show, 167 Hampshire Oj-nithological Associa- tion, 377. 394 Harvey. Dr. "W. H.. 80 Hashugden Poultry hhow, 90 Hastings and St. Leonard's Poultry SJiow, 128 ; treatment uf a bird at, 168 Hatching, snceessful, 70 Hawk, securing, 248 Hay, two crops annually. 67 Hays's patent stove, 319; peat char- coal, 3^2 " Hearths and Homesteads." 2.'.7 Heaths-notes on, 216 ; lor August and November, 428 Heat-retaining compound, Spence'a, Kitchen garden, size for four persons, fence for, 242 ; forming, 4'2-t Heating two houses with one boiler, I7S; Jrom one fii-e, 373; from a kitchen boilei-, 484 Hedge, quick-growing shrub for, H-'lichrysums, drying, 143 \ Hous— with swelling, 130: an indus- trious. 145; obstinately broody, 267 ; with male habits, 324; deluding broody, 357 Herbaceous plants, descriptive list, 4, 40 Hereford Rose Show, 45 Hessle Poultry Show, 146 Hewitt, Mr. E., testimonial to, 162, 183.204.223, ^44,250 Hibiscus esculentus, 37:! Highland and Agricultural Society's Poultry Show, 103 Hippeastrum pardinum, 297 Holly hedge, cutting down, 319 Hollyhock— propagation and culture, 19 ; seed sowing, 223 ; wintering and propagating, 429 Holmesdale's Lady, poultry, 223, 377; sale, 412 Honeydew 124 Honeysuckle, insects on, 411 Hoof-pariugs for manure, 204 Honiets, 205 Horseradish— cultivation, 343; eradi- cating. 391 Horticultural (Royal) Society's Shows, 6; Committees, 7, 22, 98. 115, 137. 155, 174, 214, 255, 293, 347, 423 ; Burv Show, 42, 53, &4, 79, 369 ; "Journal of Horti- culture" prizes, 47; conversazione, 43: Sultan's visit, 64 ; results of ex- amination. 83 ! Variegated Pelargo- nium Show, 214; examination, 281; General Meeting, Country Meeting In 1868, 424; gardeners' ex.-imination, 445; Shows in 1868, 462 Horticultural Shows, prolonged, 236, 255,346; village, 203 Horticultural Societies meetings in July, 10; August, 83; September, 158; list of country, 64 Hotbeds, making, 212 Hothouse, heating a small, 102 Hot-water— apparatus, cleaning, 204; cistern, 355 Houdans, 33, 183; cock lame, 72; at c:ihibitions, 126, 146 ; suffering from a cold, 130 ; value of as a breed, 145 ; legs, 248: claws, 268: colour and characteristics ot, 324; pullet's comb, 396 : cross-breedingwitli, 436 Hyacinths— Prince Albert Victor, 200 ; in pots. 264 Hyde Park gardening, 253 Labels- FOR "Wakdian Case, '374 tree, 434 Laehenalia quadricolor culture, 76 Liehn majalis,297 Land's End, about the, 112, 132. 170 Larkspur— culture if Siberian, 284 double purple, 340 Lastrea rigida and dilatata, 87 Laurel bedge, cutting down, 161 Lavender for distillation, 242 La\vn— brown in simimer, 5J ; weeds on, 105, 161 ; removing moss from, 391 ; Daisies on, 466 Laying in winter, inducing, 72 Leaves— collecting, 3S6 ; iind grass for ' bottom lieat, 837; di-ying and pre- serving, 873 Leeches in a garden, 355 Leeds Poultry Show, 471 Leicester Poultry Show, 103 Leigh Poultry Show. 226 Lettuce— varieties of, 156; in winter, 3s:l ' Lice on fowls, 288 Lichfield Poultry Show, 226 Lilies, Belladonna and Guemacy, after flowering, 223 Lilium— Ruratum and giganteuro cul- ture. 266: giganteum otTsets, 67; lancifolium, 173 ; hardy, 124 ; lanci- fohum roseum potting, 374: longi- florum, hardiness of, 125; auratum bulbs decaying, 355 : Leichtlinii, 369 ; monadelphum, 4G7 Lilliesden,238 Lily of the Valley beds, thinning, 391 Limerick Poultry Show, 191 Linum flavtim, 204 Lithospermum fruticosum, propagat- ing, lor. Liverpool HorticuUuval Society, 402 Llimberis and its Ferns, 154 Loam defined. 145 Lobelia— ama^'ua and speciosa Lind- leyana, 33; compact plants of, 87; wintering St. Clair, 221 ; speciosa, hardiness of, 265 : cardinalis culture, 234; Little Gem. 329 Long Sutton Poultry Show. SOS Longtown Poultry Show, 490 Lycupudium denticulatum, 234 Ice — KEEPING THROUGH THE SUM- MER, 311, 347; storing, 406; collect- ing, 463 Illinois gardening, 274' Incubators— regulator, .'')4; rival, 33 Indian-rubber plant, propagating, 320 Insects, destroying, 457 Ipoma;a GeiTardi, 27 Ipswich Poultry Show, 106, 358 Iresine Herbstii — propagating, 223; wintering and propagating, 243 Ivy— training, 320; berries, sowing in a wall, 356 ; preserves walls, 373 J^ SMINE FL0WERI.ESS, 87 Jersey, notes in, 331 Jerusalem Artichokes, 240 July, plants in fiower iu. 96 June, flowers blooming in, B9 Keighlet Poultry Show, 164 Kendal Poultry Show prizes. 415 Kidlington Poultry Show, 2'jd Madagascar, legumes frosi, 411 Madder — culture, 390; growing in Assam, 478 Magnolia tripetala, 339 Maiilen trees defined. 465 Malt dust as poultry food, 454 Manchester Horticultural Exliibition, 175 ; implements at, 8 Manchester and Liverpool centenary Poultry Exliibition, 69, 109, 163, 187 Manchester Poultry Show, 183 Master and gardener, 197 Mathiola tristis, 302 McNeill, death ot Mr., 424 j Mealy bugs on Grapes nearly ripe, 8G Mfdhir leaves diseased, 50 I Mc-igle Poultry Show, 166 I Melbourne Botanic Gardens, 48 Melons— not setting, 14: culture, 66 spotting, 86; leaves curling. 161; growing without artificial heat, 194 ; seed, 320: for exhibition, 4 19 Mespilus, Snowy, as an ornamental tree, 133 : its fruit as a preserve, 137 Methylated spirit, how to use, 301 Middleton Poultry Show, 52,244 Mignonette in pots and as trees, 456 Milk-cooler and butter-preserver, 110 Mimosa budding, 356 Mistletoe, 476 Morley Poultry Show, 24C 3Ioss, prr^orving, 411 ilottrain Poultry Show, 1G5 Mulberry propagation, 411 Musa Cavendishii fniit damping, 411 Mushi-ooms — making beds in Sep- tember, 50 ; culture, 85, 432 ; growing in a cellar, 105 : watering bed with boiling water, 182; suit for beds, 319; making beds, 355,391; manure for. 411 Slussienda frondosa culture. 823 lilyoporum purvilolium culture, 161 Myrtle diseased, 221 Nails -TWO os one claw, 130; for training, 427 Nectarines - cracking, 124, 209 : shrivel- ling, 203, 242: trees, pruning, 265; iu pots, winter treatment, 290 Newport Poultry Show, 490 Nierembergias, 116; rivularis,33 Non-pa^-ment for poultry, 14S Northallerton Poultry Show, 287 North British Columbarian Society's Show, 473, 492 Northern Poultry- Club prizes, 395 North^ncli Gooseberry Show, 96 November, plants blooming in. 441 Novembers and Junes, meteorology of. Sou Nuneham Park, 291, S13, 351, 404 iijiicx. Nul IrcoB.plttii'iut.'. t ^CI OiKlUM roiiLTKY Show, 434 Octobor.pluiils liloomcil in, IMH Oil as an iiiBectiL-idi", al5 Okcford FiUimine. 3 OloaiiikT Ho\ver-l.uila (allinR, 302 . lOnciiliuni Liuicimnum and leucoclii- lum culture. itJ7 Onions — BowiiiK. 12'-; transpIunlinK Tripoli, 4IU „, . . ^,„ OranKes, horac-Krowu TiinKiermc. «o Orchard-lioun<», 2'>" : Bpiral cordons in, Hill use of li.irilcr, 'JM ; cxpcn- ince. 233: <-ultiir..'i!l, 303; 'reus in polB, TtV, '.IW ; mauaKeinent, 238, 3'-9 : wintcrini: trees, unslnltcryd, 3.17 ; deviations in culture, 33i ; closniu' early, 3W ; trees, tep-dreBsmg, 834; arrannement of, 391 " OrcJiard-UouBe, The," ICl ; angle o' roof, 105 , ^ ^ Orchard, standard trees for, 392 Orchids tor a t;rcenliouse, 801 Ormskirk and boulhporf Poultry Show, 12S „ . . 0rnithufjalamlli>i'80ule8aluuin, treat- ment after llowcrinR, 50 Oswestry Poultry Show, 237 OuUon Park, 152 Owls, food ror, IK) Oxalis comiculata rubra culture, 07 PKLARCONltJMS— f.'oa^t'ii"''^ C.ol- Paint, Db. de Brioi:'s, 199 Painting; garden structures, 172 Pampas Grass, propagating 374 ; trans- planting, 434 PandanuBcs. propaKating, oM Pansios- select list ot,S(i; Iransplant- ing, 265; from seed, 302 , Paris Universal Exhibition, 309; in- jured, 432 : report on dried and pre- served fruits and vegetables, 99 Paris — HuttcB-Chauiiiont, 367; gar- dens, notes on some, 401, 445 Parochial harvest festivals and liorU- cultural shows, 55 Parrot plucking itself, 30 Passiflora flowers not sotting, lb- Paul, Mr. Cleorgo, 48 Paulownia impcrialis transplanting, 181 Peaches— trees on a wooden lenei-, 30, S7; unnailing, 80: leafless, 201; and Nectarine scodlinga, 210 ; house for, 222 : pruning, 265 : border lor, 284 ; season ot 1867. 807 ; unhealthy 320, 339: easting their fruit, 3j8; on walls, 406; protecting. 467 ; grult- ing. 484; temperature for after stoning, 61 ; Prunus padus as a stock for, 182: and Nectarines on same shoot, 136 : glazing over, 242 ; winter treatment, in pots, 290: mon- strous, soil; stones splitting, 420; French, 423: out of doors, 489 in r'rance, 444 : red spider on, 449 Pea-comb defined, 223 Peafowls. Japanese, 416 i'ears- unfertile blossoms on dwarf, trees, 77; forcing in pots, 7b: insect ^ on leaves, 8C; onl^uiuce stock crack- . ing, 173.181: scale on, 182, 196,427; unfruitful, 221, 301 ; cause of crack- ing, 269 : leaves eaten, 284 ; for stan- dards, 801 ; largo, 316 ; lor, autumn, 355; repotting, 855; pruning, 874; for espaliers. 390 : influence ot stock over the graft, 399 : weight ot, 4(,0 ; ■ Irtlning, 428 ; rotting at the core, . 419: in Uaddingtonshirc, 477; ' 'Br>)wn Bourrc. gathering 181: • : Chanmontel, large. 310 ; Duchesse d'AngonlL>me, large, 401; Iluyshe s • ■ Victoria. 369 ; llivers' Summer Beurrc d'Aremberf, 815; Vioaj of Winkfield, spot on leaves, 124 Peas - earlv, sown in August, 14 ; re- I ' port on new, 24 : late crops, 28; for ■ maiket, 67 ; now, 99 ; for succession, 175. 411 : ■• Improved No. 1." 136 ; • ■ Pe.-iroe'8 Gardener's Delight, 133; Taber'a Earlv Perfection, 25, 116, • 152: Veitch's Perfection, 175 ■Pelargoniums —Variegated, at Bury Show, 6, 20. 80 : classification of, 20 ; '; for bedding, 38; proposed exhibition 'of Variegate.l Zonal, C3; 'Wills's Bronze Zonal, 86: wintenng in a cellar, 87 : Scarlet^ not flowering, Mrs. Pollock tui-ninjt green, 105 ; (Irving. 106 ; propagating and wmter- ing, 125 ; for bedaing, 1.55 : show of Variegated Zonal, 153: boxes torcut- ttings. 160. 161 ; show ot. 193, 203 ; wintering bedding. 204 : show of Zo- nal, 214 ; white, 222 ; bedding, 233 ; Zonal Queen of Uoses, 237 : Zonal for bedding. 843: taking up, 248; Luna, 347: propagating Mrs. Pol- lock. 818,399: Miss Watson. 351. 363: potting cuttings, 356 : wintering bed- ding. 862; bedding. 365; stopping seedlings, 873: cutting down scarlet, 874 : Bronze and Gold, 398 ; list ot Variegated and Zonal, 2.';3 ; Luna, wintenng scarlet. 265; (luali- ties of beddiug, 270; porpagutmg Mrs, Pollock, 275; stealing a t;L.XKOO.-.ilJ JIO LI,,,......,,.. branch ot, 277: propagatmB Go den Chain, 277, 311; tor bedding i, rich shaded soil, 2K5; wiateriu„ Zonal and other, 292. 302: Aiiiy Hogg,297 ; White Z.>nal,3lo : cutting down laie, 319 ; eultinas of budding, 320; sport of nurulng Bush, 820; selection of bedding, 320 ; iiualitlcs of bedding, 331: propagating Mrs. Pollock,335: grafting Mrs. loll'":;. 339, 460; propaKatlng, 419, 441, 4iJ, 484; cuttuigs, 420. 429; dissolved bones for, 429; inlluonco of parents, 457 Pens, exhibition, 288 Pentstemou stems, cutting, 449 Perennials defined, 162 Periwinkle uuvai-iegated, 221 Peterborough Poultry Show, 83 Pheasants -food for young. 72: eating their teathcie, 228,248; Golden, plu- mage fading, 324 : Kalege, 410 Philoperisteron Society, 821 Pigeons-diseased, 18, 284 : notes on Fancy, Ks ; canker in, 110 ; Trnm- petor, at Bewsbury Show, 180; at Hamburg, 167; diarrhtra in, lUs- eased, 108; food for, 228; scour in, 288; management of, 301; prevent- ing flight, 377 ; Fantails and Ttum- pelers,'878 ; trespassing, 430 Pigs, food for, 890 Pigstve, flooring, 54 Pihielea culture, 87 Pine Apple leaves brown, 80 Pinctuui. labels for, 484 Pinks-mule, 234 : Star, 87. Piping, extent a boiler will heat, 86 Pit-uses ot cold in winter, 1: alter cuttings, 14 : for bediliiig plants, 161 : constructing a protective. 301 ; lor wintering plants, 338; heatuig,3i3, 400 . ... Plant-case for wintenng bedding plants, 802 , „, Plant-house arrangements, 31 Planting, 299 Plants, two in one pot, 405 _ Platvcerium alcicorne, reuioving Ueatt fronds, 3.50 , „„. Plumage allecled by food, 301) Plumbago capensis pruning, •. 1 Plums-Coe's Golden Drop. .10; se- lect, 280; French, 232; up.us on. b7 : gnmming, 181 ; , trees nn- healthy, 320; unfruitful, 351; prun- ing newly phuited, 484 Plunging material, 374 Poa trivialis avgcntca elcgans, - Poison, anopbthegni about, 222 Polands, white crest of Black, 283 Polomoniuni caruleum vanegatum, •b Polypodium infested by thnps, 373 Polystichum lonchitis, 215 Pomological Congress ot France, 83, 230 Pond making, 406 Pooley's gi-ound tobacco, 192 Potatoes- experiments on, 20, 2», 4j , noies on, 57 ; planting m August, 84 1, „(, . ™».^.n'»,« Onl'lV in (.Om KkBmTa—Conlimud. 300 ; weight ot prize, 300 ; largest breed of. 878: fattening, 416; ex- cluding, 465; tor weight and profit, 474; shiuhs untouched by, 480 Radishes, sowing. 122 Railway charges for poultry, 374 •• lialn-Uow. When, and Why It is measured,'' 481 liuspiicrries-llsl, 87; pmning, ai8; eullure of late, 308 ; planting canes, HT, culture, 449; training, 4!.0; double-bearing, 479 Uuspbeiry vinegar, 72 llatB,2U8: ilrivmg away, 14S: exclud- in" 390: defending from, 407 Red" spiifer, reinedloB for, IIH ; on Vines, 105 : destroying, '203; in or- chard-house, '^21 Refrigerator, 110 Khododendvons — not flowerinff, I4j,, cutting down, 182, 2-23; Edgwor hi culture, 391 ; for cover planting, 850 , list ot, 411 ..... , lihubarb-ncwgigantic, eultnre, «ooli• erv,25: forcing, 411, 482 Khy'uchospermuui jasminoldes after flowering, SO Road and w alk making, 241 Rocket, double yellow. 222 : culture of the double, 95; double white; 151 Rondelctia Purdiei, '297 Roofs, training fruit trees on, 07 Koot-pruning, 128, 231, 309; tune for, Rosl-cuttings, 18 : the first 'Westeni Show, 45 : caterpillars on leaves, 50 . aphides on, 51; Hybrid Perpetunls a misnomer, 60; an ancient tree, 01 ; potting, planting on Manetli stock, Climbing Uevoniensis not flowering. noECS on, y, , i,t.u..,..,> ". r- ;• ' disease, 90 ; grownng early in Corn- wall, 138; culture, 153: the lUsease, 159; Carter's Ash-top Fluke, 102; storing 212. 292 ; diseosed, ■ 222: judging exhibited, 263 ;' early- and late, 302 : results of late planting, 846; storing seed, 410; obtaining early, 449 ; forcing, 482 Pot-pourri, 228 ,- -o. Poultry— exhibitions clashing. !.•>, oi. in h'mitcd space, 30; house good and cheap, 32 ; buckwheat as food, flooring a house for, 51; breeding, extensive, in small enclostnre, 72; produce. 100, 1'20, 117, •205; ^keep- ing profltablv, 110: French breeds ot, 145: over-supply of, 228; vexa- tions, 243 : injuring cxiiibited, 2Ci : cleaning for exhibition, '268 ; keeping extensively, 267 ; killing, 821; Jiee on 321: detieicnt time for jodging, 310: lecding, 800; food needed, 37s ; judging, 893, 429, 450, 407 : breeding powers, 436 ; in confined space, 4a4 ; distinguishing the sex of, 434 Poultrv-yard, My, 435, 486 I'roserves— insects in, 30 ; a new, 137 Primula intermedia eulture, 2'28: Chinese for Christmas, 406 Privet roeti in a border, 105 Prize for SIX plants in flower, 338 Protecting-a garden by trees, 891 : a flower garden facing N.. 392 : halt- hardy plants, 222 ; vegetables, 42a ; plants, 408.417,449, 404 Ptostantheranivea, 140 Pruaing-Bummer, 123,143; root, 123: trees and shrubs, 391 ; hardy fruit Prunus' padus as a stock for Peaches, 182; sinensis, polling, '223 Pump wells, new. '202 Pyrus scandica, 838 Rabbits — nESTKOVis'r. beddisg PL«NT8, 104: giowth of ears. 110, 1'29 : preserving Verbenas, Ac., from, 115, 264 : cars, 147, 118: management of long-eared, 207: Show. Kent and Suricv, 227; with diseased livers. i^iimuiiiK»^c,.j",v.....". .. -„-'.' 07 ; on light soil. 67 ; Show at Bne- Comte-Robcrt, 78 : Uevoniensis not flowering, 87 j list of superior, 8. : Manctti i'. Briar stocks, 37, 139, 157, 101 ; lor pegging down, 87 ; estimate of 90, 124, 134; leaves spotted, 105: on Manetti stocks, 114, 170, 222, 2'2'9, 219, 273, 289. 449: prun- ing Blairii No. 2, 125: .Marechal Niel,132,lo0, 230,891; Cloth of Gold not flowering, 144; transplanting, 145 date of new. 158; select, 174, 198, 320 : pmning Dcvoniensis. cut- tings, 162 : Marechal Kiel on Briar, 170 ■ for a greenhouse, 182 ; and their stocks, 189; Tea and Noisette, 190; cuttings, '204 ; for exhibition m Ire- land, 211; planting, '221: manage- ment in pots, '221 ; budding on Ma- netti, 222 : pruning, '243 ; on cold soil and site, 251 : summer cuttings, 252 ; notes on new, 259, 334 ; loaves dis- eased, '265: in Illinois, 274; lor trellis, 284; losing their leaves, 284 ; climbing. '285 ; manuring, 285 ; white, 285: twelve hardy, 801: planting a bed, 301 ; Celine Foreatier and Mdlle. Aristide, 308: lists of. 310: aplndes on, 320: wintering Mareelinl Niel. 320; culture, 329: depth of planting, 331, 840, 367. 400 : for S W. wall, hardy dark, climbing for N.E. wall, 838 ; green. 355: for walls, Sd5: stocks for, 355 ; catting back Moss, 350 ; culture of Marechal Nielin pots, 302 ; on their own roots, 363: forcing, 372 ; for orchard-house, 874 : stock for, 890 ; Gloire de Dijon on a wall, 391; high culture of, 410: Marechal Kiel and Celine Foresticr, protect- ing, 410: pruning, 410; stocks in pots, 410; seed sowing, 410; trans- planting early-budded, 411 : colours of, protecting Marechal Niel, cut- tings failing, pegging down, l'2b; new. 438: pruning when planting, 448; a plea lor Tea, 479; deep plant- ing, 4S0 Roupytowls, 4.54 Rudgea macrophylla, 27 . SiccoLiDnrM Hcttoni, 401 Salpiglossis for bedding, 182 Salvia-patens. 78; as a greenhouse plant, US: buds and leaves drop- ping, 145 : splendcns for the conser- vatory, 308 , . Saucers lor polled plants. 300 Sawdust as a manure. 08,96, 109; as an absorbent in ponltry-nouses, 109 Saxifragaligulata.443 „.„„.. Scale- plant, 331 ; destroying. S52, '263 , in'cvention. 351 : on plants, 40i Scarborough Lily, 339 " Science with Practice," 8-23 , Sca-kalc, 407: for early forcing, 285; forcing, 411, 483 ..,. Seeds, collecting, 219; nuanllties needed tor certain spaces, 277 Selaginellus, eulture of pyiiunidal, J3 , dehticulala, 281 _ September, plants in flower, 2j2 Sewage-Rev. H. Monlc's system, 281 ; and tan manure, 890 Shallots, planting, 3'20 . Shanks, 5Iessrs., at the Pans Exhi- bition. 424 , Shcflield K.abbit and Cinarj- Show. l"'.' „„.. Shrub, wliatisa?2ul Shrubs— list of hardy-flowering, 'M : untouched! by rabbits, 4S0 Silkworms— rearing in Kngtand, 4fi6, 454; species, and varieties, 4'J4; food for, 174 Skirworts, 483 Skvlark's beak too long. 906 Sloping banks, utility o.',49 S1iu:h und snails, destroying, ITO Smith's NurBoriefi, "WorecBtttrjlOl, 177 Smoke, consuming, 245 Soil, ilifiuellee of,'^52 Sollya lineariH, SCi Komersel Poultr^■ Show, 821.; prizes, :::ij, 414 Soot as uiannre for bnlbB, 429 Sorghum nankinensis, 3t>2 Sonthainpton Poultrj- and Bird Show, 377 Sowing in dry soil. SOI Spaluing Ponltrv Show, 3i, 52 Spanish fowls too fat. 72; chickens dving, 28«: and DorKing orosalng, 8'il:nen reatheTlefl9,4?t| ■ ,' Sparmannia afrieana, i-iH • " Species, distinct, 505 Splilcr, autumn, 281 ttpikes defined, 17.V ', Sjiinach -Australian, 8, 185,137'; sow- ing, 122 ■";' . Spirieas. mcritfl of, 21 Spring flower garUenlflf,'i!allnre for, Stanhopea tigrinn andocnlata, 115 Ste.hanolls fruit, 87 Stile, ft Somerflelsbiro, ^9 Slocks-inanagemonl of •Nishl-eeent ed, 30 ; Intermediate, 392, 4'27, 407 Stock's influence over fruit, 2.12; over graft, 440 Stockton-on-Tees Poultry Show, 89 Stoke Newington Chrysanthemum Show, 384 Stokesley Ponltry Show, 208 Stoning period, when? 415 Stove — heating a greenhouse, 819 : heating by a, 850, 3.55, 465 : smoke- less, 355 : for a conservatory, 373 Strawben-ies— forcing a second year, removing leaves, 13: edging for, '20; estimate of sorts. 30; planting. 28: notes about, 37, 50: on slopin;: Oan'ii, 67: some varieties and eulture, 70: planiing, hst, 87: for ri.arkel, 105; Ellon, 100; forcing, 125, 101. '222; eulture, 220, 4'20 ; dressing bed. '248 : cutting off leaves, 301 ; bono dust for, 302; top-dressing beds, 839: un- seasonable, 366 ; house, U3( s of, 450 : structure for forcing, 465; varieties for forcing, 467 Stringer ii Co.'s regenerator, 213 Sugar Cane, its history, 99 Sulphate ot ammonia, 242 Sulphur— fumigating with, HO; burn- ing, 4S3 Sutton J: Sons at the Pans Exhibition, 445 Swans, food for. 474 Sweet-scented flowers. 111 Swindling, 388 TaCSOXU VAX-VotJEMI CULTl'IlE, 07 Tails, crooked, 524 Tanks— lor water, 12 : heating by, 46« Tern i^eratnres— natural, 113; for va- rious plants, 893 Tenant's right to remove trees, 330. 3,3 Tetratheca verticiUata, compost for, 141 Thapsia decipicna, 297 Thirsk Poultry Show. J27 . Thompson, Mr. Robert, testimonial to, 40, 290 Thrips, plants infested by. 411 Tidiness, its importance.eiH. Tobacco-duly free. 2C,04„101, 114, IM : wash for Hops, 216 Toes of fowls swollen, 72 . Tomatoes— varieties of, 1..R : in An nn favourable season, 3*1, «3 Tomtits' nest in an inverted flower- pot, 1« „, . ■ Toweestcr Ponltry Show, 3» Town garrtoi>,p!«ntineaf'«lt!I.5!'!; Transiilanting-timo lor, lol, 231, ■^i ■ fruit trees, ,'!25 ; shnilis, Ti. Tredegar Poultry Show,';s,)9 lYees— tiroes ot leafing and hlossem- ing, 46 ; gigantie, SS; hrotcn by the wind, 265 Tritoina nvaria, propagating, Si4 Tropa-olmns, propagating lloublcTom Thumb, 145 . ^^ „ Tulips— National Society s Show, (3 : tor Christmas, 182 : a few early, rj Tumour in a hen . 32 Turf, removing plantain rmin, 2J Turkevs-foo4 lor yo-.vng, 18: remon- strance, 35 ; ronped, 54 ; with swollen heads, 72; as foster me:her<, -'bs; feeding for the London uiarket, 492 Turnips, sowing, 122 Turn Moss Market G.arden?, 150 Twine preserving, 319 Uttoxeier Fot:iTBV Show, 116 Vaccixatics, its TAI-rE, 494 VaUota pjirparefl, after flowoiing, 26G ; r-ilture, 840 Vnpour— in vinery, 67; from hot- water pipes, flC Vuriegfttiou. 344, Sf^''. ; wbiit cuuaea, 60 : bow far FHluable, 67 ; not cauaed by acidain the soil,9G; producing, Mi Vumiab for wood and iron, 265 Vases, everpreens for, 144 Vfgetable RlarrowB, culture, 6o ; m 1- dewed, IGl Veffetabiefl allowftd to gardener, 284 Veitch & Sons, at the Paris Exhibi- tion« 4«4 Verbenas— forexhibition, 30; preserv- ing from rabbits, 115; venosa. pro- paKatuig, 281 ; forpota.SOl; Lenion- bcented, hardiness of. ?19 Veronioas, hardiness of, S19 Winery- ftrranRemenls, 13; construc- tion, 191; plantinrf. 204, 242; venti- lating:, 222; Mr, Miller's, 2i>l ; heat- in;:, 319; andffreenhouse. 319; fruit frees for, 320; heating, border in- side, S7R; the cylinder, 336, 410; angle of roof, 391 ; management of a erroimd^ 420; border in, 128; ground not patouted, 489 Vinos— forcing, 30 ; in a pit. 51 ; water- "j^, C7; select varieties, 86; rod spider on, in a ^reejihouse, 105 ; lift- ing, 106; and Vine^borders, lOii, 118, 176, 181, 212, 290, 312, 330, 541*, 980, 410 ; air roots, I2S, 176 ; grafting, 131 ; mil- 7 ZlZTPHVS LOTC*, ! WOODCUTS. PAGE. Ase, to iiang 350 Bee-oive, Improved Paj-no's 17 ,. Pnyno's Improved Cottage 72 ., protector 327 „ Oale'a 247 Battel -preserver 110 Cooservatory, unlqae iron 62 'C036tta ligoiperda 3l8 Ftowov-garden plan 178 •4}a9-uoatiQe, various modes of 278, 27!:) PAOE. (ioat Moth and caterpillar 218 Hen-honae, good and cheap ^^ Ice-pit ^ffi Milk-cooler H J Orchird-hoases, iron standard lor sides 33a „ at Chilwell 332, 3iW Reel, carriaged for watering hose i-' Stile, Somersetshire 35tt Vinery, cylinder 387 Wall-nails 4aT July i, len. ] JOURNAL OP HOBTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE OARDBNBB. WEEKLY CALENDAR. D»T Day UI Month Week. 4 Tn C K 6 R 7 Sun R M 9 Tii 10 W JULY 4—10. 1667. nirminsh^m Ulac<.'d above the brickwork. There are no raftei-s. but one or two tie-pieces from back to front where the space between the division is too great. Of course all the partitions are capped witli a similar timber-tie, but, as will be seen, tliere is really very little carpenter's work in the whole, and the brickwork is of the plainest kind. I liave a partiality for brick in preference to turf pits, as being more durable, and No. 327.— Vol. XIII., New Series. looking neater : and in the case of those which I am de- scribing, owing to there being a walk in front, a uniform line was desinible. The expense of the liricks was not a serious affair, the worknianship of the timber wall-plate was very simple, and tlie construction admits of almost any description of covering, such as thatched hurdles, old lights, or wooden shutters; but, of course, where glazed lights can be allbrded thcj' are best. Those who might prefer a canvas or felt covering might easily avail them- selves of it ; but glazed lights, or wooden shutters made of three-quarter-inch boards, and somewhat like doors, are our principal coverings. I ought to mention that tlie back of the pits is a little more than 2 feet high, the front 1,5 inches high inside, and about (i inches less on the out- side, the bottom being sunk that depth below the level of the ground ; but when small plants are grown, one-half the depth of tlie pit is often iiUeil up. Frequently when one of the compartments lias been used for a sliglit hotbed, of which the materials had been raised quite to the top, some months afterwards when they liave settled down, a cutting- bed is formed to stand the winter. I will now (ilfer some remarks on the subjects which may find a place in the cold pit. Cal( KOL.vniA. — All the bedding kinds do remarkably well ; indeed, for many years I have not grown them any- where else in winter. Cuttings put in at the end of Octo- ber, or sometimes as late as the end of November, rarely fail. I usiniUy have the cuttings inserted in rows about o inches apart, and about '2 inches from each other in the row. Thus a large number of plants may be reared in a voi-y small space. Towards the middle or end of March, or, it may be. tho beginning of April, the young plants in every alternate row are carefully transplanted in some warm corner where they can have a few bonghs thrown over them, or some other slight covering in cold weather. The rows left are now (i inches apart, and the plants are usually ready for removal to their summer quarters by the 1st of May, I have sometimes planted Calceolarias out before that time, but there is no great advantage in doing so, and when they form a portion of a ribbon-border or of large beds where more tender plants arc used, they can- not well be planted before the others. The soil used for striking the cuttings is made rather open by a liberal application of sand, Ver^- severe winters sometimes inju- riously affect such kinds as Calceolaria amplexicaulis and those partaking of tho semi-herbaceous character, but by giving them a corner next a partition, and .adding some covering over them when tho frost is very severe, enough for all purposes generally escnpe : and although during the past winter protection in addition to the ordinary glass lights was only given on one or two nights, a fair proportion of the plants have been saved, while of such as Aurea flori- bunda tho lo.ss has not exceeded one per cent, Gazania si'i.F.NDEXs — Cuttings of this ought to be put in some time before those of the Calceolaria ; but the end of September will do, and in a breadtli of these put in at that time 1 lind every cutting has made a plant, and they were in good order for removing by the 1st of May, Ck-stalrea GV.MNOcARfA. — Like the Gazania, cuttings of No. 079.— Tou XXXVIU, Ou) gssizi. JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GABDENEE. [ JalT 4, 1867. this ought to be put in by the end of September, and although they are not so sure to succeed as the Calceolaria, the majority will strike ; they cannot, however, well be removed before the middle of May, as they are rather slow in making roots, al- though the top shows signs of growth beyond what might be expected from the extent of the roots formed. This species is Tery apt to run to flower, and nipping off the tops hardly pre- rents tho plant flowering, after which it often dies off. The same objection does not apply to Centaurea candidissima, but S3 C. gymnocarpa grows more freely, and furnishes at least ten onttiogs for one of the other, it is more conveniently propa- gated. Cuttings in spring also stiike. NiBBEMBERGiA GRACILIS is not half SO much grown as it ought to be, as plants furnish a greater amount of bloom, and con- tinue longer in that condition ; its only drawback seems to be its inability to withstand r.dn. It is nearly hardy, and if cut- tings of it could be put in early in the autumn they would stand Tery well ; but il^ is too late to put them in at the same time as the Calceolarias. A few old plants, however, pulled in pieces with a root to each, will often do. I find the past winter has left fewer than usual. I do not attribute this to the delicacy of the plant, but to the lateness of the period at which the cuttings were put in. Veronicas of the New Zealand class strike well at all seasons, I believe, and cuttings put in towards the end of September make excellent plants to remove in spring. These plants are by no means hardy, although they will live against walls or in sheltered places during mild winters. They are easily pro- pagated as described, and make fine plants to turn out in spring. Saltia argentea. — The thick blanket-looking foliage of this entitles it to a place amongst plants having remarkable foliage. Booted suckers or side shoots have survived with the same treatment as the Calceolaria. It cannot be so readily increased i by cuttings as by seeds. Santolina incana, or Lavender Cotton. Treated something ! in the manner of Box-edging, this plant is very serviceable as a boundary to a shrubbery border. Its grey hue and neat com- , pact appearance entitle it to more attention than it often receives. Cuttings inserted at the end of September make j good plants to remove in the beginning of May; almost every , cutting will grow. They may also bo put in more closely together than most cuttings, as the plant requires but little space laterally. | CiMERARiA HARiTiMA. — Cuttiugs put in at the same time as the Santolina mostly succeed, though not so generally. The little trouble which they give when in a cold frame, and the good plants which they become when they do succeed, make it well worth while trying them in this way. Fully one-half of . the cuttings become plants, and perhaps more than this would j strike if greater care were taken in selecting them. The small shoots springing from the centre or collar of the plant are to be preferred to the woolly tips. I often put in a few rows as a division between the Calceolarias. LrMUM FLAVCU. — This useful little plant is nearly hardy, nevertheless severe winters take an effect upon it, and I find many of the old plants have been destroyed by the frost of last January. Cuttings may be put in as late as September, but it is better to have them earlier, as they form better plants ; the protection of a cold pit is all that is required for them, and such a place is probably better for them than warmer quarters. Pteethrums. — Cuttings of these seem to strike at all times, and if put in at the same time as those of the Calceolaria, and treated like them, form excellent plants by April, when they may be put into their proper quarters. Pyrethrum'5 continue longer in flower than most herbaceous i^nnts ; but it is difficult to secure a continuation of bloum. A number of cuttings in spring, to succeed those struck in autumn, will afford a suc- cession ; aod beds formed partly of autumn and partly of spring-struck plants continue longer iu bloom than when planted with either alone. Cutting down some of the plants is not so satisfactory as having two lots to begin with. Arabis vaeiegata. — Cuttings strike iu the open ground at any season, so that I rarely give tbem a glass covering ; but if there should be space in a cold pit they will, if put in very late in autumn, form good plants in spring. The more showy Arabis lucida variegata is less free of growth, and would seem to be most at home where the Rhododendron and similar plants thrive. We cannot make much of it here. EnoNYMUs jAPOsicus vAiHECATDs — Tl.'c gold-blotched variety from .Jftpan strikes tolerably well if cuttings are put in at the same time as Calceolarias ; but I find that it does not make such rapid progress out of doors as under glass. The silver- edged K. radicans variegatus is certainly better grown out of doors at all times. Verbenas. — I have tried them in a cold pit at various times for nearly twenty years, but the success of the system has never been such as to recommend its general adoption. Usually the pit is occupied by someitbing else at the time the cuttings should be planted, and they seldom do well late in the autumn. Verbena pulchella and Verbena venosa do better than the others. Venosa, owing to its rambling habit, ia unfitted for pot culture. A few plants taken np in autumn keep well in A cold pit. Pentstemons. — Cuttings of these do very well late in tha season, and form bushy little plants by the middle of April. I usually put in a quantity of tbem, and they come in very handy, as old plants become large and unsightly, and do not bear cutting down very well. Lobelia. — The dwarf Lobelia erinus varieties sometimes do well and sometimes not. Last year we were unfortunate with them, as few survived the winter ; but I by no means attribute the failure to the cold alone, they are apt to die off at times ; and although we usually take np old plants and after cutting them in tear them to pieces, preserving some roots with each, plants so treated do not always survive even in a warm green- house, though every slip be well rooted. Sometimes they do well in a cold pit, and when they do succeed they make nic« bushy plants. Sedum Sieboldii is all but hardy. Cuttings seem to strika freely at all seasons, and the cold pit is just the place for it. Htdranoeas also strike well from cuttings taken off at all seasons, and when these or other plants can be propagated with little trouble it is certainly better than when much attention is required. Cuttings do very well in the autumn. Viola cornuta. — The cold pit is just the place forthis lovely plant. A quantity of cuttings put in during the autumn of 1865 formed very good plants by the following April, and were planted out and did well that season. Besides the above there are many herbaceous plants which do very well in a Cold pit — for instance, the taller Lobelias, somo Coronillas, several of the Sedums, Iberis sempervirens, Alyssum saxatile, the ornamental Grasses, as Stipa pennata, Daetylis glomerata, and others, as well as the more robust plants which occasionally want some protection in severe winters, as the Cannas, which suffer from too much damp, as well as from the frost. I also find the slugs are very destructive to Cannas ; but by covering the crowns with ashes and the stems with dry leaves, they may be carried through the winter, as they were here last winter, in the places where they have been growing. I will not attempt to enumerate all the plants to which such a pit as that which I have described could afford shelter, as most plants that will endure 3° or 4° of frost may be wintered there if they are not liable to suffer from damp. Bedding Pelargoniums, however, rarely do well, fire heat being wanted for them. Although I have confined my remarks to ornamental plants, yet such a pit as I have described is quite as useful for many other purposes which the requirements of the time or place will suggest. Ridge Cucumbers and sometimes Capsicums may be grown in it. and immediately after the Calceolarias have been removed Celery may be pricked out in some of tho compartments. Indeed, the cold pit with me is rarely empty. — J. BOBSOM. POA TRIVIALIS ARGENTEA ELEGANS. Feom my experience of this Grass, so recently introduced into public notice, it is to be feared that, like many other plants that are strongly recommended for parterre decoration, it has not been fairly tested before a character has been at- tached to it. I planted out nearly two hundred plants of it here this season, and when planted out I never saw anything of the sort that pleased me so much, it was so beautiful and so graceful in habit ; but it soon showed signs of losing its varie- gation, not in certain instances, but in all the plants, and it cnntiuued to do so till nearly every vestige of variegation had disappeared from the whole of the plants, and, consequently, it had to be replaced by another plant. I may remark that the Dactylis glomerata variegata retains its variegation constantly iu this soil, and is one of the very best and least troublesome variegated plants for decorative purposes that I have seen. Under glass in pots the Poa is a ioly i, 1887. ) JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GAKDENER. very elegant plant, but if it behaves generally aa it has done here, when planted out, it will be of little or no use for out- door decoration. — D. Thomson, Archtrfield. OKEFORD FITZPAINK. When my worthy friend Mr. RaJcIyffo claimed to be A rosarian, and not merely a Uose-^rower, he made a distinction which to some appeared not very plain, but which a visit to his home and half an hour's conversation with him would soon make manifest to be thoroughly well founded. There are many persons who grow the Koso, but those who understand it are comparatively few. Sumo grow it simply as an exhibition plant ; they would not go to half the expense or trouble tliat they do wore it not that they intend to enter the lists for com- petition. Some grow it because they love flowers in general, and thoy would not consider their garden well furnished with- out, if not a rosery, at any rate some Roses. Others u'row them because the Rose is a fashionable flower, and not to know something about a fashionable flower would indeed seem to be out of the world of horticulture. But for none of these reasons does my good friend grow his Roses. He has exhibited in day.^ past, but bis exhibition days are over. He does not care, I believe, in the least for any other flower, and he is perfectly in- different to what fashion wills or wills not ; but he loves the Rose because — because it is the Rose, the flower par excellence. " It is his first, his last, his only love,'' in winter and in sum- mer. When keen biting frost, and heavy snow, and blasting winds are wounding his pets, or in summer when thoy reward his care by their clustering blooms, he is alike interested in them. I have heard of a Lancashire weaver taking the blanket off his bed at night to cover over his frames of Auriculas. I be- lieve blankets, and quilt, and all would go out into the garden if the dear Roses at Okeford needed it. Ami this character of a rosa- rian may be, as I have said, justly claimed by Mr. Radclyffe, for his Roses are, considering all that they have gone through, wonderful. He had to leave Rushton early last year, and his Roses were consequently deprived of his paternal and maternal care ; and yellow rust, black mildew, and aphis were allowed to do pretty well as they liked so far as he was concerned, though I believe " Steevie" had his eye on them. They were all moved between the 24th of August and the 10th of September to their present quarters, into a soil which, while far better than Rushton, is not a good Rose soil. It rests on the green- sand, and is what we call in our neighbourhood " elity " — i. <■., stiff and hungry-looking, not like the rich, beautiful, loamy soils of Hertfordshire. He cut them back, trusting to the vigour of his stock that they would push their way. We know, and many, alas I to their cost know, what a winter we have had. What wonder, then, that, exposed as he is, his Rases should have been cut down, and in the great majority of cases to the snow line? Had he not been a rosarian half of them mast have gone ; but he mulched them well, and then regularly banked them up, so leaving the wet a fair opportunity to run off ; but when I saw his beautiful yellow Roses cut down to the very bull, I must own I felt disposed to doubt whether even his care could restore them ; and even after I had been there in April came that severe May frost, which did as much if not more injury than that in January. When I say that, notwith- standing all this, I have nowhere seen more luxuriant growth, or finer and cleaner foliage, I could not for a moment hesitate to give my friend the c'uaracter of beipg the first rosarian that I know. One of his Triomphe de Rennes Roses in the front of the house has made shoots G feet long. His plants of Gloire de Dijon are equally vigorous ; his Celine Foresliers budding all over; and out of his twelve hundred Roses, for this is the ex- tent of his stock, he had not a score of losses, while his wounded aie now convalescent. Had it not been such a winter, his Boses would now have reached the top of the poles, and if they grow as they are growing now they will still do so ere long. What I particularly admired was, that when the first head of bloom was over, immediately below it strong vigorous shoots bad been made, and you could already feel the young buds that would make the second bloom, and this he assured me would he succeeded by a third. Mr. Radclyffe is no friend to novel- ties; he waits to see what they are before they are added to his list, and then he adds freely ; but he says, " While I have snch Roses as Charles Lefebvre, Madame Victor Verdier, Lord Uacaulay, John Hopper, Jules Margotlin, Madame Vidot, and Comtesee de Chabrillant, I feel it is no easv matter to beat them, and I had ralhurmultiply those than order a lot of thiugi which I should have afterwards to throw away." Hence yoo find these in large abundance in his garden, along with Genersd Washington (which was better and showing less of the green eye than I have ever seen it), Caroline de Sansal, Prinoa Camille de Rohan, Senateur Vaisse, Madame de Cambac<.re8, Pierre Netting, ka. The only novelties he had were those of Mr. Wm. Paul's raising, and of these he is disposed to think well of Lady SuQield and I)r. Lindley, the latter especially. Some of the individual flowers that were measured, such a8 Jules Margottin, were from -i to 4i inches across, and models of form, and this without any disbudding, but all plain, fair sailing. Marguerite de St. Amand is another favourite, and beautiful it looked, while John Hopper was everywhere splen- did; but tho put of the garden is, I think, Cbailes Lefebvre.. and, bo it remembered, all are on the Manetti stock, by which he stands under all circumstances. Some one has said that Acidalie is dehcate. Why, he had plants fifteen years old perfect bushes on the Manetti, and so with all the rest. We all know that Mr. Radclyffe is an authority on Straw- berries (M. De Jonghe, of Brussels, putting him at the head of the list), and henoe one might evpect to find them in perfection at Okeford. They seem magnificeut in foliage, and the produce astonishing, but very late. The first bloom was cat off by the May frost, and hence their backwardness, Rivers's Eliza being the only one really in full bearing. Besides this, he has fine beds of Wonderful. Dr. Hogg, Cockscomb, and Mr. Rad- clyffe— the last new seedling of Mr. Ingram's. The three last are evidently of the British Queen race, combining, however, great vigour with the delicious flavour of that fine Strawberry. He has hiid a great deal of difficulty with his wall, a large portion having fallen ; but willial that. I saw what I have never seen before — fruit on maiden trees of the Noblesse and Rojal George Peaches. With that generous kindness towards others, which has always characterised my friend, he willingly allows any of his neighbours to come in and see the Pioses. The other day " the Club " were permitted to perambulate it, and I think he was more complimented by the remiuks of one of its members than he would be by that of the Inostaccompli^hed P»ose-grower. " Why, sir ! my missus thought more of them Roses than she did of all the club." So many are availing themselves of his kindness, although in an out-of the-way place, that he says DOW, " I must keep a showman." But this excellence is not arrived at, as I have already tried to show, without considerable labour and trouble. He is up early every morning watering, and all daylong he is overhauling something in bis garden, and giving that personal superintendence to everything which is of such value. In this, indeed, he is ably seconded by " Steevie," who is well nigh as enthusiastic as bis master, and they may well be satisfied wilh the re.-^ult of their united efforts. I know many places where there are large collections of Roses ; I know many where there is a greater number of varieties grown ; I know many where you might find finer in- dividual flowers ; but I know no place where the Rose is more lovingly cultivated than a: Okeford, and I certainly know no one who has a greater claim to be considered an out-and-ont rosarian than my worthy and kind-hearted friend, Mr. Rad- clyffe. May he and his Roses alike flourish. — D., Deal. A PLEA FOR CACTI, AND HOW TO GROW THE.\r. Can you tell ma the best mode of effecting exchanges «jf young plants of the more beautiful or sweet-scented of the Echiuopsis. Ecbini^cactiis, and allied species ? I have been very successful in growing them, and it has often been a matter of astonishment to me, that our English gardeners, as a rule, so completely ignore a class of plants that are so easily grown, and the flowers of which, whilst compensating for their short duration by their profu.-ion. hive amongst tbem some that are unsurpassed, either in beauty of colour or fragrance, by any flowers grown. The R,ise may well lie tvu (be Night-blooming CereoB in all its glory, will, I am sure, allow it tu deserve the name of empress of the floral world. I have grown these plants for many years, and as each snc- ceeding season developes new beauties and good points in my favourites, it has given rise to this short article, and my question, How to dispose of the host of surplus stock that 1 am obliged to take off from my specimen plants, and which I hav& not the heart to throw away ? JOURNAL OF HOKTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. t July 4, lBe7. f ' The ease with v?hich Cacti can be grown, and well grown, is marvelleus. They require a tolerably dry atmoppbere, exclusion of frost, very Utile water— only just sufficient to keep them from shrivelling in winter, and, as soon as early summer is at hand, the fullest exposure possible under hand-lights to the hottest sun. Keep the pots plunged in cocoa fibre or sawdust, and syringe copiously several times a-day, so ns to keep up a moist heat at 80" or 90°. About September growth will have ceased, when water, &c., must he diminished, and air given. This is all that is required to cause a plant of Echinopsis Zuccarini in a 48-pot to develope six or eight flowers, one of which will scent a large conservatory. I have nuw the Night-blooming Cereus with several flowers about to expand ; and to prove tbe tenacity of life in this tribe, I may mention that the cutting from which this plant was raised laid dormant on a shelf in the greenhouse for more than twelve months, and then suddenly vegetated. A second example has jubt occurred with me, which I think worthy of note. A tall Cereus hexagonus that for the last three years has flowered well, has now outgrown my house, having attained a height of 10 feet. I have cut off the top 6 feet long, and having suspended it in the hothouse three weeks ago, with a tuft of loose, damp moss around the cut portion, it has thrown out fine roots, and is ready to begin life " anew," but as an old flowering plant. The cutting weighs about 25 lbs. The root portion of the stem, about 4. feet long, will make a fine stock for grafting. Another ciuious fact has just come to my notice — namely, that a plant of the Prickly Pear last year produced fruit which did not ripen, and one of these unripe fruit had thrown out a perfect flower and fruit from its side near the apex. If you can spare room to insert these hasty lines, it may induce some amateurs to undertake the culture of this beau- tiful section of plants, and I am confident that none will be disappointed. I shall be most happy to afford any assistance in my power. — C. M. Major, Cromwell Ilou&e^ Croydon. DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF HERBACEOUS PLANTS The plants named in the following list are those which, from my own obser^'ations and eiperienoe, appear to be the most pretty, shony, curious, or interesting of hardy herbaceous perennials for gardens; but, doubtless, many more could be added. Those marked with an asterisk (*) are the moat deserving of cultivation where only a limited number can be grown ; e indi- cates those which are very showy, useful, or desirable ; c, such as are in some way remarkable, having showy flowers ; and r, those hut little known. Months of Flcweeinq. Achillea aurea Jxrne to September *A. niillcfuliam rubra July to October Adenophora denticulata c .... July •Adonis vernalia March and April •Agrofcteiunia coronaria Juoe to Septeujber •A. corouaria splendens Juue to September •A. coronaria bicolor •A. purpurea plena July to September ■*Ajuga alpina e May to July A. reptaus variegata Adoxa moschatellina c March to May •Alstruuieria aurantiaca July to September April aud May March to May April to Juue April and May April to Juue September A October *A. j'aponica Honoiine Jobcrt e . September & October •AJyssuui sasatile •A. aaxiitile compactum e •Anemone apponnina *A. corouaria *A. hortensia , *A. horteusis fulgens e ., •A. j;iponica A. muci.ssrflora A. Pulsatilla A. palmata r A. nemorosa plena A. nemorosa rubra plena. . A. sulphurea e r Anchusa pnniculata Antenuaria margaritacea A. hyberborea c Anthericum liliastrum •Antirrhinum mfijus *Aquilegia glandulosa e. . . . A. Skiuneri •A. vulgjiris, var A. formosa e •Arabia albida •A. lucida vnriegata c Arnica montana r I\Iay !ind June April and May May aud Juno Miirch to May Miireh to May April and May Juue July to September July May, July June to August May to July May and June May and June May to July April aud May July and August *Asclepia3 tuberosa e July to September A. amffiua July and August Asperula odorata Bluy aud June A. montana Juno and July A. cynanchica July •Aster alpinus tf June to August *A. alpiuus albus July and August A. amellua August &. September A. duni0BU3 September & October •A. grandiflorua ii. curnides June and JiUy Aubrielia delt >idea April to June •A.deltuiueaj,'raudiflora c April to Juue •A. Campbelli e April to Juno •Betonica grandiflora e June and July Baptisia australis June and July *Belli9 peieinia vars March to August •B. perennis aucubwfoUa e March to Augbst ■Campanula aggregiita c June to August •C. cHtpiitica c Juno to August •C. carpatica alba June to Anuust C. pulla Juue and July C. macrantha Juno and July •C. specioba c May to July C. porsicirolia major July to Septemler C.perBicifolia albo plena July lo ^"ntemter »C. pyrnmidalis c July Catananche carulea Ju'y to October Colour of Floweh. yellow red blue yellow rosy crimson deep crimson centre white, ro&c double crimson deip blue variegated foliage greenish yellow orange yellow yellow blue various various scarlet rosy purple white white and yellow violet yellow white reddith sulphur or lemon deep blue white aud yellow leaves silvery white white various blue and white scarlet and gi'een various red and orange white golden variegation orange jcUow orange purpli> white pink flesh lilac purple white purple white blue red white purple lilac and yellow purple bluish lilac violet purple purple blue various red and gold netted fol. blue blue white blue purple l)ui-ple blue white blue blue Soil. loam loam loam, peat, and sand loam, and limestone loam and gravel loam loam loam sandy loam peat aud loam loam and sandy peat eandy peat and loam loam and limestone loam sandy loam rich light loam. loam loam loam calcareous loam sand peat and loam loam and leaf mould loam aud leaf mould bandy peat sandy peat t-andy loam sandy loam end peat loam sandy loam sandy learn sandy loam sandy loam sandy peat gi-itty loam sandy loam loam and grit loam peat and sandy loam sandy loam sandy loam calcareous loam gritty loam gritty loam gritty loam loam loRm loam loam rich loam and grit sandy loam li^ht loom li^ht loam ligbt loam rich loam rich loam rich loam rich loam sandy loam jeat and sandy loam loam loam loam loam loam li -b loam loam Fhopaoatiok. division division division division seed cuttings cuttings cuttiuga division division Requires moist soih division division seed and division seed division seed and division seed seed aud division division division division division division division division division cuttings division division division seeds and cuttings division seed and division seed division seed and division division division division division division division division division division division division division division division seed and cuttings seed division divisioa division division division seed and division division cuttings and division division division division division division di vision sieed division Shade. Shade. Shade. Shade. Motst. July i, 1807. 1 JOURKAL OF UORTICULTUltE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB. MoMTns OF Flowbrino. •Cichorinm intybns -Inno to Antfiist Centnnrca montana Jnne to AuuhhI *Cerii8tium tomantnmiiu May to July *Cbpiranthna Chciri vars March to Juno •C. Marshalli f March to .Tnno C. ochroleuciiH March to Juno Cheluno »,«labra July to Septomber O. barhata Juno to Scptoinher C. Lyoni JuW to Sniiti-mhcr •Uonvnllaria mnjallH May and Junu •C. mnjnliH, KoUl BtripeU c C. majalia, pink *<_'. majiliH, doublo C. multiflora Jnne C- polyijonatum •C. rosea e Juno Cl<'m;itiK orRota Juno to AuRust •C. intcffrifolla June to AniiuHt Cynoclossum nponnlnum .... T\Iay to July J)alih(irda mitonoidt>H c r May and Juno •Dolphininm Belladonna e .... Jnne aud July D. KTandifloroin Jaue to Augnst J). isTand florum, double f .... •D. formoaura ^ Juno to Sortnmher *D. Hr>ndi*r>^oni e Jnne and July 'Dianthue crnontua t' Jnne to Ansrust D. ntromhpna Juno to Auffust I). dcItoidcH June to Antrn^'t *D. barbatns.TarH Jane to AuRUBt D. fraprnns Jnnp v. plumnriufj annulaluB Jnnf to Anflu-Jt •D. enperbuH e Julv to Soptember DictaranuH Fraxinella M«v to July O. albiis May to July Doronif^um caurafiicutn Jnne to Aurrnst D. plnntnffinoinn Mnv to July •Diclytra Rpofit^bilis e April nnd Juno •D. Pppcrjibilis alba / April and June Dodocrtthenii mcadia April to Jniip 1^. intctn-ifolium April ^nd Juno Dracocephaliun (n-<»ndiflorum. . Julv Epilobinin nntrusUroliiim J'lv and Ancnst -E. anpastifftlium album Jnlv and AntruHt. •E. DodonaU jnly -md AnrMist Kpimedinra macrantham ,\pri! and May E. violaceum May Ert-meru^t unfctahilig Jnne *Erynpiiimnlpiuum July and August "^arfutriuni CTnndf* e Funkia subcnrdata Ani*nf=t F. ovata Mav to July •Festuct plauca e Juno Galium Rrrccum JunenndJnlv Genista procumbena Jnno and A nqust O. prostrtita Mav and June *G. triquetra r <• Jun/> nnri July •Gentiana ariiuliH r April to Junf O. nsclepiadea Julv and Aii^nf»t Ti>nairnm Jnnn and Julv GiUcnia trifoliata July and Anffust *Goraninm arffcntoum e t Juno and Julv G. pratonsc llore pleno Juno and Jnly G. sanfunneum Jnne to Aucunt, *G. Ranjrninenin lancafjtriense. . Jnnp to Aneu^t Glrchoma bedtrapfta fol. var.. . April and Mnv *Gynerium arpfnteum *• Anpuct to Oftob^r ^Hellcborna nigor t* January to March • Hepati^a triloba Fcbraar>' to March •11. triloba, vnra.. double blue . . • pinclp red 'rubra) • double red • sinplo whito • single pink •H. anpulosa February to April Holonifts IniUnta April and May Hemcrocallis flava June Hesperis niatronalis Jane to August btuo bluo white various yellow pule yellow white ornnRo scarlet purple ■wliit«( gold striped foliage pink white white Son.. Bandy loam Bandy loum U;;btloam llvht loam lifzhtloam light loam peat and loam tnrty loam turfy loam rich luam Propagatiok 8ced division entttnpB and diviRion Heedt) and cuttingti cutlincs cuttlnga d Tisioa division divittioD divi»iou n 4 1 8 " ;j I liu xiu. 24-S 2i-3 14 2 2-3 2 "^ 4 4 2 IJ 2 1 14 u i 1 1 1— li 3—4' ■!? lt-3 1 2-8 1-2 '-.'' fi— 10 1-U i rose white blue blno white and yrllow britlhtbluo durk bluo blue and white blue and white scarltt red pink various white pink, dark ring pale purplo pun>lo white yellow yellow TOBO and yellow while Mic and purloin lilac and purple bluo purpU**h red white punilo white vinlet yellow blue gold blotched foliage white blue blue or cbnieons ful. inti-ple yellow yellow yellow blue purpli-'h blue bluo ynllow blue ecarlet yellow rose and white silvery foliage white or pink bluo red red and striped rosy purplo while pUimea white or pink bine sandy loam sandy loam prat and laaiii sandy pent and loam Hundy hiam louui and peat loam loam loam loam loam rich loam aandv loam light loam loam lonm loam Bondy loam loam rich loam rich lonm peat and ^'rit peat and ktH turfy loam lortm loi'.ui peat and Rrit peat, loam, and prit peat, loam, r.nd grit sandy loam loam and sand loam peat and loam jicnty loam loam f^ravelly orsandy loam sandy loam nnd peat sandy peat and loam sandy pent and loam tuify'lonm and gravel loam nnd travel loam and •gravel lo:im and gravel loam and uravc-l loam, peat, and j;rit loam ond grit peat and loam Bftndv lo:\m sandy loam Bandy lo;im eandy loam sandy lonm rich lo'im or peat loam, snnd. and leaf mould loam. sand, and leaf mould division division peed division seed and division division seed and division division cuttings cuttingR cuttinca seed ^nd cuttings cuttincs cuttiDga fiecd peed (tivipion division cnlUnfls and division cuttings and division division division division divieion division division division division division divisicm, divif^ion division division division division layers layers layers diviaioa division division division division division division division division division division division seed division division BoU moist. Soil moist. Soil moist. Runny aspect. Shade or sun. Bbade. Shade. 1-^11 blue purple yellow purplo loam and leaf moold Bandy lonm sundy liam rich loam and band divifion division division Ui vision Moist. Moist. Sunny aspect. Worm situation. Partial shade. pj^rtial shade. -G, AnBET. (To be continued.) SYRINGING GRAPES WITH GISHURST COMPOUND. GUhurst on Thursday, and when, on Saturday niglit soon after four o'clock, I bad liuis)ied thinning, I decanted the solution into three gnllous of noft water, keepin- Imck the sediment, &o. Cou?idering that I had thus from 4 to 5 ozs. of the compound, I Bjiinged the house with it, immediately fullowiug wuh six gallons of cKaii water lest the application should prove too strong for the I'-rapcs. . , . , . ^ I")eemi»g all Mife I left the house for the night, but to my surprise on Sunday I found most of the Grapes on which a Havtsg had this season to be unavoidably absent for a fort- ■night, I left a small house of Vines, just going out of flower, in the charge of my best nmn. On my return I found that he had neglected to nse the ajriupe, and one Vine which in nut so well at root as might be desired, was sadly infested with red spider, and they seemed spreading over the house. I hurried on with the thinning, thinking to settle accounts with them by a moderate applica- tion or two of " Gishurst." Accordingly I dissolved G ozs. of JOURNAL OP HORTICULTUBB AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB. [ Jaly 4, 1867. drop of water had hung in the previous night brown on the under side, giving them a bad appearance when looked at from heneath. I had no help, the evil was done. I imagined that half of the crop had ieeu destroyed ; but I find during last week many of the most slightly-damaged berries have recovered, and the worst seem to continue to swell. The black spots are crack- ing without seemingly any injury to the berry, still I consider the case should act as a caution, and thought it well to report it to warn others who may be similarly situated. — J. Y. AUSTRALIAN SPINACH. At the commencement of lust year, Mr. Eiimel, who intro- duced into the French colony of Algiers the Eucalyptns glo- bulus, has received from Australia a new vegetable. His friend. Dr. Mueller, of Melbourne, had it sent to bim as a substitute for Spinach ; it is superior in every respect to that vegetable, easier of cultivation, and of an enormous iind rapid growth, less subject to run to seed, and also of better flavour. He called the pluut New Queensland Spinach. The New Australian Spinach is, however, a better name. It belongs to a group in which is Comprised our common Spinach ; it answers bota- nically to the Chenopodium auricumum of Lindley, who de- scribed it in a few words in Mitehel's " Journal of Tropical Australia." It grows abundantly in the east part, following the course of the river Narrau, and it is again found in Queens- land. The Chenopodium auricomum is an annual, with a stalk rising to a yaul high. In its general appearance it resembles Chenopodium Ijylnidum, that troublesome weed which over- runs our fields. The stalk is erect, robust, angular, fluted, streaked with a violet red. As regards the eatable qualities of the plant, we have recently gathered an abundant harve.-^t of leaves from two or three plants growing in our garden. These leaves were put into boiling water, and tbey were then cooked as an ordinary dish of Spinach, with this difference in favour of the new plant, that there was no occasion to take away the threads which are so disagreeable in Chicory. Soriel, and ordinary Spinach. The flavour, ana- logous to Spinach, had something iu it less harsh and less grassy in taste. The cultivation is easy : sow the seed in April in a well- manured bed, for the plant is greedy ; water it. The leaves may be gathered from the time the plant attains 18 inches in height. They grow up again quickly. In less than eight days afterwards another gathering may take place, and so on to the end of the year. — (Juurnal de la Ferme et des MaUons ie Campagne.) BUEY ST. EDMUNDS HORTICULTURAL SHOW. JODEKAL OF HOr.TICULTUr.E IT.IZES. Tour two chaste and beautiful clocks, of the value of ten guineas each, are offered " for two desserts of not less than seven kinds of fruit c f 18G7." 1. The que^-ti(ui has been asked if more may be shown ; and suppose two desserts equal in quality were produced, one of eight dishes and the other of seven, would the additional dish give the prize to the dessert with eight dishes? 2. Or, suppose, again one had seven of the best dishes of fruit, and another showed twelve inferior, ho^v far would the five addititb very fine ; Krpositiou do Brie, MdUe. Marie Rady, Pierre Netting, Madame Victor Verdier, of a fine cherry colour ; Marpnorito de St. Amand, Mdlle. Margncrite Dombrain, Abel Grand, and Princess Mary of Cambridije, the last four mnch alike as regards •olonr. Many of the new Koses, liowever, were not in condition. In Class 10, for 1'2 trusses of any new Rose of ISGl, Mr. Keynes was first with fine trnsses of Marguerite de St. Amand, and took a aimilar position in Class 11, for 12 trnsses of any other new Rose, with Kxposition do Brio ; ecjiial secnnd prizes being awarded to Mr. Keynes for Abel Grand, and to Mr. Cant for Marguerite de St. Amand, very beantifnl. Mr. Turner exhibited Mr. Tn.gram's beantifnl seedling, Misslutrram, and received for it a first-class certificate. The only other seedlings which wp noticed came from Mr, Laxton, of Stamford, and were named Annie Laxton, Beauty of Stamford, and Empress of India, the first two being deep rose-coloured, and the la^t a verj' daik kind. In the class for 12 yellow Rost-s, of not fewer than six kinds, Mr. Hedge took the firiit prize with most beautiful examples of Triomphe de Rennes. Cloth of Gohl. L'Knfant Trouvr, Nareisse, Boule d'Or, Celine Forestier, aud Marn-hal Kiel. The prize for the best exhil)i- tion of yellow Ro'ies was also awarded to Mr. Hedge, for a. box in which he exhibited nearly the same kinds, and in which there were namorons magnificent trusses of L'Enfant Tronve. Of Tea-scented and Noisette Roses tine boxfuls were exhibited by Mr. Hodge, who was first both for single trnsses aud single blooms, and in the Nui-serymen's class by Messrs. Paul & Sou and Mr. Cran- gton, who were reap-'ctively first and second. Moss Ro^iefl rhiefly consisted of the old White Bath, Lanei. Cristata, and Madame E. Cry. Messrs. Paul & Son were first, Messrs. Francis second. Vases, of Roses were the same as at the Crystal Palace. The prizes were awarded to Messrs. Soder, Marlow, and Hedge. The best bnu- ^nets como from Mr. Hodge, and were set up in coloured Hyacinth jjlasses. The only pot Roses exhibited came from Messrs. Paul tt Son. and •onsisted of small plants in good bloom. A large collection of cut blooms, not for competitiou, was shown by Mr. Keynes. Floral Committrk. — Messrs. Veitch sent a numerous and fijie col- lection ofsi^'elties, of which the following received first-class certifi- •otes — viz. : — Gloxinia Vlandcreu, white with a purplish crimson lip ; Gloxinia Mavlamo de Smet, pure white, with a violet-bordered lip ; Crotou irregularo, with rather narrow green leaves and a yellow stripe sp the midrib ; Croton maximum, with broad, pale gi"ecu leaves veined with yellow ; Croton interrnptum, having narrow leaves, with yellow midribs changing to red; Dracaena Mooroi, with broad olive-brown leaves having red midribs ; Selaginelia Ponlteri. with minutely di.-ided foliage ; Phajus species, with showy bluish-lilac tlowers. having a deoper- •olonred lip bearing raised yellowish processes ; and Begonia Veitchii, with large bright scarlet tlowers. The lost is perfectly hardy, aud must be considered a most important a<'quisition. Abutilon Thompsonii, also from Messrs. VoitcK, was awarded a second-class certificate. Its leaves are blotched and spoUed with yellow, aud as shown it had a pleasing appearance. Mr. Edwards, Nottingham, had first-class cer- tificates for the following Fcni-s^viz. : — .\thyrium Filix-fa-miua Edwardf^ii, A. F.f. Footii. Poly.stichum angularetlivcrsilobinm Padleyii, and Scolopondrium vnlgaro Edwardsii, a pretty variety. Mr. William Panl received first-class certificates for two hue Phloxes named Beauti- ful and Conqueror. Both had verj' largo trusses of beautiful light flowers with a violet crimson eye ; that of Conqueror tho deejwr in <*oloar. A first-class certificate was likewise awarded to Mr. Fraser, for Gloxinia Rose d* Amour, carmine with a white throat. Special certificates were awarded to Mr. Richards, gardener to Lord Londea- borough, Grimston Park, Tadcaster, for a fine specimen of Vandft teres on a block in a pot, and bearing elcTcn flowering spikes ; to G. F. Wilson, K-in., Weyhndge, for a magnificent specimen of LiUam longU florum, with nine pure white blooms, each about 7 inches in length and about 5} inches in diameter at tho mouth; to Mr. Mann, Brent- wood, for a collection of Varic;.;ated and other Pehirgouiums ; to Mr. Bull for a fine collection of Lilium auratum to the number of fifty pots ; aud to Mr. Wills for a collection of his fine Pelargoniama of the Bronze and Gold section. Mr, Jabez Chater, of Cambridge, likewise received a special certificate for a similar collection, along with which was a specimen of Gaillardia aristata splendeus with large and showy red and orange blooms. A special certificate was likewise granted to Mr. Mnndell, Frardener to J. C. CunJiffe, Ksij., Hooloy, Croydon, for a fine specimen of Lilinm auratum, standing about 7 feet high, and bearing thirteen blooms; also to Mr. Anderson, Meadow Bank, for cut Orchids, among which was Saccolabium Blumei Dayauum, with a flowering spike abont If^ inches long. Messrs. Ivery sent a sniall collection of showy Fox- gloves, and Messrs. Lee a plant with broad leathery foliage, which» though shown under the name of Hedera catalp(»folia, proved to be au Araliaceous plant. Messrs. E. G. Henderson received first-class certificates for Lobelia pumila elcgans and Tricolor Variegated Pelar- gonium Lady Sheffield. FnuiT CoMMiTTKK. — Mr. F. Dancer, of Little Sutton. Chiswick, exhibited some remarkably fine clusters of the Red and White Dotoh Currants ; and Mr. Merett, gardener to Henry Whiting, Ksq., Battersea Rise, eleven fine Barriugtou Peaches, set closely together on tho same branch, grown in an orchard-house. Mr. Scale, gardener to CoL Davis, Peutre, Newcastle Emlyn, sent a Scarlet-tleshed Melon called Scale's Hybrid, which, however, was not of sufficieut merit to rcqoixe notice. Gknkral Meeting. — *W. W. Saunders, Esq., in the chair. Tho busiuess was confined to the election of seven new Fellows. nOYAL BOTANIC SOCIETY'S SHOW. This Society's third aud last great Show for the season was held yesterday, and was as usual very attractive. The collections of store and greenhouse flowering and fiue-foliaged pKuts were nnmeroas and ex- celleut. There was likewise a good though not large display of Orchids. Pelargoniums were also well represented ; and of the so called Scarlet varieties, some exhibited by Mr. Ward, gardener to F. G. Wilkina, Esq., were remarkably fine, especially Rose Rendatler. Croton angna- tifolium, exhibited in one of Mr. Williams's collections, was the most beautiful specimen of that tine species which we have ever seen. It resembled a golden waterfall Fruit, however, formed the most interesting feature of the Show. Several excellent collections were exhibited, prominent in which were very fine bunches of Black Hamburgh Grapes from Mr. Rawbone, and Mr. Miller, gardener to Lord Craven, Combe Abbey ; those from the latter, however, though very large, had not tho fine jet black bae presented by the hunches shown by some other exhibitors. There were many very well-ripened Pino Apples of good weight; but thoagk some of tho Peaches were very large and fine, these were not so numc- rooaly shown as in former years. CRYSTAL PALACE ROSE SHOW. JusK 20th. The great Rose Show held at the Crystal Palace on Saturday last was a decided success. It is trtre it was scarcely so extensive as last year, but this could not be wondered at ronsidering that the severe frost of Januftry caused such havoc in collections, and the burning snn of the last few days also, no doubt, prevented many persons from ex- hibiting. Notwithstanding the unfavourable character of the season, however, it was a matter of surprise and congnUulation to find the display so extensive aud the varieties shown iu snch good character. The day being one of the finest which we have enjoyed thif summer, the attendance of visitors, always large at a Crj'stal Palace Kose Show, was even more numerous than in previous years, amounting to but thirty short of 15,000. In the Nurserymen's classes Mr. Cranston, of Hereford, was Bret in that for single trusses of seventy-two varieties. His stands con- tained a remarlxably large bloom of Madame Morcau, Madame Brian- son, splendid bright carmine ; and beautiful examples of Manrice Bernardin, Marguerite de St. Amand, Francois Lacliarme. Christian Putner, Madame Clemence Joigneaux, Gloire de Dij-^n, Charles Ver- dier, a splendid new rose-coloured fiower ; Madame C. Crapelet, Madame Bravy, Madame C. Wood, Baron de Noirmont. Mrs. Rivers, Charlej Lefobvrc, and President. Messrs. Paul & Son, who were Rec'>nd in the same class, had omong others their new lio?c, Duke of Edinburgh, velvety deep red ; Madame C. Crapelet, exquisite ; Olivier Delhommo ; Marie Banmann, a splendid new rrimson variety, whicfc was also exhibited in several other stands, and waa everywhere bean- tifnl ; Exposition de Brie. Beauty of Waltham. Senatenr Vaisse, Reinc de Porcia, Xavicr Olibo, Maurice Bomardin, General Jacqne- 8 JOUBNAIi OF HOBTIOtJLTlTOB iUD COTTAGE GARDENEB. E Julr 4, 1807. miuot, which was good in almost all the eolleetionB in which it was fihowQ ; Prinoo CaraiUe de Rolian, Alba Kosea, and RuBhton RadclyfTe. Mr. Mitchell, of Piltdown Nnrseries, near Uckfield, who was third, had fine trusBoe of Triomphe do Rennos, Marechal Kiel, Lamarqne, Elise Sanvage, Lonise de Savoie, Souvenir de la Malroaison, Madame Fnrtado, Senateur Vaieae, Xavier Olibo, and Victor Verdier, the last very beantiful. Meaars. Francis, of Hertford, were fourth. Class 2 was for 48 varieties, three trusses of each, and proved most effective. In the fine stoudB of Mesflrs. Paul & Son, who were first, we particularly noticed ComtesEe de Chabrillunt, Lord Clyde, John Hopper, Madame Rivera, Beauty of Waltham, La Brillante. Madame C. Crapelet, splendid, Madame Bravy, and Souvenir d'un Ami. Mr. Mitchell, who was second, had beantiful trnssos of Souvenir d'EHse, Leopold Haasburg, Olivier Delhomme, Madame C. Crapelet, Victor Verdier, Triomphe de llannes, Elise Sauvape, Maurice Beruardin, and Gloire de Dijon. Mr. Fraeer took the third prize with fine ex- amples of John Hopper, Maurice Bemardin, Senateur A'aisse, Sou- venir de la Malmaison, Paul Ricaut, Comtesso de Chabrillant, Mrs. Rivers, Leopold Hausburg, and others. Thefonrthprizo was awarded to Messrs. Francis, of Hertford. In Class 3, 24 varieties, three truflses of each, Mr. Cant, of Col- chester, was first, Messrs. Paul & Son second, Mr. Cranston third, Mr. Keynes of Salisbury fourth. Mr. Cant had very fine trusses of Madame Bravy, Marie Banmann, Madame Victor Verdier. John Hopper, Comte'sse de Chabrillunt, Prince Camille do Kohan, Le Rhone, Exposition de Brie, and La Brillante, the last glowing bright crimson. In the other stands most of the varieties already enumerated wore shown in fine condition. Gt-ntral Jacqueminot, Charles Lefcbvro, Mrs. Rivers, Olivier Delhomme, Mdllo. Bonnaire, and A'ictor Verdier were especially fine. In Class i, 24 varieties, single trnsses, Mr. Cant, Mr. Keynes, and Mr. Mann, of Brentwood, took prizes in the order of their names. In the Amateurs' classes the exhibitors were numerous and the quality on the whole very good, the best stands approaching more closely than usual to those of the nurserymen. Mr. Hedge, of Reed Hall, Colchester ; aud Mr. Ingle, gardener to C. G. Round, Esq.. Birch Hall, Colchester, took the first and second prizes in the classes for 48, .^0, and 24 varieties. Among the varieties which they exhibited were fine examples of Coupe d' Hebe, Senateur Vaisse, Marie Bau- mann, Mrs. Rivers, L'Enfant Tronve, Marechal Niel. Madame Boll, Cloth of Gold, Jules Margottin, and many otbern. Mr. Chard, gardener to Sir F. H. Bathurst. Bart., was third in the clase for 48 varieties; aud Mr. Moffatt, gardener to Lord Rosslyn, Easton Lodge, Dnnmow, fonrth, the latter being also third iu the classes for 3G and 24. Mr. Postaus, of Brentwood, and Mr. Skinner, Weslurham, had the fourth prizes in these two classes. Very good stands from Rev. E. Pochin, Mr. Postans. Mr. Hedge, aud Mr. Chard took the four prizes offered for 12 varieties. New Roses will form the subject of a paper which will shortly appear. Among them Marie Baumann, before referred to, was parti- cularly noticeable; also Mdlle. Annie Wood, beautiful scarlet ; Thorin, bright pink ; and Souvenir de William Wood, a very dark flower. Hippo- lyto Flandrin and Horace Vemet were also good. Mr. Turner, of Slough, had a first prize for the beautiful seedliug variety Miss Ingram, described last week. Mr. Cant, of Colchester, and Messrs. Paul & Sou had equal first prizes for collections of new Roses, aud Mr. Keynes a third prize for the same ; and for new Roses iu pots, Messrs. Paul and Sou, who were the only exhibitors, had a first prize. Of Yellow Roses Mr. Hedge sent a beautiful stand, containing L'Enfant Trouvc, Enfant de Lyon, Janne of Smith, and Marccbal Niel. Those from Mr. Bristow, gardeuer to G. Orme, Esq., Broad- water, Worthing, to whom the Fccoud prize was awarded, were also very good. Tea-scented and Noif^ette Roses as shown by Messrs. Paul and Son, Mr. Hedge, Mr. Ingle, aud Mr. Bristow, were also fine. Messrs. Paul and Mr. Hedge had first prizes, Mr. Ingle and Mr. Bristow the second and third. For Decorated Vases of Roses the prizes were awarded to Mr. Ingle, Mr. Marlow, and Mr. Soder, and in each case the stands were .similar to Marsh's ; in each Ferns were introduced at the base aud iu the top diah, aud in each Japanese Honeysuckle was twined up the stem. Mr. Turner, of Slough, exhibited, not for competition, a large num- ber of boxes filled with gorgeous cut trusses of blooms — how.many we could not venture to say, for by this time the visitors were densely packed round the tables, and only an occasional glimpse could be caught of the flowers, progression became almost impossible, and all hopes nf taking notes had to be given up. Collections were ILkewiso shown by Messrs. Paul & Son and Sir. Hedge. A few miscellaneous subjects were shown. Among them was a fine specimen of Pcristeria elata, or the Dove Phuit, exhibited by Mr. Scowen, Park Lane, Croydon. It had six ilowtirin;; stimis, each nearly 5 feet high, and several of its yellowish white Howers, tho centre of which bears a singularly close resemblance to the form of a dove. To this an extra prize was given, and others were awarded to Messrs. Carter and Messrs. Smith, of Duhvich, for Tricolored Pelargoniums; to Messrs. Paul & Sou fur Roses iu pots ; and to Mr. Perry- for Ver- benas. Messrs. Downie, Laird, & Laiug had first-class c(>rtificates for Rose Stella. Hon. G. Hardy, and Countess of Rosslyn Pelar- goniums, and for Imperial Blue Pansy ; and Mr. Maun, Brentwood, had a similar award for his fine Bcarlet Pelorgouium Lord Derby. IMPLEMENTS, Ac, at the LATE MANCHESTER. HORTICULTURAL EXHIBITION. ' Thbse were exhibited on the lawn right and left of tho walk leading, from the entrance-gates to the Exhibition-house, and were numerouar and in many instances good. Many of them received firBt-clasacertifi- cates. The first which I ehall mention is the simple bnt most osefnli swing water-barrow, manufactured by Mr. W. S. Boulton, Norwich-. I have no hesitation in pronouncing this one of the naosi useful things ■ ever introduced into a garden. I have had two of them in constant n?e for the last two months. The carriage is very light aud simple,., and by having two or more tubs with each carriage a very large amount of work may be done in a short time. I have had some taps fixed in different parts of the gardens for filling the tubs, one tub is left to be filled at the tap whilst another is being carried on the barrow to what- ever part of the garden the water may be required. On its arrival . there it is easily placed on the ground by raising the handles of the water-carriage. Tho third tub is taken back by tho carriage ; by th©:- time it reaches the tap the other is full. Three or four men will by _ this simple contrivance water a very large space of ground in a short time. I should strongly recommend for large gardens two carriage* and six tubs. Each tub holds thirty-six gallons. ^Vhere the wall». are in good order the carriage is easily drawn by one man. The pric» of tho carriage with one tub is 45;;., carriage paid to any railway station in England. This very deservedly received a first-class certifi- , cate. Messrs. Dickson & Brown, of Manchester, received a first-class certificate for a large collection of mowing machines of di0erent makers. Amongst these Shanks's was considered by the Judges the, best. Mr. Bennett, of Liverpool, exhibited one of Beard's patent metalKe non-conducting glass-houses. The machineiy for ventilating is fitted to a very great nicety, and the adjustment so complete that a child may give air to a whole range of houses. It is done by means of a , screw attached to an iron rod, which is fixed to the rafters just nnder the ridge of the roof, to which a row of short lights is fixed by means of short cranks at one end of the house. There is a set screw, and when it is found necessary to open the lights at the top of the hcuse^ by turning this screw the lights are pushed out; they are shut by turning the screw the reverse way. The side liglits at the base are opened in a similar way. It is certainly a very simple and effective mode of giving air. The house altogether I thought rather too ex- pensive. One of the uses for which I thought it might answer well for is forcing Strawberries. If a structure of this aoii had the best appliances for heating it, I think with the constant circulation of air and the large amount of light the plants would have, that Straw- berries might be grown to great perfection. This, also, received (U first-class certificate. Messrs. Huut & Pickering, of Leicester, received first-class certifi- , cates for their newly-designed cast-iron vases aud bulconets. These - are certainly vcjt neat and durable. J. Jones's pateut terminal boiler was considered by the Judges the best of all exhibited on this occasion. It also received a first-clase certificate. I likewise noticed a machine for edging walks, and for cutting and rolling verges. It appeared to perform its work well. It received a first-class certificate. There were also many other articles . which received certificates, such as spring chairs, garden seats, rollers, wire stands, ivire arches, rustic summer-houses, portable apparatuR . for heating halls, &c. These were considered very useful. — J. Win^. THE GARDENERS' ROYAL BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION. The twenty-fourth Anniversary Meeting was held at the Lonifoa Tavern on Thursday last, June 27th, Sir Robert Peel, Bart., in tho chair. Among those present were G. F. Wilson, Esq., Major Trevor Clarke, J. Bateman, Eaq., T. B. Gibba, Esq., Messrs. Moore, Wrench. Veitch, Henderson, Lee, Turner, Eraser, Williams, Cntbush, and others to the uumber of about one hundred in all. After tho usual loyal toasts. Sir Robeut Peel, Bart., in proposing the toast of the evening, ' " Sncoess and continued prosperity to the Institution." said that in a company composed, as on that occasion, of hearty well-wishers to the Institution, it would, mthout doubt, in the opinion of some appear t» be sopeiiluous to expatiate on the advantages of this and similar in- stitutions, bnt he trusted the company would admit how ncressaiy these were for the exercise of present benevolence by sulisrriptious and for posthumous charity in the shape of bequests. No one in tho room, he was certain, would deny him the privilege of pressing tlie claims of the Institution. At the present day industrial co-operative societies were being formed throughout the laud, and were largely patronised - by tho trades to which they belonged, bnt none was more worthy of support than the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution, and support it Bhonld receive from those whose duties, whose occupation in life, and whose sphere of action were connected with horticulture. He rojoictul to hear from the Secretary that there was a largo number of head and foremon jrardcners who contiibnted to the Society, and wera laying by a store for a rainy day — for a time when old age came upon them under circumstanoes which might involve tho best-coDducted and. Jaly 4, 1M7. 1 JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE aAKDEKEB. most thrifty among nil. He rejoiced to find the InRtitntion bo well supported by gardeners of all claHBes throaghont the conntry, and he hoped they would nse their inflneune to induce every gardener to join so excellent an Xufititntion, not merely ad a provisiitu for themMelven shoald they require it (as he hoped none preHont ever would), but to help their losa fortunate brethren. Lot them look at the lipt of Bub- ficnptions — there were good names from the Sovereign on the throne to tile man who had earned his position by the sweat of his brow. It was aaoal for tho Cliairman on similar occasions to enter into the hiatory of the Society, hut he would inoroly say that at present a sum of something like .f SOO per year was distribnted among those who had fallen back on ita funtls. Consider what good, what happiness this sam has caused among those who would otherwise have been destitute. When he said that tlie lustitntion was well worthy of supjiort, he •onld not on seeing tho beautiful display of flowers and fruit aronnd him refrain from thiuking what a charm they diffused. lie took a delight in horticulture, and there was no one in the room — no, not ni tho country — who took a greater interest in flowers from the beanti- fol Hose before him to those productions which their friend Mr. Yeitch fleet out in such profusion. After adverting to the frnit from tho gardens of II.R.H. the Prince of Wales at Sandringham, which formed a portion of the dessert, Sir Kobert said that when at Manchester last year ho was tt>ld by many a poor man that his greatest enjoyment was his garden, sometimes in that crowded city only a window garden in a fifth or sixth storey. Sir Kobert Peel then adverted to the great improvement in the parks of tho metropolis, and especially Battersea and Hyde Parks, to the advantages likely to result from the establish- ment of soldiers' gardens, and finally, to tho contributions of flowers ftnd plants which had been sent to decorate the room, and he concluded 0f proposing the toast, which was enthusiastically received. Sir Walter STiitLiNa, Bart., in proposing the health of the Chair- own, said that it had been his singular good fortune to be acquainted with tho first, the second, and the third Sir Robert Peel, and there nevcrwere throe men more devoted to the good of their conntry. After oalogising tho Chairman's ability as a statesman and speaker in the Honso of Commons, Sir Walter Stirling thanked him for his advocacy •f tho Institution, and his liberal donation ^to its funds ("20 guineas, aad 10 guineas from I.ady Emily Peel). Tho CnAiRM.iN, in returning thanks, said that nothing gave him ffreater pleasure than to be able to do anything to improve tho con- dition of his fellow creatures, and if his presence at any time conld be •f assistance he would be most happy to attend. He "then bogged to propose the health of the Treasurer, Mr. Wrench, who had devoted mnch of his time to the interests of tho Institution, and whose services could not but moot with the cordial approbation of tho friends •f the Institution. Mr. Wrexcii having relumed thanks, Mr. Cutler, the Secretary, read a list of subscriptions amounting to, it was stated, upwards of £500. ^ " ^ Tho health of tho Secretary having been drunk, the Ciiairmak prn- posed the Houses of Legislature, coupled with the name of Mr. Bass, M.P., who had recently presented the tt)wn of Derby with the m.tgnifi- •ent gift of sevpl.> it, and little capital to work it, but which must, at the same time, yield a very con- siderable profit and confer immense benefit on agriculture, call really be worth trying ; and so I urge the noblemen and gentle- men here present to-day to see it applied to the cottages over which they have control ; whilst the cottagers will be grateful, the safety of the proprietor will be ensured, for there in do knowing when the fever generated in the village may strike a deadly blow in the mansion of the rich. To the clergy I strongly recommend its adoption in their schools ; it will imbue th» scholars with ideas of decency and comfort, which they will not fail to apply in after life. I earnestly entreat all classes to unite in obtaining its general adoption throughout the land, and I deliberately assert my belief, that whoever tries it honestly and fairly will join with nie in recommending it to all bis neigh- bours. One of our domestic animals afflicts us with abomi- nations which we have all experienced, but give this crafty creature free access to dry earth, in-doors or out, and it set« mankind an example of thrift and cleanliness which it is stupid not to follow ; for when the fruits of the earth, after satisfying the wants of man, are returned to do for it at a small cost what Peruvian guano does at vast expense, we shall have the water unpoisoned and full of fish, with land of increasing fertility, without fever; whilst the public will believe, as I believe now, that no movement so fraught with benefit to the public health has ever had place since the days of Jenner. NOTES AND GLEANINGS. It does not seem to be generally known that the privileges of the Fellows of the Eoyal Horticultural Society extend to a free admission to the Great Exhibition which is to open at Bury St. Edmunds on the IGth inst. All who become Fellows of the Society before that date will be entitled to exercise this privilege. In addition to those named last week, the following Floral and Horticultural Societies have announced their inten- tion to hold exhibitions and meetings during the present month : — July 4th Northampton Floral and Hort. Fete. „ 5th Tunbridge Wells. „ 9th, loth Leicester. „ 13th Denny and Punipace, N-B. „ 17th Newport ( Salop). „ 16th to 19th Rojal Horticultural, Eorj St. Edmnnda. „ 19th Leslie, N.B. „ 30th Kojul Oxford. WORK FOR. THE WEEK. KITCHEN GARDEN. Let a plot of ground be trenched and highly manured forth- with to receive a good breadth of Caulijlowers and Walcheren BruccoU. Grange's Impregnated, if true, is also must valu- able, as it is of a self-protecting character, and if planted with the Cauliflowers it will form a complete succession. Attention to plantiug the above will iusure a supply throughout Novem- ber, December, and even January. Colcuorts, sow more of the dwarf and compact kinds, also a pinch of Chervil and Com Salad. Endive, sow a little every week in July. Herb-cuUing must be attended to, choosing a perfectly dry day, and cutting the moment the plants begin to blossom. Lettuce, gocjd breadths oi Brown Cos may soon be sown, as it will not be liable to run. Peaa, the crops of Knight's Marrows and British Queen should be topped when at the top of their sticks; tbey will branch out sideways if the ground has been thoroughly piepaied. Let late Ptas have eveiy encouragement, esiecially by lliorough sticking. Give plenty of water to Celery recently planted, and pick off any leaves that may be seen niarUed with the fly_ The soil in which this crop is planted cannot be made too rich, FEniT OAIIDEN. Apple, Plum, and Cherry trees having crumpled foliage, from being infested with aphis, should be ralher uut^pariugly short- ened, and the removed portions burned. After the trees have been gone over they should be syiiuged with gas liquur mixed with eight or ten parts of water. This will destroy many kinds of iuseots, but will take little or no effect upon the American blight. Where this appears it will be necessary to apply naptha with a small brush. The naptha distilled from coal tar is the cheapest, and answers this purpose qiiile as well as the more expensive kinds. The late rains have been favour- able to the production of Strawberry-runners, and as soon as a sufficient number have struck root for the purposes of forcing July 4, 1M7. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB. U and the formation of new plantations, the f ai-ther progress of the rnnners ehnuld be stopped. Some Rood soil shoiild be pre- pared for tlie reception of the plants as they become sufficientlv tooted for beMinR-oiit. They will thus bo utroiig for final planting out in autumn, and will bear well next siason. Cut ofl the bloom from the latest Alpine Strawberries ; the flowers after this period will be suflicient for the latcbt crop. FLOWEK GAIIDEK. Continue to clear away everything decaying, and to introduce good plants from pots in the reserve ground. A good reserve garden, if projicrly situated and systeraaticKllyp lanued and con- ducted. Would ho one of the most useful plots of ground about a garden. Such a valuable adjuuot would, however, require the conitimt attendance of a man popscssing some little know- ledge of tiowers. and therefore could not be curried out where there is a deficiency of labour power. Jlecayed patches of bulbs, which are retpiired to stand for early-spring tlowering. may have Verbenas or other plants introiiuced fn m pots be- tween them. Cuttings of Pansies should be planted out in Buccession before the shoots are too much exhausted. Remove from standard Roses aU suckers as they appear; likewise ihorten bnek any over-luxuriant shoots, find bud choice kinds. Beds that Imvp been tilled with early-blooming ani>nal.'<. itc, shouM bo clemed off, and replanted with oUier tilings. The plants raised from the first sowing of Biompton Stocks should be pricked out in borders and pots, placing the latter in the Bhade for a few days, and then exposing them to the influence of the sun and air. Continue to put in pipings of Pinks. Ex- tract deciived peta s from the pods in wliich the seed is form- ing. Auricula nnd Polyanthus seed ought to be carefully cid- lectod. It should be retained in the capsules til! tbe proper season for sowing. Perhaps the best way of preserving it is to tie the stems together in small bunches, insert them in Hun paper bags, and suspend them in a dry, airy place. prefer to strike them in good light soil in a frame, where they can bo protected from heavy falls of rain or thunder showerg. Polygalas, and similar hardwooded plants which have dona blooming, should he pruned buck rather closely, and placed in a cool bituation to start again. — W. Kjsane. DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. OTSEKN-nOUSK AND CONSEBVATOrY. Tliis should now be a perfect blaze of flowers. Balsams, Cockscombs, HvdrangPrts, Gnrdenias, Fuchsias, &c., should •onstitntp important objects of deco'ation at this season, inter- mingled witb vnrious hardwooded plants, which are of course, in-doors whilst in flower. The beautiful Japan Lilies are now fast apprnncbing perfection. As they are succulent in growth, never stint them of water, but keep them well and liberally supplied. Tbe flower-stems should be properly staked, so as to keep them witliin due bounds. Clerodendrons will enjoy liquid munore constantly, with liberal shifts if not already done. The Tree Violets should have the side shoots constantl.y pinched off. Sollya heterophylla is a very useful pbmt, and deserving a place in every greenhouse ; fixed to the tri His and •onstnntly stopped, it forms a very ornamenlal shrub. The Camellias out of doors to ho surfaced with fresh soil if they reqnire it. Cinerr.rino, wliethcr seedlings or suckers, should have regular attention, and those intended for autumn mui-t be potted forward without delay. Fuchsias look best when grown in the pyramidal shnpe; the drooping branches should display a uniform appearance all around the idant, the outward KITCHEN GARDEN. Storing Water.— The bright sun and north winds np to the end of the month tried tender crops very much, especially if not long planted. AVo took the opportunity to dig every piece of spare ground, so as to be ready for planting out more winter stull as soon as there was likely to be a change, as now so much time in waleiing would be required, and water itself is becoming scarce with us. In ten days of such weather the supply would be nearly exhausted. At the present time we know of several instances where a bouse has been built and gardens are being fmced, and tbe snpply of water is only now beginning to be thought of. Where there is near at hand a river, or even a rivulet that docs not dry up in summer, or where water is known to be abundant at a few feet beneath the surface, then it is excusable if the water question becomes one of the last to be considered ; but it is very different when a large household establishment and a fair-sized garden are to b« supplied, and the latter, unlike a field that generally prodnoeB only one crop in the season, has to carry many and siiccessional crops in the same ground, and for which successions moisture must be had, and when for the water wanted in both cases you must depend on wlat can be obtained from some 500 feet below the su) face, or what can he saved in ponds and tanks supplied from the clouds. It used to be an old axiom, that every house, he it cottage or mansion, in ordinary years, had as much rain on its roof ag, if saved up, would meet all the water wants of the inmates. It is one of the good signs of the times that water is mora ] plentifully used in lioufeholds than formerly, and therefore it [ may be doubted if the axiom would now hold true, even were ; tanks and reservoirs large enongh to hold nil tbe rain water, which we believe is very seldom the case. We know that the rain that falls on greenhouses, even if saved, will not be suffi- , cient for these houses if watering must bo resorted to all th« year round. Water suitable for garden purposes might, how- ever, generally be secured in plenty, were the rain which faUa I in heavy thunderstorms, as it did" this year, alone on hard gravel walks nnd courtyards, conveyed and stored up in a large ■ reservoir. With most of our walks this season, several times covered 4 inches deep, the drains all full, and vaking away the superfluous water as fast as they could, we could not hut think ' that in these several thunderstorms, besides what found its way through the earth, there was enough fell on hard roads, walks, i-c, to have supplied all the watering wanted for one year, if not for two. Our tanks did not fill at all as we ex- pected from these deluging rains, as the spouts could be no yOTing shoots being secured to the main stem bv twisted bast '""''*' "'"" '^""' """^ ""^ water consequently poured over them. in preference to the ol.l method of tying each bnincli to a sepa- rate stick. Afford a free admission of air. shade from bright annshine, and give liquid manure occasionally. 6T0TE. Endeavour from this period to establiph rather a robust than a_ rapid growth in the mnjoiity of stove plants. Do this, and give air most freely at all fitting opportiinilies. avoiding, how- eyer, cold currents. Continue to keep Orchids in a growing state actively at work, in ortJer to secure largo pseudo-bulbs, for on this depends the flowering. When they only produce fculhs weaker tlinn those of the preceding season there must be something wrong, nnd they will, of course, flower much more weakly, if at all. ?.fiiinlain a very humid atmosphere by copious syringingfl, or whatever other means there mny be at command. Plants which are coming into bloom should be removed into a •ooler temperature, exposing them gradually. riTS AND FUAMES. Cnttingq of herbaceous plants should be put in unr'er hand- fights in shady situations. Shift and stop ChrvsHnthemums, applyiug manure to tbera occasionally. Shift" Balsams and other tender annuals ; shade during the heat of the dav, and sprinkle with water in the afternoon. All the cuttings "of Pe- largoniums that can now be obtained should be put in ; (hey will make fine strong plants for keeping over the winter. They will succeed in a bed of light soil in the open ground, but we It would perb.Tps be economical to have larger pipes and sponts merely to meet these exceptional downpourings. Tbe simple fact, however, remains that, whether from position or otherwise, where water is scarce and large fertile gardens are wanted, plenty of tanks and reservoirs to husband and preserve for nsa the rain water, should bo calculated npon and considered aa essentials for primary expenditure. We sometimes hear quite enough about the expense of labour in gardens, and tbe contrast is drawn between one garden and another, though there be no similarity in the succession of crops, and less similarity still as to the water supply. For instance, we have three gardens, in many respects similar, in our mind's eye. In one, for many years all the water that could be obtained to houses, pits, and cropping, came throngh a small brass tap in a corner, with a small wooden tub beneath it, the tap conneeled with a pipe from a pond. As nothingbnt tbe little tub could be placed beneath this tap, and as every drop of water wanted had to be taken from thence, it need not be wondered that but little was carried, and the first crops were generally the only crops worth looking at, and, if a dry summer set in early. Strawberries generally dried up instead of swelling. We had several limes heard the little labour spent on this garden talked about. We always thought there was quite enough, and more than enough, for the produce. In the second garden, in addition to snch a tap there was a tank or two ; but the most of the water that was wanted out li JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ JnlT 4, 1867. bt doors was received from this tap or jet, that emptied itBefl into a good-sized reservoir, and tlierefore a man could fill his pails or his water-barrow at once. Here watering to keep up a good succession was a serious matter, and must of it had to be done by dragging a water-barrel a hundred yards — a severe undertaking, and making a man glad of other work when he had half a day of it. In this case the single pipe was supplied from a cistern, the water being raised by pump from a pond that seldom failed. If the pond could have been thoroughly depended on it would have been true economy to have raised the cistern, furnished the garden with pipes and small reser- voirs, and even with hose to screw on the tape, all of which would soon have been paid out of the labour necessary in dragging the heavy water-barrels. In the third garden the water is supplied by ram from a stream, which throws it into a cistern at a great height above the level of the garden, and a good supply of pipes, with taps, and a hose to screw on, enable a man to sprinkle water or deluge the ground without any more labour than holding and clenching the hose-distributor. Need there be any surprise that, merely from there being Uttlo or no labour with the water- barrel, this third place is well cultivated, and with less expense for labour than the second ? Where water can be made to run in pipes, a pipe and a reservoir, even without the screwed hose, which is useless without a fall, would save a gi tat deal of water earrying or wheeling. That this is not more done is entirely owing to the first expense that would have to be incurred. The old proverb is rung in one's ears, '• A penny saved is a penny got," independently of facts that prove iiicontestably that the saving of the penny is often followed by the losing the worth of a shilling. TanAs.— One little matter here is worth ventilating, and we should be glad to have the opinion and asi-istance of those who have had more experience than ourselves. Whatever commoner and rougher reservoirs or ponds may be used for general pur- poses, no plan is so effectual for storing rain or drain water as a tank formed of brick, and the inner laj er at least laid in cement, and a casing of cement placed all over it. If the reservoir is large, the walls, instead of being perpendicular, should slope outwards, iiaiu water is best for all garden purposes. It is best, too, for this purpose when saved in tanks, if the tank is open to the atmosphere ; it then always keeps its delightful softness— if possible, becomes softer than when it came distilled from the clouds. There are, however, some objections to these open tanks. For instance, foreign matters will find their way into the water, and despite a green carpeting of the putifving Duckweed, the water will become stale and unpleasant to" the sense of smell. Then, again, the cemented walls, at least until thoroughly weatherproof, will be apt to be affected by severe frosts m winter, and it is difiicult so to protect the walls as to avoid doing anything to pollute the water afterwards; and, lastly, the room thus wanted for a tank in and about a garden would often be valuable for other purposes, and in some cases if open it would be unpleasant, and might be dangerous if not well secured from children. _ Now, to obviate these objections, water as water, in moderate- sized tanks maybe kept as well underground as exposed to the air— in fact, in one sense better, because it would not be lessened in quantity by evaporation ; but then the great draw- back IS, that under all such circumstances it will become less or more hard, whether the cement used be the darker Roman or the hghter Portland, and that most likely from the chalk or hme contained in both. Now, here is where the results of practical experience would be most valuable. As far as our limited observation and experience are concerned, we have met with tanks so covered up, one at least so covered, and never cleaned or opened for a quarter of a century, and the water is always pure, clear, and delightfully soft, the clearness being owing to the fact, that little soot or smoke from fires is deposited upon the slates. In another tank underground when Gie water remains in it for a few weeks it becomes so hard that even laundresses cannot use it without an additional supply ef ash ley, or the alkalies generally used to soften the water. These may be judged as extreme cases. The causes of the diflorence are almost as diverse as the persons from whom they came. One lays stress on the water being conveyed in zinc spouting and iron pipes, and not along lead-covered gutters. A second lays the blame on the cement, says it is poor stuff when compared with what it used to be, and now requires scarcely any sand to be mixed with it. A third insists on using none but the finest rough-washed sand with the cement, from which every earthy particle is excluded— a matter of im- portance certainly so far as the standing of the cement is con- cerned ; and a fourth says, that in his experience Portland cement is less likely to produce a hardness in the water than Roman cement is. If we have an opinion ourselves, it would have some reference to doing the work well, leaving the walls quite smooth, and patiently waiting until successive supplies of water had absorbed the properties on the outside that give hardness to the water; but then, as if in contradiction of this, we have heard of some cases in which in old-covered tanks sup- phed with rain water, the water pumped from them is always nearly as hard as if obtained from chalk or a limestone rock. Would practical readers give us the benefit of their experience, so that soft water may be obtained from underground tanks either for household or garden use ? Watering. — 'J his has been confined chiefly to some Cauli- flowers and Peas that we wished to continue productive as long as possible, and to crops which we were obliged to plant out, as our crop of Beet, having found in many years that no com- mon netting would save it from the birds when just above the ground. This we have been obliged to shade slightly with evergreen branches, itc, and after watering when planting, as it plants quite as well as Turnips, it had a slight surface sprink- ling every day just to check evaporation and jirevent the leaves drooping. There is plenty of moistuie in the ground for all established plants as yet, and, therefore, for Peas and other crops established the chief work has been to surface-stir the ground nilh the hoe and light fork to prevent cracks and keep the moistuie in ; and to promote the latter object we have placed a layer of short grass from the lawn along each side of the rows of Peas, and will do the same with other crops, as Cauliflowers, if the present parching weather should last. This will do little to arrest moist vapour rising from beneath to supply the roots with moisture, and is in every respect better than giving dribblets at the surtace, which only encourage surface roots to be dried up by the fierce sun. Celenj planted out had to be watered, and has had several slight bpriuklings overhead just to refresh and prevent ex- cessive evaporation until the roots were in good working order. As our water has to he carried chiefly in water-barrels, anything that will dispense with watering is an advantage to us, and much expeiieuce leads us to the conclusion, that surface-Stir- ling, mulching, and in fresh-planted subjects a mere spiinkling over the foliuge ale often better than a deluging ftith water. In the pleasure grounds and flower gaidens the same prin- ciple is more rigidly applied as respects watering, as up to this time it is important that the soil should become warm as well as be moist enough. Watering has, therefore, chiefly been confined to plants that were evidently beginning to suffer, chiefly those of small size and freshly planted ; and to these only as much was given as would moisten the soil around the routs. Piovided there was plenty of moisture and yet there was a tendency to droop from the want of reciprocal action between routs and perspiring foliage, a little shade, or, what is given more quickly, a slight dash over the foliage from the syringe would be more useful than watering at the roots, and it the surface of the ground is warm from the action of the sun's rays, what water fulls on the ground is speedily raised in agreeable vapour about the foliage of the plant so operated upon. The great rule in watering plants out of doors or in-doors is to water so liberally as to reach all the fibres of the plants, and then to wait until the plant needs a repetition of the supply. There need be no difficulty with established plants. They geneially indicate to those who tend them what they want, if the cultivator will observe and seek for the information, in- stead of treating them to the water-pail as a work of rueis routine. Fresh-turned-out plants, if they are moist enough at the roots, and yet the foliage droops in a bright sun, will be more benefited by arresting evaporation at the surface than by fresh watering at the roots. Most people dread moistening a leaf in sunshine, but out of doors especially. We have seldom, we might say never, saw any bad effects from the practice. At any rate, scarcity of water has taught us this — that the very free use of water in general is not an unmixed advantage. Water- ing may easily be overdone. We have several times been dis- appointed at finding no such extraordinary results either in kiichen or flower gardens where a frequent copious watering from the hose was resorted to. It is a great advantage, how- ever, to be able thus to water with little trouble when neces- sary. In the flower garden as yet, with the exception referred to, we have depended chiefly on surface-moving to secure the July 4, 1887. ] JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 18 necessnry moistnro for the roots, with the exception of Calceo- larias, which have hail a little watering at the rootfl. In other departments the »oi k haa been the same as detailed in previous weeks' notices. — K. F. COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— .Tui.y ;?. OOR innrkotiN cicoedinKly "nil "iipplii^il. wilh torrnil trnitH cnpccinlly KO. lu cunneiiiH'irjm»iJ.riililo quantitv o( lro«h Figs. OooU samples of PotatoOB «nd Pcaa arc frouly offorud at lower rates. Apples i slevo S 0to4 Apricots dor. 8 0 4 0 ChorrioH lb. 0 G 1 G CheKtniits bush. 0 0 0 0 CnrrantH J sieve 3 0 4 0 Black do. i 0 0 0 FlRS doz. » n fi 0 FUberls lb. 0 0 0 0 Cobs lb. 0 !) in Gooseberries . . quart 0 4 0 G Grapes, Hothouse.. lb. a G 0 0 Lornous 100 H 0 1:2 0 rnniT. s. d. a. d I ■. 0 I Melons each S Nectarines doz. G Oranges 100 8 Peacboa doz. 8 Pears (dessert) ..doz. 0 kitchen doz. 0 Pine Apples lb. 4 Plums i sieve 0 Quinces doz. 0 Kiispberrl.'S lb. 0 KtrawhoiTies lb. 0 d. s. d 0to5 0 0 10 U 0 14 0 0 21 n 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 2 II Walnuts bush. 10 0 20 0 Artichokes each Asparagus .... bundle Beans, Kidney, per lOU ScarletKun.) sieve Beet, Red doz. Broccoli bundle Brns. Sprouts i sieve Cabbage doz. Capsicums 100 Carrots bunch Oaoliflowtr doz. Celery bundle Cucumbers each pickling .... doz. Endive doz. Fennel bunch Garlic lb. Herbs bunch Horseradish . . buudlo TEOETABLEa. R. d. s. d I 3 to 0 C G GO 0 2 0 0 0 .H 0 0 f> 0 8 3 0 G 0 1 a 2 0 0 G 1 n 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 K 1 0 0 ,■) 0 0 2 8 4 0 Leok0 bnnch Lettuce.... per soore MiiehroomR .... pottlo Mu8td.& Cresa, pnnnet Onions. ... per busliel Parsley per pievo Pareuips doz. Peas p(ir quiirt Potatoes bubhel Kidney do. New lb. Radishes doz. bunches Rhubarb bundle Snvoy« doz. Sea-iialo baskot Shallots lb. Spinach bn^hel Tomatoes. . .. per doz. Turnips bunch 0 1 0 4 S fl 0 G d. 8. 3 too 0 0 6 0 10 0 .S 0 0 9 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 8 2 0 3 0 0 6 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 S 0 4 0 0 9 TO CORRESPONDENTS. *•• We request that no one will writo ]iiivnt,ely to the depart- mental writers of the "Journal of Uoiticulture, Cottage Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing they are subjected to unjustiliable trouble and expense. All communications sliould therefore bo addressed solely to The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture ^ dc.^ 171, klect Street^ Loudon, E.G. We also request that correspondents will not mix np on the same sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry and B^e subjects, if they expect to get them an- swered promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate communications. Also never to send more than two or three tiuestions at once. Guide to Burv St. Kdmunds {An Intending Exhibitor). — "Wa recom- mend you to send to Mei^srs. Jackson & Froat, P.ookscUers, Bury St. EdmondR. for "Jackson's (juide t'> Burj'*" Themis iu it an excellent frlan of the town, and of the show-yards. We Bupposo you can haro it ree by post if you enclose to them twelve postage stimps. Tobacco Powdf.u {Suh»crihcr, Bolton). — It was advertised by two manu- facturers iu our Journal hmt week. ViHERY ARRANfiF.MKNTS (Arixtoiu to Lcarn). — Vour ventilation will do very well. The best Vines for oarlv work and niodora'e bent are Black Hamburph, Dutch Sweetwater, Buckland Sweetwater, and Uoyal Musca- dine. For more heiit you may have the Muscats. We approve nf your planting inside, and aliowinu the roots to ro out if the bonier ia to be pro- tected. Wo would for quii-k return-, [danl from 'Jt to 3 feet apart, if the liouse is to be uS'-d Boseswo consider iron-fllinc jnintu and joints mane with lint, rope yam, and red lend as .good as any. Were wo putting down pipes that we should wish to take up easily, then wo would u^o the Tiuts ^v>tem. All the systems acl%ertiscil in this Journ-il will answer well if well done. We are sure that we could work en oh of them sati-^fictoiily. A** to boilers, we have just ono pie- jndicc — we like simplicity ; and, provi.ied they aro as simple as possible, we c;tru little whether the bhape be t>aJiIlo-biick, conical, or tubular. Cpprkssch Lawsoniasa varikoata (F. F.).— Send it to the Klond Committee of Iho Koyal Horticultural Hociety the day before one o< their Tuesday meetings, writing al the name time to the Society's Uoore- tary stating your wishoH. FoRCINO (>y STRAWDEBRtEB A .^^KCOND YEAR (A. B ).— Wfl hftVfl OttOn forced Strawberry plants a second season, more especially when thero was a (iifticiilty in obtaining early runners. Wo used to let the plants rest a little in their pots, giving them little W'^ter, and a rather shady place for a month or so, then Btrip ofT some of the worst leaves, bbake away a good vortion of the soil, repot in fresh, and then treat as for young plants. ' ho results, which we used to hnvo, on the whole were these: — Generally heavy crops. l)ut the individual berries scaicoly so Gne at in the c ise of young plants. If wanted fia*) the boTies would require to be thinned severely. This thinning is what some of us cannot overtake, and fo the b- si IruJt without thinning go to table and the smallest to tha kitchen lor creams, &c. The chief diflTL-renco as to results is that the old plants yield the heavier crup, and the young the finer frnit. As yon go north there are more old plants used. SmiU autumn runner* are aleo often pricki^-d out in a bed, and, after standing the winter, are taken up iu the following hummer and potted. IIeatino a Greekhocmk ynoM a KiTcnKNER (A Tounfj Gardener)^^ Wo niiuht answer your incjuiry better d'd wo thoroughly know what you mean by tho word " kiteliener." We consulted our artUte of the kitchen, wlio show(!d us a rather largo iron vesHel, with a lid. for placing tho water in, and with a brass tap iu front for drawing it off, wliich, when placed over tho oveu at the side, or over the fire with a moveable hob, will always give a supply of hot water when needed. ThoKo "kitrhonera" t re used in public-houses for supiilvinc clean hot waterto mix with some- thing stronger. N'ow, such a kitchener so placed that it could be heated at pleasure, and yet be fixed in its position, would be rinito snfiicioDt to keep tho frost out of a house on the other side of a wall, 50 feel long by ? feet wide. What you would want would be two holes, one within 8 inclies of the top," and one within an inch of the bcittom, and each drilled to receive one-mch pipes to go through the wnll, and there bo Joined by a socket-joint to three-inch lipes to heat the house, two of which, if the house is not lofty, would do; but if 1'2 or more feet in height at back, three would be better. In such a case, h(iwever, tho water iu tho boiler must always be as high as tho top pipe, and thfl pipes in tho ho'iso should neither be higher nor lower than those small pipes that come at once from the boiler. Tho water will not circulate woU il taken at nil below the level of the Ititchenor. and it must not go hitrher il it is supplied with a moveable lid. If tho kitchener lias a close lid, and ia supplied by a small pipe from a greater height, the hot-water pipea may go as liigh as the supply cistern. Altogether the kitchener, or what we 'describe as such, will not answer so well and with so little trouble as a boiler at the back of the kitchen range. Even iu such a case the matter of levels must bo considered as stated above. Wo were in hopes wo could heat a long glass corridor from a large kitchen-range; and it could havo been done easily but for the fact that the kitchen-range is considerably higher than tho floor of the place t > ho heated, and for par- ticular reasons, Buch as doors, &c., it was necessary that tho pipes should not bo higher than merely placed on tho stone flooring. Such s house as yours will also bo hulpyd by tho kitch'^u chioinev; and this would be done more eflectually if near tho fire-place the wall was made thinner, or if an arch of 2 or .'J foot was made, and an iron plito inserted inste id of brickwork. Such a kitchen chimney will give out ft great deal of heat. 1 f the kitchener or boiler should bo too troublesome, we would recommend an iron stove of the kind mentioned at page 440. Removino Leaves of Sthawberrieb (.1 Lfnrmrr).— We would not ra move luxuriant leaves from •^trawberrj- .dants wbil'rJt swellinit their fruit ; hut if you think they are rather too strong, apply next season a little dry litter on the surface instead of dung. Roses from Ccttings {A Lady).— Tho best time to propagate Roses from cuttings is immediately tho dowering is past. Any shoots that havo bloomed are sure to have tho wood sufBcieutly ripeued. or any shoots of an equal age with the flowering shoots are eligible for cuttings. Tho cuttinuH, therefore, should bo taken from the wood of the current year, and the time to tako them is immediately after thfit of blooming. The cuttings may bo from 4 to fi inches in length, and have three or more buds—eyes or leaves. 'The base of the cutting should be cut off with a sharp knifo transversely below the lowest bud or leaf, the leaf being re- moved, and the leaf next above, or for a distance of two-thirds the length of the cultini,'. Tho cuttings aro to be inserted eiualv two-thirds their length in pots, in a compost of equal parts of sandy loam and silver sand, the pots being well drained, resting the Kisc of tho cuttinj? on tho drainage. They m-y then be placed in a cold frame. keepinff them close, and sprinkled with water every morning, shade being ofTorJed them by means of a covering of mats. It will sufTice if the cuttings have two joints, ono being inserted in the soil ; but it is better if they havo three, two inserted in tho soil and one out. Cnttimrs will also strike in the open ground, but tliey should not be put iu until the midd'o of September, and a warm exposure should be chosen. Cuttings put in in a framo wlU be well rooted in six weeks, when they must havo air and be repotted. Azaleas after Bi-oomino (South rro^rfonl.— Those phnuld be kept under glass and eucouriiged to make new growth by a rather close and moist atuiosphore, and that should bo maintained until tho growth is complete, and then it is not desirable to plunge them in the shade, but to keep them in a light, co.d, airj* house. If the plants were potted last voar (and they do not appear pot-boundi, we would not recommend n shift. If vou d 1 repot them, a cmnpost of two-thirds peat and one-third turfy loam' with one-six'.hof silver band, will grow them well. Melon (J. iJou-Ii-y).— It is impossible to name a Melon from the seeds. Eglantine (J". A/a/coIm).— What plant was meant by " Kglantino" by ancient writers has been disputed, but we are of opinion that they BO niiinod what we term the Sweet Briar. Sh.akspeare puts into tho mouth of Ubcron the linos— " I know fl bank whereon the Wild Thyme blows, Wlicro Ox-Iii'H ^^^ th'- mxldm? Violet ffroviS : Qui;e over-c;in«'pie.l with lu'^h Woodl'iro, Wilh sweet Musk Roses, and wilh Eglantine." So tho Eglantine could not have been the Woodbine ns some frappose. and in " Cymbeline" the same poet speaks of the sweet perturoo of the Eglantine's leaves. Old Gerarde snvs— "£f:l«»ti»i<'. t^**^ *» Sweet Bner, aud Turner, o stiU older herbalist, caUs it " EaltnUne, or Swclo Brere. JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ July 4, 1867. Atpi^ Tree in Piggerv-tard (A. ^.).— It is not unlikely that tbe Apple tree will be destroyed in time by tbe saturation of tbe soil with the uiiue and waRhinps of the dung; but it will not suffer so long us tbe ground is not excessively charged with those matters. Apter-usks of Pit employed fob CnTTiNos tFred). — You may put a barrowful of hot dung under each hpbt, and cover it with 9 iuche'i of fresh loam ; pUnt under each licht a stronR Cucumber plant. You may, therefore, grow Cucumhtrs. and bad it been tbouRbt of sooner you mifiht have had a crop of aiilona. Tbe frame may also bo employed for strikinc cuttinf,':* of such plants as Verbennt; for furnishing other cuttings in spring, which should be put in early in August. Removikg Balsam Bods {J. Bowlby).—To have the plants in lull flower at the beginning of Aucjust tbe buds should not be pinched off after this, but they may be thinned, which will increase the size of the blooms left. Melons not Setting (J County Cork Gardener). — We f- nr you have neplecied to thin out tLie bhoots. so that they are much too close tofjetber, and being thus deprived of light and air the blossoms do not open freely. The watering should be in proportion to tbe growth, and excessive vigour It seened by reducing the watering and giving abundance of air. We presume yon have stopped the shoots and laterals, and also thinned them. l>o it now if you have not, and tike out tbe point of each lateral at ono joint above tlio fruit. If you do this and give air early in the morning we thiuktbe fruit will set. Early Peas Sown in August (Idem).— It you sow early Peas early In August they may. if tbe season ba mild, come into beai-ing in November ; but their produce would be better insured were they sown in the second week in July, which we think quite late enough. Names op Plants {B D i.— I. \diiiitum m icrophyllnm ; 2, Pteris cre^ tica ?l; 3, Adiantum capillu^-Venoris; 4, Aspidium f^leatum; 5, Aaple* nium fliccidiim ; 6 Pteris; 7. Scolopendriun vulgnre ; 8 Lastrea dilatftta; 9, Atbyi'ium Filix-foemina ; 10, Lastrea Filis-maa ; ll.PolypodiauiTulgare; 12, Pteris s^rrulita; the sbiub is Leycesteria formosa. (W. F. R. and J. D. D.).— Stflchya Ima+a. [B, T7.) — Cystopteris fragilis. {A Constant Header, H.). — 1, Rhus cotinus ; 2, Colutea arborescen:* ; 3, Pjtus inter- medii (?| ; 4- SpirjBi filipeudula ; 5, Symphytum officinale. Ji. Q.).— 1, Philadelpbus cnnmarias; 2, Lonicera invulucrata; 3, Pergularia odo- ratissima (A Constant Rea-ie.r). — i, Erigeron epecioaum; 5, Spiraea chamn3drifo]ia; 1, Tradescaatia virginict ; we cannot name the garden hyb id Rose^ {A Subscriber). — Boib the Willows are forms of Sallx nigriuans, and t'le Peru is Cystppleris fragilis. METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS in the Suburbs of London for the Week ending July 2nd. Date. THEKSIOMETER. Wind. Rain In inches. GBKBBAli RZUABSa. BAfiOMETEB. Air. Earth. Max. Min. Mai. Min. 1 tt. dp. 2 ft. dp. Wed. . 2R Thnrs. 27 Fri. .. 28 Sat. .. 29 Snn. .. SO Mon... 1 Tnes. . 2 Mean 80 J?6 SO 622 80.602 30.408 80 079 29 819 29.735 30.4fi8 80 419 80 474 80.273 29 860 29.733 29.654 74 82 70 81) 82 83 71 87 40 85 42 47 44 65 63 Bl 63 02 63 r4 65 69 69 59 60 fiO 60 61 NE. N.E. N.E. SW. S W. E. W. .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .24 .04 BCoIti nnd dry; very clear; very fine at nipht. Quite cUdidless; clear with dry air; very fine. Overcast ; low dusky white cloud.s ; very line. Clear :iuti cloudless; very fine; cloudy. Hot; very fine tbrnn^hout. Hot with slit-'ht dry hnze ; hot and dry ; cloudy. Close and warm ; showery ; fine rain at night. 80.221 30.126 77.48 42.85 62.85 69.71 0.28 POULTSY, BEE, and HOUSEHOLD CHROBriCLE. GAME FOWLS. In breeding in-SDcl-in much depfnds upon the constitntion of the brood stock, and putting youth to youth. There should be no hidden taint of disease in the birds selected for breeding- purposes. They should have every feature of good health ; indeed, success is mainly attriLulable to the health and vigour of the brood slock. By strict attention to these rules one may breed for years with success from the same stock : and when a cross is introduced let one that is equally healthy and good be chosen ; but once let the seeds of disease be sown, and it will be found they will not be easily eradicated. We are all more or less prejudiced in oni tastes and opinions ; and although I have every respect for "Newmarket's" views as to the foim of the Game cock's tail, I still strictly adhere to previously expressed remarks. I believe that, as a rule, old cock-fighters preferred the Bpnrred hen ; but, as I have stated before, I can perceive no real merit iu the aipendage. I have seen several spurred black hens. The tw^» I ;illuded to in my previous letter were both equally good, pciljaps the spangled hfn was the hastier and quicker fighter. I have often teen when alad young Ijroods from these hens, hatched in the early months of February and March, skitting and running about during the frost and snow, indifferent to the inclemency of the weather. Naturally healthy and vigorous, they were not so susceptible to the changes of tempeiatuie as the young broods of the present day. How mortifying it is, after nil our hopes and care, to have to witness the defective and shattered constitution of our brood, in a few days after their releaKO from the shell drooping and dying without apparent cause. These are great drawbacks in breeding, and deprive the pursuit of one-half of its interest. I fear that a great portion of our exhiliition stock is tainted with disease, and the birds thus hand itdown to their offspring. In regard to the colour of the "Slincbags" opinions vary. Some parties assert that they were a Black-breasted Bed with wheat-colnuied or Partridge hens ; others say they were Black- breasted Yellow Dackwings. Mr. lliehardson in his book on domestic fowls, page 23, states that the " Sbakehag," or " Shackbag," would appear, from the description of rixon and other writers, to have lieen an offshoot from the great Paduan or St. lago fowl, and the immediate descendant of the Gall us giganteus. This Padnan fowl was described by Ulysses Aldro- vand as having five colours — viz , black, white, green, red, and yellow; the body black tiugedwithgreen.and the tailof the same colour, with the base of the feathers white. I have seen several in Yorkshire which were pointed out to me as " Shacbags." They were Black breasted Beds with Partridge hens, and had small double combs. Several of these were fought, and thej were deep Game. If I am not mistaken, Mr. Aykroyd, of Bradford, bred both the birds that were exhibited by Mr. Brierley at Accrington, and I believe they are descended from Messrs. Scrimminger and Williams's stock. I thought the Black-breasted Red at the Accrington Show the best I ever saw, being particularly neat in all his points, and devoid of that coarseness and leggi- ness which we should at all times discard. The Brown-breasted Red is equally good, but was much out of condition — indeed, he ought not to have been shown. He has splendid feet, with a good back claw, and is rich iu colour. The birds I hav« seen belonging to Mr. Statter were good, but I fancy they are partially from Mr. Scrimminger's stock. I believe Mr. Brierley's Black-breasted Reds have had a cro^ of Brown Bed at some period ; indeed, I have a Partridge hen which came from Mr. Williams's yard, and she has dark eyes, and occasionally throws the cockerels blotch-breasted Reds. I do not know Mr. Scrimmiuger personally, but believe he breedfi excellent birds both for exhibition and the pit. I have seen some of Mr. Shield's Black- breasted Reds with yellow legs, and splendid short-feathered birds they were, very showy, and good lighters. Few breeders in Yorkshire formerly were so cautious in crossing so as to produce birds regular in feather and attributes. Whatever may be the courage and soundness of constitution of the birds bred for exhibition pur- poses at the present time, every one must admit that at no period were they ever bred more uniform in colour and feather. Some thirty or forty years ago there was a favourite breed in Yorkshire, but which is now rarely seen. It was a Black- breasted Bed with a very deep red hackle, back, and saddle, dark beak, and legs; the ends (,f the wings, instead of being of a clear bay, were black. Tbe birds were also very black beneath the hackle when clipped f.ir fighting, and from this colour they established the name of Black Hackles. In Craven, Yurk.shire, a favourite breed of White Game fowl with white beak and legs was much appreciated; the owner bred these fowls with great care, and was very successful. Ho had also a favourite breed of Black-breasted Beds from wheat- O'lloured hens; and amongst other kinds which are now, as formerly, in great favour, are Gingers with yellow and willow legs, Park Reds with clear brown breasts, Black-breasted Duck- wings with yellow and willow legs. Spangles, and a few Piles, Blacks and Furnaces. Tbe streaky-breasted Brown Reds which are now exhibited by York.->hire breeders, I imagine were in- ia\j «, 1867. JOUBNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. trodaoed into this coanty from Woroeaterahire, Stuffordsliiro, and Loioestersbire. We have also had a few from near New- market, broJ by a gentleman of the name of Cobden. At Bradford, llalifiix, and in their vicinitiea, no doubt the best birds for exhibition purposea are produced ; but for the pit there are mimy other localities where good birda are bred. The late Karl of Moxborough h.id a breed of LUckbrcaated Reds with wheat-coloured hens, but I believe the Duckwings stood higher in hia favour. Numbers of these were bred and fed in the vicinity of Halifax for the earl, by a man of the name of Holdawoith. — Yorkshirk. THE CLASHING OP EXHIBITIONS. It ncoda little reflection on the part of auy one at all con- Tersaut with poultry exhibitions to account for the occasional partial succesa of a number of them. Under present arrange- ments no other result could possible ensue, for bo lorg as two, three, or in some cases even fourehows are beingheld simultane- ously, neither first-rate specimena of poultry, a large attendance of poultry amateurs as visitors, nor a selection of arbitrators to award the society's prizes, can with any degree of certainty be insured at any one of them. The well-doing of the whole is affected, and not unfrequeutly have exhibitions from this cause, and this alone, been entirely done away with. It is a suicidal act, to say the best of it, for committeea to hazard their success by an obstinate determination " to carry out their individual show, whether others do so " (at the same time) " or not ;" and we have known many grievous disappoiutmeuts, and mnch loss of means, that every after-care could not make good, thus to result, and society after society has inevitably fallen to decay. This might with but little forethought be entirely aToided, for if committees as soon aa the day was fixed would give an early intimation of the date at which they propose to hold their meetings, nothing less than a most discreditable rivalry would cause other committees to appoint their respective exhibitions on the days already selected, and the columns of The Jodi-.nal of Horticcltuius are always open to the early promulgation of the information above referred to. Another great obstacle to general success is the practice of many committees to leave the appointment of judges to the last moment, that their names may not transpire before the meeting. That benefit can in any case arise from this mode of action seems to us exceedingly doubtful ; but this we know, that in many instances to which we could refer, either the par- Uea thus iuvited have been away from home at the moment, or some family arrangement has prevented immediate accept- ance when Ihey have been so unexpectedly requested to officiate. In this difficulty, at the outset so easily provided against, the telegraph is at once called into requisition, aometimes with eaccess, but aa frequently with renewed disappointment; a haphazard judge is obtained, and it is ea.sily appreciable that uncertainty throughout is imminent. Managing committees cannot do better than reflect on what we have tuua advined ; for " to he forewarned is to be forearmed " against these difficultiea. \morioa. The Birchen Grey colour often predominates OT«r theRed in the Malays there, and almostalwaya in theBrahmat; but when fonnd wild the red cocks and brown hcna prevail." Thus we have an African origin for Malaya and Brahma«, and, perhaps, Cochin-Chinas or Shanghaei also, aa well aa an Asiatic origin ! Aa to their wild type in Atda, the Gullua gigan- teua is undoubtedly that of the Malays, being thiok-combad, and in colour like the reddish Malaya. Brahmaa and Cochins iiiaij have descended through the Malaya from Gallua giganteus ; l)ut aome deem the Partridge Cochins to have been the aonroo from which their whole tribe have aprung. including Brahmas. If Malays gave rise to the Brahmas, the pea-comha are easily accounted for, though they would have descended through the Cochins or Shanghaea. If the Brahma should be found to bo the African bird, aa the Cochin is the Asiatic bird of this tribe, any little difference between tbem which may eiist would be easily recognised as coming from different continents oiiginally. I should have said in my last note on Brahmaa, that th« Dorking cross would give too long winga to Brahmas. I have not seen any Dorking-crossed Brahmaa at any of the exhi- bitions I have visited. If pea-combed Brahmas have any claim to a distinct orig^, I think it will rather he aa African than aa Asiatic birds. — that the pea-combed are of African, and the single-combed ol Asiatic origin — but it appeara they are much mixed with Malays wherever found. — Trevor, oidbbwisk Newmarket. BRAHMA POOTRAS PERHAPS OF AFRICAN AS WELL AS ASIATIC ORIGIN. I HAVE obtained a few further notes on Brahma Pootras which may be interesting. Whether wholly correct or not, they are certainly correct in part. " At Rio de .Iimeiro or St. Sebastian, the capital of the empire of Brazil, there are many Malays to be found, both of the Ked and Grey or rather Birchen breeds. Birchen Brahmaa are also to be found in the environs of this city without vulture hocks. (Shape of comb ia, how- ever not given). Reddish brown and Partridge birda of the Brahma type, as well aa tho.^e of a darkish cinnamon, are to be found in this locality, though not so commonly as the Malays." "The writer of these notes inquired where both those brcei^s, Malays and Brahmaa, came from originally, and was answered that they were brought to 'Rio,' in the slavera and trading yessela from the west cost of Africa, and a few from the Mozam- bique country on the east coast of Africa ; that they both were the common fowla of those coasts, and were to be found at Sierra Leone as well, which ia a British possession, and that the southern United States obtained both breeds in the same manner, aa did the West Indian Islands. The ti>»la' being thus imported into the Southern States of the Uoinn, will account for their being also found in the Noitheru Stales of BE\T3RLEY POULTRY EXHIBITION. The tenth annnnl Exhibition in connection wi'h this Society took place on June ^Gtli. The day throushont was most anspicions, and the arrangements, niidcr the personal manasoT-cnt of the active Secre- tary of the Show, left not a sinRle matter undone that the most aniions proprietor of competing poiiltrr conld desire. The fact waa, the Secretary-, Mr. Harry Adams, so well known amonij onr ponltry amateurs, aided by his own Tioallrv man (Briloy), took the whol« charge and management of the ponltry, ami thus withont a single mistake or mishap everything was carried through to the most satis- factory conclusion. It is a matter of pleasure to as to record, that never has there beea a case brought under onr notice in which a show thronghont has been held where all the pons have been so oicollent ; and we can with pet- feet confidence nssnre onr readers that, with the exception of the Gr«y Dorl-inrin. there was not a class that could have been selected at Beverley that wnnld not have done honoar even to the largest of OUT poultry e-xhibitionr,. It is a diffirnlty to assign nny reason why there should have been this vear so CTcnt a falling-oCT in this one particnlar class, as the Grey Dorlcinss at Beverley have heretofore been one of the most conspicuons breeds rejiresonted. This year, however, the deterioration was so sad. that had not the Committee most genoronaly determined that " every prize on the schedule should be given," to keep perfect faith with exhibitors, no doubt a portion at lesst of the Grey Dorking premiums would have been withheld altogether. The Game classes were such as are very rarely equalled : in fact, all tho great guns amonj Game breeders seemed to have reserved their best pens of Game birds for the Beverley Show. Mr. .Tas. Fletcher, of Stoneclongh. took the silver cup for the best pen of Game (Any variety) exhibited, with a Black Red cock, that was the admiration of every one, supported bj a beautiful Brown Rod, takinc second pri!:e also in the same class. The conditio of these birds wus perfection itself, and proved beyond een stitched together very ariistioolly elope to the roots of the f eatheorB, and so neatly as to cause not any inconTt-nience or expression of dis- comfort to the bird itself \Fhilst vie^vcd in the pen. Onr readers may form a very ready conception of this unpleasant affair, from a jocose remark of "a bystander, that "this rock must have surely belonged to a Venetian blind manufacturer." It did not, however, but was the property of Mr. Crosaland, of Wakefield. It is really a matter worthy of coueideration, whether the lustre of former succefises is not mate- rially dimmed bv the tarnish of such an exposition ; independently of the acknowledp;ed fact that not only, if fairly fhown. would this pen of C^^mc Bantams have won first prize in their own class, but in evtry probability the silver cup as well for the best pen of Bantams exhi- bited. Even as it was, the same owner took first prize with another very excellent pen in the same class, quite outstripping all other com- petitors. Some very truly bred Cochin Bantams were the cnp-winners, ft'nd both White and Black Bantams were pood and in capital feather. Mandarins, Carolinas, and Pintail Dvrls were to be seen in first- pate breeJinp plumage, which is a very remarkable circumstance ao late in the season. The I'if/eon classes were of the biphest character, and the show of German Toys was most unprecedented. A pen of the real American Passenper Piteous were public favourites, but their unceasing efforts for liberty detracted much from the pleasure of inspection. As before noted, the day being so very fine, the attendance was nnasually good. GAsre (Black-breasted or other Reiisl.—Firrit. S. Mntthew. Stowmarket. Second. J. Fletcher, Mnnchester. Highly Commeud^d. H. M. .Tnlian, Full ; J. Fletcher ; S. Matthew ; J. Barrow, Kendal ; J. Watson, Kuares- borough. Any oTHRit Vaptety.— FirPt, S. Jlfitthcw. Pecond, J. Fletcher. Highly Commended, W. Boyes, Beverley; J. Fletcher; Eev. W. J. Mellor, Col- wick Rectorv, Notts. Game Cock— First, Cup and Second, J. Fletcher. Highly Commended, S. Matthew; E. Ackroyd, Bradford ; J. Barrow. Kendnl: C. W. Brierlcy, Middlctin ; Rev. A. G. Brooke, Rnyton ; C. Challoner, Whitwell, Chester- field. Commended, B- Fopttr. Bevcrlev. SPANien.— First nnd Cup. J. Thresh. Bradford. Second. E. Jones, Bristol. Hiffhly Commended. Messrs. Birch & Boulter, fihetfield ; J. W. Cannon, Bradford. Commended, .T. Marchnnt, Rjilifax. DoKKiNGS — First nnd Cap, H. Lingwood, Xeedham Market. Second, J. W. Harrisnn, Ppnlding. CocniTJ-CniNA (Cinnnmon or Buffi.— First, R. White. Sheffield. Second, C. W. Brierlev. Highlv Commended, W. A. Taylor, Manchester; H. Mapplebeck: Mrs. R. White, Sheffield; H. Linpwood; Messrs. Gunson and Jeff-^rson, Whitehaven ; G. Shimpton, Leighton Buzzard, Beds; H. Beldon, Binpley. CociiiN-CniNA fAnv other vnrietvl —First and Cup, E. Tudmnn, Whti- church. Second, Rev. W. J. Melln'r. Highly Commended, J. Stephens, Walsall ; C. W. Brierlev : J. W. H.irrison. HAMBUROHsGold-spnnfrledK— First and Cup, H. Beldnn. Pecond, J. White. Wakefield. Highly Commended, Messrs. '5. & R. Ashton. Mottram. CJiesbire ; J. Walker, Knaresborough. Commended, Meesrs. Birch and Bonlter. Hameurghs (Silver spinsled). —First. H. Eeldon. Second, A. K.Wood. HlRbly Commended, J. Wnlkpr ; J. FielrliuR HAMBrnr.ns (Gold-pencilled).- First, H. "eldnn. Pecond, T. Wrigley, Tonp, Middleton. Hitrhlv Commended. S. Smith, Halifax. Hahbdrghs (Silver-pencilled).— First, H. Beldon. Second, H. Pickles, Skipton. PoLisn.— First. H. Beldon. Srcond. Mies E. Proctor, Hull. Polish (Anv other varietv). —First. R. Loft. Woodmr\nspy Second. Col. Stuart WortleV. London. Highly Commended, Rev. G. Hustler, Stilling- fleet, York; J.' W. Hflrrison- Oahe Bantams.— First, E. Crosslnnd. Wakefield. Second, Rev. W. J. Mellor. Highly Commended, J. R. Robinson. Commended, W. Mabon, Jedbursh. Baktams (Auy other vnriety).— First, H Beldon. Second, W. A.Taylor. Highly Commended. T. Harr'ison; J. R. Jesflop. Game Baktam Cock.— First, J. Fletcher. Second, E. Crossland. Highly Commended. C. W. Brierlev. DccKs ' Aylesburyl. - First, E. Leech. Rochdale. Second. Messrs. Bow- man & Ferman, Whitehiven. Hichly Commended. .J. W. Harrison, Spald- ing. Commended, J W. Harrison ; O. A. Young. Driffield. Ducks (Rouen).- First. E. Leech. Second. J W. Hai-ripon. Ducks (Any other variety).— First and Second, T. C.Harrison, Hull. Highly Commended, J. W. Harrison. PIGEONS. CARnTER.—Cort— First, J. Hawlpy. Bingley. Pecond. .f. Thackray, York. Third, J. Firth, Dewsbury. Hicbly Commended, R. H. Artindale, Llvei-pool; J. Hawlev ; R. Bellamy. Leven ; H. Yardley. Birminyham; R. Fulton, Dcptford; E. Brown; C. Eulpin. Commended. J. F>rth, Dews- hnry. H^tk— First, R. Fulton. Second, E. Horner, Hfirev.ood, Leedsi. Third. J. Hfiwlev. Highly Commended. J. Thacltrav; .T Firth, jnn.; T. C. & E Ntwl-itt," Epworth, Bnwtry ; H. Yardley : R. Fulton ; J. W. Hairi- fion; C Bulpin. Commended, R. Bellamy; J. Firth, jun.; H. Yardley; J. W. Harrison. Pouter.— Cocfc.— First. C. Cowburn, Leeds. Second, R. Fulton. Third, W. Watson, Beverley. Highly Commended, J. Th.TcUray ; 0. Cowburn; il. Brown, Sheffield. Cummeuded, J. Hawley; C. Bulpin. JT.'n.— First, E. E. M. Royds, Poehdnle. Second. J. Hawley. Third, R. Fulton. Highly Commended. J. Key, Beverley; C. Cowburn; T. C. & E. Newbitt; E. Ptilton: C. Bulpin. TcuBLERs (Almondl.— First, F. Kev. Second, C. Cowburn. Third. J. Ford. Hii-hly Commended, J. Ford ; J. Thackray ; H. Yardley ; J. Field- ing ; R. Fulton. Tumblers (Any other variety^ — First. R. Fulton. Second, J. Hawley. Third, J. Ford. *Hichlv Commended, J. Hawlev; J. Thacliray; C. Cow- bum ; C. Lythe, Cottiugham. Commended, J. Thaclu-ay : T. Statters, Barbs.— First and Second. J. Thackmy, Third, E. Homer, Harewood' HiRhly Commflnded;H.Ta!*dlevi R Pulton. Commended, E. Brown- Owls.— First, R. Fulton* S«cond«nd Third, J. Fieldinfi;. Highly Com- mended, S. Ypxdley; C. RiUpin- FANTArLK."— First, T. Ellrin^on, Woodmanser. Fecond. J. Hawley- Third, C CuKsons. Hlshly Cotaraended, H. YardVy ; T. C. & E. Newbitt ; J. W. Edge, Birmingham. Commended, H. Yardlev. Jacobinh.— First, E. Horner. .Second and Third. J. Thompson, Bingley, Trumpeters. — First, E. Homer. Second, C. Bulpin. Third, iJ-. Yardley. TURBIT8.— First. J. Marshall, Driffield. Second, C. Bulpin. lliird, J, Thompson. Higlily Commcndfid, U. Patterson, Melrose ; U. Yardley. NUNH. - Firnt, J. Mnrsbnll. Driffield. Second, C. Bulpin. Third, J. Thompson. Highly Commended. Rev. A. G. Brooke. D RAO ONB.— First, E. Taylor, Newland. Second, J. Hawley. Thirds E. E. M. Royds. Highly c'ommended, J Thompson ; C. Cowburn; J. W. Edge. Commended, H. Yardley; E. E. M. Royds. Any other VARiKTY.--Fir8t. F. Broemel. Second, C. Bulpin. Third, J. W. Thompson. Highly Commended, J. Thackray; H. Yardley: T, Statters; E. E. M Royds; H. Yardley; R. Fulton; J. R. Jessop; F, Broemel. Commended, J, Thackray; F. Broemel Selli.ng Class.— First, F. Broecoel. Second, H. Yardley. Third, .J. W. Thompson. Highly Coqamended, J. Hawley ; R. Bellamy ; H. Yardley ; E. E. M. Royds. Commended, J. Hawley ; J. Thompson ; F. BroemeL CANARIES. Belgian.— First, G. Grant, Beverley. Second, J. Kelty, Beverley. Belgian (Marked).— First, J. Wood, Beverley. Second, P. Tritschler, Beverley. Any othivR Varietv.- First nnd Second, G. Grnnt. Nest of Young Canaries (clear).— First, J. Downs, Beverley. Second, G. Grant. Nest op Young Canaries (marked).— First, J. Burton, York. Second, J. Downes. Beverley. Mole. — First, G. Grant. Second,.!. Cfimpey, Beverley. Redcap.— First, J. Kelty. Second, J. Campey. Edward Hewitt. Esq., of Birmingham, judf^ed the poultry; and Dr. Boulton, of Beverley, fulfilled the same duties in tho classes for Pigeons. rOULTRY SHOW AT BRIGHTON. Tms is an age of shows, aud we are not sore that poultry did not inaugurate them as the events of yearly occurrence at tho same place. It is more than twenty years ago that one was held at tho Zoological Gardens, aud tbey have gone on ever tince ; but in twenty years a new generation springs up. and brings its new ideas into the manage- ment. In some cases dogs and horses lend their attractions. In others, as at Salisbury and Brighton, the fine arts are enlisted. Pictures, articles of vertu, manufactures, all thint^s, are exhibited at the same time. It answers the purpose of filling the town, and those who are especially fond of only these attractions, being on the spot, visit all. At these county meetings machinery plays a great part, and the ex- hibition is no longer confined to mere ploughs, harrows, scarifiers, winnowing and horse mowing machines, turaip-cutters, and so on ; objrtu dc hurr, in the way of fireplaces, garden seats, are in great variety, and lately we have seen statuettes, aud figures in bronze. The ( round at Brighton was happily chosen, and much of the in- ternal arrangement of the Koyal Agricultural Society of England was profitably copied. The old Dorhinf/s were very good, and many of them very heavy, - the first-prize birds of Dr. Campbell were highly meritorious, and in marvellous condition, if the time of year be considered. Cliickena were also good, but there was in the prize pen an indication of gouty feet. As we published the names of the successful last week, we shall only now advert to those birds that demand especial notice. The "White Dorkings were all good, but weak in numbera. Game mado amends. The Brown Keds were capital, so were several pens of Black Beds. Tlie other class of Game showed a rarity in three pens of Blues. iSpnmsh were very good, both in numbers and quality. The hens showed best, as many of the cocks showed with disfigured combs from the last long winter. Adult Cochina showed badly ; they wera outnumbered by the Chicken class, and by the Whites. Brahma. Pootras were good in every respect, and the competition was close. The birds shown by the Marchioness of Bath were vei^ good. There were excellent fianibimihs in all classes, the Pencilled being better than the Spangled. The roUinds were excellent, and good enough to win against much greater competition. The Game i>a'i(am5 far out- numbered and outweighed their Sebright brethren. The Duck-wings were very good, and there were excellent Piles. Aylesbury aud Eonen Ducks were not ramcroas. Geese were ex- cellent. In the Variety class of Ducks, there were Muscovy, Buenos Ayrean, Blue, Grey, and Mandarin. The 7'urlrys were perfect, the first-prize in weight, the second in colour. We hardly ever saw birds so beautiful as the Marchioness of Bath's ; they were sold immediately. . rif/cons were excellent in most classes. Carriers showed largely. Tumblers were so equal in merit it was difficult to adjudicate. Jaco- bins. Fautails, Owls, Trumpeters, Barbs, and Archangels all perfect. In the Distinct varieties, a most excellent pair of Pigeons called Ice Pigeons were much noticed. We should like to know how they gained the name. The Judges were H. Loder, Esq., Tho High Beeches, Crawloy ; and Mr. Baily, of Mount Street, London. Tomtits* Nests ix an Inverted Flower-pot.— It may be worth wIiUq letting those among your readers who may be Jolr 4, 1867. 1 JOUKNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 17 intereeted in the habits of birds know the following ourioua ease : — The gardener had loft in a newly-eown-out bed a nine- inch pot turned upside down. Lilting it one morning he found 3 inches of moss below it, in which two tomtits' uesta were embedded — one containing only one egg, the other nine ; to which, however, a tenth hag since been added. The parent bird has sinco been sittinR on the whole ten eggs. She has an access only through the drainage-hole of the pot, which measures exactly 1 inch in diameter. In at that hole (.he, or rather they, must have taken all the moss. It will be interesting to find how she will get her young ones out through tho hole. — O. S. A., Ayrshire. AN IMPROVED PAYNES ni\Ti. I WAR much pleased to see in the Journal of May '2nd an article on Ligurians in Ireland, showing that tho sharp little foreigners are being domesticated 90 near home, and also up- holding tliat superiority over their black ueighbcurs, claimed by their tirst importer into IJritain, our master in apiculture, the " DnvoNsirii'.K 15ke-keki'EK," to whom we owe an everlast- ing debt of gratitude for his valuable oontribuliona to " our .Journal " on a subject which particularly interests all who keep bees. I have long been thinking of introilucine the Ligurian bee into my apiary, but have been deterred by the reasons men- tioned by " Hgirin." Those objections have, ho stales, been removed" by Mr. Woodbury. I fear that, having what is con- sidered here a large apiary and a populous ueiplibourhood (in bees), I should find it dillioult, if indeed possible, after going to the expense and trouble, t" keep the strain pure, as the Ligurians cross so readily. There are, doubtless, many who could, if they would, throw light on the subject, were they to surmount tljfir bashfulness to rush into print, and which deprives us of many valuable hints which might be learned from their failure or success. When recovering from an illness I altempteJ hive-making, and finding straw the only material I could manage (though none can compare with the bar-autl-frnme), I fiiucied I suc- ceeded in milking an improved form of Payne's hive, after this fashion : — Tho roof is made separate fiom tho body of the hive, and can he raised or fastened down. The lower part, or body of the hive, has a crown-board of pine pressed down, which keeps tho straw circular. There are three hoops formed of briars, tied with fine wire at the joinings, on the out- side, and one hoop ou tho lower part in side ; these keep tho straw in its plao,. and save stitching, which is at best but tedious work. The straw is upright, hard. and firm. The advantages in favour of this plan are easilj' seen : the straw of the roof being straight down, throws off the wet better than the old plan of adome roof ; the body has tho same advantage. The straw being quite unbroken, not being crushed or bent, it must form a far better non-conductor of heat or cold than whtn the straw in bruised, so the temperature must be more equable and ven- tilation more perfect. The hive, too, must be ranch more durable than (he old form, as the wet will not lodge about the stitches, where tlie old hives fail first. The roof is stitched with split briars, and the top bound round with tho same ; the binding is painted with a mixture of ochre, resin, and oil ; alno the ends of the straw of the body of the hive, as well as the hoops. The whole looks much neater than the old cottage hive, and needs no cap or hackle, the roof being perfectly waterproof. Tills is a very backward season. I have no swarms as yet, and there i.' little prospect of a good honey-hnrvfst. I siiall think myself fortunate if I can carry siifely through withnut having to feed up to weight in September next, or loifeit the title of — Bee Fbicnd. THE HONEY HARVEST IN SOMERSETSHIRE. My apiary is in a very poor way this year, owing to the miser- able spring and late summer. I have not had a single swarm or fi^n of cue jet (end of June). I have not sten a drone out, nor a single cell sealed up with honey — -in fact, my bees have been and are living from hand to mouth. Two hives died of starration in the middle of May, although I was feed- ing them, and two others almost followed their fate, and ara very weakly still. There seems to be no honey even now in the dowers. Altogether, so far, this promises to be the worst bee year in my pretty long experience, not excepting 18C1. — B. Sc 'W, LIGURIANS IN .JERSEY. At the recent show of the Jersey Itoyal llortioultura] Society, some Ligurians were exhibited under glass in juxtaposition with the common black bee, and, being the first of this beauti- ful variety of hive bee which have been seen in this island, they attracted much attention. We extract the following particulars from the printed description which was laid ou tho table with the bees. " ToK LioCRi.vN (Apis ligustica), on Yellow It.vliax Alt Bee. — This beautiful variety of bee is a native of the Alps. The merit of introducing it to EuKland is due to Mr. Wood- bury, the eminent " DEvoNsiiiiiE Bke-keei-eii," who obtained it from Monsieur 11. C. Uermann, of Switzerland, on the I'Jth of July, 1859, since which time it has become known both far and wide. " Their superiority over tho black bee consists in — that they are less sensitive to cold ; that their queens are more prolific ; they swarm earlier and more frequently ; they are abundant honey collectors ; and are more courageous and active in self- defence. " Mr. Tidey, of Manor Cottage, Noirmont, obtained a stock of those bees direct from the apiary of Mr. Woodbury, and they arrived in Jersey on tho "iOlh of June, 18G(), in tho most perfect order, and headed (Mr. Woodbury assured him), by a jierfeotly pure and beautiful queen ; and her majesty has begun the sea- sun by issuing ou the let of last Juno witli tho largest swarm Mr. Tidey has ever witnessed. This was followed on the 9th by a second swarm, to all appearance equally large. These t«o natural swarms Mr. Tidey has secured in Woodbury bar- frame hives ; ho therefore trusts they are now safely established in tho Island." QUEEN'S EXCURSIONS. I NOTICKD in one of my hives to-day at 2 r.M. tho qneen came out, and took a flight for about two minutes, and came back again. The bees that were upon the alighting-board seemed amazed at it, but upon her return were delighted, and followed her in, fanniug with delight. What seemed strange to me, it was the queen of a swarm that I hived la'itiug its conttnts, which will then be foui d to be nnaily free fiom brood. Our correspondent informs us that swarms in Ireland have this season been very late. Prepaying J. F. C). — It is quite certnin that you hflve been unfairly treated — as we have not heard the other party we use a mild term— but it is also certain that you acted indiscreetly, if the dig had died or been stohn after yon pind you would not have befn nble to have recovered ^onr money. We should proceed against the vendor without delay, and without any f jrbearanoe. _ POULTRY MARKET.— JuiT 3. _ _ Ocr supply increases. The time is arrived when we may expect an d s.d 0 too 0 0 0 influx of yuung poultry, s Liirgft Fowls 3 Snelier do 2 Chickens 1 Goslings 6 Ducklings 2 FieeoDS 0 a. s. d 0 to 3 6 0 2 « 6 1 9 0 0 0 0 2 6 8 0 y PbeaEniits 0 Pnrtridisea 0 0 0 0 GloUFe 0 0 0 0 Guinea Fowls 0 0 0 0 KiibbilE 14 15 TVilddo 0 8 0 9 Jal7 11, 1667. ] JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GABDBNEB, 1!> WEEKLY CALENDAR. Day of Month ""or Week. JirtY n-17, 1867. Averaee Tcmpcnilurc near London. Rain in last to years. San Rises. Snn Sets. Moon Rises. Moon Seta. Moon's Age. Clock before San. Tear, i 11 la 13 14 16 10 17 Tn P S Sns M Tu W Royal Horticnltnrttl Society, Promenade. 4 SONDAY AFTER TamiTY. Iloyal HorticuUurul Society's Bury Show [opens Day. 74.9 7.'-..6 75.H 74.0 70.5 7.';.9 76.2 Nistat. 60.5 50.8 51.8 60.5 60.4 49.6 S1.3 Mean. 82.7 62.9 6S.8 62.3 «)■) 02.7 C3.7 Days. Ill 13 H 14 20 16 15 m. h. 67aJ8 68 3 59 8 0 4 3 4 3 4 4 4 m. h. 18af 8 12 8 11 8 10 8 9 8 8 8 m. h. 21 of 8 21 4 18 5 10 B 07 6 38 7 14 8 m. h. 85af0 5 1 .SO 1 17 2 1 3 51 3 47 4 Days. 10 11 13 18 14 O 16 m. s. 5 8 5 16 5 38 5 SO r, 87 5 4S 5 48 192 193 m 195 196 ' 197 198 1 Prom ohRervntiona taken nenr London dnring the last forty years, the RTeraRe day tempnrature of tho week is 75.r,>; and in ni«ht temponiture DO.!,". The greatest heat was 93}°, on the llth, 1847; and the lowest cold 31 , oa the 16th,18i;3. The ureatost fall of rain wae ICO inch. PROPAGATION AND CULTURE OF THE nOLI,YIIOCK. 'DICIOUSI,Y pliiccd and used in moderation, tliere are few of our commoner plants capable of producinp; more cfleetive features in irrefTular flower cjardens and ornamental grounds tl an the Ilollj'hock, and a few words on its propagation and freneral manaf;ement may not be unacceptable, more especially to those of your readers who have notbitha filipendnla, a British plant though it be, for it is worthy of a place in the herbaceous border, along with its compeer, S. filipendnla flore-pleno. Prior wrote of this family, and so would I — " Peiiceful and lowly in tlieir n.itive soil, They ncitlier know to spin, nor cnre to toil ; Yft with confess'd mftt?uifi''''"'^c deride The vile ftttirc jind impotence of pride." — JI. H., Acklam Hall, Middlcshorough-on-Tces. FRUIT-THINNING. " It ia always a troubled anxious period, that of fruit-thin- ning— a time to be lived through as one best can, but not enjoyed," said Mrs. Stephen Taylor, of Rose Hurst ; but, then, Mrs. Taylor has little interest in the growth of fruit under glass, and always regards her husband's suggestions or expla- nations to his gardener or bits of gossiping to herself as com- plainings, and is very thankful that " the season can come but once in the year." She does not understand " why there should be so much talk and such a fuss about fruit thinning inside ; the Gooseberries, Currants, and Apples are left to thin themselves or go undone, and they are much more useful, as well as wholesome, to say nothing about the cost." Of course, Mr. Stephen retaliates, and will have it "that the little blackcaps thin the bushes sometimes too much for us ; and that there is sore to be a north-east wind come in with a vengeance when the Apples are about the si;^e of nuts, and shake them down, so that Nature does lier thinning in a whole- sale manner ; but, then, we cannot allow blackcaps or north- east winds in our orchard-houses or vineries." Poor Mrs. Stephen had the misfortune to marry into a large family, all proud of their fruit-growing, and what makes matters worse, they live near, and are always visiting each other, and comparing notes ; and their conversation, pleasant enough to themselves, sounds to the lady like the words of an un- known language. Brother Matthew says, " If she would cut an eye from a cane, and grow it, and fruit it, the dead words would come to have life ; and she might do so easily enough, see- ing she has no babies to nurse." But Mrs. Stephen thinks she has plenty of the trouble without entering the lists. Why, only last Kaster Monday, when they went to brother Jeremiah's to dine, ho carved so slowly, that the lamb became cold and stiff, telling about the number of his Peach blooms, " as if it mattered." And even when they were all ready for the return home, they would have a light, .and go in and see if the bloom was really setting on the Peach trees, nnd if the Vines had started in good order ; and brother Jeremiah carried the lamp all on the slope, as men usually do, until the oil, not very fragrant, dropped about. Nor was that all, for Mrs. Stephen said she bore away among her skirts more species of living insects than she knew to have existed. And then it is very tiresome going over to brother Matthew's farm, for he is always talking about "my Vines and mv drapes;" '* such promising bloom, such compact, properly thinned-out bunches." He makes long speeches, and declares " that any man who can save a couple of hundred pounds may sit under his own Vine, and eat the fruit thereof, and is quite sore it would pay good interest; his does at least, better than his railway stockat present." And he ifl sure to say all this when brother Watson is there, and his vinery cost more than £200, ami pays no interest any way, though it has been up more than (our years. He might have had a few bunches of Black Hamburgha the year before if lie had not fidlowed brother Stephen's advice, and cut away his fruit until what was left on the canea looked like Beans strung on slender threads, and hung down in a weary drooping manner until the weak threads broke or dried up, and the berries (ell away. Mrs. Stephen is " quite sure that all her husband understands about the matter is to eat the fruit and pay his bills." Yet, by theory, Mr. Stephen is a great thinner — never says to his gardener, "There, you have done enough." Mr. Mat- thew says " that his brother Stephen's bunches are always thin, and loose, and lanky, falling about on the dish when gathered as if they possessed some watery element, and were seeking their level." He prides himself upon his own bunches keeping their proper shape, sitting upon a plate or dish in a correct manner, not ashamed of their appearance." Mr. Matthew is a great worker ; but, then, he is large of limb, and strong of muscle, and he puts his heart as well as his hands into his work; his house is well built and well ventilated, and stands on a warm soil in an open airy situation. Mr. Watson says that that is more than half the battle, for his house is on low land, near to a river, and close upon a neighbour's plantation ; so close, indeed, that the trees not only shelter but shade, the heavy branches of a Sycamore sweeping right over his little lean-to vinery, and every gust of wind shaking about the myriads of green flies that crowd the under sides of the leaves. Then, too, the leaves choke up his back ven- tilators, keeping out the fresh air, and making perpetual lines and shadows, such wavings to and fro in his vinery that it is unpleasant to bo there. Nor is that all, they keep out the sunshine, so that the walls and floor grow damp and green, and when he complains, his obliging neighbour says, "Cut them. Cut them by all means if they trespass on your property ; they have no business, only let my side of the fence slune." So Mr. Watson cuts away in a half-do fashion ; for, afraid of taking too much, he takes too little, and ends with doing no good to himself, and no harm to his neighbour's trees. " There is one comfort, at any rate, Watson," says brother Matthew, "yon will not have much superfluous fruit to cut away; your thinning-time will be short. I hope you will not have to do like Jeremiah, buy tobacco-rag instead of tobacco. I cannot imagine however .Jeremiah has patience to grow Cherries and Plums in pots. Why, the heaviest crop I ever saw on one tree would just do for our Sunday dessert ;" but, then, Mr. Matthew had seven olive branches and a wife, and his brother lived alone. Then, too, tastes differ, for Mr. Jere- miah would rather have a good ripe Peach than anything in the world ; and Mr. Matthew, even at the risk of offending his brother, often declares " Peaches are no better than a mealy Potato or a good Swede Turnip." When the long days of May and June come then the thin- ning fever reaches its height, and Mrs. Stephen Taylor says it is dreadful living at Rose Hurst, for each brother wants to have all the Vines done after the manner of his own, and is quite sure they will be ruined if they are not. Though the ruin never comes, yet she fancies it lessens the necessary confidence every Vine grower should have in the plan he has adopted. Then the brothers at their frequent meetings at Rose Hurst, which is a halfway house, argue nnd dispute over their wine. Mr. Stephen pnffa away at his pipe, Mr. Matthew makes long speeches — so long that he is constantly having to relight his cigar, Mr. Watson sits and listens, as befits a yonnger brother, and Mr. Jeremiah thinks "it does not matter much what way Vines are grown, for it appears to him as if the Vine very 'much resembles corn, in that it will grow in various ways" under very different circum>tances. It is like the church on the hill, many paths lead up to it, it is not necessary all should journey by one ; some chose the fields, others the back-lanes, and some the dusty highway ; and it is all one if they are there before the bells cease to ring." After this there is silence for a long lime. Mr. Matthew gets his cigar on the full go, and Mr. Stei hen takes the oppor- tunity to refill his pipe, thrusting itdown hard, and then, push- ing the decanter close to his brother, says, " There, Jeremiah, after that you will do with another glass." '-fs JOURNAL OF HOETICULTDilB AND COTTAGE GAKDENEK. [ July 11, 1867. But Mr. Jeremiah's eloquent speeches did not put an end to the disputation. It was carried on even more vrarmly than Jjetore ; if it was given up for a time, it was only to be taken up again with renewed vigour ; and then Mrs. Stephen said her brother Matthew would sit for hours under their Vines, and beg Mr. Stephen not to have his bunches so much spoiled as in the year before ; and then the gardener would laugh and say, " Lor bless you, sir, I shall take out pecks yet ; I am not like Mr. Meredith, of Garston (" I should think not," said Mr. Matthew in an under tone), I do not care for big, heavy bunches ; a pound is enough for any one bunch to weigh, unless you wish to show, and so sacrifice a Vine to the doubtful honour. When I lived at the Priory we used to cut out bushels." "More's the shame, wasting good fruit," replied Mr. Matthew, " let me have a bunch round and firm as a boulder, and weighing as much as I can get it, rather than soft, and loose, and long, like yours, Stephen. You thin the best away." " It is bad for the Vine," replies Mr. Stephen. " That is all nonsense, just an old theory. Gardeners are like sheep, fond of going one way ; then it is easier to work in an old groove than to carve out a new one; and you do not suppose, Stephen, that all is found out that might bo even about fruit-thinning." Then Mr. Matthew would go home to his Eose Villa and thin his bunches a little more than he had intended, and Mr. Stephen would say, " There, Andrew, I would leave them a little firmer than last year, I think we did too much at them ;" and Mr. Jeremiah would smile and say, " his Plums and Peaches gave him very little trouble ;" and Mr. Watson would sigh and say " his Vines gave him less, for he had no fruit to thin." And so after the storm there came peace, at least for a time. — Maud. EOYAL HOKTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [The following report, which did not arrive in time for publication iast week, supplies faller details respecting the subjects exhibited than that which appeared last week.] Floeal Committee, Juli/ %uL — This Meetiiig, held on the day of the National Rose Show, was well sujjplied with novelties, many of thtni of first-rate merit. Mr. Hodges, gardener to E. "Wright, Esq., received a special certificate lor a small collection of superb cut Orchids. The spikes of Phalsnopsis and Acrides were most exquisite. Mr. Eraser, Lea Bridge Road, exhibited one of the best Gloxinias yet seen ; it was called Rose d'Anionr, and had a white ground with bright rosy carmine shading. A first-class certificate was awarded it. Mr. J. Mundell, gardener to J. C. Cnnliifc, Esq., Croydon, was awarded a special certificate for a well-grown specimen of Liliuui auratnm, witli a dozen fiowers. hut sadly disfigured by travelling. Messrs. Lee, Hammersmith, sent a large-leaded plant of upright gi'owth, under the name of Pledera catalpa-folia, but which is said not to be hardy. Me3.srs. E. G. Henderson were awarded a special ceiiificate for a Ijioap of new plants, which were tastefully arranged on the grass near the conservatoiy. Among them there was a dwarf Lobelia, called pumila elegaus, which, from its compact habit and fi'ee tioweiing, re- ceived a first-class certificate. Messrs. Henderson also sent a pretty group of Tricolored Zonal Pelargoniums. Lady Sheffield was selected on account of its neat foliage and colouring for a first-class cei-tificatc. A special certificate was voted for thi* whole beautiful gi'oup, in which were Mrs. Preston, Model Outline. Mrs. A. Henderson, and Reticu- iatum pulchellum, of which the leaves have a green ground spotted all over with yellow. Messrs. A'eitch sent a most beautiful collection of new and rare plants. Among them were ilm following : — Phajus species, which re- ceived a first-class certificate ; Begonia Veitchii. a most exquisite crimson flower, decidedly the flower of the Exhibition — first-class cer- tificate ; Gloxinia Madame de Smet, first-class certificate ; Gloxinia Vlaanderen, first-class certificate ; Gloxinia Topaz ; Gloxinia Rose et Cochinelle ; Croton moximum, with fine broad conspicuously variegated foliage — first-class certificate; Croton iuterruptum, first-class cex'ti- ficate ; and Croton irregulare, first-class certificate. These plants were truly beautiful. Abutilon Tliompsonii, with variegated marbled foliage, also shown by Messrs. Veitch, received a second-class certifi- cate, and Dracffina Moorei one of the first-class. Other plauts from the same firm were Adiautum conciuuum lutnm, Aralia organa, Taxus fastigiata aureo-variegata, which had been exhibited often before, and Selaginella Poiilteri, a seedling, with very fine wiry foliage, and quite distinct. It was awarded a first-class ceriiticatc. Mr. Andersou, Meadow Bank, near Glasgow, seut a collection of cut Orchids, to which a special certificate was awarded, and Mr. J. Mann, nurserymen, Brent- wood, had a lilnia Yeitchii ; Gloxinia Prince Teck ; (lloxinia Vlaanderen ; Croton maximum, iuterruptum. and irregulare ; Alocasia Bpecies, Adiantum conciunura latum ; Taxus fastigiata anreo-vaiiegata, Nierembergia rivularis ; Cattleya Dowiana ; Selaginellu Ponlteri. and Caladium Chelsoni ; also a second-class certificate for Abutilou TbompBOui. Mr. Bull received first-class certificates for Leopoldina pulcbra and .\ucuba japonica flavesceus, with young leaves of a golden hue; and Mr. Williams two of the second-class for a Masdevnllia and Oncidium. Of seedling florists' flowers Mr. Turner exhibited Mr. Fleming's boantiful Xosegay Pelargoniums Lady Constance Grosvenor, and Duchess of Sntlnrland. Mrs. Laing, another Nosegay variety of good habit, and with crimson scarlet flowers, exhibited by Messrs. Downie. Laird, it Laing. had a similar award ; as also Titania, a beautiful Tricolored Variegated Zonal, shown by Messrs. Carter, and Snowdrop, with green leaves broadly edged with white. The same firm was also awardtid a first-class certificate for Tropseolum Crystal Palace Perfection, a dwarf bedding variety. Mr. Wills, gardener to Capt. Le Gcndre P. Starkie, Hontroyde Park, had a first-class certifi- cate for his fine, bold-looking bronze and gold Zonal Pelargoninm Beant>'of Calderdale. and Mr. Hally, Blackheath, a like award for Nimrod, a variety with double rosj* crimson flowers. First-class cer- tificates were likewise awarded to Mr. W. Paul for Phlox Beautiful ; to Mr. Smith, Horusey Road, for Fuchsia White Unique, with large flowers, having a pure white corolla and pale rose-coloured sepals ; and to Mr. C. J. Pei-ry, Castle Bromwich, fage Itvl of the last volume, ^fuscats were not perfectly ripe ; the best came from Messrs. Bailey, Johnson, Sage, Tansley, and O^boru. Fiue-lookiug bunches of different kinds of rrontignans were shown by Mr. "Whiting, The Deepdene, near Dorking. Some well-fruited Vines in pots were exhibited by Mr* Guyett, Heme Hill. Peaches cr.nsisted for the most part of Grosse Mignonnc, BarringtOD, and Royal George, and Nectarines of Elrage, of Violette Hative, and Hunt's Tawny. Plums were confined to a very fine dish of Orleans from Messn. Lane, of (in^at Berkhampstead ; some fine Brown Turkey Figs werft shown by Mr. Osman, gardener to R. Holland, Esq., and Mr. Sage, gardener to Earl Brownlow ; and of Chen-ics there were good dishee of Black Tartarian and Pllton. Mr. Turner exhibited a branch of Frogmoro Eitrly Bigarrean, loaded with fruit. Of this excellent variety, which is ripe three weeks before the Bigairean, a figure an^ description will be found in our cintli volume. Strawberries were not remarkable for their perfection. The best came from Messrs. Widdowson, Record, and Hale. Dr. Hogg, a finro new variety, was shown by Mr. Turner. Finely ripened pods of Vanilla were exhibited by Mr. Bennett, gar- dener to G. S. Foljambc, Esq., Osberton, and Mr. Fraser had a collec- tion of fruit trees in pots in fine bearing. BIRMINGHAM ROSl^ SHOAV. The sixth annual Rose Show, held in tlie noble Town Hall on the 4th and 5th inst., was a very satisfacto»7 Exhibition — indeed, far better than could have been expected, even in London, in so nnfavonr- able a season as this has been. Although as a whole it did not prove so effective as the Rose Shows at Kensington and the Crystal Palace, this result was mainly attributable to the place of exhibition, from its squareness, admitting of no long Hues of tabling, and the stands had therefore to be distributed, not on one or two long rows of tabling, but along several in the body of the Hall and in the galleries. The consequence was that the genei-al effect — at least when the public were admitted — was not so good as at the Shows just named, for the display had to be viewed, not fn mns.' fine in colour ; Charhis Lawsou, Pien-e Netting. Souvenir de la Malraaison, Mar. gnerite do St. Amand, Maurice Bernardin, Ab'^l Grand, Comtt:se- Palikao. and Madame Furtado. Jlessrs. Panl S: Son were third, and had veiy good tru'^ses of Madame Victor Verdier, Comtesse de Cha- brillant, Mrs. C. Wood, Alfred Colomb, Joseph Fiala, Princess Mary of Cambridge, Prince Camille de Rohan, Fisher Holmes, very fine ; Duke of Edinburgh, Maurice Bemardin, Mdlle. Emain, Niphetos, &:c. Mr. Cant, who was fourth, had also good flowers. The stands of 48 varieties, three trusses of each, were very effective. Mr. Keynes was first with Comtesse Palikao, Beauty of Waltham, Victor Verdier, Mdlle. Bonjiairc, Princess Mary of Cambridge, Maurice Bernardin, Souvenir de la Malmaison. Pierre Netting. Jn!c« Margottin, Alba Mutabilis, Abel Grand. iSfadame Vidot, Afadame Charles Wood, Marguerite de St. Amand, and good examples of Bomi) others. Messrs. Panl & Son, who were second, had Beauty of Wal- tluim, very fine; Mdlle. Bonuaire, likewi.se very beautiful; Alfred Colomb, Charles Lefebvre, Pierre Notting, Josephine Reanhamaie, beautiful, delicate rose colour ; Dnchesse dc Caylus, Olivier Dcl- homme, Exposition de Brie, Gloirc de Dijon, Fram^ois Lonvat, and Lord Herbert, fine, but rather past its best. For three trusses of 2*1 varieties, Sir. Cranston was first with America, large and verj- fine; L'Esmeralda, bright in colour; Mrs. Rivers, Senatenr Vaisse, Prince Camille de Rohan, Gloiro de Dijon, magnificent; Vainquenr de Goliath, splendid in colour? Beauty of Waltbam. John Hopper, V. Verdier. and Baron Adolphe de Roths- child. Mr. Cant came second with fine examples of Mario Baumann, Le Rhone, Pierre Netting, Prince Camille de Rohan, very fine ; Jules ifargottin, Comtesse de Chabrillant, John Hopper, Rubens, Madame Charles Wood, Victor Verdier. Maurice Bemardin. Exposition de Brie, Alfred Colomb, and Margxierite de St. Amand. Mr. Keynes who waa third, had Madame C. Wood, very fine ; Prince Henri des Pays Bas, Joseph Fiala, and excellent examples of several other varieties already named. For single tmsses of 24 varieties, the competition was open only to Nnrser^-men in the conntiea of W^arwick, Worcester, and Stafford* 24 JOURNAL OF HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ July 11, 1867. Messrs. Perkins, of Coventry, were first ; Mr. Jackson, Kidderminster, second ; Mr. VeiteRans, Chad Valley Nursery, third ; and Mr. Jen- ninfjs, Shipston-ou-Stour, fourth. For 1'2 varieties, the competition was lilicwise local. Messrs. Perkins were again first ; Mr. Verttfjans, second; Mr. Pope. Gib Heath, third; and Mr. J. Jackson, fourth. Some good blooms were exhibited in these divisions. In the Amateurs' class, the best -IS came from the Rev. P. M. Smythe, Solihull, and most excellent they were. Amouf? them were beautiful examples of Gloire de Dijon. Senateur Vaisse, MaurJce Ber- nardin, Duchesse de Caylus. Vicomte Vigier, Madame KnoiT, Marcchal Niel, Mrs. Kivers, Louise Maijnan, exquisite ; Prince Camille de Rohan, and Madamo Boutin. Mr. C. J. Perry, of Castle Bromwich, was second, and his name is too well Icnown in couuectiou with the Rose to render it necessary to say that he, also, exhibited veiy fiue blooms ; indeed, he pressed the Kev. P. Smythe vei-y closely. La Brillante, Gloire de Dijon, Due de Rohan, Madame C. Joigueaux, Charles Lofebvre. Acidalic, Senateur Vaisse, Laurent Descourt, Maurice Beniardin, Paul De la Meilleray, General Jacqueminot, Madame Victor Vcrdier, Madame W. Paul, very rich in colour, and Mrs. liivers, as shown by him, were excellent. Mr. Brown, gardener to Mrs. Alston. Elmdou Hall, who was third, had also several varieties in ^reat excellence. In 2-4 trusses, the Rev. P. INI. Smythe was again first. His Due de Rohan, Beauty of V\''aUhani, Caroline de Sausal, and several others were most excellent. Mr. Hunt, of Leicester, was second ; Mr. Perrj-, third ; and Mr. Brown, fourth. In the division for 13 varieties, Mr. Perri" was first, showing beauti- ful examples of Gloire de Dijon, Gcn('ral Jacqueminot, Prince Camille de Rohan, Madame Julie Dartvn, John Hopper, Senateur Vaisse, Charles Lefebvre, and Madnme Charles "Wood ; Mr. Hunt, of Leices- ter, being second, and Mr. Chawuer, Lichfield, thud with very good stands. For 12 varieties, Mr. Brown was first ; Mr. Perry, second ; Rev. P. Smythe, third ; Mr. Hunt, fourth. In the divisions for 24 and 12 v.arieties, open to residents within fifteen miles of Stephenson's Place, Birmingham, the prizes were taken in the former by the Rev. P. Smythe, Mr. Brown, Mr. Periy, and Mr. Cooper ; and in the latter by Mr. Brown, the Rev. P. Smythe, Mr. Pen-y, and Mr. Cooper. In the divisions for 12 and 6 varieties, open only to amateurs residing within four miles of Stephenson's Place, Mr. Cooper, gardener to Miss Andertim, Moseley, was first in the former ; Mr. Allen, gardener to W. Mapplebcck, Esq., second ; and Mr. Lowe, Edghaston, third; and in the latttr Mr. Cooper was also first ; Mr. Wiiin, Selly Oak, second ; and Mr. Allen, third. Messrs. Smith, Parnell, and Sarrington also took prizes in a division for amateurs who had never before won a prize. In the different stands shown in the above divisions there were many most creditable blooms. New Roses were not vei"y numerously shown. The best 24 came fi'om Mr. Keynes, whose hlooras were excellent. Of these the finest were Mdlle. Marguerite Dombrain, Madame Pillion, Mdlle. Marie Rady, Prince de Porcia. A Ifred Colomb, Abel Grand, Charles P»ouillard, Josephine Beauharnais, and Hippolyte Flandrin. Messrs. Paul and Son wci-e second ; the finest in theii- stand of those not already men- tioned were Thorin. bright jink ; Exposition de Brie. Madame Hoste, and Frederic Biborel. Among the 24 from Mr. Cant, who was third. Dr. Andry, Duchesse de Medina Copli, and Jean Lambert were fine. For six trusses of any new Rose sent out in the spring of 18u5, 1860, or 1S67, Messrs. Paul & Son were first with Alfred Colomb, and se- cond with Exposition de Brie, whilst Mr. Keynes was third with Mar- guerite de St. Amand, and fourth with Princess Mary of Cambridge. Mr. Turner's seedling Miss Ingram was also shown. In other divisions Mr. Vertegans exhibited Moss Roses in good con- dition ; Messrs. Paul & Son the same, also Summer Rosea, and beautiful trusses of Tea and Noisette varieties. Vases, haskets, and some beantiful bouquets of Roses were also exhibited. The first prize for a vase was taken by Mr. Cole, of Birchfield ; the second by Mr. Ver- tegans. T. Lloyd, Esq., received a first prize for the best design for ornamenting an entrance hall ; it was simply a large pyramid ol Roses. Mr. Vertegans was second with a basket tastefully filltd. Of bouquets, the best came from Miss Colo, of Birchfield, and Miss Mort. Both were very pretty. Among dinner-table decorations there were al?o some pretty designs. The prize was awarded to Miss Evans, The Mount, Shrewsbury, and most deservedly so. The base was circular and covered with Lycopods, edged with Ivy, and having a few Roses dotted over it. From the base rose a twisted rustic stem, en- twined with small-leaved Ivy, and supporting a wooden circular top- dish covered with Lycopods, and containing Moss Roses, surrounded by white oSes, together with Grasses and Blaiden-hair Ferns. Miss Mort's second- prize arrangement was also pretty. Along the centre of the tables were ranged specimens of the pretty variegated Acer Negundo, Coleus Verschaffelti, and other plants ; whilst beneath the orchestra Mr. Jephcote, of Balsall Heath, and Messrs. Felton & HoUiday exhibited Ferns and ornamental-leaved plants. Mr. Watson, of St. Albans, also produced his fine Tricolor Pelargoniums Mrs. Dix and Miss Watson ; and Mr. Cunningham, The Forge, Bnrton-on-Trent, the pretty variegated Ivy-leaf, called L'Elegante. A stand of new Verbenas, from Mi'. C. J. Perry, must not be passed over. It ci'^ntained James Birltbeck and Miss Turner, two fine varieties, which have been noticed in another column ; In- teresting, salmon pink, with a white eye ; Sunbeam, salmon rose, and others. Messrs. Perkins, of Coventry, also exhibited a collection, As usual, there was a good display of wirework, garden omameuts. and cutlei-j'. THE NEW PEAS. (Continued from Vol. XII., page 449.) The Fruit and Vegetable Committee of the Royal Horticul- tural Society continue their experiments at Chismick, and the following is a report of the conclusions at which they arrived at their meeting on Tuesday : — Princess Royal, second early white Marrow, is a first-class Pea, from 2 feet 0 inches to 3 feet high ; pods large and broad, with from seven to eight Peas in each, of excellent quality ; vigorous constitution, and abundant bearer. The ripe seed is large, smooth, round, slightly indented, of a very clear whitish appearance. Cattell's Kent Rival is identical with Princess Royal. Somersetshire Early Prolific is very similar to the old White Prussian. It is a small round white Pea, about 2 feet high, tolerably prolific, with small but well-filled pods. PeaboJy is another Pea of the same class, about 18 inches high, not of any merit. Laxton's Prolific Longpod is very similar to and no improve- ment on Prizetaker ; about 5 feet high, with large, full, deep green curved pods. An abundant bearer. Sample somewhat mixed with a white variety having the same general appearance. Green Prolific (Froggat), is Prizetaker. Green Marrow (Wrench), larger sample, with broader and larger pods, and a somewhat stronger grower than the old Green Marrow. A very good Pea. Hannaford's Favourite is a much-mixed stock of green Mar- row Peas of no merit. Blue Excelsior and Knight's Blue Emperor are identical; a second early green Marrow, about 5 feet high, with fair-sized pods of a pale green colour ; very prolific. It resembles in general appearance when growing the Champion of England. Ripe seed of an olive green colour. Early Surprise is somewhat larger than, and an improvement on Blue Excelsior. A very good Pea. Carter's Improved Scimitar is a good stock of Scimitar. Carter's Surprise, a Blue Imperial, of the same style as Scimitar, about seven days later, with straighter pods ; very prolific. Wonderful (Maclean's), white wrinkled Marrow, is a first- class Pea, about 3 feet high, with fine, large, well-filled pods ; excellent flavour. An abundant bearer, and of vigorous con- stitution. Prolific (Maclean's), white wrinkled Marrow, rather dwarfer than Wonderful, very prolific, fine flavour, and most excellent. Nelson's Vanguard, white wrinkled Marrow, two days earlier than Alliance, pods rather short, does not fill well, very prolific. Nutting's No. 1, wrinkled, is identical with Sudbury Al. An excellent early white wrinkled Marrow, three days earlier than Alliance, with larger and better-filled pods. An excellent Pea. Little Gem (Turner), blue wrinkled Marrow, is a very fine Pea, fropi 9 to 12 inches high, abundant bearer, and of first- rate quality. A few days later than Sangster's No. 1. Ex- ceedingly good for pot-culture. Multu'm in Parvo (Nutting), resembles Little Gem, is the same height, but has somewhat broader pods, and is a few days later than that variety. Nutting's Early Seedling is another Pea of the same class, as early, but taller and with somewhat broader and shorter pods than Little Gem. A good Pea. Princess of Wales, green wrinkled Marrow, is very similar to Advancer, a few days later, and with somewhat smaller pods ; prolific. Ripe seed light green. Premier is a first-class green wrinkled Marrow, about 3 feet G inches high, with fine large pods and Peas of excellent quality ; rather later than Veitch's Perfection, vigorous constitution, and abundant bearer. Smithies appears to be an indifi'erently selected stock of either Veitch's Perfection or Premier. Laxton's Leader is very closely allied to, but no improve- ment on Veitch's Perfection. Dickson's Yorkshire Hero, green wrinkled Marrow, is very similar to Maclean's Hero, dwarfer, and three or four days earlier than Veitch's Perfection, vigorous constitution, and very prolific. July 11, 18B7. ) JOUaXAIi OF HOB'BICULTURB AND COTTAGE GARDENER. S5 - Maclean's Hero, green wrinkled Marrow, ia a few days earlier and dwarfertban Veitch's Perfection. A prolific and very good Tea. The I'lince (Stnart & Jlein), green wrinkleil, ia a first-class Pea, with n fiiif vif^oroun CDtisfitution, from ;j fly direct from Mr. Taber, owing to its being reported that there was a spurious stock in the market. \ near neighbour of mine operated at the same time with Sangster'6 No. 1. said to be from a " pure stuck " obtained from a reliable source. Wo sowed at the same time, soil and position being of a similar cliaraoter in each case. Dy some days Taber's was the first to bloom, to slat, and to yield a picking — not merely a few pods, but a good picking. The foliage of Taber's is of a much darker green than Sangster's, and, indeed, any other early Pea I have yet grown. It appears, also, to be of a remarkably hardy constitution ; for while Sangster's appeared to " wince," and that consider- ably under the effects of the late frosts, Taber's came out of the ordeal unscathed ; Raspberries growing close by had the entire crop destroyed. The haulm grew from '2* to :i feet high, and yielded fine and well-filled pods from bottom to top. I obtained several good pickings, not two or three merely, as is usually the case with early Peas. I say nothing about flavour, as it is simply a question of hair-splitting. What is required in an early Pea is a hardy constitution, a dwarf branching habit, yielding freely pods in pairs, which should contain from six to eight Peas in each. These essen- tials I find to be more characteristic of Taber's Early Perfection than any early variety I have yet tried, and I cordially com- mend it to my brother amateurs as a good variety, and well worthy of their attention. — H. A. STErniixs, Ealing. RHITBARB. A NTW Oia\NTU' VAIUETY — CCI.TURE — COOKERY. Mr. Mii.i.er, nurseryman, of Andover. informs me that one stalk of this variety which I forwarded to him recently weighed upwards of :! lbs., stalk and leaf together. I had previously ascertained that they measured in all somewhat more than 5 feet in height, while the edible part of the stalk was '2 feet it inches long, and 6 inches in circumference. The circum- ference of the leaf was 18 feet. As there may be some doubt of its being a seedling from the Victoria, owing to the difference of habit, I beg leave to state that there can be no mistake on that head. The only varieties from which I have ever caved seed for sowing have been the Victoria and the Albert, and I have taken great care to have no other variety in flower at the same time. The seedlings from the Albert I have found to possess a very distinctive character ; round, smooth, and succulent in tlie stalk ; smooth and fleshy in the leaf, and this always round, never peaked ; and in all of these respects different from those of the Victoria. With regard to the variety to which I now direct attention, following the plan stated in a paper on the cultivation of Bhnbarb, which the Royal Horticultural Society gratified me much by publishing in their " Trantnctions " some years ago, I was struck with the dilference of its appearance from that of other plants raised from seed growing on the parent stem, and saved and sown at the same time while it was yet in the seed-pan, and almost immediately on its appearing above ground. In consequence of this, at the proper season, I selected it from among the others, and planted it in a situation where I could observe its progress. 'The result is the present variety. Allow me to remark, for a reason wliich will immediately ap- pear, that the longevity of the Rhubarb is somewhat marvellous. I found in my garden here a bed of what, in every respect ex- cept in want of colour, is a very excellent variety. For more than forty years I have, every season, gathered from it for use, and this season found it in a state of more vigorous growth than it was when I began to do so. After saying this, I need hardly add, that it has been well manured, and that it never has been forceil. The effect of forcing in weakening and injuring Ibis plant is scarcely less remarkable than is the length of time during which it retains its health and vigour when this is not done, and when otherwise not properly treated. In this case the Rhubarb may. indeed, be considered not merely a perennial, but almost, if not altogether a perpetual plant. The bed above referred to, I know for certain was planted fully eighty years ago. Contrasted with this, I ni.ay mention that I had a very excellent seedling variety growing to a very large size. This I forced for two, but it may have been for three years con- secutively. Tlie consequence has been that, although the last time this was done was many years ago, it has never yet, and probably never could recover the injury caused by this weak- ening and exhaustive process. In its present dwarfish ap- pearance no one could recognise, if they had seen ii, the original vigorous and healthy plant. The inference I draw from this is, that except where the plants are in suflieient numbers to sacrifice those operated upon. Rhubarb never should be forced. Where the quantity is moderate, and a suflicient supply for household use is required at the natural season, forcing is a practice that ought never to be followed. With regard to its general raanngement, I should say that, judging from my own experience. Rhubarb, in one respect, re- sembles the soil in which I have grown il ; the remark, how- ever, applies to the soil of North Hants in general. This, if left to' its own natural resources, is too poor to show itself generous. It is, however, just and grateful, always giving back in proportion to what it has received. The Rhubarb plant will do the same. It will always, within reasonable bounds, make a return according to the care and the expense bestowed on its cultivation. Acting upon this at the end of every season when the growth is entirely over and the decayed leaves removed, I give it a good dressing of short, well-niade stable manure, mixed with superphosphate of lime and wood ashes. Having allowed this to receive the autumn rains, so as to carry the fertilising principles down to the roots before the early frosts come to cool the ground, I cause the whole to be covered with a thick coat of leaves, remaining through the winter, impervious to the cold. Of the success of this mode of treatment I certainly have had no reason to complain. It is now a good many years since I gave up raising Rhubarb from seed. Having, however, re- tained what I had planted out while experimenting in that way, under the management described, the quantity I have in my garden never fails to call forth an expression of surprise from those who see it, with a look, which seems almost to say, " Is it not foolish to devote so large a space to the cultivation of a single plant 1 " All I say on this head is, that were the quantity quadrupled I could tind use for it all. Coming at a season when no kind of fruit is to be had, my poorer neighbours are most thankful to receive it, and never tire of it for their Sunday puddings. To some of my richer neighbours it is equally acceptable, they not understanding, or not going to the trouble in its cultivation. The latter value it for the purpose of making a preserve, for which some of my varieties, from their superior flavour, are admirably adapted. These, I may mention, are all from the Victoria. In giving it for the latter purpose, I always request my friends to give their cook strict injunctions not to remove the skin. In doing this, along with the fibres that are attached to it, they deprive the Rhubarb of almost all its colour, and of a great part of its 26 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. July 11, 1B67. flavour. While injurious in this respect, the practice, which originates in ignorance, is otherwise quite unnecessary. In all stages of its growth the skin and fibres are, when dressed, quite tender, while in the process of preserving they are en- tirely dissolved away.— Chables Mackie, Quarlcy Rectory, Andover. POTATOES— EDGING FOR STRAWBERRIES. Seeing an article on Potatoes in your Journal last week (June 27), can you inform me where Myatt's Kidney was raised, as it has done well with us, though we have had severe frosts, and been three weeks later than usual in planting ? The crop has turned out well for all that, and I do not think there will be many second early Potatoes in the ground after this week. We have sold off our last lot at 2s. 9ii. per peck, which is a good price so late in the year. We had round the garden a large amount of old Box-edging, which I found harboured snails. We took it up, and in its place planted our Strawberries round the walks, and then to keep the soU, which is light, up to them, we procured some of the very largest oyster shells we could find, and have stuck them all round the edge — viz., a round one, and then a flat one, with the white inside to the walk. Besides keeping the Straw- berries clean and off the ground, they do better than anything I have tried before, and look neat. — Index, Wallasey, Cheshire. THE YUCCA AS A HARDY DECORATIVE PLANT. The Yuccas should never be planted in a bleak or exposed situation — in such positions they will only exist as unsightly fragments ; but give them shelter and deep soil, and we cannot find more effective decorative plants. Wherever artistic arrange- ment is attempted in the flower garden, the Yucca will prove an invaluable plant. In the most beautiful villa garden I have yet seen the Yucca forms a leading feature in the summer decoration. In the panel system of planting borders — so happily introduced at Archertield — the Yucca will come into great account ; but it is iu the large flower garden that the grand and diversified characteristics of the Yucca will be fully appreciated, and there I will leave the Y'ucca to be arranged by the correct taste of Mr. David Thomson, who is so charmingly working out of chaos a system of flower gardening which will raise the whole subject to a higher status of art and enjoyment. I will here crave a word for the genus Yucca as rock-plants. A clever writer in a contemporary some time ago wished the Yucca put out of the list of rock plants as being unsuitable. I fear the writer had never seen the Yucca on cultivated rock- work ; had he seen the Y. glaucescens in the autumn months, with its large pyramidal racemes of creamy white flowers rising up through masses of quartz rock, he would have looked upon it as a crowning beauty to rockwork. If any one set about planting a Yucca on rockwork in a position only suitable for Sedums or Saxifragas, a few flaccid leaves will be the result ; but give proper depth of any adhesive soil with moderate shelter, and I will engage that the Yucca will present features bold and picturesque, with such outlines and pyramids of blossom as have never been seen on rockwork in the British Isles with any other genus of plants. The Yucca will thrive on any soU, if deep, with a dry bottom ; the strong-growing sorts, as Y. gloriosa, grow more robust on loam — the richer the better. The fine graceful leaves of recurva, with the obtuse ribs de- veloped, are highly ornamental when the plant is grown in rich land. The varieties of filamentosa, I find, do best and flower more abundantly in peat earth. The variegated variety of the last named is a most charming plant, and when it can be bought in quantity at a reasonable price will be a great acquisition iu out-door decorative plants ; when grown in heat this elegant plant has no rival in its style for dinner-table work. The propagating of the Yucca is simple and easy, but to wait the natural iucrease of suckers from out-door culture is weary work when quantity is required. In large nurseries the common varieties can be purchased at moderate cost ; there are, however, many who love such things, but are necessitated to rely upon home resources, and it may interest some if we state here that, with a common frame with a little bottom heat, a nice stock of Yuccas can bo got up. If suckers can be got they will quickly root, and are at once cfi'ectivo plants. The knaurs will also make good plants, although not so quickly ; these will be found growing on the stem and roots underground upon old plants ; they should be cut carefully off and potted — much like Vine eyes — in any light rich earth, covering them about 2 inches, and making the soil rather firm in the pot. Very little water will be required until the green leaves appear above the surface, when plenty should be given. A word more on winter protection. In districts where much snow falls the large sorts must be lifted, or protected by wooden screens. I have seen conical hoods made of strong wiUowa which have lasted years, and protected a fine collection of Yuccas. The shelter of any open shed will be the best of quarters if the plants are put in earth and not too close together. We give no protection to Yuccas here (Kilkenny), as very little snow falls. When snow does fall in any quantity it is carefully shaken off the plants with switches. The past severe winter did not in the slightest injure Yuccas here, with the ex- ception of some young plants of species unknown as to name. — Chas. M'Donald (in Gardener.) DUTY-FREE TOBACCO. The question of duty-free tobacco is meeting with the attention it deserves, and the readers of The Journal of HoRTicuLTOEE are under an obligation to the Editors for their kindness in opening their columns to the discussion of a sub- ject of so much importance to the gardening and agricultural world. Numerous as are the patent powders, washes, anij fumigators annually introduced to the pubUc, it is generally admitted that tobacco has advantages as a wash and for fumi- gating which nothing else possesses. In fact, its only disad- vantage hitherto has been the high price, owing to the very heavy duty levied upon it. It may appear to some that the Government has been too restrictive in this matter ; but when the enormous revenue derived from tobacco is considered, it will be evident that the Lords of the Treasury have a serious trust to guard, and that they may not without extreme risk of fraud permit any departure from the beaten track. Still, the Government has not been averse to granting concessions when it could safely do so ; and when it was suggested that tobacco juice would prove of value to the farmer and stock-breeder, as a dip or dressing for sheep, the Lords of the Treasury sanc- tioned the use of tobacco for that purpose, provided certain ingredients were added to protect the revenue against fraud. The consequence has been that tobacco juice for sheep-wash is now a recognised article of commerce, and large quantities are used in this country, whilst it is also a considerable article of export. Somewhat later an agitation, promoted by Mr. Bannerman, of Staplehurst, and Professor Voelcker, of the Royal Agricul- tural College, secured for Hop- growers the further permission to use duty-free tobacco juice as a Hop-wash ; but as the in- gredients added to the sheep-wash tobacco juice rendered it unfit for Hops or plants, the protection of the revenue in the use of the Hop- wash had to be attained by staining the tobacco juice with extract of logwood, and this Hop-wash so stained or adulterated with logwood is now widely used. At this point the Richmond Cavendish Company took up the question, with a view to obtaining the sanction of the Treasury to manufacture tobacco specially for fumigating. Forms of petition were distributed throughout the British Isles, and I have no doubt many of your readers will remember aiding the Company by their signatures. The opinion of the Government chemist, Professor PhUlips, however, was against the form of our proposal, so that the attempt to get duty-free tobacco failed in that instance. The next and successful application to the Government was made by Dr. Newington, a gentleman described by your corre- spondent, " Obsehvek," as " tlie inventor of the ground and cylinder vineries." This was to prepare what is now termed " ground tobacco," consisting, according to the Government formula, of seventy-five parts of finely powdered tobacco, twenty-five parts of sulphur, and five parts of assafcetida. This preparation of tobacco is chiefly designed to dust the Hop-bine, but it may be used in almost every form, whether in or out of doors, both as a powder and as a wash. The smell of the gum assafa-tida is very offensive to most persons. However, that is a minor evil when compared with the ravages caused by the insect hfe the powder is calculated to exterminate ; and although the ground tobacco is unsuitable for fumigating, owing to the presence of the sulphur, it cannot fail to be of great service to gardeners and farmers for general purposes. Mr. Tyerman, the Curator of the Liverpool Botanic Gardens, July 11, 18«7. 1 JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 27 speaks highly of the eflioacy of the powder ns the basis of a wash, and many gardeners recommend it to dust strong-growing plants, which would otherwise be ruined by the grub or fly. It is. no doubt, true, as Mr. Gosse remarks, that this powder is of '• no avail for houses in which costly or delicate plants are grown." for I apprehend that so large a proportion of sul- phur as twenty-fivo parts would be fatal to the organisation of delicate plants. The objection to sulphur applies also to cayenne, as suggested by your correspondent, '• Ci. S.," unless used in very minute quantities. Moreover, cayenne would not be a surticient protection for the revenue. The (iovernment has already conceded so much, and the Ijords of the Treasury have shown such willingness to meet the wishes of horticulturists, that there is no doubt duty-free tobacco for fumigating in some desirable form will ultimately be granted, and there can be no surer way of bringing this iibout than by securing the valuable assistance of the public press. Public discussion will gradually expose the bearings of the question, and lead to a success which is at present denied to private assiduity. It cannot be a very ditlicult thing to devise a form of tobacco which will be equally acceptable to the revenue and to the gardener. To this end I shall be most happy to place my services at the disposal of any of your corre- spondents who feel an interest in the matter, and I will willingly carry out and report upon any experiments they can suggest as calculated to secure the boon of duty-free tobacco for fumigating purposes. — J. F. Tafk, Sccri'tanj, liichmond Cavendish Co., Liverpool. PORXr.MTS OF PL.\NTS. FLOWERS, AND FRUITS. Drab.1 violacea (Violet-coloured Draba). — Nat. ord., Cruci- feraj. I.iiw., Tetradynamia Siliculosa. Native of the Andes, near Quito, at an elevation of 13-15,000 feet. — [Dot. Mag., t. .'5650.) IroM feet in width. These beds', j which generally succeed crops of Peas, are trenched two spits I deep. The bottom spit has plenty of raw manure or half-rotteu ' leaves and the top old manure. Shallots, those inclined to ripen should be raised slightly with a Potato-fork in order to admit air to counteract mouldiness. I'umip.i, let a good breadth of autumn Turnips be sown without delay, choosing for the kitchen garden the Dutch or Stone. Tomatoes, pinch oti the tops and keep the shoots regularly thinned, for if once these are allowed to become confused, the condition of the plant is deteriorated by the severe cutting which then becomes necessarj'. FRriT GARDEN. Attend to Pear trees against walls, and see that the leaves on spurs and at the bases of the shoots are of a healthy dark green colour, which will not be the case if they arc too much shaded by any superabundance of foreright shoots. The fruit and the leaves immediately connected with it should likewise be sufficiently exposed. Follow up, therefore, the gradual mode of reducing the shoots previously recommended. Where several shoots have sprung up close together, or from around the base of a shoot cut back in a former season, they ought to be thinned, and they cannot be taken out too closely with the exception of one or two, which should afterwards be spurred to about ."i inches. Continue to lay in the young shoots of Peach trees, and also those of other stone fruit. Shoots of Peaches and Nectarines having fruit at their bases may be shortened to within 3 inches from their origin. Examine the soil near the bottom of well-drained or naturally dry borders, and if found necessary let the whole be thoroughly watered. Showers may keep the surface of the ground moist and the foliage healthy for a time, but the latter will not long continue so if there is dryness below. Bud Cherry and other fruit trees as their state of vegetation is found suitable. Have an eye to Strawberry runners for forcing or other purposes. The Elton is invaluable for late work. FLOWER GARDEN-. The late abundant rains which have, according to the papers, been general, will furnish a good opportunity, if the time can be spared, for a thorough rolling of lawns. An English lawn is ever reckoned an object of admiration, and thorough rolling is necessary both to preserve its beauty and to facilitate the business of the mower. China Roses that are going out of bloom should be carefully pruned, cutting out as much of the old wood as can be spared, and shortening back all young shoots out of flower. By this means they will produce a fine show of bloom again in autumn. Continue to bud Roses and to re- move dead flowers as they appear. Tie-up Pinks, Carnations, Sweet Peas, &c. Hoe the surface of beds and borders ; it keeps them cool and moist, and prevents weeds from appearing. Look over choice shrubs and trees ; if any of the latter have formed more than one leader, they should be pruned off at once. This should be strictly attended to with Pinuses. The most forward Carnations and Picotees may now be layered. They should be layered in light soil, consisting principally of leaf mould. Those shoots which apparently will not become sufficiently strong may be taken off. and treated in the same way as Pink pipings. Remove all misshapen blooms of Dahlias, and place round the main stem neat stakes to which the lateral shoots may be attached. Continue to put in pipings as well as cut- tings of Pausies. GREENHOVSE AND CnNSERV.\TOKY. Large climbers with other specimen plants of considerable size are liable to become pot-bound, and as it is not always expedient to give them a thorough shift, it is a very good plan to sink the pot into another which is somewhat larger. The pot selected should be thoroughly drained, and fibrous heath soil and loam iu lumps, with charcoal and pounded crocks, should be laid over the drainage before placing ihe plant. The rim of the pot inserted may be elevated about one-third of the pot's depth above that of the exterior pot. This will give room for the prepared compost. After placing it perfectly level the space between the two pots may be filled up with the same coarse materials. This space affords a good chance of intro- ducing stakes or trellisiug without injury to the roots. Large plants which were thus treated four years ago are still thriving, having been constantly fed with liqnid manure during the growing season. Camellias may be shifted at this season. It is an excellent plan to perform this operation the moment that the flower-bud is decidedly formed. As compost, we would recommend two-thirds of fibrous loam of an unctuous charac- ter, and one-third of fibrous heath soil. The more fibrous and lumpy it is the better, and a good sprinkling of charcoal in small masses, with sharp silver sand, should be added. Let the pots be most completely drained by placing some large S8 JOURNAL OF HOKTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. r Julj 11, 1867. crocks in a very hollow position at the bottom, and over these a pounded mixture of broken crocks and charcoal from which all the very small particles have been riddled. Cover this with very fibrous turf in small lumps before placing the ball, and keep pressing, not ramming, the material close with the fingers during the process of filliug-up, observing to have the compost in a mellow state rather inclining to dryness. One most material point is to see that the. ball is thorougly moist- ened before shifting. If any doubt of this exists let the hall be steeped in water for a quarter of an hour previous to pot- ting. In the greenhouse some of the Statices — as sinuata, puberula, &c., exhausted with blooming, may be shaken out of their pots and repotted. These plants delight in an open com- post with thorough drainage, and some of them are partial to a close and moist atmosphere. Stop gross shoots of the green- house Azaleas, and see to cuttings of the best Pelargoniums. The earliest-sown plants of Primula sinensis may now receive their final shift. These will blossom through October and November when flowers will be scarce. Continue to pinch off blossoms from pot Koses intended for flowering in November and December, and stop every luxuriant shoot. Toung stock of these for winter work should now have theii' final shift. STOVE. Some of the Bletias and also the old Phajus grandifolius are well adapted for producing winter flowers. Such should have their growth completed with all possible rapidity ; they enjoy abundance of liquid manure. Keep the old shoots of the Busselia juncea cut away .aud healthy shoots trained in their place, and beware of the green fly. Stop the shoots occasion- ally of the young plants of Euphorbia jacquinia;flora, they will produce a succession of somewhat later blooms. Tbunbergia seedlings having been provided, they should have most liberal shifts and receive a good stakiugor trellising in order to secure healthy specimens throughout the autumn, and perhaps the winter. Two or three plants in a mass (one of each colour), produce a pretty effect. — W. Eeaue. DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. The bright sun and the high temperature were followed on the 3rd and 4th by copious rains that did good to everything, except the hay which was exposed. Even Strawberries were much benefited, as the rain saved the trouble of watering them, aud gave them all a thorough washing and cleansing with- out in our case doing any damage to the fruit, as the ripest had been closely gathered. The rains were also a great draw- back to some country exhibitions of flowers, &c., for which great preparations had been made as out-door fetes. We are happy to learn that owing to the kindness of the possessors of the grounds, some of these were continued ou the following day, and thus the societies would suffer less than expected. In the uncertainty of our climate, an out-door fete is as likely to mar as to make a horticultural society, and should only be ventured on when the funds are strong. So far as we know, in country towns where many young people reside, sufficient advantage has not yet been taken of the practice of keeping the exhibition open in the evening, when many would attend who cannot afford to lose time and pay for entrance as well. KITCHEN GAIIDEN. Opportunity was taken to plant out a good breadth of Brussels Sprouts, Borecoles, (fee, and we must prick out and wait until we have more ground at liberty. "We lately spoke of pilantiug Potatoes in rows 2 J feet apart, and then 18 inches, in the hope of planting undercrops between the wider rows, but owing to the damp character of the season the Potatoes have become too strong to permit of the plan being carried out to any consider- able extent. Such a season shows the advantage of such kinds of Potatoes as Veitch's Prolific Ash-leaved, in small gardens, sorts which make but small tops and are soon ripe and off the ground to make way for Cauliflowers and Winter Greens. Some people complain that though the skins of Potatoes are as firm as ever they will be, yet if tubers are taken up and housed they soon lose the exquisite flavour which a ripe Potato has when taken at once out of the ground to be cooked, in June and July. That flavour may be well preserved if, instead of being exposed, the Potatoes are bedded and covered over with dry earth, and then picked out as wanted. Where there is plenty of room, Potatoes may be .sorted into sizes before this covering, and then there is no difficulty in picking out an extra good dish. Even long before Potatoes are ripe, when the skin hangs in ribbons about them, or would all come easily off when rubbed with the hands in water, the tubers will be much en- joyed by many if they are cooked at once ; but all such Potatoes lose their sweet flavour, and instead of being crisp and sweet become leathery aud tough, when kept long before being used. They will be improved by being kept covered with earth as above stated ; but even that will not give them the flavour of those newly taken from the growing plants. Long before Potatoes could be obtained in the open ground, unless, perhaps, from those forwarded a little at the foot of walls, the market towns in our neighbourhood were supplied with new Potatoes, at moderate prices, from the Channel Islands ; but though a change in food was thus obtained, the tough tubers bore no comiiarison with good old tubers of the Fluke or Jersey Blue. Green Peas were also supplied from the same parts, a few were said to be brought from the south of France, and even from Algiers, and though the Peas were green and in pods, and were a rarity to many, everything hke delicacy of flavour had long departed. In fact, as one recom- mendation to the holding of even a small garden, we make bold to say, that except by obtaining these vegetables, and even a Cabbage, a short time before being cooked, it is impossible to secure their rich crispness and flavour. Greeniiifi Potatoes. — One word in the way of inquiry. In the case of early Potatoes, and as respects the first crops especially, it was found to be a good practice to raise the Potatoes before they were dead ripe, and expose them to sun and air until they were pretty well greened. This was no doubt done on the principle that seeds, young and not over-ripe, vegetate more rapidly aud strongly than older or better-ripened seeds. The reasons have frequently been adverted to when alluding to the processes of germination. At any rate, we had long satis- tied ourselves as to the propriety of thus greening Potatoes intended as the seed for early crops ; but last season, contrary to usual experience, we heard from many quarters that whilst the tubers of early kiuds intended for planting were much injured by the disease in the autumn and the beginning of winter, though housed in tiue — apparently first-rate con- dition, yet that those thus greened by free exposure before housing were rather the worst atfected by the disease. This was so contrary to our usual experience and observation, and so opposed to all we should have expected, that before recom- mending the greening process to our amateur friends we would be glad to receive more definite information on the subject. Dwarf Kidneii Beans. — We have sown the last crop in the open air. By the time this is read we will sow in an earth pit — that is, a bed with a low wall of earth back and front, with a green sod on the top of it, and then when the cold nights of October .come, we can put on old sashes and hurdles at night. From such a pit last year we gathered up to the middle of November. Most likely about the end of the month we will sow in good-sized pots in the open air, and when the cold nights come, put the pots under glass, and the plants will bear much better than those sown later in heat. I'ms. — Sowed several times within the last fortnight, and what we consider will be the last crop, on the 3rd of July. We have .sown them on the same border on which our earliest Sangster'a No. 1 are still producing, though better kinds are now in. They had been planted out in rows 31 feet apart, with Spinach and Kadishes between the rows, these had been pulled up some time, and laid close to the Peas to keep the draught from the roots ; now the ground between has been forked over, the Peas sown — Sangster's and Dillistoue's — and by the time they are high enough the sticks that did for the first crop will do for the last, and the haulm of the first be removed. We have never done much good by sowing later in the open air, but we have had Peas almost up to Christmas by sowing in pots in the beginning and middle of August, and placing the pots under glass by the end of October ; but, unlike early Peas, these late ones were hardly enough thought of to be worth the trouble and labour. We recollect being much mortified when told that a gentleman when partaking of them in December — and who was a Utile celebrated for his taste in these matters — wished to know from his host how he managed to prcst'irc his Peas ; so that little credit was given to the grower for plucking them fresh from the plants. FRUIT OErARTMENT. Strawberries. — As soon as possible we must la^'er runners for forcing. We saw lately a tine crop of Empress Eugenie, a large dark Strawberry, and seemingly bearing as freely as Keens' Seedling, the best Strawberry for general purposes. The most of our forced plants last year were not layered at all. they were small runners taken as they showed roots, dibbled into a bed July 11, 1867. ] JOUBNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GAIIDENER. M at 4 inches apart in sandy loam and leaf mould, and when tolerably well established were transferred singly to six- inch pots. Altogether our plants were neither so strong nor so well ripened in the end of autumn as usual, and yet we question if ever they did better, as scarcely a plant missed fruitinp;, which led ns several times to think that we may bo over-particular as regards the strength of plants. Wo have turned out many of these forced plants, and have more still to plant. We wish we could have done so earlier, but the ground was not at liberty — one of the disadvantages of a small garden, which can hsrdly ever have a day's rest in any part. Wo regret the not having more planted out, as several rows planted early are now bloom- ing and setting well, and from them at least we shall obtain a good crop after the general crop is over. We will just state how the ground was treated for the Straw- berries referred to. It had carried a very heavy crop of Broccoli and Winter Greens and with abundance of side shoots until late in the season. The ground was thus mnch impoverished, ■we could not obtain manure, but for some time we had wheeled into heaps on the ground the short grass from the lawn, and it fermented rather strongly. As soon as the Greens were all cleared off, or rather pulled up and left a few days, they and a good layer of the hot grass were placed in the bottom of a trench as the ground was trenched over, and then a small dressing of rotten tree leaves was placed on the surface to be wrought in with the plants from pots, and to serve as a slight mulching, and we feel sure that we shall have fine gatherings from the plants next season, and a fair one in the following season. We have several times proved that the short grass thus fermented first is a valuable manure when placed far enough from the surface to become mild and sweet before the roots reach it. It also becomes a valuable component in a rubbish-heap when frequently covered over with earth, for then two objects are gained by one operation — the virtues of the grass are stored up in the heap, and the air is not polluted with its noxious exhalations when undergoing rapid decom- position. The woik as regards fruit trees has been much the same as in previous weeks. The weather has thrown us behind in the matter of foreshortening, and much trouble has been taken in keeping birds from Cherries, Raspberries, &o. Against our will we have thinned the sparrows reasonably, but nothiug will entice the blackbirds; still the rain has given us relief, as now they can obtain soft food, without resorting so much to Strawberries and Cherries. They will also come long distances. The other day we watched a bird with seemingly a bunch of three Cherries in his bill, flying fully half a mile, and then he seemed on the wing, no doubt to his bower of love, where the young would be expecting his visit. The birds will obtain their share, even it netting is freely resorted to. All gardens with woods and shrub- beries round them will have a fair allowance of these visitors if netting be not resorted to. We had a few beautiful pyramid Cherry trees, and before we could throw a net over them the blackbirds were carrying off the fruit wholesale, even before they were coloured. The men set up a gaudily dressed guy near the trees, with a bunch of flowers in his breast, and that stayed their ravages until we could net them. Anything striking. even long streamers of white paper, will keep them away until they become used to it, and, therefore, when such means are all that can be resorted to, the deterrent, whatever it is, should be frequently changed. Watered the inside of vineries. Peach-house, and orchard- houses, with manure water from the farm dunghill, as it is yet pretty good, before all the manure is carried for Turnips, &c, Wo rather regretted that some of the trees in the Peach- house were thinner of fruit than usunl, but wo now wish we had thinned all the others as much, as the fruit on the thinnest trees have been magnificent. We must have another raid on the fruit in the orchard-houses befoie they are too far ad- yanced. On one tree in the Peach-house the fruit would average from 12 to 15 inches apart, but the weight would be more than where they were 6 to 8 inches apart. .Ml our trees in pots in the orchard-houses had a good mulching of de- cayed Mushroom-dung over the pots, and that has saved much watering. We would have preferred fresh horse-droppings thrown into a heap to heat for a few days ; but then even this heating will not destroy the vitality of all the Oats in the droppings, and the growing of the Oats causes loss of lime in pulling theiu up, whilst guarding against making labour, even in this little matter, is to be considered. We made up the de- ficiency in fertilising properties in the material used, by giving a pinch of superphosphate or of soot to each pot, to be carried down with the waterings. As some correspondents wish to know the safest of artificial manures, we would recommend th« superphosphate of lime in the shape of ground or dissolved bones, as in a 12 inch pot as much may be placed at a time as can be taken between the thumb and two fingers, and if double or treble of that amount is given little harm, or none rather, will ensue, and this cannot be said of guano and some other artificial manures. ORNAMENTAL UEPAIITMEST. The rain came most seasonably to enable us to cut some grass and banks of grass a little long and rough, but which we were afraid to touch in the parching weather lest we shonld leave a brown track instead of a lovely green one behind us. The lawns, delightfully green, will now run little risk of burn- ing and browning for the season. We have commenced what will be rather a tedious affair — taking up Plantahus from (iir/ fresh Uid last season. We ob- taiued the turf from the sides of the highway, and nothing could have looked better last season, as what few Plantains showed themselves were taken out as the turf was laid. The advantage of roadside turf is, that the grass will be fine at once, and will also look well at once ; but the disadvantage is that it is almost sure to be well supplied with the seeds of the larger Plantain, and which are sure to thrive amazingly when taken to new quarters. Nothing is more destructive of the beauty of a lawn. They will throw up their seed-stalks a few days after mowing, and render the use of the Daisy-knife almost constantly necessary. If let alone for a season or two they will almost occupy as much space as a small Cabbage, and they will so squat down in the soil as to look on the lawn like so many birds' nests below the general level. There is no way of thoroughly extirpating them except spudding them out. We have had them cut over a little below the surface, and ii6 long we had a mass of plants instead of one. We have done the same, and put a pinch of salt in the hole, but that is by no means effectual ; for, though the salt injures the top of the root left, if it does not kill it, the root will send up shoots from a good way beneath the surface, and the labour must be re- peated. A hght spud with a handle, and a tread for the foot, and from three-quarters to an inch in width at the point, is a good tool for the purpose ; and the more effectually the work is done the cheaper it will be, though it takes much time at first. We have taken up large plants with 12 or 1,5 inches of straight root, and the cutting or breaking of that root some 4 or G inches from the surface would be only a very temporary benefit, re- sulting in several strong heads the next season. Even with I small plants, though some will only have 2 or 3 inches of root, ! yet many will have a straight juicy root from 4 to 8 inches long. The thorough eiBcacy of the work depends on the taking even j the small point up unbroken. All other modes of taking up I will only be temporary palliatives. Half an acre of smooth clean lawn, free from weeds, will yield more satisfaction than a 5 dozen of acres crammed with Plantains, &c. Patience, perse- verance, and activity must be brought into exercise, or the Plantain will gain the mastery. Fresh-arranged plants, removing Pelargoniums, out of bloom, and filled with Fuchsias, &c. Potted Pelargoniums, Gesneras, Caladiums, Feathered Cockscombs, Begonias, &c., for future supply, and prepared positions for striking Pinks, Carnations, and double Wallflowers. — B. F. COVENT GARDEN MARKKT.— July 10. There are very few alterations to quote in tliis market, the present favourable weather affording U8 ample supplies l)oth homegrown and foreign. The latter comprise Melons, Peaches, Apricots, Nectarines, and several varieties of Plums. Potatoes are coming in sound and good at present. FBUIT. a. d. B. d r a. d. s. it Apples Jsleve S 0to4 0 | Melons each 3 0to5 0 Apricots doz S 0 4 0 Kectarines doz. 6 0 10 0 Cherries lb. 0 6 16 Oranges 100 8 0 14 0 Chestnuts bush. 0 0 0 0 Peaches doz. 8 0 15 0 Currants j sieve 3 0 4 0 Pears (dessert) ..doz. 3 0 4 0 Black do. 4 0 5 0 Pine Apples lb. 4 0 6 0 Figs doz. 3 0 6 0 Plllms } sieve 0 0 0 0 Filberts lb. 0 0 0 0 ' Qninces doz. 0 0 0 0 Ceba lb. 0 9 1 6 Uaspberri»s lb. 0 6 0 8 Gooseberries . . quart 0 4 0 6 l Strawberries lb. 0 6 1 6 Grapes, Hothouse.. lb. 2 6 6 0 I Walnuts bush. 10 0 80 0 Lemons 100 8 0 12 0 j Green per lOO 16 2 0 J30 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. t July 11, 1867. VEGETABLES, Artlchohes each Asparapua bundle Beans, Kidney, per 100 ScarletRuu.^ sieve Beet, Red doz. Broccoli bundle Bm9. Sprouts i sieve Cabbage doz. Capsictims 100 Carrots buBoh Cauliflower doz. Celery bundle Cucumbers each pickling .... doz. Endive doz. Fennel bunch Garlic lb. Herbs bunch Eorseradish . . bundle d. 8. 3to0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 fi 0 0 3 Leoks bunch Lettuce per score Mushrooms . pottle Mustd.A Cress, punnet Onions, .per doz. bchs. Parsley per sieve Parsnips 'doz. Pen.^ per qunrt Potatoes bushel Kidney do. New lb. Radishes doz. bunches Rhubarb bundle Savoys doz. Sea-kale basket Shallots lb. Spinach bushel Tomatoea. . .. per doz. Turnips bunch s. d. 9. d 0 3 too 0 0 0 S 0 0 9 0 6 0 0 2 9 4 0 0 0 0 8 2 0 2 0 0 6 5 0 4 1 1 6 10 0 1 0 0 0 0 S 0 3 0 0 0 TO CORRESPONDENTS. *•• We request that no s>ue vrill write privately to the depart- mental writers of the "Journal of Horticulture, Cottage Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing they are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All communications should therefore be addressed solely to The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, dc, 171, Fleet Street^ London, E.C. We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them an- swered promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate communications. Also never to send more than two or three questions at once, N*B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until nest week. Motto (S. S. S.). — Yon have represented the sentence as three words, whereas there are only two — " Considerate Lilia," or " Consider ye the Ijlies." JouRNAi, OF Horticulture Prize {D. T. F.).— Yoq ask, "Will there be any limit to the quantity of fruit on each dish V" To which we can only reply, Not any; but we conclude that no exhibitor would either have more or lees quantities than are usual on dessert dishes. Let it be re- membered that good taste is required to accompany the gardening skill testified by the excellency of the fruits. Grapes at Manchester Show (T. Hartcood).~We cannot say on what ground the Judges awarded the prizes to the Muscat Grapes at Man- chester, as we were not present. What w.ts the condition of the schedule '.' If it was that all fruit exhibited must be ripe and fit for table, then un- ripe fruit ought to be disqualified; but if there w«s no such condition, fruit not perfectly ripe was admissible. We certainly agree with you fthat it is impossible to judge Melous without cutting them. Grapes Become Brown (T7/is'.— They are severely rusted. The cause, probably, is their being syiinged, and whilst wet exposed to a cold current of air. Catalogue of Scb-tropical Pi.ants (J?. J.).— Though most of the principal nurserymen give lists of these, we do not know of any catalogue published in this country containing full descriptions of such plants. Trees a>d Shbubs for Cotswold Hills (B.). — We should think, as the snbstratum of these hills is oohtic, that Beech and Spanish Chestnut would be at home, likewise Birch, Mountain Ash, and all the Thorns, as well as trees worked on that stock, such as Mespilus, &c. ; but it would not be advisable to try Elms, Oalts. nor the taller kinds of Poplars. Many of the Coniferft" would do well in such a situation, and Yews and Junipers would be quite at home. The Scotch Fir and many lundred Pinnies would succeed as well as, and, perliaps, better than in a lower situation. Of shrabs, most of the Rhododendrons and the common kinds of Azaleas and Andromeda will do. Box may be planted plentifully ; but we doubt if Laurustinus and Portugal Laurels can bo depended on. Common Laurels, .Donblc-flnwcred Furze, Cotonenster. and some other plants may be tried with a tolerable certniuty of success. We doubt much if Berberis will do 8o well, and Daphnes, Pernettyas. and Weigolas like a stifi'er soil. The Evergreen Oaks will also, probably, thrive, but that Hollies will do so is doubtful, as they prefer a more sheltered position. Many deciduous shrubs, as Lilacs, Deutzia scabra. Kibes, and Mock Orange will succeed well. Verbenas for Exhibition (Constant 2ieafJer). — These are very fine — Mrs. Turner, Lm-d Leigh, Annie, Black Prince, GOant des Eatailles, Lilac King, Rose Imperinl, Admiral of the Blue, Le Grand Bonle de Neige, Madame Hermann Stenger, Foxhunter, and King of the Verbenas. Select Pansies (J. H^i??)-— Alexander Tait, Cherub. Arab, Miss Muir, Miss Ramsay, John Inglis, Lady Lucy Dundas, J. B. Bownie, George Wilson, Masterpiece, Yellow Queen, and Alice Downic. Kalmia latifolia (J. G.}. — We do not remember the article to which you_ refer. There is a variety of Kalmia latifolia called major splendens, having largo deep rosy flowers ; also myrtifolia, with smaller and darker flowers than K. latifolia. Fumigating a Vinery (Tobacco, B^.).— There is no danger of injury from the fumigation of a vinery with tobacco when the Grapes are changing colour. Use shag tobacco or tobacco paper. No amount of tobacco smoke will destroy bug. Leaver (Mary Kino). — It is impossible to name a plant from a few dead le; ves. They are of the same shape and fratrrance as those of the Willow- Jeaved variety of the Bay tree, Laurua nobilis, var. salicifolia. Night-scented Stock Manaoebtent (A. S. W.).—Vfe think the "plant has been potted in too rich soil, and has been soaked with water, which circumstances would be sufficient to account for the bad condition of the roots; the loss of foliage may be the result of keeping the plant in a close atmosphere. You could not have done better than have repotted the plant in light sandv soil, afl"ording good drainage, and have kept it moderately dry in a cold frame with abundance of air, and more liberal supplies of water when the roots were working freely in the fresh soil. You may now put in cuttings of any of the young shoots, inserting two joints in the soil. The surface should be covered with an inch of silver sand- The pots may be set in a friane, which should be kept close and shaded from sun. the cuttings being occasionally bedewed overhead with water through a fine rose, and the sand kept moist but not very wet. The cuttings will root slowly but surely ; or they may be placed in ft hotbed, and when well rooted should be pitted off singlyin small pots in a com- post of equal parts of light turfy loam, leaf mould, and sand, affording good drainage. After potting pbice them iu a cold frame, keep close and shaded for a few days until established, and afford a sprinkling of water overhead every morning. When the plants rooover from the potting air should bo freely given— iu fact, they should be fully exposed except during very wet weather, when the hghts may be tilted. When the pots are full of roots shift into pots a size larger, and early in October remove them to a shelf in a cool tiiry greenhouse. The essentials to success are a free circulation of air, a light open soil, and good drainage, with careful watering in winter. Christmas Rose Propagation (Idevt).—You may take np the plants now and divide them into as many pieces as you find crowns, preserving as much root as possible to each. The divisions are to be planted where they are to remain, or in a border 1 foot apart, giving a good watering. A compost of tv/o-thirds turfy loam and one-third leaf mould will grow it well, affording a mulching of about 1 inch of le.^.f mould over the crowns early in winter. Strat\'berries— Estimate «r Sorts (G. B., Brr/M.— Sir J. Paxton is a good cropper, handsome, and suitable for market purposes, also good for forcing. President is said to be a good cropper, but it did not bear heavily with me. It is better flavoured than Sir J. Paxton. Mrs. Nicholson sent me Comte de Zans, but as it was sent by post it died. It is said to be a good market sort. Dr. Hogg is a very hardy, healthy sort, like British Queen in appearance and flavour. I specially recommend Cockscomb and Wonderful as late market sorts. They are very hardy, great and sure bearers, stand travelling well, and are of the British Queen flavour. The I crops of Rivers'rt Eliza, Cockscomb, and V/onderful are very fine here.— W. F. Radclyffe, Okeford Fitzpninc. Variegated Pelargoniums (W. H. M.>. — We stated a fortnight since our opinions upon the subject. You will see some further remarks to- day in our columns. According to the decision of the Floral Committee of the Ri>yal Horticultural Society, they would consider Annie Williams a Variegated Pelargonium, and Mrs. Milford not. We arc of opinion that the Coffee tree does not come within the moaning of "a fruit tree," any more than does the Oak. Vines on Open Walls (W. Spencer). — If you enclose five postage stamps with your address, and order " Fruit Gardening for the Many," it will be sent free by post. It contains what yon need. Grass on Heavy Soil (E. F.\ — The best treatment yon can adopt for your lawn is to have it well and deeply drained. The proposed dressing with small pieces of chalk may do good, but we fear the chalk would give 7 stony appearance to the surface. A dressing of compost formed of any waste vegetable matter, as tufts of grass, &c., turned over frequently and mixed with a load of lime to every four of compost, would form an ex- cellent dressing for your la^vn at the end of twelve months. Apply it in February. Draining the soil is what wo recommend, and then top- dressing. A top-dressing of sifted cinders would tend to keep the surface from becoming soapy. Peach Trees on Wooden Fence (Mem).— Yonr trees will seldom, M ever, thoroughly ripen their fruit, and they sufl'er from mildew on account of the wood being immature. They should be plauted against a wall with a south aspect. To free your trees of mildew we recommend yonr washing them forcibly every evening with water during the prevalence of dry weather, and once a-week with a solution of soft so^.p at the rate of 2 ozs. to the gallon of water. If this do not fi-ee them of mildew, dust the parts affected whilst wet with flowers of sulphur. EHVNCnOSPERMUM JASMINOIDES AFTER FLOWERING (K. E.). — ThlS IS the plant of which you enclose a spray, and having been neglected it should have any old long bare shoots removed, preserving as much of the young wood as possible, and especially the shoots jiear the base. The plant may be potted, if requisite, in a compost of equal parts of turfy peat and loam, with a free admixture of silver sand. The drainage should be good. The plant should be kept moist, close, and shaded for a few days until it recover from the potting, and should then have a light and moderately airj' situation, a sprinkling of water morning and evening, and every encouragement to secure growth. Water copiously, but only when necessary. Regulate the shoots when necessaiy. Insect on Peae-tree Leaves (A. M. Tf.V— The destroyer of the leaves is called the SUmy Grub, it ie the Ini-va of the Selandria .Ethiops, or Pear Saw-fly. They can be destroyed by dusting them with slaked quicklime. Forcing Vines (Subscriber, Norjcich). — You may plant inside as yon propose, and you may force the Vines successfully that are planted out- side ; but you would do better to have them in Juno the first year, and in Jlay the succeeding one. However, in either case we would advise yon to proceed thus: — Give heat in your pipes to hasten on the crop just thinned, and have it off as soon in the autumn as you can, so as to give the Vines a rest before you begin to force them. By the 1st of October at latest, cover the border outside with 15 inches of litter to keep the heat in, and if you can protect from cold rains so much the better ; shut up your house and commence very gi-adually with 45^ in December, raising the heat by degrees. Pine-Apple Leaves Browm (A Ecadcr).~'Try what a little shade will do for your Pines. We suspect they are not quite right at the roots, and too much sun with too little air has scorched the tops. Examine the roots, and if not doing well shake away the soil, drain well, and repot in fresh, rough, sandy loam. If the roots are progressing healthily let them alone. Shade, and give plenty of moistuie, with air, however little, at the top the first thing in the morning. jQ}y 11, 1867. 1 JOUKNAL OF HOBTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB. 31 KiHiBiTiON Stands for Roses, Dahlias, and Pansies {J. F. ••?.).— A fitautl for, flay, twt-uty-four blooms of Dublias should bo 4H inchest in Icn^rtb by 18 inches in width from front to b/ick. It shouhl ho ruined at the bacK 7 inehcK, and M4 inches in front. The holes should form three lines of oipht each, and ebould be G inches from centre to centre, und 3 inches from the oataide. The metal tube for the water may ho 1 inch in diameter, and should t\l into the holes of the board ; the wooden tube to receive the blooni, and fitting into the metal tube, nhould rise Ijf inch above the hoard. The cohmr of the board should be a lively bright green. The dimensions of a stand for twelve blooms of Ualilias can bo easily deduced from the foroKoint*. Such a box as that just described would bo Buitablo for Koses if shown in single trusses ; for sinclo blooms of Roses the dimensit)ns would be almost too large, while for bunches of three truHses it would scarcely afford sufficient space. For Hoses tho tubes may bo fawti'iicd to the bottom of the box, not using a board as in the case of DiihliiiK, and tho spaces filled up with fresh gix*eu moss. Tho most Buitublc colour for a box for Hoses is dark green. A stand for Pansies should have the outside appearance of a ueai box, painted dark rosewood autl highly varnished ; the lid attached by book-and eye hinges, and locked. The lid removed shows a stand of four rows of Pansy blooms, six in ea<'b, airangt^d on a zinc plate one-eifjhth of nn inch thi(^k, i)ainted green, with a slight yellow tinge, and varnished. Length of box 1 foot 6 inches, 12j inches wide, and 8 inches deep, three-eighths of an inch thick, and with a little beading inside, on which the plate rests, so as to lie tlush with its edges all round. Tho tubes are soldered to tlie under part of the plate flu.sh with the hack of tho holes to receive tho stalk, bnt receding to the front to allow tho flower to lie well. These Imles are tbree-fourtlis nf an incli long and half nn inch wido. Tho tu!ies beneath are li inchi-s lictp, ] imh long, and ftve-eighths wido. The front holes ore 1' inch from the (.-.U'c of the plate, and 1^ inch from the side, and the rows are ".i inches above each other. When placing the stand for exhi- bition it can be arranged sloping to any angle, by placing something ouderueath it at the back. Heatino a Small Conservatory f.t Suhtcribvi, Guildjord). — You can heat your small house succes^-fuUy with a flat-headed iron stove, with a pan of water over it. You can heat it more easily etil! by gas, the burner enclosed in a small iron stove, and a pipe from 2^ to S inches wide going through tho house from the stove, and thence into a chimney or into the open air, and moist beat will be pecurod by a pan nf water over tho stove. It is a mistake to suppose that, heating by hot water is more moist than other moiles of heating, unl Sat .. t! Snn. . . 7 Mon... a Tnes. . 9 Mean a9 96S .S0.072 SU.18.S S(l.'iS2 S0.2-ir, 3«.3U5 29.787 29.979 S0.1.')l 29.224 30.224 .SO.l.W 74 72 71 74 76 77 77 55 52 41 42 42 42 44 64 Ii4 64 64 64 f4 64 61 fil 61 61 61 61 61 S. ! .14 S. 1 .02 S-W. .00 K.W. 1 .00 N. , .00 N.E. .00 N.E. 1 .00 Overcast and mild throushout ; rain at night. Rain ; cloudy with showers ; overcast. Fine with white clouds ; very fiuc ; fine at night. Fine ; very fine ; fine at niglit. \cry fine throughout. Slight dry haze : very fine throughout. Very fine throughout. 30.11") 30.050 74.43 45.43 64.00 61.00 .. 1 0.16 POULTRY, E£E, and HOUSEHOLD CHRONICLE. GAME FOWL BREEDING THIS SEASON. " YonKsniPE " only seems to be sharing tlie same fate in the chicken department as many o£ his brother fanciers this season ; but as his case seems to be entirely like my own, I venture to say a few words about my own yards, which, I am sorry to think, will do but little more than corroborate "Yor.K- shibe's " statements ; but if experience will bring about a cure for tho malady which is causing such mortality this season, I shall give mine and the result of my practice most willingly. In the first place, I may state that I breed several kinds of fowls besides (tiimo — viz., Brahmns, Cochin.s, &c., yet only the Game suffer. Jly Brahmas and Cochins are as strong and as healthy as in years gone by, and aU my chickens, with bnt one brood excepted, have been brought up on the same gravel and grass run, and a largo one too. My Game chickens have suffered precisely in the same way as " Youksiiirk's;" they go on all right until about a fortnight old, and then comes the "tug of war " — loss of appetite, violent purgings, then deatli ; all these in one or two days. I have tried many things to save them, but have never saved one after the attack has fairly commenced. What I have found to be most beneficial are tonics, a little rue and cayenne made into pills, a little citrate of iron in their water, with a lump of camphor floating in it. (I fancy that bread soaked in ale will give diarrboi'a unless ad- ministered very judiciously). If thete precautions are neglected in a few days I find my chickens' wings down again and all going wrong. As " Yorkshire " says, the disease is also novel to me, for I have reared hundreds of birds and, save in a small brood of Polands, I never saw the like before. I know there are general complaints this season, but how is it that some yards are entirely free from any such disease ? If those who are fortunate would give us their experience, and at the same time also state the kind of place upon which the birds have been reared, I think this might ventilate the subject a little. As I have previously said, I have a large run, the grass I keep as short as it is possible for horses to graze it on purpose for my chicks, and yet I beheve this is the place where my birds become diseased. The long wet season, no matter how short the grass is, must have a bad effect on birds which must be dry. But here another question suggests itself, Have the breeders in dry places without grass experienced the same bad results ? _ If so, then my theory is tindone ; but from inquiries in my im- mediate neighbourhood, I find the reverse to bo the case. I I will give an instance. 'Sly chickens went on so badly that I resolved to place a brood in the kitchen garden away from the grass, and here they are doing (I am speaking of Game),_ as ; well as chickens possibly can do. They have no medicine ' because they require none ; receive no unusual care, and are fed j simply, chiefly on dry food — wheat, groats, and the like, the rest ! of their food consisting of what they get from the newly-dng I earth, which is considerable, and insects from tho adjoining I small fruit trees. I One important part of " Yorkshire's " letter I must now refer to — namely, tliat upon the removal of birds to different places. My chicks in the garden which have done so well are from Nantwich, in Cheshire, yet the gentleman who sent the eggs, Mr. William Chnrch, lamentably complains of the 32 JOUBNAL OF HOKTICDLTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENEE. [ July H, 1867. great mortality among his chickens. The same gentleman also speaks of my chickens doing well in Cheshire. I can easily imagine the improvement which would (I think naturally), takeplace in breeding on a limestone earth, and more especially with birds that liave been bred in-and-in, and not in the neighbourhood of such material. I have noticed that the most healthy Game chickens that I have seen this season are those which have had the run of a garden, or on any soil away from grass. I have several friends near me who have not had a single loss from disease whose birds have been thus raised, and those who have had them on grass runs I find have invariably failed. — Nottinghamshire. We made once a small hen-house, and lighted it by plaoij^ some of the roof boards, which went up and down, 10 inches apart, and fastening S by 10 glass between them, slipping the glass into the grooves in the boards, which were common floor- ing. The panes lapped about half an inch, were fastened by tacks, -and little water came through. Windows in a fowl- bouse must be protected by slats or by wire. The use of plaster on the sloping floor under the roosts is very well — nothing can be better ; but fine, dry road dust, swept up on a hot day, is as good. — (American AgricuUuriat.) A GOOD AND CHEAP HEN-HOUSE. The house is 10 feet wide and 12 feet long ; a passage-way, ■1 feet wide, passes along the south side, in which are windows ; this is formed by a partition, 3 feet high (see fitj. 1), which ex- tends from near the door to the rear, and supports the lower side of a sloping floor, which rises to the eaves on the north side. Above this sloping floor the roosts are fixed, and the droppings of the birds fall upon the floor, which being sprinkled with plaster they roll down, or are easily scraped off. There ! is a ledge at the front edge, which prevents their going to the floor. Under this sloping floor the space is divided by a par- tition, making a nest-room about 6 feet square, and a sitting- room 6 feet by 5, which is also used for a store-room for grain, eggs, &c. This sitting-room is entered by another door, and lighted by a pane in the gable end. The nest-boxes shove through the partition into the sitting-room, but there is no access for the fowls except when sitting. At these times hens < f I t ti c a »— J . B. Fig. 2. (t, a, doors. 6, 6, windows, r, nest-boxes. are moved, if they happen to be in boxes against the side building, and made to occupy those in the partition. The back endof the four-feet passage-way (see plan, firj. 2), is used as a feeding floor, and here stands the water fouiitain. DROPSIC.VL TUMOURS IN A SPANISH HEN. I HAVE just lost a valuable hen with, to me, a somewhat uncommon and singular disease of the ovaries. I am not quite certain " dropsical tumour" is the right term; it certainly is very applicable, and nearer the mark than anylhing else I can think uf. I shall be extremely obliged for information from any person who has met with a similar case, with the mode of treatment if a cure has been etiected, and as to whether Spanish fowls are more particularly subject to it than other kinds. About a month ago I noticed that one of my young hens increased considerably in bulk from day to day. As she was just recovering feather after a protracted moult, I thought it might be occasioned by derangement of the system or a stoppage; so I gave her a teaspoonful of castor oil, penned her in a warm coop, and fed her on good soft food for a couple of days, but finding she increased in size rather than diminished, I thought it time to examine thoroughly. I found the whole of the abdomen without feathers, the skin very dry, hot, and feverish, and on the point of cracking in several places from over-tension. A large lump which appeared to be considerably larger than an egg could be felt just below the vent, the remainder of the bird seemed to be in perfect health — the new feathers on the back and wings well laid and glossy, eye bright and sparkling, comb a bright red, and the general appearance of the head that of a fowl in full laying condition. For three or four weeks her appetite had increased, and she now ate as much as any three fowls. After consulting with a friend we decided to open the abdomen and extract whatever we might find. Applying a sponge with chloroform to the nostril, she soon ceased struggling, laid her head quietly on the table, and went off into a sound little nap. With a sharp penknife an incision of about 2 inches longwas made just above the vent, the bird being on her back, simply dividing the skin ; upon inserting the finger a globular body ' could be felt, about the size and shape of an egg, but ;\ielding to the pressure of the finger. Piercing it with the point of the knife a quantity of yellowish fluid ran out ; this being emptied, a second one piresented itself and was served in the same way, and two more could be distinctly felt, but as the bird was begin- ning to move we decided not to do any more for the time, but, sewing up the hole, she was replaced in the coop, perfectly recovered herself in a few minutes, and began to eat as usual, seemingly none the wor?e for the operation. These tumours were the full size of an egg, contained nothing but a yellowish water, coming away freely when empty, round like an India-rubber ball, and like it regaining their shape after pressure. I fed the bird well for another week, but finding that she increased in bulk rather than diminished, her hinder part dragging as she walked or waddled, I thought killing would be the most merciful action, and then dissecting to find the cause of the disease. With an extra strong dose of chloroform, held to the nostril imtil she ceased to breathe, this was quietly done in a minute, and, when quite cold she was laid open from the beginning of the breast-bone to the rump. I took out five tumours the size of a Duck's egg, and then found scarcely any- thing left ; everything seemed to have diminished in quantity as these water-eggs increased, no disease was apparent save this of the ovaries, the flesh evidently wasting away in spite of the enormous appetite the bird had had. The five water-eggs would have about filled a quart mug. The question is. Would these eggs have passed as ordinary eggs, or would they have burst inside ? If not the fowl herself must have burst, as she was very nearly doing when killed. Operations of this and any kind are always better and more easily performed when the sufferer is under the influence of chloroform, or some other stnpifying vapour, otherwise it be- comes an act of unnecessary cruelty. I would just remark, in conclusion, that the hen was hatched July 11, 1967. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 33 March twelvemonth, had laid well before Christmas, and had never before ailed ; the change had been since the last moult. A. Le Ciieminant, Foubm ^'alt■, Gucrrisinj. JUDGING GAME FOWLS EY SHAPE. TiiK rnorEii shapk of tht, game cock. Beak, stronf;, curved, long, and sharp, stout at the base (a good boxing beak as technically termeil). Comb neatly and closely dubbed, red in the red-combed sorts ; darkish red in dark-combed sorts. Cock chickens and young stags should be exhibited undubbed to show the proper shape of the comb, which should be single, not too large or clumsy, rather thin, serrated, or lobed, erect and straight, _and rather low in front. Face, same colour as comb. Gills, wattles, and deaf ears same colour as comb, and neatly trimmed. Head, long and sharp. Eyes, bright and clear. Face and throat hard, lean, and thin. Neck, long, arched, and strong, with a firm, hard, short, strong, and rather broad-feathered hackle or mane, close, neat, and very bard feathered ; the feather points to shoulders and no longer. Back, short and very hard, broad at shoulders and narrow at tail. Sides of the body well rounded. Breast, broad and very hard, and neither too round nor too full, as a heavy breast is useless weight, nor yet too lean, but still not sharp-breasted, a hard breast being most essential, as the most vulnerable part of the body. Stern, or rump, narrow, short, and neat, feathers short and hard. JVinfif, very strong and well rounded, and neither too short nor too long ; short-winged birds being too heavy in body generally, and often broad-rumped, and too-long-winged birds frequently long in body and in feather. Wings carried closely pressed to the sides, and neither too high nor too low, but pro- tecting the fleshy part of the thigh. 'Tail, neither too long nor too short, long-tailed birds being generally long in body and in feather, and too short tailed often too clumsy in body and broad in rump. The tail should be carried " well up " for spirit, and should be open or fanned and spreading, with a full crescent-like curve of the sickle feathers, and well sickled, the sickle feathers carried just clearly above the points of the straight feathers. Cock-fighters prefer rather short, neat-tailed birds, with tails carried well up, and not too large, but open. Long-spreading, well-sickled lails, carried well up are the most showy tails. Squirrel tails very bad of course. Some judges and fanciers prefer the rather drooping, close- switch, or whip-tailed birds, saying these are finer-feathered, neater, and higher-bred birds. I consider the drooj'ing. closed, or folded and long-tailed birds to be narrower in body, less strong, and less spirited than such as I have described. These tails are not much sickled. There should never be much fluff or down at the root of a cock's tail, as this shows softness, and the base of the tail should be narrow. Tliiglis, short, hard, and very muscular, and placed well, wide apart, and well up to the shoulders, under the broadest part of the body to make the bird stand firmly on his legs, and to give " a good forehand " and a more commanding appearance. Legs, neither too long nor too short ; strong, but never in the least clumsy, rather slender than at all clumsy (as the mnscnlar power lies in the thigh), placed well and widely apart to make the bird stand firmly and carry plenty of spur. Spurs placed low down, long, and not too stout or clumsy, sharp, and not turning in too much, and rather curved up- wards. Scales of legs close and smooth. Feet, spreading claws, long and straight. Talons long, strong, and narrow. Back claw placed low and fiat to the ground, and very long and strong, to make the bird stand firm and give him a good spring. Never in the least Duck-footed. Broad, short, flat nails are very bad, and show the Malay cross in the breed having them. Plumage, all very hard, scant rather than thick of feathers, short, close, and firm, the feathers and quills very strong every- where. Body in band, short and very hard in flesh, and very mns- cnlar in every part. Belly small and tiyht in the pinions. Legs of cock rather longer than those of the hen in proportion. Carriage, upright, active, quick, fierce, sharp, and fiery. Curved-backed cocks, if with a straight curve and not humped or lop-sided, are " shorter in body and fiercer" than straight- backed cocks are. Weight, for exhibition, from 4J lbs. to 51 lbs. ; for the pit, 4j lbs., as the most active weight. Game cocks should never be heavy or clumsy in body, but should be light-fleshed, with sufficient bone for strength, but not too heavy in bone or flesh for activity, and should combine great strength with great activity in proportion to their size. Game cocks should be one-third larger than their hens. Game cocks are in their prime at two years old, and decline after four years, as do the hens in general, though some old birds are as good. — Newmarket. P.S. — I have to thank " YoRKsniRE " for his replies to my three questions. HOUDANS— RIVAL INCUBATORS. About twelve months ago, owing to the opinion you ex- pressed as to the merits of the Houdan fowl, I determined to keep no other. I selected five pullets from the stock of a noted breeder, and obtained a cockerel from a distant part of the country, in order to run no risk of in-and-in breeding. JMy object being to rear chickens, of course I bad to keep a few sitters, and I purchased ten Dorking pullets, thus having fifteen females to one male bird. This, probably, you will consider too many, but the result has proved otherwise. My Houdan pullets, which were not hatched until August, commenced laying at the new year, and they continued to do so up to the present time. Their eggs are considerably larger than those I obtain from the Dorkings, and, on an average, they miss laying one day in five. You will agree with me, therefore, that I have every reason to be satisfied : indeed, I am convinced that, for general purposes, — as egg-producers and table birds — Houdans surpass any other breed. Several of my friends complain of their ill-success this year with chickens. In February I placed nine eggs under one of my broody Dorkings, and she hatched seven chickens. Of the remaining two, one was broken, and in the other I found a dead chicken. I kept the hen and chicks in a storeroom at the top of my house, and fed them liberally with chopped egg, bread, and grits. The room had a boarded floor, which, during my absence from home one cold day in March, was thoroughly scrubbed and cleaned by my maid. The next morning sis of the chickens were unable to walk, their feet being quite pa- ralysed, and during the day all died. The hen had, therefore, only one chicken, which appeared as strong as ever, and is now a fine bird. I next sat a hen on thirteen eggs : she produced twelve chickens, which are all living. 1 never saw birds grow so rapidly, and this is the opinion of every one who has seen them. My next clutch was nine from twelve eggs ; the fourth, seven from twelve, four being broken in the nest ; and my last brood consisted of eleven chickens, three of which have died. One was trodden to death by the hen, one died from natural causes, and the third was worried by a neighbour's dog. I have, therefore, reared thirty-seven chickens from fifty- seven eggs, which I consider very satisfactory. I have given away and sold several sittings, and in all cases the success has been equal to my own. In your Journal of May 27th, a letter appeared from " Brown Red," on " Rival Incubators." 'With your correspondent I agree that it is a great inconvenience to fanciers of a non-sitting variety, to keep sitting hens, which are useless for the greater part of the year, but although anxious to obtain an incubator, I am at a loss to decide which to select. It would be a great favour to poultry. breeders generally if the manufacturers of different incubators would each place one of their manufacture in the care of some breeder, in order that their merits may be thoroughly tested. If no other could be found, I should have no objection to undertake the responsibility, and to give you the result. I enclose my name and address, not for publica- tion, but as a guarantee of good faith. — Lindum. PETERBOROUGH POULTRY SHOW. There 13 no question tlrnt with a snitablc revision of the prize schedule this Show might be greatly increased, bnt the cUssifications as Ihey now stnnd are scarcely colcolnted to be popular. The largest amount of prizes is at present given at Pelerborongh to " Mixed Breeds, any age or colour." This, of course, induces the entry of a number of mongrel-bred birds of little real market value, and not by anv means an interesting portion of the Show to visitors generally. It u JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ Jidy 11, 1867. would be well if this class were headed '* For the best Breed not yet named, or Cross-breed for Farm Purposes." It would then form an interesting class, which would, no doubt, be well filled. In Grey Dorhings^ many were birds of great merit, but scarcely a single pen could be named in which one or other of the three birds was not in deep moult. The same remark applies with equal force to the Game class, iu which several hens were such " Tartars " to each other that they had either to be tied by the leg to the wirework of the pen, or one of them had to be removed into the travelling basket. This in any case when it occurs frequently, is a great drawback to an exhibition, and it is from this cause that a cock and only one hen are so generally shown together. Some very excellent Game cocks were thoughtlessly and absolutely spoiled for exhibition, by having the entire head pur- posely denuded of feathers, a jilau that in Yorkshire many years back was somewliat customary for cocks entered for the pit, but is quite out of place in competition. Cochins proved so inferior, that a second prize could not be awarded. The Hamlnirgh classes were the worst represented iu the whole Show; but the Black Red Game Bai/tmiis, and some Black-booted Bautams, placed this latter class amoug the foremost public favourites. Turner's pens of Sheffield were engaged for the poultry. The Turlcijs were really good, but the Geese were badly matched for exhibition, in more than one case Grey and White being shown together. Some very well-bred Aylesbury Dttcls were shown, and there were also good Rouens aud Muscovy Docks. A pen of three Australian Black Swaus in capital feather, and two pens of the common White Swans in equally good plumage, proved an excellent contrast, and caused much attraction. Master H. B. Little exhibited a pair of very good Himalayan Hahhits, a variety which seemed to be nearly unlmo\vu in this district. An important feature of the Show was the Pigeon class, each com- petitor exhibiting three pens together, but of different varieties, for the Society's prizes. Many of these Pigeons were of unnsually good quality. The tent was an extensive one. and had bad weather set in would have afforded ample ]irotection. but fortunately the day was very fine, and, consequently, the attendance of visitors was gi'eat. With a little extra pressure by the Committee, there cannot be a doubt that year by year the poultry department of the Peterborough Show will make an advance and prove propoi'tionately i-emunerative. Dorkings.— First, R. Wood. Second, J. Longland. Highly Commended, J. W. Hanison. Commended, J. Carter; T. Parker. C^k-^chs.— First, R. Wood. Second, T. Amies. Cock (Any colom.-).— First and Second, R, Wood. Game (Any colour). — First, J. W. Harrison. Second, S. Deacon. Cuck. —First and Second, J. Lamxug. Cochin-China (Any colour).— Prize, J. Longland. Hamburghs (Pencilled).— Prize, J. Jobnson. HAaiBURGns (Spangled).— First, J. F. LiversitlRe. Second, J. Freeman. Bantams (Any variety).— First and Second. Mrs. C. B. Ed wnrdes (Black Red Game, and'Bantam Chickenst. Third, W. Stokes (Black-booted Ban- tams). Commended, S. Deacon (Bautams.) Mixed Breed (Any colour).— First, J. W. Harrison (Dark Brahmas). Second, J. H. Everett (Dark Brahmas). Third, J. Freeman (Cochins and Dorkings). Fourth. J. Whitsed (DorkinR and Cochin). Highly Com- mended, Lady G. Gordon (Speckled-booted Bantams.) Tdrkeys (Any colour).— First, J. Craig. Second, T. Parker. Geese (Any colour).- First, S. Deacon. Second, J. A. W. Underwood. Ducks.— Second, J. W. Harrison (Rouen). Third, J. Whitsed (Muscovy). Commended, J. W. Harrison (Aylesbury.) Pigeons. — First, J. W. Harrison (Dun Carriers, Black Carriers, Black Fans). Second, R. Payling (Black Carriers, White Pouters, Almond Tumblers). Third, A. Storrar (Black Carriers, Black ^loltled Tumblers, Black Barbs). Highly Commended, R. Payling (Kites, White Pouters, Yellow Turbits.) Extra.— Highly Commended, Miss Little (Two Swans) ; Master H. B. Little (Pair Himalaya Rabbits); — Wagstaff (Black Swans from Sydney, Australia). Commended, J. Elgar (Pair Houdans.) £dward Hewitt, Esij., of Eden Cottage, Sparkbrook, was the Judge. TOWCESTER POULTRY SHOW. The annual meeting of the Northamptonshire Agricultural Society took place on the 3rd and 4th inst., at Towcester. The Show was not only very good, but this year a most commodious tent was provided in case the weather should prove unfavourable, but fortunately it was propitious. Several of the prize Dorhings were of great merit, and were sent in first-rate condition, though numbers of the remaining pens were fast falling into deep moult. The same remark applies with even still greater force to the Spanish classes. The single cock Spanish class proved so indifferent, -that both prizes were withheld. The Game classes were among the best in the show, there being plenty of excellent birds combined with a large entry. In Cochins^ the Partridge cup birdB far outstripped their competitors. In the Cochiu-China Chicken class, we regretted much to find that with a full entiy almost every pen contained one or more birds with the " twi^;ted wings," so fatal an objection in this variety. Of Ilamhurghs, all four kinds were classed together, and, strange to say, every pen proved to be Golden-spangled, many of them being very good. Some excellent White BantamH were ehown, and some very tolerable Game Bantams, but the latter ehietly in deep moult. A rather nice pen of Friesland Bantams was exhibited in the Variety class, and also some good Dai'k Brahmafi. In Gi^ese and Duels, Mr. Fowler, of Aylesbury, with capital pens easily withstood all opposition. In Pigeons each exhibitor by the Society's rules shows in lots of three pens, as a sweepstakes, added to which are first and second prizes from the general funds. The competition was excellent, and the two winning lots such as are rarely met with. Dorkings (Any colour).— First, T. Tathani, Kingsthorpe. Second, H. LiuRwood, Barking. Needham Market, Suftblk. Third. R. Wood, Clapton. Thrapstone. Hem.—YiTai and Silver Cup, T. Tatbam. Second, H, Lingwood. C/ticfccHJ!.- First, J. Longland, Grendon. Second, J. K* Fowler, Aylesbury. Third, H. Lingwood. Commended, S. Taylor. Pu}Uis.~¥xT&t, R. Wood. Second, S. Taylor, Towcester. Spanish. — First and piece of Plate, J. Stephens, Walsall. Second nnd Third, Messrs. Birch & Boulter, Sheffield. Commended, W. R. Bull, Newport Pagnell, Bucks. Chickens.— F\TS,i and Second, Messrs. Birch and Boulter. Game.— First, Second, and piece of Plate, H. Shield, Northampton. Third, J. Lane, Birmingham. Highly Commended, H. Shield. Com- mended, J. Lane; J. M. Payne. H^n'f.— First, J. Lane. Second, J. N, Beaslcy, Brampton. Third, J. M. Payne, Gayton, Northampton. Highly Commended, W. Barford, Aylesbm-y ; S. Deacon, Oundle ; J. Lane. Com- mended, J. Sargeant, Preston Deanery. Cochin-Chinas.— First and piece of Plate, J. Stephens. Second, W. A. Taylor, Manchester. Third, J. N. Beasley. Highly Commended, J. K. Fowler; H. Lingwood. Commended, W. F. Checkley Moulton, North- ampton. C/i(VA,v/w.— First, H. Lingwood. Second, J. K. Fowler. Hamburghs (Any variety}.— First, W. A. Taylor (Silver-spangled). Se- cond, W. Barford, Aylesbury. Commended, Messrs. Birch & Boulter (Golden-spangled.) Bantams (Any colour). — First, The Ladies Wentworth Fitzwilliam, Harrowden House. Second, W. A. Taylor. Highly Commended, J. H, Smith, Horton, Northampton. Commended, Mrs. F. S. Arkwright, Derby; J. D. Bletsoe, Northampton ; G.J. Hitchcock, Hinton House. Any other Distinct Briiied.— First, J. K. Fowler (Brahmas). Second, J. Beasley (Japanese). Third, J. Smith, Horton. Geese (Any colour).— First and Second, J. K. Fowler. Highly Cora- mended, Hon. & Rev. A. G. Douglas, Scaldwell ; The Ladies Wentworth Fitzwilliam. Ducks (Aylesbury).— First and Second, J. K. Fowler. Ducks (Rouen),— First and Second, J. K. Fowler. Ducks (Any variety).— First, G. Osborn, Pattishall. Second, J. Beasley (Buenos Ayrean.) Turkeys (Any colour\— First, J. Beasley. Second, The Ladies Fitz- william. Highly Commended, S. Inns, Towcester. SELLiNfj Class.— First, J. Stephens (Spanish). Second, W. A. Taylor (Cochin Chinal. Thii'd, J. Longland, (Dorkinps) ; Commended, J. Lane, Birmingham (Game) ; C. Wright, Northampton (Game.) SINGLE COCKS. Dorking Cock.— First, J. Longland. Second, R. Wood. Third, H. Lingwood. Commended, Mrs. F, S. Arkwright. Game Cock. — First, J. Lane. Second and Third, H. Shield. Com* mended, J. Lane : H. Shield. Cochin-China Cock.— First, J. Stephens. Second, J. Longland. Highly Commended, C. Wright. Pigeons.— First and Second, H. Yardley (Carriers, Owls, Pouters, Ice Pigeons, Spots, and Fairies). Highly Commended, T. Adams, Northamp- ton (Carriers, Barbs, Baldpatcs, and Vax'ious.) Edward Hewitt, Esq., of Eden Cottage, Sparkbrook, near Birming- ham, officiated as Judge. SPALDING POULTRY SHOW. The following prizes were awarded at this Show, held on the 4th inst. Dorkings (Coloured).— First and Local Cup, J. W. Han-ipon, Spalding. Second, S. Onley, Cheltenham. Hichlv Commended, H. Lin^'wood, Bark- ing, Needham Market, SuflFuIk ; W. H. Robson, North Keston, South Lincolnshire ; G. Clark, Long Sutton. Dorkings (Any other variety). - Prize, H. Lingwood. Game (Black-breasted and other Reds). First, Local Cup and Second, J. Fletcher, Stoneclough, Manchester. Highly Commended, J. Laming, Spalding ; W. Verity, Beverley ; S. Matthew, Stowmarket, Suffolk ; C, Chaloner, WhitweU, Chesterfield. Commended, J. W. Harrison ; C, Chaloner. Game (Any other variety).— First and Second, J. Fletcher (Duckwings). Hifihly Commended, T. Dyson, Halifax (Duckwiugs). Cochin-China (Buff)-— First and Cup, R. White, Sheffield. Second, J. H. Dawes, Birmingham. Highly Commended, H. Lingwood ; T. Hardy, Peakill, Spalding. Commended^ Col. Stuart Wortley, Grove End Road, London : Rev. S. C. Hamerton. Warwick. Cochin-China (Any oth^r colour). — First, S. Parke, Melton Mowbray, Leicester (Black). Second, S. Onley (White). Hifjlily Commended. T, Hardy (White) ; J. W. Harrison (Cuckoo). Commended, J. Wright, Mel- ton Mowbrav. Brahma Pootras (Dark).— First, E. Leech, Rnchdale. Second, F. K. Crook, Forest Hill, Kent. Commended, C.Caswell, Spalding ; T. Hardy; F. James. Brahma Pootra (Light).— First, H. Dowsett, Pleshy near Chelmsford, Essex. Second, F. Crook. Highly Commended, Miss E. S. Maples, Spald- iUK; T. Hardy. Commended. Mips E. S. Maples; F. Crook. SPANISH (Black).— First, Withheld. Second, J. Wricht. HAsrBURGHs (Any variety). First, W. Wood, Sheffield. Second, H, Bcldon. Commended, Rev. J. Hosegood, Long sntton (Silver- spangled) ; T. J. Marshall, Tydd, near Wisbench (Golden-spangled); C. Havers, Tha Beacons, Ingates'tone, Essex (Golden-pencilled); J. F. Loveraidge, Newark (Golden-spnnyled) ; S. Onley (Golden-pencilled) ; T.N. Granes, tldrbeck, Boston (SilvGr-pencilled.) Game Bantams. — First, C. Jennings, Spalding. Second, J. Laming. Bantams (Any other variety). — First aud Second, A. Storrar, Peter- borough (Black). Second, T. C. Harrison, Hull. Highly Commended, R» H. Weldon, Spalding i Japanese Silky). Commended, MeBsra. S. & E. Ashton, Mottram, Cheshire (SVbiteJ ; J. W. Harrison (ijebright). Ja2j U. 1867. ] JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENKB. Fabmvabd Cross.— FirBt, Col. Stuart Wortley (French!- Second, H. Beldon (Poland). Highly Commended, Col. Stuart Wortley (French) ; T. Hardy (Creve Cu-ur.) Docks (Rouen).— First, E. Leech. Second, J. Wright. Commended, J. Wright. DucKB (Ayleahuryl.— First, E. Leech. Second, J. W. Harrison. Com- CUOnded, II. Diiwgott ; .T. W. Earriaon. Ducks (Any other vjiriety).— Fir^t, Cup »nd Second, J. W. Ilarrinon. Highly Commended, T. C. Harrison. Commended, J. W. Harri^iou (Black fast Indian). Gekkk (Any colour).— First and Second, T. Hardy (Toulouse.) TuitKKYS (Any colour). — Prize, J. Smith, Grantham. FllEABANTS, AND ANY VABIETV OF ORNAMENTAL, FoREION OR DosrESTI- OATKn PorLTBY.— First and Cap, .1. W. Harrison (Peacock). Second, — Bates, Spalding (Silver Pheisauts.) Sei-mng Class f Any Variety).— First, S. Beeheo, Walsall (Black Spanish). Second, J. Laming (Blnck-hroastod Game). Commended, T. Dyson, UiUilax ; 11. Dowsott {Ayleshurj* Ducks.) SWEEPSTAKES. Single Game Cock.— Prize. J. Fletcher. Commended, H, Snusball. Uau£ liANStAM Cock.— Prize. .1. W. Harrison. PIGEONS. Carrters.— First, K. S. Smith, Boston. Second, J. W. Ilarrieon. Highly Commended, H. Yardley, Birmingham; K. Fulton, Deptford, London. Coninieudod. J. W. Hnrrison ; II. Fulton. Pouters.' First, J. E. Broward, Coventry. Second, R. Fulton. Highly Commended, H. SnushaU ; E. E. M. Royds,' Rochdale. Commended, R. F. Payling: H. Yanllev; R. Fulton. Barbs.— First and Second, K. Fnlton. Highly Commended, H. Vardloy. TOMBLERS.— First, R. Fulton. Hecoud. J. Percivall. Highly Commended, A. St(»rrar. Commended, J. Ford, Moukwoll Street, London ; C. Cnwhurn, Leeds; A. Dore, Leeds; H. Yardley; R. Fulton; F. Key, Beverley; J. Hawley. Bingley, Yorkshire. Jacodinh. — First, E. Homer, Harewood, Leeds. Second, H. Yardley. Highly Commended, F. Key; E. Homer. Fantails. -First and Second, H. Yardley. Highly Commended, J. W. Harrison. Any other Distinct Variety. — First, Cup and Second, R. Fulton (Blue and White Owls). Highly Commended, J. Laming (Hyacinths); JI. Snnshall (Biuo Turhits) : E. S. Smith (Antwerps) ; R. F. Payling (Yellow Turbitsl ; H. Yardley; E. E. M. Royds; J. Thompson. Selling Class (Any variety).— First, D. Young, Leamington (^'hite Dragons). Second, H. SnushaU (Black Swallows). Highly Commended, J. E. Breward (White Pouters) ; J. W. Harrison iPonters") ; H. Yardley. Commended, H. Yardley ; R.Fulton (Shields); J. Thompson. RABBITS. Heaviest Rarhit.— First, Messrs. Hanson & Wagstaff. Doncaster. Se- cond, J. T. Jealous, Spalding. Highly Commended. J. T. Leaton. Spalding. Lop-eared.- First and Cup, M. Millington, York. Second. Messrs. Hanson & Wagstaff. Highly Commended, Messr-s. Hanson & Wagstnff; J. Taylor, Sheffield. Commended, U. M. Maynnrd, Rvde, Isle of Wight. Any Breed. —First, R. R. Wise, jun., St. Ives, iHunts. Second, J. Taylor. Fancy Varieties.— First, R. K. Wise, jun. (Silver Grev). Second, J. W. Harrison (Angora). Highly Commended, Master C. Vise, Holheach iCbinese). Commended, H. Cawood (Himalaya); J. W. Harrison (Hima- laya) ; E. E. M. Royds. CAGE BIRDS. Canary (.Vny variety of colour).— First and Second, E. S. Smith (Buii and Yellow Belgian). Highly Commended, E. S. Smith (Variegated rrosted) ; J. Tye, Spalding. Commended, Mrs. Bowser, Spalding (Yellow Norwich.) Mule (Any variety).— First, E. S. Smith (Goldfloch Mule). Second, C. O. Harvey. Ijnnet, Goldfincit, oe other English FmrcH.— Prize, E. S. Smith (Goldfinch.) Blackbird, Thrush. Starling, Lark or other English Cage Bird. —Prize, Mrs. Wilson (Thrush). Parrot. Parakett, Lorey, or other Foreign Bird.— First and Cage, Rev. P. Toarle, Newmarket (Kim; Parrot). Second. E. 9. Smith (Parrot nnd Cage). Commended, J. W. Harrison (Grey young PaiTot and Cage) ; O. £. Storr, Spalding (King Parrot) ; J. Barnes, Spalding (Australian Lorey); J. W. H. Tidswoll (Grey Parrot.) JuDOK. — Edward Hewitt, Esq., Eden Cottage, Sparkbrook, near Birmingham. A TURKEYS REMONSTRANCE. It is but too plain that we hold no place in the affectionB of your respected correspondent " Y. B. A. Z.," since he has not included our class in his " Dottings at Salisbury." All our pens entered for that show were not sent, but we had a uoble representative there in the first-prize pen. Nor was the liberal accommodation provided for us at Salis- bury less worthy of observation. One of the small paddocks placed at our service there must have 1 een very acceptable to our brother after his long journey from the sister iale. May we be as fortunate at other shows. — A Tcbkev 'Wuo was at Salisbdri. I Guilty ! Yes, I plead so to not having written of Turkeys in my " Dottings ;" and although " mortals do rush in where angels fear to tread," yet I do not like, even though " mortal," to tush in on a subject I know but little about. But my friend the " Tdrkey at Salisbcby " greatly misunderstands my silence. " No place iu my affections !" I cannot plead guilty to this at any rate. If the answer is negative when Turkeys are in feathers, it is verv fir from that when they are without them. Let either of my Turkey friends that were at Salisbury, if they doubt the point, present themselves with a goodly necklao* of sausages, and I agree to pay them every possible attention, and I will show how fully I appreciate them. I will, however, supply the omission of giving great credit to the Salisbury authorities for their capital arrangements as regards the Turkeys, Geese, and Pucks. These had ample room to move about ; and I particularly noticed that the first prize Turkey had plenty of room to spread his tail, and evi dently thought no end of that and himself generally. Long may ho live to spread it. — Y. B. A. Z.j MAKING AN ARTIFICIAL SWARM— BEES DESERTING A UNICOMB HIVE. A STOCK of Ligurians from Mr. Woodbury's apiary reached me safely in May last, and they are now doing well. On the 26tb of June I tried to make an artificial swarm, being afraid of losing them, as I am often from home. I will describe the plan I have pursued, and will you then say if I have done right ? I found the comb on which the queen was, and placed it in another hive ; and as the parent hive was very strong, I also took out a second comb, bees and all, and placed it in the same hive in which I had put the one containing the queen. I then lifted this hive away to a fresh stand a few paces ofl. I find the bees in the parent hive in a great state of commotion, having lost their queen, and the others accompanying the queen do not leave the hive much. Have I done right? and may I expect a fresh queen to be raised in the parent hive, or what am I to do ? I find them hanging about in large numbers outside the hive. I may say that I have had a super on the hive for a few days, but they did not go up, although I inserted therein a piece of new comb containing honey to entice them. 1 have had a unicomb hive made, and pnt in it a swarm of bees. For about fourteen days they have done well, bat, strange to say, last night (2(Jth of June), about eight o'clock, they took wing and flew away. They were retaken by a neigh- bour, and to-night I intend replacing them in the unicomb. What was the reason of their leaving ? and is it probable they will stay when I put them in again :' — E. D. [In making an artificial swarm by taking out the qneen, yon should have taken only the comb upon which she was at the time, and which you should have carefully scrutinised, so as to satisfy yourself that no inhabited royal cells were upon it, as, if any such existed, the queen should have been shifted to another comb. The remaining combs having been brought together, so as to leave tlie vacancy thus caused on one side, the old hive should have been shifted to a new position, the new one containing the queen and the abstracted comb being placed on the old stand. Managed in this way, the returning bees would have made up a good swarm, which would have built combs which the queen would have rapidly filled with eggs, and all would have proceeded in the same manner as if the swarm had issued naturally, whilst the young bees which knew not their way back to the old stand, and must perforce stick to their original domicile, would found royal cells and raise a young queen. You had better, therefore, transpose the two hives at once, and this will probably set matters right. If you suffer them to remain as they now are you are very likely to lose the original pure queen for want of a suflicient popula- tii n, and any combs which may bo built in the old hive before the bees have raised a young queen will have the vital defect of being drone combs. There can be little doubt that some little violence is done to the instinct of bees when they are compelled to build a single large comb in a narrow space like the interior of a unicomb hive, and this may be the cause of yours having been deserted. Whether the returned bees may nltimately decide upon bearing the ills they have, or determine upon again flying to others which they know not of, is a problem which W6 find ourselves unable to solve.' SWARMS UNITING. In December last I purchased two stocks of bees in common straw hives, which 1 will designate A and B, the only diffe- rence between them being that A was a little heavier, and it also has a window. They progressed favourably daring the winter, and on May 28th B swarmed, and my brother success- fully hived the swarm (I will call this C). WhUe he was hiving the bees A swarmed, and after flying about a dozen yards the 36 JODBSAL OF HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GABDENER. [ July 11, 1867. bees came back again and pitched all over the hive and hackle of B. My brother then tried to brush them into an empty hive, but without Buccess, aa they crept into the hive (B). Did you ever hear of a similar occurrence ? On Thursday nifiht, June 20th, we stopped the bees in by means of the usual perforated zinc slides, and moved them, after erecting a shed (we used hackles before) ; we then replaced them in their former position. I then r«ised the slides. Tlie bees in A and C seemed to be very little excited, whilst those in B rushed out all over the place. Ne.\t morning we found a great many dead, and for the next three days the bees continued to bring out dead, of which about half were drones, I should think about two thousand altogether. Do you think that they have killed the swarm that went into their hive, or can you account for it in any other way ? Daring the past week there has been a ."strange fatality amongst my bees. A great many bees are running about very wildly on the ground round the hive, and the only peculiarity that I see about some of them is that there are two yellow spots on the upper part of the first segment of the abdomen. —J. R. W., Ba'h. [We have not ourselves met with a similar instance, but we believe the occurrence is not very unusual. It is not likely that the entire swarm was destroyed, although there was evidently a sharp light. We often see single bees running about in the manner you describe, and always consider them as having been disabled in some way.] TIME OF QUEEN BEES BREEDING. Can you inform me the number of days elapsing from the time of a Liguriau queen's release from the cell to the time of her capability for breeding, and how much time will elapse before she commences to deposit her eggs in the cells? Like- wise, is there any difference between the Ligurian queens and the black English queens in these two particulars ? — L. A. [The period varies considerably. We consider fourteen days the average time which elapses from the hatching out of a queen to the commencement of egg-laying, but we have known a queen impregnated on the seventh day, and two queens which were hatched in our own apiary this seasen on the 30th of May, were impregnated on the tenth day, and, consequently, laid eggs on the twelfth or thirteenth day ; from two to three days elapsing after fecundation before oviposition takes place. On the other band, during a very favourable season, we have in one instance. found egg-laying delayed until the thirty-first day. Tht^e periods refer only to what are called "artificial" queens. When stocks swanu naturally, the young queens are, at any rate, very often capable of flight when they first issue from their cells, and in this case fecundation takes place earlier. There is no difference in these respects between Itali.in and common queens.] DOES A SCARCITY OF HONEY IN THE SPRING INDUCE SWARMING? I HAVE been led to ask this question of the readers of The JouENAL OF Horticulture, in order to draw out the experience of some apiarians on the matter. In past years I have sometimes felt inclined to smile, on hearing persons say that they could not induce their bees to take possession of supers. As a rule, I had always succeeded in this, and also in preventing swarms, by keeping the super with guide comb warm, and the stock cool. This year I have been at fault. In early spring I had two Ligurian stocks in Woodbury hives. They both promised well, and I determined to prevent swarming, and have honey instead. Snpers were put on each hive on the ISth of May, and pro- gress was watched daily. The iiOth of May gave me a swarm, weighing 5* lbs., from one hive ; and on the 11th of June the • other hive swarmed. In this case the queen was unable to fly, BO that the bees returned to the hive, but came off again with a second and third swarm. I may say here that the piping and second swarming in each case took place at an earlier date than is usual, and that I economised my queen cells as much as possible for artificial swarms. In the first hive I saw not fewer than ten queen cells. Now, why did not the bees in these hives take to the supers ? Those in the latter hive seemed to do so for some time, but they made very little comb, and I am now pretty well con- vinced that they merely occupied the super instead of crowding and hanging outside, as we often see them do in common hives. If I am not becoming tiresome, I shall venture my own opinion, in order to be put right if I am wrong, as well as to draw out other opinions. I am inclined to think that a scarcity of honey was the cause. For the 15th of June I find the following note in my Journal — " Weather dull and indifferent ; no bee season yet." If there bad been plenty of honey the bees would have formed comb, and stored the honey. As it was, they were obliged to be idle. Not so the busy and prolific queens, the cells were filled with brood, the bees rapidly increased in number, and swarms were the natural result. I must biing this communication to a close for the present, but there are some other points to which I should like to draw attention, if space can be allowed. — Clericus, Cumberland. [We shall be glad to hear from you again. — Eds.] CONSEQUENCES OF SELLING FOUL BROOD. On the ISth of June I received a stock of Liguriaus from Messrs. Neighbour & Sous, of Regent Street, and when I placed it in my bee-house i found from the smell emitted that it was suffering from foul brood. Will you inform me whether travelling for six or seven hours in a well-ventUated Woodbury hive little more than half filled with combs, and not half filled with bees, could produce viru- lent foul brood ? lu the spring of 18GG I ieoeiv?d my first stock of Ligurians from Messrs. Neighbour & Sons, and with it came this terrible disease which has destroyed six stocks of bees. — A Mabiyk to Foul Bkood. [Foul brood could not possibly have been spontaneously developed in a healthy colony under such circumstances. The stock must have been diseased before it left Messrs Neighbours' apiary.] OUR LETTER BOX. Food for Ducklings {F. M.). — Ducklings may be fed on oatmeal, some grcavts, ciu'd, choi ped onioa topa. As they grow older, discontinue these une by one, until you have reduced them to plain oatmeal, and then pl:iin oats. Sickle Feathers of HAMEUitGii Cock Notched {Poultry Fancier). — Asa rule any dibtingnishiiig mark in the plumage uf a bird sent for ex- uibitiou is a disqufilihcatiou. The imirks in the tail would be ao, if there ' were cluse compctitiuu, or if the birdb had to be carefully scanned. They I "vsould under any circumstances disqualify a Silvtr-spangled cock. They ■.vould be detrimental to Golden and Silver-pencilled. Gulden-pencilled HABiBcitGH Pdllets {H.B. C.j. — You are quite right I to sut your eggs on the gruuud. It is a cause of success. In Pencilled : Hamburgbs there are many spots that show in the tirst chicken feathers that never bhow afterwaius ; at all times and ages, we prefer the clear hackles, but you must recollect the penciJLing that is objectionable in the hackle is essential to the body. We therelore advise you to select the pullets that are most alike to adults in plumage, hearing in mind that a lew spots on the hackle may be tolerated or overlooked, but a lack of pencilling on the body is fiital to success. The pullets should not be pencilled on the hacklo. Green Food for Fowls (ii.). — We give watercress, endive, and lettuce freely to our fowls. There is no occasion to mix it with other food, they are lond of it. Rue is an old poultry medicine, but we do not believe in or use it. Poultry ix Very Limited Space {H. B. £.).— We know only two breeds that would do well in the space you mention— 15 feet by 14. They are the Spanish and the Houdau. They are non-sitters. It would be useless to set eggs in the space you mention, as it would be impossible to rear the chickens. Being suiTounded by a wuU so high as you mention, it will, we fear, keep off the sun. Can you not contrive to let some ofthe rays and warmth full on the poultry '} You will find tho best green food you can give will be grass cut in large sods in a gi-owing state. The fowls will eat it all and scatter the mould in search of insects, deodorising and purifyiug the whole run. You will not, perhap;, believe us when we say tiiat hens and chickens do no harm in a garden. We heUeve they often do good provided the hen is kept up. Caponising (Pattlin). — We know of no work on this cruel and needless practice. Richardson's "Domestic Fowl" has a chapter on the subject. Parrot Plucking Itself [A Subscriber). — Do not let the bird have any animal food, but plenty of ripe fruit, and a tepid bath once or twice daily. If the bird will not bathe in a dish tilled with tepid water, pour it ovei the bird through the rose of a watering-pot. Rose Water (A. B. J.). — To make it from rose leaves, distillation is required. Mites in Bird Cages {G. Co/r).— We have no doubt that filling the crevices with colza oil as you recommend, would be as efficacious as linseed oil, which is usually employed, and then flowers of sulphxu: dusted on to the oil. French Polish (HoiweictV'c).— Shelloc. 1^ oz. ; niastich, half oz. ; san- diirue. half oz. ; reclihed sprits of wine, 20 ozs. Mix them, and keep in a gentle heat, frequently sbiiking the buttle until all the resins aredisaolved. Apply very little to the furniture, and rub hard until the polish is estab- lished. Of horehound beer we know nothing. The fowls to keep in a coniiued space are mentioned in an answer to another correspondent to djiy. insects in Preserves (S. L.).— The insects are mites, or acari, they wovild be excluded from the preserves by tying the jara closely with, t bladder. July 18, 1887. 1 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 37 WEEKLY CALENDAR. Day Day of 0! Month Week. IR Th I'.l F 20 8 21 Snu 2'J M 28 Tu 24 W JULY 18— ai, 18«7. Royal Uorticultuml Soricty's Bury Show Suu'8 dfclluution 20'^ 43' N. [ closes. 6 Sunday ai'tku Trinity. AvcrttKo Temperature Dear Loadon. Rain in last 40 yearB. Day. 71.0 73.2 72.9 7:i.r. 7!i.:i 74.1 72.8 NlKhl. 60.2 60.!! 6U.3 60.7 61.5 61.8 61.9 Mean. 02.4 61.7 61.6 62.1 62.4 62.9 62.4 Daya. 19 21 22 18 2.S 20 14 Son EiHeH. m. h. 6ai4 6 4 8 4 9 4 lU 4 12 4 13 4 Moon Rises. Moon Sets. m. h. 6 at 8 m. b. 46a(R 14 9 81 10 68 10 27 11 m. h. 47 al r, r,() 6 54 7 0 9 8 10 17 11 after Moon's Age. Clock before Son. Days. 17 18 19 20 21 22 c 6 10 6 12 Year. 199 200 201 202 208 204 205 From obfiervationH taken near London dnrin? the last forty years, the average day temperature of the week is 73..'j- ; and its night temperature 50.9^ The greatest boat was 89 , on tbc 23rd, 1864 ; and the lowest cold S2~, on the 23rd, 1863. The greatest fall of rain was 1.37 inch. JUDGING GR.\PES. N one occasion I brought tliis matter before the readers of the " Florist and I'omologist," with a view to an-iving at some fixed principles to guide judges when deciding on the merits of Grapes, and I am induced to revive the subject fcy the discussions I heard around the fiiiit-table at the recent Exliibition at ISIanchcster ; discussions whicli made it perfectly evident tliat no fruit-grower can tell before- hand what are the points of excellence that are to be most in his favour as an exliibitor of Grapes, unless he knows who the judges are to be, and their peculiar ideas on the subject. On the occasion referred to Jlr. Meredith exhibited the largest bunches and berries of Hamburghs, but they were inferior in point of colour to Mr. Dixon's, and the Judges put them equal first. I, however, heard their judgment called in question by those who considered that on the ground of their superior colour I\Ir. Dixon's ought to have stood alone in the first position. The whole subject of judging Grapes was thus brought up, and it was perfectly e\-idcnt that opinions dill'ered from each otlicr as far as the poles are asimder. Under these cii-cumstances is it not possible for the Truit Committee of the Uoyal Horticidtunil Society to flraw up and publish a set of rules for judging Grapes'.^ Tliis would not only relieve judges of much unpleasant controvcrsj-, but also enable exhibitors to select such bunches as came nearest a recognised standard. Common sense seems to suggest, that as the primary object in growing Grapes is that they may be eaten, the palate should be the final court of appeal: yet. I believe, it is seldom had recourse to, the generality of judges main- taining that flavour and colour always go togetlier, than wliicli there cannot be a greater mistal;e. Tlie finest Hamburgli Grapes in flesh, size of berry, and flavour I ever tasted were brown, wliile I have tasted the same Grape jet black, yet sour. By way of suggestion, I would give to the liighcst flavour S marks ; finest colour, 2 marks ; size of berry, J marks ; size of bunch, 1 mark ; shape of bunch, 1 mark ; bloom, 1 mark. Thus 10 marks would constitute the liighcst relative ex- cellence. These marks to bo modified so as to run parallel with the merits of the points of each exhibition. It may be perfectly true that no set of rules can be framed that will absolutely meet every case, yet some approach to coiTCct ideas on the subject may be arrived at ; and I have no doubt some of your correspondents will contribute their views of the matter, and thus aid the No. 32S.— Vol. XIII., New Semes. solution of what is at present a vexed question. — Wm. Tiio.MsoN, The Gardens, DiMcith Park. NOTES ABOUT STRAWBERRIES. As this is the best time for purchasing Strawberry plants, and as I have tried some of the most popular sorts during the last tliree years, a few remarks on these may be useful to some of j'our readers. I have gro^vn in that time Black Piince, Keens' Seed- ling, Hooper's Seedling, sent instead of Sir Harry (I would remark here that it is of the utmost importance for those who send out new plants to be verj' careful that no spurious varieties are mixed with them, or a different sort altogether sent, as I did not obtain a single plant of Sir Harry amongst them), Rivcrs's EUza, Due de Malakofl", Proliiio Hautbois. President, Su- Joseph Paxton, Eclipse, l^a Constante, Sir Charles Napier, British Queen, and Dr. Hogg. I stiU gi-ow Black Piince for very early forcing, and it is succeeded by Keens' Seedling. I grow my plants in three different ways — namely, in pots for forcing, in ground vineries for succession, and in the open borders. For early forcing it is as weU to have the Black Prince layered in Jime, followed by Keens' Seedling. Tlie later sorts I layer some time before the middle of July, or even further on in the season ; my system is to layer the runners in (id-sized pots, using a mixture of good loam and rotted dung, and they may be severed fi-om the parent plant in three weeks ; but tliis is best ascertained by turning a few of them out of tlie pots, and if the roots are running do^vn the sides of the pots the runners may be removed from the plants, and regularly watered two or three times a-day at first. As soon as the pots are wcU filled -with roots the plants must be shifted into the fruiting pots, using five-inch pots for the very early sorts, and six-inch pots for the later sorts. To those, however, who have no accommodation for Strawberries in pots, and yet would Like to have a few fruit three weeks earlier than they can be had from the open borders, I would recommend the ground vineries : tliese arc mtliin the reach of people of moderate means, and they are excellent for growing Strawberries. I plant two rows in a ground vinery 3A feet wide at the base and jn inches deep in the centre. A ground vinery of the above dimensions glazed and painted, the glass 21-oz. to the foot, costs about i"j Ids. ; it wiU be 28 feet long, and there is no other ex- pense entailed, except a row of bricks laid end to end for the base of the vinery to rest upon, and one brick to be reser\-ed for each seven-feet lengtli \they are made in seven- feet lengths I. These bricks are for the purpose of tilting it up in veiy warm weather, as witliout this precaution the foliage is very apt to be drawn up weakly, a state of matters which does not evidence the best cultivation. I need not detail the out-of-door cultivation, except tliat the ground, where it admits of it, ought to be deeply trenched, and a liberal dressing of good manm-e dug in, as, if tlie roots do not penetrate into tlie ground. Uiey do not withstand the drouglit, and there are very few private Ho. 981.-V0L. SSSVm., Old Sebies. JOUKNAL OP HOKTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENEK. I Jair ISi isor. establishments where the beds can be watered ; for stova and greenhouse plants, vineries, Peach-housea, Cucumber and Melon-pits, &c., take up so much time in hot weather. It is a great advantage to water them, but they ought to be mulched at the same time. I will now state my opinion of the various sorts, which may be different from the experience of other cultivators ; soil, cli- mate, and treatment, I have no doubt, making a great difference. The best variety for pot culture, and perhaps the best for out of doors, is La Constante. The fruit is of large size, regularly shaped, and equal sized, while the dwarf compact habit of the plant is an important feature. It ought to be planted more closely than the other sorts out of doors — say 20 inches from plant to plant. I generally plant them 2 feet apart. British Queen does well here, and comes next in favour. Dr. Hogg very much resembles this variety ; when both are grown together in pots they cannot be distinguished. The latter has not such equal-sized fruit as British Queen, its flavour is quite as good, and out of doors it is, perhaps, the higher coloured. President, and Sir Joseph Paxton, are sorts of which I think highly ; the former is the better bearer, but the fruit of the latter is more handsome. I will grow both largely next season. Eclipse is a very prolific variety, and good for forcing, and I have seen it planted largely this season. Sir Charles Napier is a very tender variety. My pot plants were plunged in cocoa-nut fibre in a cold frame, and most of them were injured by the severe frost which we experienced last winter. The fruit is too acid, but it is preferred by market gardeners to any other sort, for I believe they can ob- tain a larger quantity of fruit from a given number of plants, than they can from any other, and it takes well in the market. Seedling Eliza does not do well here, it bears a good crop of regular-sized fruit, but they are only of the medium size ; it ia also deficient in colour. Due de Malakofi has fruit of the largest size, and when well ripened of a good colour, but it is soft and inferior in flavour to most of the other varieties which I grow. Prolific Hautbois will not do here (Ilford, Essex). It does not bear half a crop of very inferior fruit. The plants grow yery luxuriantly. Hooper's Seedling is a good cropper, and very much re- sembles Keens' Seedling. The soil here is of a light sandy nature, resting on a gravel subsoil, so that it is not naturally suited to Straw- berries. Nevertheless we obtain good crops by manuring well, and digging in large quantities of a sound yellow loam. — J. Douglas. JOTTINGS AT SOME OF THE RECENT EXHIBITIONS. If our friend, Mr. D. Beaton, had been spared to the present day, what long and interesting descriptions be would have given of the novelties that have appeared within the last year or two ! He would have almost filled " our Journal " with his lucid and hnmoursome descrijitions. His delight would have known no bomids had he been permitted to see what grand results have crowned the labours of his declining years. He, without a doubt, was the pioneer who cut through all diiEculties and led the way to the present splendid race of Zonal and Nosegay Pelargoniums. 'The splendid baskets of Duchess of Sutherland and Lady Constance Grosvenor, exhibited by Mr. Turner, and the fine Nosegay Mrs. Laing, exhibited at the recent Show in the Eegent's Park, illustrate the great progress that has been lately made. I have also this season a large batch of seedlings of great promise, amongst them many new and beautiful shades of colour, with flowers very large, some of them being as much as 2 inches across ; several of them are of yellow shades. I feel confident that a bright yellow will be produced in the course of a season or two ; if so, it will be a grand and most useful addition to the flower garden. We want a good yeUow-flowering plant to take the place of the yellow Calceo- larias, for it appears to be quite useless to plant them in many places ; the pecuhar disease that attacks them remains a mystery. At the Eoyal Horticultural Society's Rose Show Messrs. E. G. Henderson exhibited two plants that will become great favourites for bedding purposes. The pretty and distinct- looking Pyrethrum Golden Feather will be largely cultivated. It is a most useful plant for marginal purposes ; so also is the pretty dwarf and free-flowering Lobelia pumila elegans, ex- hibited by them. With the following plants I could make one of the grandest and most compact beds ever seen. We will suppose that we have a large circular bed to plant — say 12 feet across. Well, we would plant it as follows, beginning with a centre of, say 3 feet, of Lady Constance Grosvenor Pelargo- nium ; next to this a ring, 18 inches wide, of Viola cornuta ; next an 18-inch band of Verbena Princess Victoria; then 18 inches of Viola lutea ; next to this 18 inches of Lobelia pumila elegans, finishing with a band, 18 inches wide, of Pyre- thrum Golden Feather. In situations where Coleus Verschaffelti will grow well, the centre of the bed would look well if com- posed of it. Another plant I saw exhibited at the Eegent's Park, and afterwards in a much better condition at the Koyal Exotic Nursery. This in the next three or four years wiU ba propagated for bedding purposes by the milUon. It is a very pretty hardy Nierembergia from the Plate Eiver, introduced by the Messrs. Veitch. The flowers are about IJ inch across, and of a pretty white colour, elevated on a slender tube, 1 to l,j inch long, above a beautiful carpet of rich green foliage. The plant is perfectly hardy, and a perpetual tlowerer. Here, then, in Nierembergia rivularis we have another most useful and graceful addition to the flower garden. The plant grows very freely, and forms a dense carpet of beautiful green foliage, above which the pretty white flowers are seen with great effect. They appeared like a mass of Snowdrops peeping up above their foliage in early spring. I at once ordered some plants, and shall propagate them as fast as possible, as I intend using it extensively in the ribbon-borders, &c., next year. Being a novelty of great merit it is rather expensive at present, but I have no doubt it will come within the means of every one next season. This might be used with great advantage instead of the Pyrethrum in a similar arrangement to that mentioned above. Another useful Lobelia I saw at the Eegent's Park was named speciosa Lindleyana. It is a dwarf-growing and a re- markably free-blooming variety, of a lively shade of violet blue, with a white centre. One of the best of all the Lobelias for bedding purposes is a variety I obtained for Mr. Tyerman, of the Liverpool Botanic Gardens, last year, under the name of Blue King. It is a free-growing and remarkably free-flowering variety, and the flowers are of a beautiful sky-blue shade. I consider it quite an acquisition. It is so distinct from Lobelia speciosa in colour, that it might be planted by the side of it. It is also easily kept through the winter months. At the Manchester Exhibition I was vei-y much struck with Viola amcena. This, no doubt, will be also a very useful plant. It is very dwarf, and has an intermediate style of growth be- tween V. cornuta and lutea, and may be planted between these varieties with good effect. The colour is a deep violet purple. At the same Exhibition Mr. Watson, of the New Zealand Nursery, St. Albans, exhibited a good Nosegay, which appeared to be a fine improvement on Lord Palmerston. The habit appeared to be good, and the truss was large and well filled up. The colour is a pretty rosy salmon. Mr. Watson also exhibited his Tricolors Miss Watson and Mrs. Dix at the Manchester and other shows. They are certainly very pretty, and I hope Mr. Watson will make his fortune with them ; if he do nofj it will not be for want of energy in bringing them before the public. Mr. Cunningham's pretty Ivy-leaf Pelargonium L'Elegante is also a good thing, and likely to prove very useful both for bedding and conservatory decoration. Mr. Bull's Silver Gem is also a most useful plant for the above purposes. It is certainly well named — it is a perfect gem, and if grown in a cool house for some months and then placed in heat the leaves will assume a pretty pink shade. I think the plant exhibited at the Tricolor Show on the 21st of May as a new variety was Silver Gem, grown as above described, for I have had many plants this season exactly liko those shown on that occasion. On the 3rd of July I made a hurried visit to Waltham Cross. The Eoses were most beautiful although the weather was vei-y much against them. We were a little too early to see Mr. Paul's bedding Pelargoniums ; but from what I have seen of the following, some of them under my own care and others bedded out there, I have put them down as useful and very effective bedders, and varieties that may at once be ordered and propa- gated in quantity : — Blue Bell, flowers bluish lilac, large, and the truss well formed ; pretty compact style of growth. Crim- son Queen, this is a grand colour, the plants very dwarf ; this will make a magnificent bed. Dr. Hogg, fine purplish rose, good habit, the plant producing large quantities of immense trusses of well-formed flowers. Encantress, flowers pretty soft crimson with distinct scarlet eye, habit good ; this is also ' a fine bedding plant. Firefly, floweis scarlet ciimsoa, good jQly 18, 1607. 1 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. haljit. Glory of Waltham, flowers splendid scarlet, habit good, neat foliage ; a ma^ificcnt bedding plant. Lilaciniira, flowers a pretty shade of brit^bt lilnc, splendid truss, nnd tloe habit. Memnon is a grand Stella with a magenta-coloured flower, the habit is good, and the fityle of growth very neat. Turple Queen is also a fine bedding Nosegay. Jason and Waltham Gem are two good trold-leaved varieties. The greatest novelty I saw amongst Pelargoniums was a double Tom Thumb. This variety has most probably' been obtained by a sport from Tom Thumb. It has the exact habit of the General, and flowers quite as freely, but the flowers are double. This will be a most useful variety for hybridising purposes. If wo can only get our Gloire do Nancy with the hiibit of Mi*. Paul's double Tom Thumb, they will bo most useful. That is at present the greatest fault in them, they grow too strong. What we want is nice compact plants from 'J to 15 inches high, with eight or ten trusses of line double flowers on them. In this state they would bo most useful for conservatory decoration. I must not forget to mention the two beautiful new herbaceous Phloxes, exhibited by Mr. Paul at the llo?o Show on tho 'ind, and at the Regent's Park on tho ;!nl. They far surpass anything I havo seen ; their names are Beautiful and Conqueror. I saw a largo bed of tlicm growing at Waltham. They were a sight I shall not easily forget. Beautiful is as its name implies ; it has immense spikes of large round flowers, pure white, with a rosy violet centre, and Conqueror is a creamy white v.ith a rosy purple centre, the base of the petals round tho centre being suffused with the same colour ; they appear to be very dwarf-growing varieties. In walking through the nurseries Mr. Paul called my attention to a pretty golden-leaved Quercus; the foliage was quite as bright as Pelargonium Golden Fleece. I was very much pleased with my visit to Waltham. Afy only regret was that I could not spare more time to inspect the numerous forms of floral beauty to be seen there. The Pioi-es alono would have afforded me amusement and interest for three times the time I could spare for an inspection of the whole. I, however, will again visit Mr. Paul's nurseries when tho Pelargoniums are in perfection, and then I hope to have more time to examine their beauties. In concluding these few notes of what I have seen likely to prove useful to the readers of " our Journal," I will just men- tion a few of my own productions. These I need say but little about, as they have been before the public. Amongst tho Gold Zouals (as they have lately been styled), the following I am sure will give satisfaction : — Perilla, Model, Compactum, Firebrand, Beauty of Uibblesdale, Beauty of Calderdale, Princess Alice. Tho general opinion of them is that they will supersede the Tricolors for bedding purposes ; they are certainly mnch easier cultivated, and are much more effective, they at once attract the eye, and are seen with good effect a long distance off, whilst the Tricolor loses its effect at a short distance. Amongst my Tricolors I consider Lottie W^ills, Aurora Borealis, Lizzie, Fanny, Beauty of Huntroyde, and Florence are not to bo easily surpassed. The latter variety will be found to surpass every Tricolor at present sent out for bedding purposes, I am so confident of this, that I am prepared to exliibit six plants of it in September, taken up from the open ground, against six plants of any other variety at present in cultivation for the sum of £5. — J. Wills. Xrvm FOn TAKING CUTTINGS. In the "Science and Practice of Gardenintr," page 256,1 find that " tho time for taking off cuttings from the parent plant for propagation is when the sap is in full activity ;" but upon referring to "Thompson's Gardener's Assistant " I find that " tho worst time for taking cuttings from hardy deciduous trees and shrubs is when the sap is in full flow " (see page 380). Will you explain how writers upon horticulture so far disagree upon a point so essential? — Aiiatkuk. [Circumstances alter cases, and, therefore, there is only a seeming disagreement in the directions. In the " Science and Practice of Gardening*' allusion is made chiefly to the propa- gating by cuttings of tender plants that are to have the ad- vantage of pots, hotbeds, »i:c., and in that case the directions are right. All you havo to do is to keep a cutting in a state as nearly as possible like that which it possessed on the parent plant, and, therefore, care must be taken to arrest evaporation and encourage rooting. As res]iccts hardy deciduous shrubs, Mr. Thompson is just as correct, and this you may satisfy yourself of easily by inserting & cutting of a Currant bueh in ^ho open air now, and In^rting a similar but leafless cutting during winter and spring. These are left to nature, the former is assisted beyond nature.] FLOWERS IN BLOOM DUKING JUNE. ACKLAM HALL, MIDDLESBOEOUOH-ON-TEES, „ C. » 10. „ 11. Jane S. Brompton and Interme- din to Stocka. Ccntaurcn montnna I^ycbuiH dioicu florc-pleno Iris, Vfirious kinds Vtironica ^'enlianoidcs Ot!um urbanum Orcliie tit^tulata Scfirlot Thorua, single and do u bio Scarlet Chestnut Silone qiiinqaoviilnera Andromeda axillaiis llesporis matronalis Itanuuculas ropeua Vicia Kcpium Omit bot;al urn ambcUatmu narboneuBo fimbriatom WciRcla rosea Aijuilegia vulgaris ABphodclus ramosas Vironica dentata Folcmonium Richardsonl Lythospermnm porpu- rcum cicruleum ^limulus lutous Mule Pink Diantbus ca?3lns Roses, various kinds Linaria cymbalaria bipartita and splendons Erigeron canadense Digitalis puriiurca and alba j\Iimalns moschatns Campanula rapunculus Silene nutans MfcspiUis gcrmanica Alcbemilla conjoncta Ncpeta violacoa Cornus sauguinea Aconitum napcUus Geum coceinoum Dictanmus ruber alb us Papaver concolor Saxif j-aga peunsylvanica Andrcwsii geum Genm rivalo Teucrium lucidum Allium schoenoprasnm ureinam Polvgala vulgaris Orchis maculata Parbarea vulgaris fl.-pl. Hesperis matronalis fl.-pl. Hbododendron birsutum Dt'lpbiuium formosum Barlowii meholeucnra Anchusa italica and n 16- „ £0. Juno 22. Orobus nigor Double Nasturtium LlUum Martagon, parple liosc», double and slnglo yellow Persian SDa]>dragon:j, various Diauthus odor at us doltoidca Cerastiura tomentosnnl Pyrethrum roseum Epilobitiui angustifoliom album „ 24. Lathyrussplcudens Geranium fi;wiguineuaj Plxiladelpbus Sweet William, various Galeobdolon luteum Lamiam niaculatum Campanula glomeratum Parictaria ofticinaliB Campanula pumila and alba Deutzia scabra Centranthua ruber and atbus Potuutilla Hopwoodiana IJarratii Phlox Drummondi Heliotropium peruviannm various kinds Calceolarias, various kinds Achillea clavtena rosea Nastnrtinms, various kinds „ 2C. EschschoUzia calilomica Calandrinia speciosa discolor Scarlet Pelargonioma Spiraea aruncus Astraulia major Symphytum echinatam asperrimum Silene compacta Hedycbium coronarluzn Iberiscoronaria alba rubra Papaver somnif ernm, dbl* . Campanula grandis Salvia pratensis Ruta graveolens Viola erecta Scdum rupestre Bexangulare acre Verbascum thapsos Chervil Thymus serpyllum „ 29. Morena pcrsica (.'ampauula p>*ramidali8 Saxifra^a grannlata granulata plena Thymus serpyllum albas GLASS WALLS. The above contrivances for more tboroughly ripening fniit have lately been introduced by the inventor of tho cylinder vinery, on the principle of which they have been constructed. The glass ivall is placed either opposite walls of slate made on purpose, or opposite to brick and stone walls already built, the fruit trees being trained against the glass wall on the inside, 60 as to receive the reflected heat from the wall opposite. The great benefit to be derived from this mode of growing fruit is light given in every direction both to the leaves and fruit. The mode to be pursued in constructing a wall of this kind opposite to one already built is as follows : — I drive into the earth, about 3 feet from the old wall, square bars of wood, grooved about five-eighths of an inch deep in the angles, boiled in creo- sote, and thus rendered indestructible. I sUp glass down the grooves until the top of the bars is reached. I then nail a plate on tho top of the bars to strengthen the glass, and also to admit of a cover being placed on the structure to keep oflf spring frosts. I nail email rafters from the glass wall to the brick or stone wall. After frosts are over I remove the co ver ing, when the trees are exposed to dew and rain. They require no watering and no further attention than an ordinary wall. The result of this mode of culture is the perfection of growth- 40 JOUBNAL OF HORTIGULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ Jnly 13, 1867. I find the best and cheapest covering is the material made for packing Hops ; it is 6(?. a square yard retail. Boiling in creo- sote would render it indestructible. Glass walls can be made on the same principle. Facing each other, and running north and south, they might be made 10 feet high and 4 feet apart, open at the top. The trees can be trained on each wall. I have never s een foliage bo healthy and of such deep colour as on this principle. The temperature is always higher, and when the sun is out from 10° to 12^ higher than the external air. — Observer DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF HERBACEOUS PLANTS. {Continued from imge 5.) Hieracium aurantiacum e Hierochloe borealis re.... Horminum pyrenfticum . . Honstonia caeralea f r .... H. niiminnlarium c r •Iberis aaxatiUa •I. Tenoreana •Imperata sacchariflora *Iri9 germaoica vara =*I. florentina *I. pallida I. foetidissimafol. var *I. pumila =*!. susiana Jeflfersonia diphylla r *LAtbyTus grandiflorus *L. latifolius vars Liatris scariosa Lindelophia spectabilis r ♦Linum flavum e *L. monog}" nuin c L, Lewisii L. perenne flore albo L. narbonense r "Lobelia fulgens e 'L. fulgens St. Clair e li. sypbilitica L. urens Lychuis chalcedonica L. viscaria flore-pleno *L. viscaria splendens e *L. Haageana e L. pyrenaica r *Luplnu3 polypbvllus •L. polyphyllus albifloru3 Lysimaohia verticillata •Lytbrum vosGuni superbum e. . ''Meconopsis cambrica Melissa grandiflora Melittis melissophylium •Mimulus moschatus M. roseus palidua *Myosotis palustrig c Myrrbis odorata CEnothera Fraseri (E. fruticosa CE, aeaulis *(E. macrocarpa e •CE. taraxacifolia *(E. grandiflora e (Lamarckiana) •Omphalodcs verna c *Orobu3 vemus c O. angustifolius O. nigcr O. anrantiacua Onosnia tanricum re •Oxalis tropreoloides Pieonia albiflora vars "P. alliiflora Humei e P. albiflora tatarica *P. albiflora Whitleyi e P. albiflora sibirica P. albiflora fragrans P. albiflora vestalis *P. tenuifolia flore-pleno e P. decora P. paradosa *P. paradoxa flmbriata e ■ poregnna compacta P. peregrina oxoniensis P. daurica Iriternata P. corallina P. humilis P. oflicijialig albicans P. ofBcinalis carnescens *P. officinalis rubra plena e .... P. oflicinalis anemoniflora .... P. officinalis Sabini *Papaver bracteatum e •P. nudicaiile c •P. oriontale gplendens e Phalaris arandinacea vittata . . •Pentstomon. many varieties .. ^Phlox, named vars. e ^Phlox verna e P. ovata P. setacea P. pilosa Months ov Flowering. HEtOHT IN Feet CoLouE or Floweb. Soil. PaOPAOATION. June and August 1^2 orange loam and grit division May and June 1 a Grasij very sandy loam division Soil moist. •Tune and July 1—1+ blue loam division May to August i-r light blue peat, loam, and grit division Soil moist* Juno to September H yellow peat, loam, and grit, or limestone division Juno and Jnly 1 yellow peat, loam, and sand division May and Juno tl white loam and giit cuttings Juno pale purple sandy loam cuttings July and August 6 striped fol. sil. plumes sandy learn division 2-3 bluo shades loam division May and Juno 2 white loam division May and Juno 3—3 pale blue loam division Jane H striped leaves loam division Mnv and Juno J-^ purple loam division April and May 2 striped loam division May and June 3-1 white sandy loam division June and August 4 purple sandy loam seed Jnue to September 5-8 purple and whito loam seed September & October 3—4 purple peat and loam division June and July 2 deep blue sandy loam division June to August 1 yellow sandy loam cuttings Sheltered sit- Jv.ne to August 2 white sandy loam seed and cuttings uation. June and July 2-S blue sandy loam seed June and July 2 white calcareous loam seed May to July 2 blue sandy loam cuttings and division Warm sit. June to September 3 scarlet Joam loam division Dry in winter. June to September 8 scarlet division Moist in simj- August to October 2 light blue sandy peat cuttings and division mer. June and July n light bine sandv peat seed and division June and Jnly 2 scarlet peat, loam, and grit cuttings and seeds June and July li purple peat, loam, and grit division Sunny expo- June and July 1 pink peat, loam, and grit division sures. June to August 2J orange loam and peat cuttings and division June and July i-^ pink peat and grit division Soil moist. June and Julv 8-1 blue loam seed and division 3 white loam division Julv and August 1 yellow peat, loam, and gi-it division Soil moist. Juno to August 2-3 rose peat and loam cuttings and seed Jane to August 1— li yellow loam, grit, or gravel seed and division June to September li red sandy loam division June 1-U flesh sandy loam division Slight shade. Jnlv to September 1 yellow sandy peat and loam seed and division June to August li rose spotted loam division Mav to August r blue loam and grit division Soil moist. May and June 2—24 white sandy loam division Mav to September 1^2 yellow peat, loam, and sand division Mav to August 2J— 3 vellow peat and loam division Mav to September i^ white peat and loam seed Wann situation. Julv and August 1 yellow peat and loam seed and division June to September 1 white peat and loam division and seed September & October 3 yellow loam March and April i bluo loam and leaf mould division SUght shade. aiarch and Apiil 1 tmrple sandv loam division May and June 1 white loam division June and July 3 purple loam division JuMe and July IJ orange loam division May and June M yellow peat and loam lavers Julv to September yellow sandy loam seed and division May and June 2 white double crirasou rich sandy loam division flesh ., double white .. white ,, • * * red white double red purple purple donble fringed purple purple blush •• •• , 3 pale purple .. , 3 red ,, ,. , 14-2 pale purple ,. .. • 2-3 white white double red red crimson ,, June and July 3—4 scarlet loam division June to August U yellow peat, loam, and grit seed June and July 3 scarlet loam division Jnae and July 3^4 Striped Ribbon Grass sandy or gravelly loam division May to October 1—2 various loam cuttings Warm sittlataoni June to August 2-3 various rich loam cuttings and division May h rose; gravelly loam cuttings and division May to July 1-li pale purple peat and loam division May a-i flesh loam and leaf mould division May an 1 June 1 pink peat and loam division Jalr IB, 1667. } JOURNAL OF HORTIOUIiTURB AND COTTAGE GARDENEB, 41 UONTRS or FtOWBRINO. Physftlis Alh('koD?l Jano nnd Julv PotentUla nipestriu May to Soptomnor P. splonJuus r Qlay to July P. fttrosunguinoa Jano to Soptciuhor P. foruiosii Jtiiii) iiiul July P. fragiirioiilcs May and Juno •Primula cortugoidea e May tu July P. acaalis (vulgaris) Maroh to May •P. ocauUa var. double lilac .... •P. acaulis vur. double purplo .• •P. acaulis var. dbl. dk. crimson •P. ftcauUs var. double sulpftur. . •P. acaulis var. double white . . •P. auricula var April and May Pelomoninm c.-rruleum Juno P. oajfulcum alltuin Juno •P. caTuU'um variof^'utum e .... Jnno Piilmonaria augubtifolia April and May P. anctastifolia rubra May •P. pranditlora c May and Juno P. mollis April and May P. aibirica May and Juuo P. virgiuica April and May Pyrotbrum, named var:^ May to October Ranunculus aconitifolins flore- pleuo May and Juno It. acris florc-plouo Juno and July R. parnaesifolius Juno and July Kadbcckia Nowmanni Juno and July •Salvia uemorosa c June to September S. pratensis Juno to October •S. argentoa e r July •Saponaria ocymoides e May to Auffnst S. officinalis plena July to October Saxifroga crassifolia April and May •S. pyramidally e Juno Scabiosa gramiuifoUa Juno S. caucasica Jnno to September Scutellaria niacrantha July to September •SUcno alpostris e May to July •S. Schaftft e Juno to September Sisyrinchium anceps Juno and July •S. striatum e r April to September •S. grandiflorum May and June Soiidago virganrea July to September •SpiroDa filipcndula plena e .... Juno to September S. vonusta July and August •Static© latifoiia e May and Julv •S, Gmelinic June to August •S. tatarica «; Juno Stokosia cyanea Jnly and August ' Stonactis speciosa July to October •Stipa pennata e Jnly and August TUalictrum glaucum May and July •T. aquilegifolium plenum May to July T. purpurasccns May to July Tradoscantia virginica May to October T. virginica p.Uia May to October T, virginica rubra •Tritoma Burchelli <• Angust & September •T. uvaria r August to October •T. uvario glaucescens <■ •TroUins asiuticus e May and Juno •T. europicus >; May and June •T. europfpus nlbus r •T. napellifoliuFi c Tassilago fragrans March •T. farfrtra variegala c April Valeriana rubra July to September Vorbasfum pbo'niceum July and August Veratrum album Juno to Augnst •V. viride Jnly and August V. nigrum Jimo and July •Veronica gentianoides e May and June V. incana July to September V. incana rubra July to September V. incana alba V. laurica c June and July V. longifolia Jaly to September V. paniculata June and July 'V.toucriumc Juno to August V. argeutea cr j«uo and July V. pyrenaica r May to July V. villosa Juno and July ♦Vinca herbacca Jnne to Julv •V. major vnrs May and Juno •V. minor vors Viola altaica April and May *V. arboreac •V. arboroa alba e •V. odorata plena e April to June •V. odorata var. alba plena e.... •V odorata noapolitaua plena e.. •V. comuta c May to October V. palmata r May and June V, pinnata V. cucullata r May to July V. suavis (Russian) April to June V. pennsylvanica e Mav and Juno V. hirta April and May *V. striata e r June Heiobt IK FBBT. 2 1 2— 2i 2 h 1 h Colour or Floweb. red (ruit wbito w'hito crimson purplish crimson white pale purplish rose primro:iO Soil. sandy loam loam and grit or gravel luam and gravel loam loam loam loam and grit loom and grit FnoPAaATtoic. seed division division division division division seed and division division Slight abado* 1-4 rich loam division loam seed and division 2 white loam Bced and division J-1 variogated foliage violet loam aandy loam and leaf mould division division Slightly shaded Bitoation. 3-1 purplish red division * 1 pink division '1' blue purple •• division :^l blue various rich loam cuttings and seed 1 double white rich loam division Moist aoiL 2 «louble yellow loam division i;i. loam divitiioa yellow peat and sandy loam division 1-2 blue sandy loam division 3— { sandy loam division 1—2 silvery foliage sandy loam division J pink loam & gravel or sand seed 2 pink loam division 1 loam division a white loam division ^^H bluo loam and limestono seed and division aeed and division 1 blue peat and loam loam and grit division division Soil well drained. rosy pink seed and division 1 bluo sandy loam division 2 yellow division ^ puri)le division 2 yellow loam and gi-it division li.—2 double white loam division 3 loam division 1 blue sandy loam division 1 blue •• i* bluo loam cuttings Warm sitoatioa. 2 2 purple a Grass loam loam diN-ision seed and division MoUt aoU. 5 yellow loam, peat, and grit division :! double white • • 3 purple li blue sandy loam diviBion ll white red red and yellow 2^ rich loam division 3 orango 'i orange scarlet & yellow orange loam division Slight shade. 15-2 yellow loam whitish .. .. i deep yellow white loam and grit division Moist soiL 1 yellow .. 14—2 2|— 3 red loam division purple loam and gravel seed and division 4—5 white loam division 4—5 green ** 3 dark purple 2 blue loam and grit division ' »j blue 2 red white loam and grit division i blue 3 bluo .. .. U rose .< 2 Light blue .. 1-li pink loam and leaf moMld seed] li* yellow seed 2^ IJ white and pnrple bluo loom and leaf mould seed cuttings and division Partial shade. 2 bine and various i Ti9let sandy loam and leaf mould division Slight shade. i-1 violet white •• A double blue ,^ double white sky blue •• h-i bine .. purple violet bluo bluo bluo bluo blue and whito chalky soil loam -G. Abbbt. 42 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GAEDENER. r July 18, 1867. KOYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S EXHIBITION AT BURY ST. EDMUNDS.— July 10. About five years have elapsed since we recommended the Horticultural Society to follow the example of its younger relative the Agricultural, and hold country meetings, changing the locality annually. At length the Society has entered on that course, and we" think the result is such that the course will be pursued in future years ; for, beyond all doubt, the Exhibition at Bury St. Edmunds, now open, comprises one of the finest aggregates of fruits and flowers ever brought together in England, and afEdrds the most unmistakeable evidence of the skill, judgment, and good taste of British gardeners. The extent of the Show may be estimated from the fact that the fruit tent is 300 feet long and 30 feet wide ; the Pelargo- nium tent, 175 by 33 ; the three circular tents for miscella- neous collections, 90, 40, and 30 feet in diameter respectively ; and the implement tent is 100 feet by 35. All the collections are arranged effectively, and leave nothing to be desired except that they could have been placed on turved terraces, for that would have shown their great excellence to stUl more advantage. We wiU accept as a good omen that this first Exhibition is held within the vineyard of Bury Abbey — that Abbey's annual revenues amounted to £200,000 ; and we will hope that the soil is promotive of good incomes to associated bodies lay as ■well as ecclesiastical. At all events, if the spirits of abbots revisit the precincts of their earthly dwellings, those of this Abbey must be round and about the displays of luscious, tooth- some fruits now gathered together within their ancient vine- yard. For there were more Friar Tacks among them than that one immortalised in " Ivanhoe." " It was not the hood that made the monk ;" and as we passed through this Abbey's gateway we recalled to memory the tales of festal doings, when plumed knights and bodiced ladies had passed beneath its portcullis some four centmies previously, and caroused with their cowled entertainers. Jolly fellows were those Benedictine Monks of Biiry. Two and twenty cooks were found daily employment by them — cooks whose names are recorded — Soyera of their day — such were Brodhaye, Bigot, and Cowe. And what a bUl of fare must have been theirs ! for, among other outlays we find £10 — equal to one hundred now — dispended weekly on flesh, fish, and cheese ; 30a'. on Beans ; Cs. 8rf. on honey ; 13s. id. on nuts ; 12s. Ud. on poultry, though the price of one fowl was then only a penny ! Good eating was never divorced from good drinking ; and though among the officers of the Abbey was a " Keeper of the Waters," yet his was a sinecure compared with the office of that brother who was " Squire of the Cellar," for even his official title was thus dignified. In the refectory, on the four principal days of each week, " four score and eight sextarii of mead or wine " were drunk — equal to more than one hundred bottles of modern measure ; and besides that, each official had a weekly allowance, and kept it probably in his cell for his " stomach's sake." " These cellarers," says Fuller, " were brave blades, much affecting secular gallantry ;" and a stUl older authority, who well knew what power they possessed as the bursars of the monasteries, warns that they should not " be wine-bibbers, not proud, not dull, not prodigal, but faithfully distributing the allowances," for all the provisions, cooks, &c., were under their supervision ; and they even held a court of justice, where, to nse a drinking phrase of the time, they " took down a peg " offenders brought before them. Prominent among the disputes were the perquisites of the officials ; and we must remark upon one — the swineherd, who was entitled to have their dung, and which, with msre delicacy than has influenced us, was mentioned as "fructus de eauda." But we have reached the Abbey vineyard, one of the many Imown to have been attached to the monastic establishments of England, as at Abingdon, Gloucester, Eocbester — " a newly planted " one in the time of Edward the Confessor at Hautun, belonging to the monastery at Evesham — Glastonbury, Michel- ney, and others in Somersetshire — Thomey, Cambridgeshire. In 1140 the tithes of the Vines of Lyncomb were confirmed to Bath Monastery. In 1070 the priory of Belvoir in Lincoln- shire was endowed by its founder with the tithes of all his vineyards ; and in 1136 the Abbey of Walden, Essex, was en- dowed with a vineyard. Nor were these mere orchards, as some have persisted in asserting ; for we read of Edward 11. receiving the wine and Grapes from a vineyard at Hailing in Kent, and we have the expenses attendant upon the cultivation of a vineyard belong- ing to the monks of Canterbury. The Abbot, Ralph Bourne, planted it in some year between 1300 and 1331. The account stands thus : — " OUTLAY ON THE VINEYARDS. The stipend of the Vine-dresscr per annum 52 0 Paid for di^Ring in the same for the whole year 43 1 Trellises bought for the same, with carriage 33 H Spades, hoes, and other implements for the same .... 52 0." Then follows a similar account for another vineyard. The vineyard of Bury Abbey, then, is a fitting as well ais convenient locality for our national Society's Exhibition, an(3 to this we will now pass on. Of stove and greenhouse plants, wbich are chiefly shown in the large circular tent, there are several splendid collections ; that from Mrs. Cole & Sons, Withiugton, Manchester, which takes the first prize in Class 1, for nine, is especially remarkable. It consists of a splendid specimen Ixora coccinea, Bougainvill.Ta glabra, a vel'y large finely- bloomed Erica ohbata, Allamanda cathartica. the lai-ge-flowered Alla- manda Hendersoni, Kalosanthes Madame Celeste Winans, with a crowd of rose-coloured heads of bloom, Dipladenia crassinoda. Erica Jacksojii, and a good specimen of E. gemmiiera elegans. The county cup for the b •-( stove or greenhouse plant in flower, is taken by the same exhibitors with .1 most beantifolly bloomed speci- men of Dipladenia amabilis, covered with bright rosy crimson flowers upwards of 4:} inches in diameter. The Royal Horticultural Society's cnp for the best and most effec- tive group of ten fine-foliaged and ten flowering plants was awarded to Messrs. Lee, of Hammersmith, who exhibit a fine specimen of Pandanus elegautissimus, Gleichenia scmivestita with beautiful bright grec-u fronds, Cordyline indivisa, Latania rubra, Cycas revoluta, a fine Theophrasta imperialis, Dion ednle, and a handsome thick-tranked Dicksonia antarctica. Among the flowering plants completing this col- lection are Isora coccinea, with very fine heads ; a large specimen of I. javanica, covered with a profusion of orange hfads of bloom ; the showy Kalosanthes coccinea, Stephanotis floribuuda, Allamanda Hen- dersoni, line ; Dipladenia spleudens, and Erica P:\rmt-ntieri rosea, densely covered with bloom. Mr. Baines, gardener to H. Micholls, Esq., Bowdon, is second with Theophrasta imperialis, a magnificent specimen of Gleichenia speluncae, Alocasia Lowu with noble foliage, an excel- lent Cordyline indivisa, Ehopala corcova'dense, Dicksonia antarctica with a thick trunk, Croton variegatum, a fine specimen of Gleichenia flabellata, a wonderfully fine panful of Sarracenia purpurea, np- wards of a yard in diameter, with pitchers of the largest size ; and Sar- racenia flava, also remarkably fine, having pitchers about 2^ feet long. Among plants in flower from the same exhibitor are a large specimen of Clerodendron Balfourii, forming a mass of white and Ecarlet blossom ; a very large and fine specimen of Erica ohbata, Genetyllis tulipifera, also very large and fine ; Dipladenia amabilis, rich in colour, but not equal to the plant shoi^Ti 'oy Cole & Sons ; Allamanda Hendersonii, with nnmerous immense yeUowflowers, and A. cathartica, veiy fine. In Class 2, for the best six Stove and Greenhouse plants, Mr. W. Green, gardener to Mrs. Honeywood, Mark's Hill, Kulvedon, who takes the first prize, has the deep blue-flowered Sollya linearis in ex- cellent condition, a very good specimen of Clerodendi'on Balfonrii, and Dipladenia amabilis with several very large flowers. In Class 3, for the best twelve fine-foliaged and variegated plants, the first prize is taken by Mr. W. Niehol, gai'dener to T. H. Powell, Esq., Drinkstone Park, Bury, with large specimens of Caladinm hicolor splendens, Wightii, and Chantini, Maranta zebriua. Alocasia macro- rhiza variegata, Chama:a'ops excelsa, Sphjerogynelatifolia, a.nd Maranta regalis. Mr. Southgate, gardener to E. .J. Pettiwurd. Esq., Stow- market, who is second, has good examples of Maranta eximia, CissuS discolor, fine Caladiums, Maranta zebrina, and Anthurium cordifolimn. Mr. W. Green, gardener to Mrs. Honeywood, who is third, has a large specimen of Coleus Verschaffelti, a good Alocasia metallica, Alocasia macrorhiza variegata, and good Caladiums. Mr. D. T. Eish, gardener to Lady Cnllum, Hardwicke, is fourth. Class 4 is for the best six fine-foliaged plants, and in this Mr. Baines, who is first, exhibits a very fine example of Yenus's Fly-trap (DionaBa muscipnla), beautiful Aniectochils, of which intermedia and Lowii are especially remarkable, and Sphfprogyne latifoUa not large but with its ample foliage in a beautifully fresh condition. Mr. D. T. Fish is second, and exhibits Solanum atropurpureum, with very rich aad handsome foliage, a plant seldom seen in collections of this kind, Cissns discolor, a good Coleus Verschaffelti, and Anthurium mag- niticum or cordifolium. For the best nine fine-fofiaged plants Messrs. Leo. of Hammersmith, are first with a collection in which Croton variegatum. Anthurium acaule, fine ; Theophrasta imperialis, very luxuriant : variegated Ja- panese Bamboo, and Yucca quadricolor are the most couspicuous. For Orchids, the only prize awarded was to Messrs. Lee, who are first for six : and the same well-known firm take a first prize for Palms, amongst which are the noble-leaved Stephensonia graudiflora, Areca crinita and Verschaffelti, and Geonoma magnitica. Fuchsias are remarkable for the superb condition in which they are July 13, 188T. J JOURNAIi OF HORTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. oxhibited both as ref^ordfl tiize nnd profasion of bloom. Those from Mr. D. T. Fish, which take the coantj cup, are especiivUy no ; &uj llr. W. Smith, ganlonei* to J. S. Crubb, Esq., Groat Baddow, has Soaronir do Chiswic-k, Pauline, Con3i>icua, aud Uoso of C'jtstille in fine bloom. In Mr. D. Fish's first-prize six, Landsuer, Sir C. Cump- bell, Miunie. and Koso of Castillo aro beautifully prowii and flowered. His three Btand.ards, which roceivo tlio first prize in a class for that number, havo very liirgo and rej^ular heads, from which hang suspended izmnmorable Im-f^e blooms. That fine dark variety. Sir Colin Campbell, Sparticnhirly pood. Mr. Smith, pnrdener to J. 8. Orabb, Ksq., Great addow ; Mr. Fisher. Wfestloy Hall, Bury; and Mr. Foreman, Rur- dener to the Kev. F. Checre, luyham lioctory, Uury, also take prizes for well -bloo mod plants. Of Show and French Pelar^oninras, Mr. D. T. Fish, who takes the firat prizo for six, as well as the first prize offered by the Kev. F. Cheero, for twelve, fiends a magnificent specimen of Rose Celestial, as «qU as fine examples of Beadsman, Bracelet, Napoleon III., Klegaut- isaima, Crimson King, Lilacinum, and others. Mr. Foreman, par- doner to the Rev. F. Cheere, takes the Kecoud prize offered by that gentleman, also the second prizo for six, with, among others, Governor General, splendid in colour. For six Funcy kinds, Mr. Fish and Mr. Foreman aro respectively first and second. Of Scarlet, Nosegay, and Variegated Polargouinms there ia a singnlarly rich, beaatiful, and interesting exhibition, npon which, how- OTer, along with some other subjects, wo must defer our remarks till next weok» merely appending to this report a list of the prizes awarded. The best fix: Dracienas and Cordylincs come from Messrs. Lee, of Hammei-smith, who have good examples of Cordylino iudivisa, Dra- Cfena draco, iudivisa, elegautissima, helicon if olia, and marginata. Messrs. Lee aUo have the prize for the best nine exotic Ferns, among which are fine healthy specimens of Cyathea dealbata, C. Smithii, Alsophila anstralis, Lomaria nuda, and Dicksouia antarctica. Mr. Jabez J. Chrtter, Gonvillo Nursery, Cambridge, is second, aud Mr. •T. Gilboi-t, St. Margaret's Street, Ipswich, third. In the .jVmatears' class Mr. Allan, gardener to Sir C. Banbury, Mr. i'ish, Mr. Squibbs, and Mr. Foreman take the prizes. For the best Tree Feni Mr. Gilbert is first ; Mr. Chator, second ; Mr. Harrison, gardener to W. H. Penrose, Esq., third ; and Mr. D. T. Fish, fourth. Of British Ferns, a collection containing Trichomanes radicans, Scolopcndriuni crispum, the Crestod Male Fern, aud other good kinds in excellent condition, contributed bv Mr. Chater, is first, Mr. Gilbert being second, and Mr. D. Fish third. The town of Bury cnp for the best twelve Ferns is awarded to Mr. W. Niehol, Orinkstone Park. Bnrj*, for neat specimens of Adiantum cnneatum, tlymnogramma Lancheana, Adiantum concinuum, Gym- nogramma chrj-sopliylbi, Nephrodium corj-mbiferum, Diynaria ongns- tifolia, Lomaria gibba, Blccbnum corcovadense, Platyceram alci- come. Mr. D. T. Fish exhibits Davallia latifolia, Adiantum tenerum, Adiautnm trapeziforme. and others. The town of Bury silver cnp for the best twelve Lycopods goes to Mr. D. T. Fish for a magnificent specimen of S. ctesia urborea. standing nearly 7 feet high ; S. Daniel- maaa, S. stolonifora, beautiful ; S. atroviridis, very beautiful ; and S. ca»sia ; these are grown on pyramids of peat, and thus form objects of great beauty. The Suffolk Gardeners' cup, given in honour of the luto Mr. Donald Reaton, who did so much through tlie page.^ of this Journal in intro- dncing the modern system of budding oat, and which was offered for tho beat collection of bedding phmts. was awarded to Mr. P. Grieve, gardener to E. R. Benyou, Esq., Culford Hall, for a boantifnl and vei3- care- foll^ arranged exhibition, comprising most of tho best bedding plants at present in use. Mr. Chater, Mr. R. Pettitt, and Mr. Borrie have also very effective exhibitions. Bouquets aud table decorations are numerously shown ; some of tho former are veiT tasteful, the latter do not present much novelty. In that from Mr. Robins, gardener to Sir E, Kerrison, Bai-t., Oakley Park. Eye, which takes the town of Bury cnp for the best three gronps of fruit and flowers for diuner-tablo decoration, the variegated Saxifraga japonica is introduced as the centre of tho two side-dishes, and these are edged with Tricolor Pelargonium leaves, and tho flower-heads of an Agrostie. Tho etem of tht) centre piece is entwined with Cissns discolor. Among misicellaneons robjects, Mr. Backlo, gardener to Lord \Val- aingham, Morton Hall, Thetford, shows immense stems of Lilium gigantonm, grown in the open air, nearly 10 feet high, and bearing several enormous flowers ; and from G. AV. Wilson, Esq., comes a fine bloom of Lilinm anratum. Mr. Baine?, whose Sanacenias have already be«n noticed, likewise shows a miscellaneous collection, in which there is S. Drnmmondi alba in flower, and the curiously- marked S. vnriolaris. Lastly, Messrs. Voitch & Sons have the beauti- ful Marantji Veitohii, Abutilou Thompsoni, with yellow marbled foliage ; tho handsome Begonia Pearcei, that noble Palm Verschaffel- tia splendida. Sanchezia nobilis variegala — one of the best ornamental- foliated plants iutrodnced of late years ; Acalypha tricolor, Coleus Veitrhii, Variegated New Zealand Flax, Nierembergia rivularis. Ne- penthes HalHeitii, with numerous pitchers ; Ponicam varicgatum, bean- tifnlly striped with w'lite, green, and red ; tho new Crotons. which recently received certificates at Kensington ; a very large specimen of Leptopteris snperba, Echites rubro-venosa, with leaves splendidly , veined with brilliant red ; Anthoriom Scherzeriauom, and a number of plants of Lilinm anratom, which perfume tho air of the wholo tent in which they are placed. Annexed are the prized in tho classes not specially noticed abore :-— Town of Bury.— A watch or cup, for the best three window pUnta grown by a mocbanic or labourer, Mr. Arthur Tooley, Bury. Town n! Bury.— Silver cup, for the be.st three Vrouits of frnita and flowers for tho decoration of tho dinner-table, Mr. Robins, gardener to Sir E. Kerrison. The Borouah 5Iemhers for Bury.— Silver cnp, for the best hand bonqnet for ladicn, Mr. John Delamore, Cheshire. Second ditto, Mr. B. R. Cant, Colchester. Third ditto, Mr. Robins. These prizes were awarded by a jurj'of ladies. Eye Horticultural Society.— Silver cup, for the best twenty-four cat Roses on single stems, grown by an amateur, a member of any borticnl- tural society in the county of Suffolk, Mr. Thomas R. Francis, Mendlo- shnm. Woodbridge Horticultural Society.— Silver cup, for the best twelve cnt blooms of Picotees, growu by an amateur, Mr. S. K. Buttrum, Burgh. Suffolk Gardeners' Silver Cup.~For tho beat twelve cut Ruses grown by a Suffolk gardener, Mr. W. Nichol, gardener to J. H. Powell, Esq., Drink- stono Park Second ditto, Mr. R. Kccne, gardener. Cmmty Silver Cup. for tho best twelve seedling Variegated Pelargoniuma of lSiB6 and iHfiT. Mr. P. Grieve. Rest six Petunias, double-flowered varieties, distinct (open'.— First, not suflicient merit. Second, Mr. H. Foreman. Thinl, Mr. P. Grieve. Best six Petunias, single -flowered varieties, dibtiuct (openJ.^First, Mr. J. Barrett, Bury. Second, Mr. W. Smith. Best twenty Succulents, of distinct kinds (open).— Prize, Mr. R. Petiit, Enry. Best twelve Carnations and Picotees, cut blooms.— First, Mr. C. Tumer« Slough. Second, Mr. John Hines, Ipswich. Third. Mr. S. C. Euttrum. Best twelve varieties of Zonal Pelar^'ouiums in bunches of cut flowers, five trusses in each bunch.— First, Mr. R. Moore. Wetheringsett. Se- cond, Mr. J. Barrett, Bury. Third, Messrs. Wood & Ingram, Hunts. Fourth, Mr. S. Brown, Sudbury. Best twelve varieties of Verbenas, in bunches of cut flowers, five tmsses in each bunch. — First, Mr. C. O. Fison, Stowmarket. bccond, Mr, J. Barrett. Third. Mr. E. C. Prentice, Stowmarket. Best forty-eight cut Roses, distinct, one truss of each (Nurserymen). — First, Mr. R. B. Cant, Colchester. Second, Messrs. Lee. Third, Mr. J. W. Ewing, Norwich. Fourth, Messrs. Wood & Ingram. Best forty-eight cut Roses, distinct, one truss of each ^Vmatenrs). — First. Mr. J. T. Hedge, Colchester. Second, Mr. H. Brooke, Wetheringsett. Best twentv-four cut Roses, distinct, one truss of each (Ajuateors). — First, Mr. W. Ingle. Second, Mr. R. B. Postans, Brentwood. Third, Mr. R, Keeue. Fourth, Mr. J. T. Hedge. Best miscellaneous collection of cut Roses (open). — First, Mr. B. B« Cant. Second, Messrs. Lee. Third, Mr. J. Hedge. Best twenty-four bardv herbaceous cut flowers, distinct. — First, Mr. J. Gilbert. Second, Mr. J.'T. Hedge. Third. Mr. J. J. Chater. Extra prizes.- Mr. S. Brown, sudbury (Gladiolus), and Mr. E. SoireU, Chelmsford (Cnt flowers). Best Pinks, twelve cut bloom?, distinct, — First, Mr. J. Ilines. IpElwiclL Second, Messrs. Nun &, Hobday, Norwich. Third, Mr. H. Hooper. Best twelve Scarlet Pelari,'oniunis. distinct kinds, of any shade or coloor, Zonal or plain-leaved, bnt not variegated (Amateurs). — First, Mr. Fore- man. Second, Mr. D. T. Fish. Third. Mr. P. Grieve. Best twelve Scarlet Pelargoniums, distinct kinds, of any shade or colonri Zon.al or plain-leaved, but not variegated (Nurser>-nien).— First, Mr. J. BaiTett, Bury. Second, Mr. J. J. Chater. Third, Mr. J. Mann, Brent- wood. Best twelve Nosegay, or Hybrid Nosegay Pelargoninms, distinct varie- ties, in flower (rpon). — First, Mr. J. Barrett, Bury. Second, Mr. D. T- Fish. Third. Mr. H. Foreman. Fourth, Messrs. Nunn & Holiday, Norwich. Best six Scarlet Pelargoniums, including Nosegays, but not variegatddt distinct kinds (Amateurs).— First, Mr. H. Foreman. Second, Mi. P. Grieve, Culford Hall, Bury. Third, Mr. A. Fisher. Best six Variegated Pelnrgoninms, including Nosegavs, distinct kinds (open).— First, Messrs. Saltmarsh & Son, Chelmsford. Second, Mr. Fore- man. Third, Mr. P. Grieve. Best six new Variefjated Pelargoniums (open).— First, Messrs. Saltmorah and Son. Second, Mr. Grieve. Third, Mr. J. Mann. Best six Achimenes, distinct kinds (open).— First, Sir" C. Bunbnry, Bart., Bury St. Edmimds. Second, Mr. W. Smith. Third, Mr. A. Fiaher. Fourth, Mr. Foreman. Best six Gloxinias, distinct kinds (open).— First, Rev. F. Cheere. Se- cond, Sir C. Bunbury. Third, J. G. Shoppard, Esq. Fourth, Mr. D. T. Fish. FRUIT AND VEOKTABLKS. There is altogether an extensive display of frnit, althongh in somd of the classes the exhibitors are not so numerous as could be desired. In Pine Apples the connty cup for the best three fruit of different kinds is taken by Mr. J. Barnes, of Bicton, with a large aud handsome frnit of Bicton Queen, Globe, and Knssian Globe. For a single Piae Apple of any variety Mr. Ward, gardener to T. N. Miller, Esq., Bishop Stortford, is lii-st with a Queen of -•> lbs. 0 ozs.. kept, however, rather too long. Mr. Barnes is second with Charlotte Kothschild, not very largo for that variety, and haWng a large crown. Mr. Green, gardener to Mrs. Houcywood. is third with a small well-ripened Qneen. Among Black Grapes, single dishes. Mr. Stjnibbs, gardener to the Marquis of Bristol, Ickworth Bark. Bnry. is tirst with good well- coloured bunches of Black Hambur-zh ; Mr. Sane. .■Vshridge. is second with beautifully coloured bunches of Black Hamburgh ; and Mr. G. L. Rushmoro, Tendring Hall, Stoke, third, for large somewhat loose bunches of Black Hamburgh, not tjnite so fully colonrcd as desirable, but still very good. Mr. Carmicbacl, gardener to H.R.H. the Prince of Walofi, Sandringham. has on extra prizo for large bunches of the same kind; aud Mr. Pottle, gardener to B. Colvin, Esq., exhibits Muscat Hambnrgh. In single dishes of White Grapes the first prize is taken by Messrs. Lane, of Great Bcrkhampsteadr "^^ excellent, well-ripened bunches u JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ July 18, 1867. of Bnckland Sweetwater. Mr. Pottle is second with compact bnncheg of the same kind; and Mr. Sqnibbs third with Chasselas Masque. Xarge bunches of Muscat of Alexandria corae from Mr. Grix, gardener to E. W. Hai-lock, Esq., Ely, but very unripe. In Peaches, single dishes, Mr. Sage, Ashridgc, is first with Royal Oeorge, very large and finely riiiened ; Mr. Perkins, gardener to Lord ^eoniker, Thomham Hall, is second with Grosse Mignonue, very "well ripened ; and Mr. Robins, Oakley Park, Ej-e, third with good imit of a kind unnamed, hut apparently Barrington. Of Nectarines, tha display is small. Mr. Sage is first with Elruge, very fine; Mr. Carmichael second with Violette H^ttive, very good and £nely coloured ; and Mr. Rushmore third with the same kind. Figs only consist of Brown Turkey and Marseilles, the former finely a^pened, from Mr. Sqnibbs, being first, the latter, respectively from 3klr. Sheppard, gardener to John Bemers, Esq., Wolverstone Park, Ipswich, and Mr. Kushmoro, being second and third. Chen'ies consist of Bigarreau, Elton, Belle de Choisy, May Duke, and Black Tartarian. Mr. D. T. Fish, Hardwicke Hall and Mr. Sage iave very fine Elton and Bigarreau, but are disqualified in point of jinmber, too many being shown. Mr. Green, gardener to Mrs. Honey- •wood, is first with Black Heart, very fine. Mr. Salvage, gardener to Capt. Bennett, Rougham Hall, Buiy, is second with May Duke ; and "Mr. Pottle, tbii'd, with the same Irind. Of Strawbenies, the best four dishes came from Mr. Sqnibbs, and consist of Sir C. Napier, British Queen, Eleanor, and Frogmoro late Pine. Mr. D. In'ing, gardener to the Duke of Hamilton, Easton Park, is second with British Queen, Frogmore Late Pine, Sir C. 2^'apier, and Myatf s Sui-prize. Of single dishes, the best is Admiral Dnndas, fine, from Mr. George I'oreman, Bretenham Park, Bilderstone. Empress Eugenie, from Mr. Sqnibbs, is second, and Mr. Barratt, Cotton Lane Nursery, Bury, is third with Eleanor. Melons on tasting were found to be generally of excellent flavour. Green-iieshed kinds consist of Orion. Dr. Hogg, Bromham Hall, Victory of Bath, and Tho Sultan. The last, shown by Mr. Webb, Cnlham House, Reading, was found to be of remarkably fine flavour, and was awarded the first prize. Bromham Hall, from Mr. Robins, Oakley Park, is second ; and Mr. Earley, gardener to F. Pryor, Esq., Digswell, is third with Dr. Hogg. Scarlet-fleshed k-inds consist of Murton Hall, Onlton Park, Queen Victoria, and Scarlet Gem. Mr. D. T. Fish, gardener to Lady CuUum, is first with Murton Hall ; Mr. Stannard, gardener to H. R. Homfray, Esq.. Newmarket, is second >rith Scarlet Gem ; Mr. Perkins. Thomham, third with the same kind. Of Plums, the best dish is Washington, from Messrs. Lane, Great Berkhampstead. Mr. Grix is second with Rivers's Early Prolific. The ihird prize was withheld by the Judges. Among miscellaneous fruit there is a collection of eight kinds of Grapes from Messrs. Lane, of Berkhampstead, in which there are large bunches of Chavoush and Foster's White Seedling. Mr. Ewing, ^jlton Nursery, Norwich, has twenty-six dishes of Gooseberries, three dishes of Red Currants, aud one of Black Naples. Mr. Nichol, gar- dener to J. H. Powell, Esq., Drinkstonc Park. Bury, has fruit of Passi- :flora edulis and quadraugularis ; and Mr. Salvage Beehive Raspberries very good, Gooseberries, Red and White Cun-ants, and a dish of Apples, 3iame unknown. A first j^rize is taken by Mr. A. Henderson, gar- dener to Earl Manvers, with four Thorcsby Queen Pines in pots with fruit, which promise to be vei-y large and lieavy when swelled off, but 3iot being yet ripe, the merits of the variety,'which is stated to be a eeedling, eould not be detei-mined by the Fruit Committee. Messrs. Lane are awarded a first prize, Mr. Ewing, the second, and Mr. Salvage the third. Mr. Standish, of the Royal Nurseries, Ascot, exhibits a small fcasketful of his Royal Ascot Grape, a variety raised from Bowood Muscat and Trov.:ren Frontiguan, and having large oval jet black ijen-ies, covered with a very dense bloom, and borne on shori sturdy •warted stalks. The flesh is firm, but very juicy, and richly flavoured. Per this fine variety, which on this occasion was exhibited in a perfect ptate of ripeness, a first-class certificate was awarded. The town of Stowmarket gold medal for the three heaviest bunches Df Grapes, is taken by Mr. Meads, gardener to Raikes Currie, Esq., Mimley Manor, Faruborough, with the heaviest tliree bunches of Black Eamburgh which we remember to have seen ; the immense centre #>anch alone weighs 10 lbs., and the other two, which only cede to it 5n size, make the total weight 26^ lbs. The Thetford Horticultural Society's cup for the best six dishes of ©ut-door fruit goes to Mr. J. Sheppard, gardener to J. Bemers, Esq., Wolverstone Park, Who has fine White and Red Currants, Fastolfi' Ilaapberry, Strawberries, May Dulte Chenies. aud Musch Musch Apricots. Mr. Lving, gardener to the Duke of Hamilton, who also competes, sends fine Black Naples Currants and Citron des Cannes Pear, but not ripe. The Gm-drners" Chronicle cup for the best collection of Fruit and Vegetables is taken by Mr. Pottle, gardener to B. D. Colvin, Esq., Little Bealings, Woodbridge, with very good Black Prince Grapes, Iwo large Melons, scarlet and green-fle'shed ; fine white Dutch Cur- rants, Fastolff Raspberries, and Black Tartarian Cherries. The vegetables are Veitch's Perfection Peas, Sion House Kidney Beans, Olobo Artichokes, Johnson's Wondei-ful Broad Beans, fine; Merriott Scarlet Carrot, Whit-i Stone Tumips, and Birmingham Prizetaker Potatoes, \rith two good Telegraph Cucumbers. The Journal of Horticulture prizes for the best two desserts, con- sisting of not less than seven kinds of fruits of lH(17. arranged as for table, combining quality of fruit with taste in arrangement, and open to gentlemen's gardeners and amateurs only, are taken by Mr. Carmichael, gardener to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, San- dringham ; aud Mr. Blair, gardener to Sir G. N. Broke Middleton, Bart., Shrubland Park, Ipswich. Mr. Carmichael's collection consists of nineteen dishes in all, arranged in three rows, the centre being Grapes — namely, beautiful bunches of Black Hamburgh and Foster's White Seedling, on either side of these May Duke Cherries, aud a Green-fleshed Melon, then two small but excellent tjueen Pines, thdn two splendid dishes of Nectarines, large and beautifully colour*, d, finish- ing with two Providence Pine Apples. Front line, centre au excellent Prickly Cayenne Pine, then two dishes of Stirling Castle Peaches, finishing off at the two comei's with two magnificent dishes of Black Hamburgh Grapes, weighing from 3 to 4 lbs. each. Back liue, Pines on either side, Foster's White Seedling Grapes, aud Black Ham- burghs. Comer dishes. Strawberries. Mr. Blair's exhibition partakes somewhat more of a floral character, and is very tastefully arranged. The fruit is not so fine as in Mr. Carmichael's, but the arrangement is more pleasing and graceful. The three centre pieces are entirely of flowers set in tall, slender- stemmed, glass vases, flanked at the ends with a somewhat lower staud of mixed fruit and flowers, the centre being a small Queen Piuc with two bunches each of Black and White Grapes hanging over the edges, and a few Peaches, Nectarines, Cherries, &c., intermixed with some flowers ; in front and behind the centre vase are two beautiful Green-fleshed R[elons ; beautiful dishes of Hunt's Tawny Nectaiine, Yellow Goose- berries, and vei7 fine Raspberries, Peaches, Strawberries, Black Heart Cherries, and Green Marseilles Figs complete tht; exhibition. Mr. D. T. Fish exhibits eleven dishes, the centre a large standard vase of flowers somewhat stiff in aiTangement, the five dishes on either side being respectively filled with Figs, Peaches, White Nectarines, Apples, one dish of Black aud White Grapes, Gooseberries, White Currants, White Heart Cherries, Strawberries, and a Melon, each dish having a few flowers intermingled with the fruit. Lady Caroline Ken-isou also exhibits a collection, consisting of Grapes, Peaches, Nectarines, Figs, Jefferson Plums, d'c, set in coloured china vases, plates, and images, a few flowers being intei'spersed, and the whole being set off with a rather ingenious floral baud of Ferns, cut flowers of Roses, Pinks, Ferns, &c., laid ia a small tin case filled with water, which keeps them fresh. The Ipswich town cup for the best six pot Vines is awarded 1-3 Messrs. Lane & Son for Alicante, Foster's Seedling, Black Hamburgh and other Vines, loaded with fine bunches. The same firm likewise take the town cup for the best tivelve orchard-house trees, cousistiLg of Apples, Peaches, and Nectarines, Plums, Pears, Figs, and Cherries in excellent beaidng. The Thetford Horticultur.al Society's prize for the best eight kinds of vegetables is awarded to Mr. W. CoUius, Kelverstone Hall, Thet- ford, for Kidney Potatoes, Peas, Beans, Kidney Beans, Cauliflowers, Turnips, Carrots, Vegetable Marrows, all of which are very good. The cup offered by the same Society for the best two Melons aud the best brace of Cucumbers, goes to Mr. J. Borrie, Easton Hall. Ml-. Robert Fenn, of the Rev. G. W. St. John's, The Rectory, Woodstock, Oxon, sends thirty-seven sorts of Potatoes suitable for forcing, for garden cultivation, and for the farm. Of the earliest of these the tubers of last year's growth as well as of this are exhibited, as in the case of that excellent round kind Hogg's Coldstream, Shut^ ford Seedling (Kidney), and Premier, ^thus showing their qualities as regards earliness and long keeping. Of second early kinds, suit- able I'nr g.ardcns, we noticed Fenn's Onwards (Round), and Rivers's Royal Ashleaf. Of garden sorts, noticeable for souud-kecpiug. we ob- served Wheeler's Milky White, Daintree's New Seedling, the old Lap- stone Ividney, Hague's Kidney, and Pebble White. Of Farm kinds there are the old Fluke, British Queen, Giyffe Castle Seedling, White Farmer, and York Regent. Freebearer, though rnngh in ap- pearance, is very productive, white-fleshed, and excellent in flavour. Of early Potatoes of this season's growth Mr. Fenn has excellent tubers of Early Ten-week, Fenn's Onwards, Daintree's Seedling Round, Rintoul's (?) Early Don, very smooth-skinned, tinged with purple round the e^^es, but boiling very white ; Edgecote Second Early, Almond's First Early, scarcely distinguishable from Walnut-leaf Kid- ney, Old Early Ashleaf Kidney and Mona's Pride, also scarcely dis- tinguishable from each other: White-blossomed Ashleaf, good for production in pots and boxes ; Fortyfold cxceUont for mashing. Of most of the above a further account will be found in "N'ol. XL. page 386. As a new kind, Mr. Fenn exhibits his Rushbrooke Frame, a seedling from the Early Frame and his Russet Seedling Ividney. This kind, we are informed, is remarkable for its extremely dwarf top, and con- sequent suitability for culture in pots. It appears to be a promising kind for early forcing. Mr. Fenn lUiewise exhibits, under the title of " garden economics," his system of Vine-training, specimens of home- made Grape and other wines. Grape glasses, and a basket of Rivers's Muscat St. Laurent, a sort which he. finds particularly suitable for the back walls of vineries, where it ripens well under the shade of other Vines. Under the same title Mr. Fenn has also the " Alliance hive, adapted for cottagers," to be worked on the depriving system without destroying the bees, as described in our number for October 28th , July 18, 1867. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAJRDENEK. 45 1862 ; " the Fennian '* ByBtem of heating, drill hoes, mead, honey in glasses, and wax. Mr. P'onn has besiilea French Crab Apples of ls65 and 18GG in excellent preservation. nrPLEMF.NTrt. In garden seats in iron Messrs. J. B. Brown, 1 1>^, Upper Tbamos Street, London, wcn^ awarded a first-class certiticate for a seat with an iron hack in imitation of Nastnrtinm leaves, pretty in design, and for its appearance very cheap. In the next class, for seats in wood, Messrs. J. B. Bro^m (t Co. also take a first-class certificate for a good, neat, cheap seat on a wronght-iron frame. Mr. Morloy, of Ipswich, takes flimilar awards for wooden and convertible chairs. For what is called the Bury St. Edmund's Rattan basket a first- class certificate was awarded to Mi*s. Garnham, who is a daughter of our old bee authority, Mr. Payne. They aro ntjat, light, and well adapted for suspending in rooms, for holding plants in pots and bou(iuets. In cast-iron vases Messrs. J. B. Brown take first-class certificates for the Tazza Vase and the plain-fluted vase, botli of good design, very cheap, and suitable for gardens. A similar award was made to Heesrs. Sanders, Frewer S: Co., for the Leicoster flower vase, a hand- some cast-iron vase for garden and conservatory decoration. From Messrs. J. B. Brown there also comes a good exhibition of galvanised wire netting for poultry and game purposes, which is awarded a first-class certificate. Among mowing machines Messrs. J. B. Brown &; Co., 148, Upper Thames Stn-i-t, take a first-class certificate for their new patent B B 30-inch mowing machine, on account of its cheapness and facility of delivery. Messrs. Brown also exhibit an assortment of mowing machines'of various sizes. Messrs. Green, of Leeds, likewise show a nnmbcr of their eflicieut mowing machines of various sizes, for which they also take a certificate, likewise one for garden rollers. In garden engines Mr. K. Read, Regent's Cii'cus, Piccadilly, Lon- don, takes a lirst-class certificate for his well-known continuous-action engine, fitted into a twenty-eight-gallon vessel ; and he has a similar award for a hydraulic suction pump, which works well and easily, and keeps up a continuous stream. Among models of greenhouses, Messrs. Hamson & Bettridge, of Chelmsford, were awarded a first-class certificate for a ventilating apparatus for conservatories and hotbnnses. which p.ushes the sashes outwards and firmly fixes them at any rerjnired angle, tlins affording any desired amount of air. This is effected liy means of a handle, cog wheels, and a rod to which is attached a cogged segment and arm fixed to the front sashes. iThe apparatus can be adapted to both side and top lights, and can be fixed either inside or outside the house. Messrs. Cumming it I'ulmonds also show a model greenhouse, in which, instead of (he ordinary- putty-glazing, the glass is made to slide in a groove in the rebates, and is fixed in its place by a small zinc sprig at the fcottom of each pane. Ventilation is effected by rods lifting the whole of the lights outwards. The same exhibitors also show a number of flans of houses of various forms erected by them. Messrs. Sanders. 'rewer, it Co., Victoria Works. Bur^* St.^ Kdmunds. exhibit several of Beard's patent houses, one being a handsome curvilinear conseva- tory with the tmss-rods so fixed as to be useful for training climbers, another a forcing-pit. two others cheap lean-to's, and a fifth Ingram's Strawberry-house. In these ventilation is effected by a patent screw working a traversing rod with arms attached which open the lights. In the conservatory the lights are opened by a similar rod worked by bevelled wheels and a spindle. There is in addition a span-roofed conservatory- with a ventilating ridge. The whole of these houses are plazed on Beard's patent system, as described in the pages of this Journal. First-class cei-tificates were awarded for the mode of glazing without putty, for the mode of ventilation, and for a flower-stage cou- sifiting of cast-iron legs on which rest ordinary roofing- slates, forming a cheap and useful as well as inexpensive plant-stage. Messrs. Harrison tt Betteridge, Chelmsford, exhibit Milbank's Self- feeding Boiler, which in form resembles a saddle boiler set on one end. and having a domed top on the upper end. The advantages claimed for it are, that the whole strength of the fire is in contact with the water- surface. The heat circulates beneath the boiler and around its outside ander a dome of brick^vork. It is fed by a shoot in front to which can he attached a feeder as a prolongation, which it is stated will enable the fire to be kept in for twelve hours. In the same class Messrs. Camming tt Edmonds, Lillie Bridge. Richmond lioad, Fnlham, also lake a first-class certificate for their cast-ii-on tubular-arched saddle- boiler, resembling the letter U inverted, with tubes connecting the toj) and bottom waterways, between which the fire passes, and around which it is confined by a brick casing following the curve of the arch. The apparatus has been found to prove very eliicieut with a small con- STunption of fuel. EXPERIMENTS WITH POTATOES. Dr. Hexatjer, of Newcastle, New York, furnishes iis with an account of some experiments of his with Potatoes. AVe should preface the specifications of these results by stating that Pr. Hexamer is an accurate and scieutitic experimenter and obeerTer, and a good farmer. 1. Out of seventy hills of Potatoes, peeled so that no eyes were visible, thirty-five grew. Some produced very large Potatoes. The planted I'otatoea remained, mostly, hard and iirm till digging time. 2. Out of eighty hills, pieces cut without' eyes, thirteen hills grew. All these sprouted on the cut surface, none through the skin, (One large Potato, cut in two lengthwise, sprouted on the cut side near, but below the skin, and there was no eprout proceeding from a visible eye.) 3. Out of one hundred whole Potatoes, ninety-eight grew from the small end, and two at the side. With more than half the number of Potatoes planted whole, only one eye grew, the rest remaining dormant. 4. A Potato does not always expend all germinating power in one year. 5. Wet rot and dry rot are one and the same disease. Pota- toes affected with the rot, will rot dry when they are kept dry, and the same will rot wet when they are kept in a moist place. — {American Agriculturist.) C.\KRIAGED REEL FOR WATERING HOSE. I SEND a sketch of an ingenious machine for winding-up hose for watering gardens. It is of very light construction, being made of iron, and at a cost of about £1 5.^. ; all other reels that I have seen are much more expensive and do not answer the purpose so well. There is a small catch attached to the carriage to prevent the reel unwinding and to keep the hose firm on the reel. The in- vention is by a man residing in this town. If you should think proper to notice it, he would consider himself repaid by any orders he might receive for one or a number. — E. J, [We have received the sketch from a subscriber. If any one requires further information, they will obtain it probably by writing to *'E. J.," 2, Clive Place, Welshpool.] FIRST \\T5STERX ROSE SHO'W. WuEN the National Rose Show, the first show of Roses exclusively, was originated in IHoS. it was intended to be locomotive, in strict ac- cordance with its name ; but so soon as its founders saw how large a majority of the subscribers and exhibitors were located in the sunny south, they decided to fix its home, for a time at all events, in that more genial clime. It was established in London, and has never strayed beyond suburban range. The first show was held in St. James's Hall ; the second in Hanover Square ; the third in the Cn-stal Palace ; and seven shows in sequence at the gardens of the Royal IlorticaltaniJ Society, in combination with the special exhibition of Rosea held by the Society itself. There were, however, many earnest supporters of the first Grand National Rose Show, who, though they lived in chillier counties, where the "air bites shrewdly," and "it is verv' cold," had »s warm a love for the royal Rose, as could gladden a zealous heart. They assented at once to the decision of the majority. Tbcy loved the Rose too well for envyiugs and strife. They came louj; jonmeys from their Rose-clad homes, and returned jubilant, and yet not quit* content. Roses of equal beauty came forth in their own gardens, soon after the soathem show, why should these blush unseen ? Why should there not be ex- hibitions at which the midland, eastern, western, and northern Roses should meet in their prime and glory ? Hence arose the Birmingham Rose Show, the Stamford Rose Show, the Leicester Rose Show, the Kuf;by Rose Show, the Liverpool Rose Show, and, on Tuesday, the nth of July last, the first Western Rose Show, at Hereford. These olTshoots from the parent tree have developed or declined \vith varied fashion, but nunc have " come op " with more vigour and promise JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTDRB AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ July 18, WW. timn this scion, jnst now so firmly rooted in the rich, rosy soil of Here- ford. All honour to the hand which put in the cuttiuf», that of the JRev. 0. H. Bulmer, of Credenhill Kectoiy, Herel'onl, and to the many coadjutors, "who, when it was struck, were eager to tend and train. A bonnier baby was never bom, nor one which showed at such an early age a capability to walk alone. When we reached the Shire Hall, in the early morning of Tuesday, we found it most tastefully prepared for the reception of the Hoses. The orchestra and central table were gracefully ornamented with beau- tiful plants from the nursery at King's Acre, and from the gardens of tlie neighbouring gentry (specially to be observed, and justly placed in the most conspicuous position, a glorious plant of Lilium auratum. having twenty-two ilowers on three stems, and from a single bulb), which just prevented the uniformity of the Rose-boxes from being at all monotonous ; and a pretty collection of decorative articles for the drawing-room, jewelleiy, clocks, etc., from which prizetakers might select, if they pleased, was effectively grouped at the upper end of the Hall. Soon the tables began to fill, until they were quite full, with Roses. Ah ! sweet Roses. Mr. Cranston, it is known to rosarians, has this year escaped the cruel frosts, and has consequently beaten all England, from tirst to last — at the Crystal Palace, at Kensington, Bir- mingham, and elsewhere. And hero he was on his own ground, like a Mng and a conqueror, " happy and glorious." Only a king with a lion heart would dare to cope with him in his own camp, to challenge the Donglas in his own hall, and such a royal champion came, and threw down his gauntlet, boldly as though on his own Salisbuiy Plain, in the person of brave John Kej-nes. Well might meaner knights stand by with bated breath to see such warriors fight, and, indeed, it was a grand spectacle. The chief victory (for seventy-two varieties) was won fcy Cranston, but the next battle (for forty-eight) by Keynes, and the engagement generally reflected the highest honour npon the two re- nowned combatants. Among amateurs, Mr. Pen-y, Mr. Arkwright, the Rev. G. Ari- Wlight, Sir Yelters Cornewell, "the Rev. C. H. Bulmer (the founder of the feast of Roses), Major Heywood, and others, were, considering the severity- of the season, and the novelty of the nndertaldng (some of the exhibitors showing for the first time) most successful, and more ex- perienced competitors, going next year to Hereford, must look to their- Laurel wreaths, keeping them ti.ght upon their heads, as a sportsman presses down his hat when he charges some larger leap, lest they be changed for the Cypress of defeat, and their wearers be reduced from ofiicers in " the /Idi/x." to mere privates in " the Bhie.i." Roses, arran.gcd with Ferns and other foliage, for the decoration of the dinner-table, were a most effective addition to the Show, occupying half of the central table, and exhibiting much graceful taste. Mrs" Berkeley Stanhope took precedence with a very' elegant display, and was worthily followed by six other competitors. White table'cloths should be used for these decorations, and will be in future at Hereford. Designs in vases were well done, especially one, which, shaped like a balloon, was composed of distinct colours, divided by Feros, and which took the first prize. A basket of Mr. Cranston's glorious Roses took the second honours. The bouquets of Roses were prettily arranged, but were disqualified by the censors (in accordance with the strict requirement of the schedule, that they must be available for the hand), with the exception of two, sent by Major Heywood, which honourablv and handsomely ful- filled the law. Why do our English bouquet-makers always cons'truet their posies as if they were intended for Chang ? The Show was. altogether, channingly complete, and its merits were heartily appreciated by many hundreds of spectators, who came in crowds to see. Some complained of the heat, and some that they could not see for the press, and .all agi-eed that the first Western Rose Show was coitleur dc ruse, and a grand success. TESTIMONL\L TO MR. ROBERT THOMPSON. The allotted time for man's existence on earth is three scovo years and ten, what then ought we who have received so much horticultural benefit from the practical teaching of a man who has devoted two score of those years entirely to the science and practice of horticulture, do to make the last years of his life glide pleasantly away? Those thoughts have been sug- gested by the long and faithful services rendered by Mr. Robert Thompson to the Royal Horticultural Society. For forty- three years he has done all that possibly lay in his power for the advancement of horticulture, and "for the great services rendered he has been very poorly remunerated. During this time he has brought up a family in the most respectable manner. He is a man possessing a most kindly nature, and one of the most unassuming men I ever met. From the year 1824, np to the present time, Mr. Thomoson has been a'fre- •quent contributor to the horticultaral press. Most of us can even now gain useful informatoin from his well-written articles ■which appeared in Loudon's "Gardener's Magazine," and the Gardeners' Chronicle, from its commencement in 18-11. It will be observed by the most casual reader, that these articles were written by a thoronghly practical man. Then, the "Fruit Catalogue " of the Horticultural Society, may be said to be one of his most creditable works, and his " Gardener's Assistant" may be truly said to be one of the very best works on practical gardening ever written. This book ought to be in the hands of every gardener, and more especially of young gardeners. If they will at once procure this book, which may be had at a very moderate cost, by reading it diligently they may find a never- failing source of information on every subject connected with the garden. This, with perseverance in their daily practice, will soon help them on, and make them if they will, well fitted to fill situations of trust and responsibility. Mr. Thompson's meteorological reports which have been given so accurately through a long series of years, surely ought to receive some recognition from the Governmentofthiscoimtry. I must again ask the question. What ought we to do to make the last years of such a good and zealous man happy ? Un- doubtedly we can do a very great deal, what I would suggest is, that all my fellow labourers who are engaged in the wide field of horticultiire, should assist in getting up a testimonial to Mr. Thompson. Not long ago a very handsome testimonial was presented to Her Majesty's gardener. As soon as this idea was mooted, there was a hearty response. This testimonial was given not because of any particular service rendered to horti- culture generally by Mr. Ingram, but as a recognition of his long and faithful service rendered to the Royal Family. The fact of Mr. Ingram holding his present high position for half a century, would suggest the idea that to him the handsome testimonial was only a superfluity, although very gratifying. With Mr. Thompson the case is very difi'erent : he, as I have before stated, has been very poorly remunerated, and has had to bring up a family. I, therefore, hope all will contribute as much as they can afford. By doing this they will show their appreciation for the past labour of a true and faithful man ; it will also be an encouragement for young gardeners to make themselves as useful to the purpose of horticulture as they can, and will offer this inducement to them, that their fellow workers will not be unmindful of the service they have rendered, when they become unfit by age to fill the position which has been assigned them. I shall on my part feel a great pleasure in giving a guinea towards a testimonial to Mr. Thomp- son, and shall use my influence with my assistants to induce them to contribute their mite towards this very desirable object. I would further suggest that the Editors of all the horticul- tural Journals should receive contributions, and that the amount subscribed should be invested in some safe stock, which will realise a yearly income to Mr. Thompson for the remainder of his life. I may state in conclusion, that I have no motive whatever in offering these suggestions, but am only prompted by a sense of justice, for I am scarcely known to Mr. Thompson, more than by name. I, therefore, hope the appeal I now make will be heartily responded toby both head gardeners and their assistants. If the latter will only subscribe a shilling each, their sub- scription will he a credit to them, and shillings make pounds. If by making this appeal I can bring the desired object to ma- turity, it will be a source of gi'eat pleasure and gratification to me. — J. Wills. [Since the above was written by Mr. Wills — and in the whole of his observations we heartily concur — we are informed that a preliminary meeting for raising a fund to be invested for the benefit of, and as a testimonial to Mr. Thompson, was held on the 9th inst., and the following address resolved to be cir- culated : — " The retirement of Mr. Robert Thompson from active duty in the service of the Royal Horticultural Society, has been thought by his numerous friends to offer a fitting occasion on which to present him with a substantial Testimonial, expressive of their cordial sympathy with him in his declining years, and indicating also their high appre- ciation of the man^- services which he has rendered to Pomology and Meteorology during a long and active life. " The Council of the Royal Horticultural Society, acting as the ex- ponents of the wishes which have been expressed that Mr. Thompson's services should be publicly recognised in tiiis way, have taken the initiative by inviting several gentlemen connected with horticulture to attend a preliminary meeting, at which a Committee was named to carry out the proposed object. [The Committee consists of the Council of the Royal Horticultural Society, the Intei-national Com- mittee, and other gentlemen connected with horticulture aud meteor- ology ; the Duke of Buccleuch, President ; Mr. W. W. Saunders, A'^ice- President ; aud Dr. Hogg and Mr. Thomas Moore, Joint Secretaries.] " The many services rendered by Mr. Thompson both to Horticul- tnral and Meteorologicical Science ai-c well knowiv to those actively engaged in these pursuits, but it may be proper on such an occasioa July IS, 1667. 1 JOURNAL OF HOBTICDLTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 47 as tho present to briefly rooapilnlate tfaom. For upwards of forty yoaro, thcu, he has held a prominent position in tho working stofF of the Koyal Horticultural Society. Ho entered the Society's sorvieo in lB2-t, Uio Bocond year aftiT tho establishment of tlio garden at Chie- wick, and in 1.S2G wiift appointed to tho charge of the Fruit Depart- ment, which then coutaiuod the finest and most extensive collection of fruits in Flnrope. At that time comparatively few of tho varieties were knoivii in tliin country, and the whole iiomenclutnre was in a state of confusion, reqniriuf; unwearied application and perseverance to clear it up. so that tho riches of tho collection niijjht be made avail- nblo to the Fellows of the Society, and to the country. In 1S:U a * Deflc-riptivo Catalofjne ' of these fruits was published, from memo- randa taken at Chiswick, and in this valuable work Mr. Tlionipson, with great success, succeeded in caiTjin^ oat his doaign of indicntins the good and bad sorts, together with their Bynonyms, and Eiieh brief characteristics as it was thought would be moKt generally useful. By means of this catalopiio a kuowledi^o of tho superior kinds of fruits was much more rapidly spread throughout tho country than it could have been by any other available means. The distribution of scions of new fruits waa consequent!}- carried on with assiduity, and much consideration was bestowed in endeavouring to select such kinds as were most likely to succeed in the loculiticsfor which they wore destined. " While this important work was year after year being carried out, Sir. Thompt^on was engaged in making experiments both in the fruit and kitchen garden departments, carefully reporting tho results ; in taking descriptions of new varieties of fruits as they came into b^'aring ; and in preparing another edition of the Fruit Catalogue, which was published in 1>^1'2, and a supplement in 1S53. These descriptions and records have been of the greatest pi-actical utility. Upwards of two thousand pages of tho Society's vanotis publications have beeu written by Mr. Thompson, but the Fruit Catalogue claims prominence, as having been tho standard of fruit nomenclaturo in this country ; wliile his * Gardeners' Assistant,* a work not connected with llie Society, may be cbaracteriftcd as the best and most scientific of compendious treatises on modem gardening. " For nearly a similar period Mr. Thompson has devoted much at- tention to metoorologj-. Tho Meteorological Journal of tho Society, which was commenced in 1826, and which has been carried on by him Binco 1830, gives tho readings of the barometer (corrected for tempera- ture, (tc), moniing, noon, and night ; of the thermometer, maximum and minimum, in snn and shade ; and of tho hygrometer ; compara- tively with avera;.'es of forty years, deduced from 219,000 observations of the various instruments. Such broad averages afford what must bo considered as true means with which extremes may bo compai'cd as rc- fards heat, pressure, and moisture. The observations of sixteen years ave been translated froin the " Transactions " of tho Horticultural Society into those of tho Royal Philosophical Society of Berlin ; and np to the present time a weekly return has been published in the Ourtlcncrs' Chmnich'. Among other papers from Mr. Thompson's hands, connected with this branch of science, is a Table of Tempera- tures for the use of gardeners, published in the Journal of the Horti- cultural Society, which furnishes an idea of the climate of some nine hundred places, sitnated in different latitudes. " With a modesty peculiarly his own, and with ft degree of plodding pcrseveranco which cannot be too highly recommended as an example to the rising generation of horticulturists, Mr. Thompson has worked on at these, his favourite pursuits, with zeal and assiduity, setting before himself tho object of rendering service to science rather than lliat of jiersunal (;ain ; and now after a long and nsefnl career, when his physical powers begin to fail him, it has been thought that an ex- pression of public sympathy in acknowledgment of his life-long labours, would servo to gladden and solace the remaining years of his life. *' It is proposed that a subscription list be opened uuderthe manage- ment of tho Committee, and that a money Testimonial he presented as soon as a reasonable time for response has elapsed. Subscriptions, which will be duly announced, will bo received by any member of the Committee; by the Society's bankers (London and County Bank, Kensington) ; by the Secretaries — Dr. Hogg. 99, St. George's Road, Pimlico, S.W., and Thomas Moore, Esq., Botanic Gardens, Chelsea, S.W. ; or by James Richards, Assistant Secretary of the Koyal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, W."] ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S MEETING. The June Meeting of this Society was held at the rooms of the Linnean Society, at Burlington House, the President, Sir John Lub- bock. Bart., in the chair. Mr. F. Pasf'oc exhibited various interesting Colcoptera, from Gra- ham's Town, South Africa, including some very rare Longicoms, and Mr. T. W. Wood specimens of a Tortoise-shell Bntterilv. closely allied to Vanessa ui-ticp?, fiom British Colnmbin, i"om.arkable for the pale band of the hind winrs being denuded of scales. Mr. Stainton exhibited tiie dilTcrent states of a small Jloth, Earias siliquana, which !ms proved extremely injurious to the cotton crops in both Upper and Jjower Egyi)t, the caterpillar eating tho ovary of the flower and changing to a chi'jsalis within the ball of cotton. Mr. F. Bond rxhihlted specimens of a f-pecies of Tortricidre. new to the country, taken by Mr. Meek at Darenth Wood ; also a bright golden Tariefy of Adela DeGeerella. Mr. F. Smith exhibited specimens of a solitary Wasp, Odynemd quadratus, which had built its cells at the end of an empty compart- ment of a razor case which had been damaged. The cells were irregularly arranged, and had produced ten male and four female Wasps. The cells of the femalee were, however, nil together at the furthest end of the case. The insects had remained in the larva state till tho 20th of March. On the 20th of May they were found to have changed to pupte, and at the beginning of the following month the perfect insects were produced. Otlier instances were mentioned ia whieh the Wasps had selected tho crevices of locks, flutes, and the bindings of books for the reception of their nests. Mr. S. Stevens exhibited a number of Hair-worms (Gordins or Mennls sp.), which had been observed in the morning of tho day of meeting shortly after a violent storm of rain. They were noticed swarming on Rose bushes and other plants, and had been seen simul- taneously by Mr. Stevens at Kenuington and also at Ashford on Rose bushes. Mr. W^eir had also noticed them at Brixton, and Mr. Bond near the Regent's Park, also on bushes. They were about 2 inches long, and their ordinary condition of life is that of i>ara8ites within the bodies of other insects. Sir John Lnbboek exhibited Kpidapns Venaticns, a remaikable small species of Gnat, which is entirely destitute of wings. It is of very great rarity in this conntry, having been only previously taken in the Isle of Man. The President had found it in his own grounds at High Kims, Kent, under decaying bark. Some observations were mode relative to Mr. Smith's paper on the comparative rarity of males orfcmales in certain speciog of insects ; and Mr. MacLachlan mt ntioned a species of Saw-fly, which might then be taken flying over Fern in the utmost profusion ; but among thousands of females not a single male could be found. The same also was observed respecting a small Beetle. Tomicns villosus. In answer to an inquiry by Professor W^estwood as to the existence of any variation in the colours of the lansB of tho different sexes, Mr. Smith observed that he bad at one time thought that the ivory white and safl'ron yellow coloured larvse of the wild Bee, Authophora rotusa, might be of the opposite sexes ; but ho had subsequently reared males and females indiscriminately from each kind of larva. The July meeting of the Entomological Society (being the last of the present season according to the new arrangements for discontinu- ing the meetings during the long vacation), was held on tho 1st inst., the President occupying the chair. It was stated that the species of Hair-worm exhibited by Mr. S. Stevens at the preceding meeting, and which had attracted so much attention from its simultaneous appear- ance in vast quantities in different places, proved to be tho Mermis nigrescens. A new part of tho Society's " Transactions ' was laid on the table. Mr. McLachlan exhibited a Spider, Cinitio ferox, en- ti'-ely covered ^rith white mould; also living specimens of a large llat Spider and a Centipede taken on board a ship from Manilla. Mr. Rippert sent for exiibition portions of an Orange tree from Sidney greatly infested by insects, which proved to be a small species of Coccus, entirely covering the bark in the same way as the Beech stems are sometimes covered in this countn*. Mr. Stainton exhibited a minute new species of Moth reared from the Elm. in tho south of France, in the months of Februarj* and March. The Hon. T. De Gray exhibited a rare Eupecilia taken iu Norfolk, and HypercalliA ChrisneiTiana fiom Kew. Mr. A. R. Wallace communicated an elaborate memoir on the Cetonidie of the Malayan Archipelago, where the species appear to be comparatively rare, since from thirty localities visited by the writer during his eight years' travels, he had only secuixd eighty-five species. The Longicorn Beetles, on the coutrarj-. were verj- numerous, as ho had taken more than a thousand different kinds. The Cetouiffi are very fond of flying over the Palm tree flowers and Melastoma". Mr. Trimen, who had recently returned from South Africa, had found them not only in flowers, but also lapping up the sap of wounded trees ; and Mr. Kuper had found them lapping up the sap of the Sugar Palm used for making toddy. The President communicated a remarkable memoir by Mr. Lowe, of Edinburgh, in opposition to the porthenogenetic theory of the de- velopment of the males of the honey bee by unimpregnatod queens,, detailing a series of experiments, which had resulted in the production of hybrid males, which would not have been the ease unless the eggs from which they had been produced had been fecundated by being brought into contact with a male of a different species. NOTES AND GLEANINGS. "We are pleased to be able to announce that at a meeting of. the Council of the Royal Horticultiual Society, hold at Bury St. Edmunds on Tuesday, it was unanimously resolved to con- fer a Forty-guinea Fellowship on Mr. D. T. Fisn. of Hardwicke,. for his great exertions in connection with the Show, which ia now being held at Bury under the auspices of the Society. — — - It will be seen by our report that the prizes offered by the proprietors of this Journal for the two best-an-anged desserts at the Bnry Show of the Royal HcrticuUui-al Society have beeu respectively gained by Mr. Carmichael, gardener to 48 JOUKNAL OF HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ July 18, 1867. H.E.H. the Prince of Wales, at Sandringbam, and Mr. Blair, gardener to Sir G. Broke Middleton, Bart., of Shrublands Park. The Annual Conversazione of the Koyal Horticultural Society -will be held on Wednesday, the 24th inst. The Society's next examination of young gardeners will be on the 30th and Slst of December. Many will regret to hear, that after a long continuance of declining health, caused by paralysis, JUr. George Paul, of the Cheshunt Nursery, died ou the 7th inst., aged 56. 5In. T. L. Plant has published in the Medical Times the following table, from nineteen years observations, showing the earliest and latest dates on which the foliage or blossom of various trees has commenced expanding, compared with the same observations in 1867 : — Earliest. Latest. 1867. Balsam Poplar [PopiiJus balsami(era) March 6...\pril 19.. April 15 Lerch (Abies Larix) March 21.. April 14. .April 14 Horse-chestnut i.Esculus Hippocastanum).. March 17. .April 19. .April 19 Sycamore (Acer Pseudo-platanus) March 23. .April 23. .April 25 Damson blossom (Prunus domesticfl) March28..May 13..ApriI17 Lime (Tilia europfca) .April G,.May 2.. April 30 Beech (Fagus sylvaticn) April 19.. May 7.. May 1 Spanish-chestnut (Castanea vesca) April 20. -Hay 20. .May 4 Oak(Quercusrobur) April 10. .May 26. .May 3 Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) May 13. . Juue 14. .May 16 Mulberry (Moras nigra) May 12. .June 23. .May 16 The Melbourne Botanic Gardens, we learn from the Argus, with the adjoining park reserves, comprise an area of about four hundred acres. They are situated on the south banks of the river. Of this area twenty-one acres are devoted to flora! cultivation, eighteen are planted with select specimens of trees and shrubs, eleven are occupied by the lake ; nearly the whole of the remainder is planted with Pines, Cork Oaks, and many other kinds of useful forest trees, besides hedges and copses. The lake contains six artificial islands of picturesque appearance, which are the favourite haunts of large quantities of waterfowl, including Swans, Geese, Pelicans, and many smaller kinds. The gardens include a Palm-house (the largest conservatoi7 in Australia), three smaller greenhouses, a house for the Victoria Eegia, and three forcing-houses. The plants kept in pots vary from 40,000 to 50,000. Nearly 450,000 plants have during the last nine years been sent out from the gar- dens for planting in various public reserves in all parts of the colony, and about 420,000 seed packages have been for- warded either to colonial institutions or abroad for interchanges. About 21,000 trees of the most handsome and useful kinds from all parts of the globe are now growing in the gardens. The length of the various walks is fifteen miles, all of which are planted with trees or ornamental shrubs. The buildings, waterworks, iron fencing, and other works of permanent character are valued at £29,000. The main basis for the opera- tions which have brought the gardens into their present form was laid in 1857, at which time the Government secured the services of Dr. F. Mueller, F.E.S., for their administration. The department of which they form a part also comprises a scientific branch, with Dr. Mueller as Government botanist. The museum of dried plants is by far the largest in the southern hemisphere, and contains about 300,000 specimens. A labora- tory is kept in working order for testing the capabilities of Australian plants for affording useful products, such as tar, vinegar, oils, dyes, paper materials, textile fibres, chemicals, &c. WORK FOR THE ^VEEK. KITCHEN O.VIU)EN. Broccoli, see that the newly-planted crops of this and winter Greens receive a good watering or two to give them a start, pro- vided the weather is bright and dry. Endive, sow another bed forthwith ; this will come in very useful. Celery, follow up planting as spare ground and suitable weather occur, and be stire to water most thoroughly that already planted. People sometimes complain of their Celery plants " running." Celery plants in a gross state need Httle more than drought to bring on flowering. Coleirorts (Winter), prepare a good breadth of ground for a crop, do not be afraid of too much manure for them. Peas, loosen the ground gently near the rows of ad- vancing crops, and water if necessary. PRUIT GARDEN. Persevere in pruning back, or eradicating, all superfluous breastwood, more especially in trained trees. Complete all summer nailing as soon as possible, remembering that the wood of Peaches, Nectarines, and Apricots is seldom over-ripe in this climate — frequently, indeed, the reverse. Disbud the gross wood from Figs, reserving the moderately strong wood, but, above all, that which is short-jointed. When heavy rains have beaten the surface of the ground, the latter will require to be stirred. Fruit trees thrive better in borders that are frequently forked, properly manured, and cropped with Lettuces, or other plants that do not root too deeply, than where the ground is not cropped, and but seldom stirred. It will, therefore, be ad- visable to fork over the borders which have not been recently disturbed, taking care not to injure the roots of the trees by the operation. This had better be performed whilst the ground is sufficiently moist, and if dry weather should set in, copious waterings ought to be given. It is frequently the case, that the surface of a border forming a regular slope is smoothly raked, so that water, from heavy rains more especially, readily glides oiif, and a less beneficial supply from artificial watering must be substituted. Sometimes crops are sown or planted in rows across the borders, and afterwards landed up ; the furrows consequently formed exhibiting a close system of surface drainage, not at all objectionable in the case of a very wet soil and season, but highly so in summer under ordinary circumstances. Proceed with budding Cherries and Apricots, and with other fruit trees, as the buds become in a fit state, which in this season will generally be the case rather later than usual. FLOWER GAKHEN. Eoses going out of bloom should be constantly gone over, cutting off all dead flowers, &c., and Moss and other varieties should be layered as soon as the young wood is sufficiently ad- vanced in growth. Pinks now out of bloom, from which pipings have been taken, if they have blossomed two years, should be cut off close, or removed, to make room for young plants of this year's striking. Diihlias require constant care in regard to tying up as they advance in growth. Sweet Williams, Wall- flowers, Dianthuses, and other hardy biennials, should be thinned, planting out the thinnings into borders, or into nursery-beds till spring. Lawns should be kept continually mown during showery weather, and edgings of walks clipped. See that strong stakes are afforded to plants of heavy foliage and gross habits, as Dahlias, Delphiniums, Asters, Phloxes, &c. Continue to fill up blanks as they occur, from the reserve ground, and attend to the layering of Carnations. GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. Follow up shifting with such hardwooded tribes as require it. A turfy compost of three-parts sandy peat soil of a fibrous and lumpy character, and one-part sound loam of a similar texture, will suit the majority. The more tender kinds will require lumps of charcoal, stone, or crocks introduced occasion- ally until near the surface of the pot. Let every attention possible be paid to drainage. This cannot be too complete, taking care especially to use very broken crocks at the bottom, for if these lay too flatly and become closed-up in consequence, it matters httle how much depth of drainage material rests upon them — all will be stagnation. In the mixed greenhouse shifting will be the order of the day. Attend to the principles of thorough drainage as explained above. Now is the time to lay the foundation of a good late display. Cinerarias, Chinese Primroses, the Anne Doleyu Pink, Heliotropes, Fuchsias in succession. Chrysanthemums, and, above all, the Perpetual, Tea, and other Eoses must be well attended to in regard to watering, shifting, &c. Remember that the final shift should be given in good time to those intended to flower in the autumn. Many of the plants which are now growing rapidly should be set in the open air, as those of a soft nature are apt, under good and free cultivation, to become too succulent, and, as in the case of stove plants, they are subject to damp off or mildew under glass. Proceed with the propagation of aU kinds of exotic plants, and especially of Pelargoniums. Expose those to the open sun intended for next season's flowering, to harden and perfectly mature the wood is of paramount importance, more especially for plants intended for exhibition. STOVE. Admit more air into the house as the season advances, be- cause although this is the period when every advantage ought to be taken of heat and light, still the confinement of a stove is apt to draw the plants, especially if carried out too late in the season. Growth is now required in most kinds of plants, but the great art is to harden or perfectly mature that growth, or the plants will suffer much during winter. Many of the plants in an advanced state may now be placed in the green- house, which should be closed on cold nights. PITS AND FRAirES. i Put in cuttings of the best kinds of Antirrhinume, Mule Jal7 13, 1867. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE OARDEMEB. 43 Pink3, herbaceous Diloxos, itc, either under hand-glassea or in ontting-pots, and place them in cold frames or pitj. Those already rooted must he hardcnod-olT by defirees to bo ready (or planting out. Shitt l!alaam.s, Chrysanthemums, &c. Chrysan- themums which have been planted out and are now growing tall may have their branches regularly pegged out, so as to have their tips turned up preparatory to their being layered towards the end of next month. The Phloxes, Ac, should be slightly watered when the cuttings are put in, and should receive a slight shading in sunshine for the first month, after which they may be gradually inured both to sunlight and air. — W. Iveank. DOINGS OF THE LAST -WTSEK. KITCHEN 0.iRI)EN. General work much the same as in previous week. Would have planted out winter stuff, but had no ground at liberty. Will have some ground cleared of Potatoes before this ia printed, which ground wUl bo immediately filled ; and as soon as a Strawberry-quarter is cleared of its fruit, that will bo trenched and planted. This is one of the disadvantages of having a enmU kitchen garden in proportion to the demands made upon it, so that a piece of ground can never bo many days empty. If we feel the least promjitiugs of envy, it is on observing in April and May whole quarters undergoing fallow- ing treatment before they are filled with Broccoli and Winter Greens. Sowed Cabbages for the first spring crop, and will sow again in eight or ten days. We are anything but insensible to the value of novelties in Peas, or anything else, hut there are three old Peas now that no one with a small garden should bo without, when their wonderful fecundity is taken into consideration, and these are Sangster's No. 1, for being early, though not so early as some others ; Dickson's Favourite for a second succession, that boars such loads of its large well-filled pods ; and the little sweet Pea, Knight's Dwarf White Marrow. This for size has no chance with the Ne Plus Ultra, Veitch's Perfection, Dwarf Mammoth, Excelsior, &c., but it is very sweet and a wonderful bearer. Much timo has been taken up in keeping irrciLi down before they became too large for the hoe, as the fine rains followed by such hot weather brought them up in shoals. When we could not get at them all at once, we had the scattered plants of Groundsel taken up and carried away before the bloom opened. In the ease of strong plants showing bloom, it is little use cut- ting them up and leaving them in dull weather, as the plant in such a case will have enough of succulence to perfect the seeds. It does seem amazing where all the weeds come from. A few weeks ago every bit of ground was hoed, and yet lately the surface in many places was getting green. Last year we were overspread everywhere with Sow Thistles, as if a crop had been sown, but this year we have scarcely seen any. We believe we acquire many weeds by collecting compost from the sides of the highways. Infact,'in most places the hedges by the sides of the highway are disgraceful. From one hedge we; have seen enough of Thistle-down Hying with the seed at its bottom, to make suro that the Thistle shall not be got rid of in that county. Wo little think when we allow a few Groundsel plants to seed and scatter their progeny, how much work we are preparing, not only for ourselves, but even for those who come after us. We have frcjucntly removed G inches of surface soil, dug up what was left 18 inches deep, placing the lowest layer carefully on the surface, and covered with close hand-lights, and in the summer the tops of the hand-lights would he pretty well lifted up by varieties of wild plants, chiefiy weeds. We hardly know bow long some seeds will retain their vitality if placed beyond tho reach of air, nor yet how soon they will germinate when having enough of moisture and exposed to atmospheric in- fluence. Tho only economical remedy for weeds in a garden is to get them cut up before they are much more than an inch in height, when the sun will soon shrivel them out of sight. We see before our eyes a proof of thij. In the press of matter a piece of new herb ground was let alone too long, and to save the herbs we shall have to pull up the larger weeds, which will involve a great loss of time, as much as would have sufficed to drive the hoe slightly through it a dozen of times. Slopiiiri Bunks. — These are of great utility in a garden, espe- cially when the banks run from east to west, and thus have one side exposed to the south, and the other to tho north, as thus early and late crops are secured. The banks may be made of any size, from 8 to 18 feet or more at the base, and merely require to have ground thrown from the sides to tho centre, so as to leave the bank in a pyromidal shape like tho roof of a span-roofed house. A bank 10 feet in width at base, and about 3 feet in height at the centre, or ridge, is very useful. This, if the bank is equal on each side, will give a slope of about 0 feet, thus increafiag the surface from 10 to 12 feet. A more useful bank, however, is formed by having the top of the ridge nearer the north than tho south side, so as to have a slope of 7 feet to the south, and a rather more steep slope of 5 feet to the north. The south side comes in admirably for early salads, early Potatoes, Turnips, Cauliflower, Sec, and the north side does well for summer salading. Turnips, itc. The south also answers well for early Strawberries, and the north side for late ones. We find, also, that, owing to being free from sudden changes, the north side does well for Lettuces, See., in winter, where they often stand uninjured, wliilst cut up on the south side. For early work we often stick a row of evergreen branches on the ridge, which gives the plants on the south side the advantage of a fence or hedge in moderating the force of the north winds. These banks come in as a good substi- tute for tho fruit-tree borders in front of walls with a south aspect, which are generally too freely used, because in reality tho position for early crops is so useful. These banks when onco thrown up will not be hastily thrown down again, though, as they depend entirely on the soil in tho garden, they can be levelled down again when people got tired of them. They can ho more easily made high in the centre if two or three banks are made as "the valley that forms a small pathway on each side of them may bo taken out deeper, and thus it will operate as a surface drain as well as a pathway. Their general usefulness acknowledged, there are just two things wo would notice concerning them. First, there is the objection made, that from tho slopes the plants want more watering than when grown on the level. We do not find this to hold true in practice. Even on the south side the greater power of the sun is counteracted by the greater depth of soil, especially when kept surface-stirred. The second objection, whilst acknowledging the benefit of the two chmates, denies that we obtain any more available surface than would be ob- tained from the base of our triangular-looking ridge. It is contended that no more plimts can be grown on these slopes than would be grown on the level base. We lately had a friendly chat on this subject with a reverend and learned gen- tleman, and like most discussions, we presume, it ended in each being strengthened in his own opinions. In such small ridges we agree that in the case of tall plants little would be gained by the increase of surface ; but in all low-growing plants we are of opinion that the increased surface is just so much increased available space. Stand in front of a border, which is again in front of a wall, and you can easily count how many plants it will require to go across from walk to wall on the flat ; but now stretch a rod from under the coping to the wall and the side of the walk, and in proportion to the width of the border will you increase the surface line, so that there you will require more plants to go from front to back at equal distances, and these increased numbers will each do as well as if on the flat, and have nearly as much direct light, just because they stand tier on tier above each other. Wo are supposing that the plants are dwarf, say from 12 to IS inches in height. We know that learned men have insisted, as a self-evident proposition, that the steep sides of a lofty mountain can grow no more trees in perfection than would have grown on the base of that mountain, as though the surface is increased, the base line and perpendicular lines to the light are not increased. We believe that even more lofty trees can be grown on the in- creased surfaces, and all the more the more lofty the hill, other things being equal, because the higher trees receive direct light without robbing the lower trees of their due portion. Another famihar illustration we may give. Take a greenhouse with a sloping roof, either lean-to or span-roofed. If that house is to be filled with large plants, it matters little whether there be a stage or not, wo can place no more in it than will get access to light, if we wish them to thrive. Hut in this house we wish to give justice to as many plants as possible— say ranging from t; to 18 inches in height. Would wo on the base of the moun- tain, or tho base of the bank theory, consider we could do no bettor than fill the floor of tho house, or a flat table stage to bring them near the glass ■' With that plan we have no fault to find, it has its conveniences, but assuredly we should not think of resorting to it, but would at once have sloping stages, and have the plants placed thickly tier above tier, if we wished to give the greatest number of low plants the best chance for room and light in such a house. However, in this and all other matters, we are open to conviction. Only if wrong in our ideas, 50 JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AIsD COTTAGE GAKDENEE. [ Jnly 18, 1867. we mnst come to the condnsion that the sloping stages in our plant-houses, as well as sloping banks in our gardens, are, as respects giving good healthy room to more small plants, all a mistake and a waste of means. FEUIT GAKDEV. Much the same as last week. Pruning, thinning, watering, and syringing, and protecting from robbers of aU kinds. ORNAMEKTAL DEPARTMENT. We trust the lawns are now secured from getting parched this season, and but for some Plantains on newly-laid turf, would look beautiful. Most of the beds have been finally made up, edgings regulated, and if let alone, will be showy, and are already pretty well, though not quite full of bloom yet. We were glad to keep our plants in safety until the frosts of May were gone. There has been an extra demand for bedding plants this season, owing to so many having been lost that were early planted. We think it safest, in general, to wait until towards the last week in May. Much time has been taken up in potting Pelargoniums, Bal- sams, Caladiums, Ferns, Gesneras, &c., but instead of insisting on such matters, there are some things wo would wish to bring to the consideration of our amateur readers, as respects their beddivff plants. First. Let them recollect that the interest in their beds will greatly depend on their always appearing in health, and not a decayed leaf or floret to be seen. And a great attraction in a bed, so long as a bit of earth is to be seen, is to have the sur- face clean and stirred, instead of hard or baked, and cracking; of course, a weed is out of the question. One such nice bed will yield more pleasure than a dozen showing the signs of tawdriness and neglect. Secondly. As soon as the plants are well established, we would recommend cutthiffs to be taken off early. Yerbenas are apt to have the thrips if taken off late. The side shoots of Scarlet Pelargoniums will be the best. As giving least trouble we advise all cuttings, if possible, to be put into pots or boxes, as they can be so easily moved in changes of weather. Ver- benas, and things of that kind, to go under glass. Pelargoniums, &c., will do in the open air. If planted out in a border, they must be lifted and potted. For general things, the pots should be filled half full with drainage, then sandy loam, and a dash of sand on the surface. Thirdly. Many are troubled as to getting suitable soil for such purposes. We will indicate a few sources whence good soil can be obtained for all such purposes. Have you a kitchen garden with soil ridged up in winter ? then take some barrow- loads carefully from the surface when dry in spring, and keep under cover. Do the same from ridges of ploughed land if come-at-able, skimming the surface very thinly. If neither of these is accessible, remove the turf from the" sides of some highway, and get the soil immediately beneath it, which will consist chiefly of the soil of the district mixed with ground stones. These with good sTinge (raquently, or, when vou water the Kosos, pour sonio over the leaves. The water will wash off the helpless broods. The September aphides are oviparous, but the ppring and summer broods are viviparous. Kill the BprinR and autumnal broods, and you will not bo troubled with them in tno intermediate season. They havo ten broods in a year. The first broods are batched from the e^gs of the last brood of tlio preceding year. Mr. Weaver is riRbt—" Catch 'em and kill Vm," and wash the Icavca often. I liave, by watering tho roots and wasbinR the loaves, no sign of fungus of any kind. The first aphides in tho season mrike their appear- ance on tho plants under a south wall, and usually, whoro trees are lofty, on the top branches under tho caves. There they breed and descend, increase mul spread, as the ^yeatherKots hot, with inconceivable rapidity. Tho blooms are still abundant and tU for specimens. They began to appear on the 8th of Juno, and they will not stop till frost cuts them olT. Crowds come day after day, and go away delighted.— W. F. Uadclyi'FE, Oke/ord Fit:painc. Bef.t Lf.aves Inskct-eaten [BeH iJooO.—Tho leaves sent appear eaten by slugs. Fnwls will certainly peck at tho leaves of Beet, and eat them. but they and ship's may bo kept off by strewing powdered or dry lime over tho loaves, and this repeated a few times, and particularly at dusk in Bhoworv weather, will destroy the slugs and make the leaves very distaste- iul to the fowls. Black CunnANT Bnsnns TJsTRiriTFur. {Younf)$teT). — We advise tho cutting out of the old wood, and to limit the pruning to that and the re- moval and shortenine of any straggling shoots. You should (,'ive a good droBsing of manure in autumn, and neatly point it in, hut not so deeply as to injure or disturb the roots. Yon may water thorn onco or twico a-woek with liquid manure durini* dry weather, from May to August, or ■guano water, made by dissolving 1 lb. in twenty gallons uf water. GCANo ron BKnnrNG Plants (I'/.fm).— You may water your plants with •gnano water at the rate of 2 ozs. of guano to a gallon of water, it being used onco or twice a-wook during dry weather, and a thorough soaldng given; or you miiy sprinkle a little of the dust in between the plants over the floiL, being* careful not to let it fall upon tho foliage of tho plants. It ^bonld not bo given excessively; 1 lb. to every twenty yards of surface is Bafflcicnt to givo at one dressing. Lawn Brown iv Suiimer (H. D.).— Yon may next February or March iipply to your lawn a dressing of rich compost, and early in April, after giving a good scratching with an iron rake, sow over it 4 lbs. Cyuosurns crista- tus, 2 lbs. Festuca duriuscula. *2 lbs. Poa nemoralis, 2 lbs. Lotus comiculatus oiinor, and 4 Iba. each TrifoUum minus, and Trlfolium repons, rolling well afterwards. EvKRORF-EN FOR PoRCH [Idcvi). — For a waiTO aspect we advise Escal- louia macrautha ; if the aspect is bleak, Cratxgus pyracautba. GiLiA Acnii.LE.«FOi-iA (Dumbf4r-doTrn-drevon. Third, N. Marlor. Highly Commended, Sir E. Korrison, Brnmo Hall. Turkeys.— Fir St. . I. Smith, Breeder Hills. Second, E. Leach, Roch- dale. Third, Ijsdy M. Macdonald, Woulmor, Liphook, Hants. Fourth, T. Uorton, Offord D'Arcey. Highly Commended, T. L. Followes, Honinghani. Gef.se.— Fir^t and Third, Mrs. M. Seamons, Hartwell. Second, J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury. Fourth, Mrs. W. T. Brackenbury, Downham. Highly Commeudnd. Kev. G. Hustler, Stillingfleet, York. DccKH (AylesbuTv).— First and Second. Mrs. M. Seamons. Third, J. Siwman A E. Fearon, Whitehaven. Cumberland. Highly Commended, Mrs. M. Seamons. Commended, J. K. Fowler. Ducks (Rout n).— First, E. Tudraan. Second, J. Gonson & S. Jefferson. Tliird, H. Dowsett, I'leshey, Chelmsford. Docks (Any other Breed).— First, S. Wyllie, K.ast Moulaey, Kingston. Second and Highly Commended, E. W. Greene, Bury St. Edmunds. Judges. — Mr. Hewitt, Mr. Trotter, and Mr. Bailv. WOODHORN AND NEWBIGGIN POULTRY SHOW. The flecoml annual Exhibition was hold at Newbigginby-thc-Sea, on the oth and Gth inst. There were 1G8 pens of Fonltn,*. and forty- four pens of Pigeons. The Show was a great improvement upon that held last year, tho entries being more tlmn double, and it bids fair to become ono of the largest in the north of Knglund. The Committee experienced a rather serions loss through th(fanroof- ing of the large nmri]ucc iu which the Show was held, but luckily with- out damage to a single bird. nnd. through the energv of the Committee, all was soon made quite safe. As will be seen on referring to tho list of awards, Mr. IMdon was the most successful exhibitor of Poultrv", and Mr. Yardley of Pigeons. Gahk iDuckwing).— First, H. Rodgors, Bedlington Colliery. Fecond, J. Harrison, Se .ton Delaval Colliery. Game (Black broaBted and other Reds).— First, H. Beldon, Goitstock, Bindley, York .-ecoud. M. Hall, Seghill Collier)-. Highly Commended J. CurUy, Bedl'ngton Colliery. Gamd (Any viiri*-ty).—Cofil:.- First and Cup, W. Bearpark. Ainderby Steeple, Norlhallcrtou. Second and Hi^jhly Commended, J. Bruugh, Carlisle. HuiBUROHfl (Golden-pencilled)^— First and Cop, W. Wood, Sheffield, Second anil Highly Commended, H. Beblon. Hamduhous (Silver-pencilled).— FirMt.H. Beldon. Second, R. Hontley, Bedlington. Hiahly Commended, H. Beldon, HAMnuRr.ns (Golden-^pangled). —First, H. Beldon. Second, J. Stalker, West Slcekbum, Morpeth. Highly Commended, H. Beldon ; J. AchinclaM, BarringtoD (Colliery. Hamdurghs (^ilvcr-spangledl.— First, J. Howe, Cowpen, Northumber- land. ^econd, H. Beldon. Highly Commended. H. C. Noble. Kendal. Dorkings (Coloured, except Silvcr-Grey). --First, D. Hutter, Hetton Lane Ends, Durham. Second, J. Graham. Witton lo-Wear, Durham. Dorkings (.Silver-Groy). — Prize, Miss F. Wilson, Wuodhurn Manor, Morpeth. Cochin- CniNA (Cinnamon and Buff).- First, H. Beldon. Second, J. Shorthose, Hartford Bridge, Morpeth. CocHiN-CuiNA (Any other variety).— First, H. Beldon. Second and Highly Commended, .T. Miorthoso, Spanish (Black).— First, H. Beldon. Second, W. Sanderson, Whalton, Morpeth. Chickenx. — First and Cup, H. Beldon. Second, J. Dixon, North Soatou, Morpeth. Brahma Pootra.— First. J. Shorthose. Second, H. Beldon. Commended J. Smith, Nethorton, Morpeth ; J. Shorthose. Polish.— First and Second, H. Beldon. Highly Commended, Miss E. Proctor, Hull; R. Parsons, Mori)etb. Barndoor Fowl..— First, F. E. Schofield. Second, R. Cock, fitanning- ton, Morpeth. Any other Variety not Mentioned, Except Bantam.s.— First, CoL Stuart Wortley, London (Crtve Ca^ur). Second, J. Curley, BedUngtOB Colliery. Game Bantams (Black-breasted and other Reds). — First and Cup, G. Donio, Netherton, Morpeth. Second, Master E. Crossland, Thome's Lane, Wakefield. Game Bantams fDuckwing).— First, W. Mabon, jun, Castlegate, Jed- burgh. Second, J. Sword, Jedburgh. Bantams (Gold and Silver Sebright).— First, T. C. Harrison, Hall. Se- cond, J. Robson, Morpeth. Bantams (Any other variety). — First, H. Beldon (Pekin). Second, Messrs. S. & R. Ashton, Mottram, Cheshire (Black.) Guinea Fowls.— Equal Prizes, T. C. HRrrison; Miss Robinson, Stan* nington Moor, Morpeth; T. .T. Harrison, Kendal. Turkeys. — Cock. — First, E. Leech, Greave, Rochdale. Second, Miss Wilson, Woodhorn Manor, 3I.>rpeth. Geese.— First, R. Bell, High Thorn, Morpeth. Second, W. Rowell, Hirst, Woodhorn. Ducks (Aylesbury).- First, E. Leech. Second, Messrs. Bowman and Fearon. Whitehaven. Ducks (Rouen J. -First, E. Leech. Second, J.Wilson, Woodhorn Manor, Morpeth. Ducks (Any other variety).— First, T. C. Harrison. Second, R. S. Baiubridge, Woodhorn Grange, Slorpeth. PIGEONS. Carriers.— First, H. Y'ardley, Market Hall, Birmingham. Second, T. Thompson, Wide Open, Northumborlfind. Tr MBLERS.— First, H. Simpson, North Seaton. Second, T. Thompson. Almond Tusiblers. — First nnd Cup, H. Y'ardley. Second, T. Thompson. Owls. — Messrs. A. & B. B. Laycuck, Woodville, Keighlej'. Second, H. Simpson. Pouters and Croppers. — First, H. Yardley. Second, T. Thompson. Barbs.— First, H. Cawood. Thorne, York. Second, H. Yardley. Fantails. — First, H. Yardley. Second, T. Thomp.sou. TuRBiTS.— First. H. Simpson. Second. H. Yardley. Trumpeters. First, T. Thompson. Second, H. Simpson. .Tacobins. — First and Second, T. W. Crozier, Woodhorn. Amv OTHER Variety.— First and Second, H. Yardley. The Judges were Mr. Benson, of Darlington ; and Mr. Trotter, of Stoeksfield-on-Tyne, for Poultry- ; and Mr. Shorthose, of Hartford, Bedlington, for Pigeons. INTRUDING BIOES. I nAT> a pood hive of bees, and one day Inst week a swarm belonging to a neighbour of mine came and took a fancy to this very hive, the consequence wag a pitched battle, iu which hundreds were killed. The victors took possession of the hive, ftnd next morning I was met by my neighbour, who said, *' You have got a swarm of my bees, and if you wo'n't give them up I will make you, or you shall pay me a guinea for them." Being a man of peace, I told my gardener to make all right with him, and to give up the hive. This my man positively refused to do, saying that it was just as likely that his bees were the dead ones as that ours were ; and that the bees having come unasked into our full or partly full hive, we had no right to be taxed with costs in the matter. Eather, however, than be at any risk of unpleasantness, I insisted on the hive being given up to ray neighbour, which was accordingly done. At tho same time I think he was not altogether right, and shall feel greatly obliged if you can give me information as to what was really the " bee '* law on this rather knotty point. He insists that his was a very strong hive, and, therefore, argues that my bees must have been killed in the combat. — A Bee- keeper i:< Difficulty. [There is not any ground for doubting that uuder the cir- cumstances you could not have been compelled to give up the bees, nor should we have done so. Payment of half the money value of the swarm would have been fair on both sides ; aoil this only as a matter of courtesy, not as being legally due. 54 JOUBNAL OF HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEK. [ July 18, 1867. TonrB being a good stoct, it is not likely that either the in- vaders or the invaded were entirely destroyed, the probability being that a compromise was ultimately effected, and the stock benefited by an accession of numbers.] INCUBATOR REGULATOR. When in London about the year 1851, I visited Cantelo's, in Leicester Square, and saw his incubator hatching chickens. The late Lord Berwick purchased one of the £'iO incubators, and as I was somewhat curious in the matter, I was invited by his lordship to see it at work. During our eonvers.^tion he told me that there was a great difficulty in keeping the heat regular, and when he was from home he had to leave the management to his housekeeper, and she did not pay attention to it, con- sequently he hatched but very few chickens. This apparatus was heated by a charcoal fire. I thought at the time that if it were heated by gas, the heat would be regular, and I made an incubator with alterations. When at work I found the gas was not to my expectations, it would vary in twenty-four hours from 30" to 40°. I thought of a governor that should be self- acting as regards the supply of gas, and after expending some- thing like £10 in three years of experiments, I succeeded in making one that did not allow a variation of more than 3° or 4° in a week. It is now a very simple affair. During my experi- ments I spoiled at least three hundred eggs. In my last trial I only set twelve eggs ; out of these I hatched seven fine chicks, which grew up and did well ; since then I have done nothing with it. His lordship dying, I could not bring it to his notice. It could be applied to a charcoal fire on Cantelo's system, but not to oil, and such like. If any correspondent is open to take the matter up and register or patent the apparatus, I shaU be glad to correspond with him. — W. S., Shrewslurij. INVENTION OF THE BAR-AND-FRAME HIVE. A COEBESPONDENT, signing himself " Scdeurt," in your number of The Cottage Gardener of June 20th, stated that the invention of the " bar-and-frame " hive was due to an Englishman, and that it was not of American or German origin. Your note at the foot, however, leaves the question in an uncertain condition, although you allude to the " validity of the patent in America having been disputed unavailingly because of Major Munn's pamphlet on the " bar-and-frame " hive in 1844. If so, the Englishman has it, and America is not the first in the field. But you go on to say that you endorse the decision arrived at by the trans-Atlantic law courts, and give the credit to the Baron von Berlepsch in Germanv and the Bev. L. L. Langstroth in America for the invention. Thus then, you destroy the high repute of the " book hive " of Huber who certainly has the credit of the early German invention. Can you mention the date of the more practical and con- venient "bar-and-frame" hive of the Baron von Berlepsch which seems to supersede those of Major Munn and Mr. Wood- bury, and when the latter first introduced his superior rectan- gular frame hives with the straw cases ? The question of first principles will, I think, be better ex- plained and understood when we have these data to go upon —Wax. [The question is one not of date but of identity. Major Munn's hive was, undoubtedly, invented before Mr. Lang- stroth's, and Huber's leaf hive preceded the frame hive of the Baron von Berlepsch by more than half a century. Major Munn's three-cornered frames were, however, hinged to the hive and were not interchangeable, whilst Huber's frames were interchangeable, but had no outside case. As to how far Mr. Langstroth and the Baron von Berlepsch may be deemed the inventors of modern frame hives admits, of course, of a diffe rence of opinion. We have stated ours, and others are at perfect liberty to enjoy their own ; but in what respect we have destroyed or even assailed the reputation of Huber's " book hive" by stating that tho principle of the frame hive was first developed in it, and that it needs only an outside case to render it nearly identical with the German frame hives of the present day, we are utterly unable to discover.] which I had to feed np until the 17th of May, when one lot only weighed 5 lbs. — hive and what was inside. I found no honey stored until the 18th. I weighed again on the 21st, and, to my surprise, the five-pound lot had gained other 5 lbs., which made it up to 10 lbs. They did well, and swarmed in three weeks. Do not let us despise weak things. May 23rd. How they sing ! Wife, you must have your eyes about you. Off comes the first swarm with a queen at its head — a position which she had never occupied before ; but the result is a credit to her now, for I found on weighing the bees that she had brought 5 lbs. of bees out with her, and in about a fortnight I had a cast which weighed 3 lbs., from the same stock. The weights of my swarms are as follows : — First swarm, 5 lbs. ; second swarm, 3i lbs. ; third swarm, 3 lbs. ; fourth swarm, 3 lbs. ; first cast, 3 lbs. ; second cast, 24 lbs. ; third and fourth casts, 2 lbs. each, which I added together. The second cast returned home after hiving. They rose twice more and returned, and I found two queens under the old stock on each of their returns, making six queens lost from one stock, after which they made themselves happy at home, and went to work like Britons. So you will see that I got six new lots of bees, and also 53 lbs. of honey taken in supers ; therefore, I wil not grunt over 1866, for that left me with ten stocks of bees. But 1867 — Oh ! dear. What a spring ! Bees a-starving. But you must stop until another time before I can tell you all about it. — A Bucks BEE-EEErEE. JOLLY BEE DOINGS IN BUCKINGHAMSHIRE. A FEW jottings about bees. In April, 1865, I had a six-inch glass filled. Now, let us pass on to the spring of 18G6. What now ? Poor prospect^four stocks ; two strong, two very weak, OUR LETTER BOX. Poultry Magazine (Speculator). — We know nothinfi of the proposal beyond the advertisement. '* The Poultry Chronicle " was ably conducted but an expensive failure ; we purchased the copyright, and fear we should be fisked to do the same for any similar periodical. Turkeys Rouped (J. Lioht). — The sneezing, stoppnge of nostrils, and other sjTuptoms indicate that the young Tiukeys have the roup. Omit the rice and greaves ; feed only on barleymeal and bread soaked in ale, nnd give each 1 grain of powdered sulphate of copper daily. Separate those affected from tho.se which are healthy. Fleas in Podltry-house Ifl".), — We have always found that thorough lime-whiting was a thorough cure, and we never adopt any other method for getting rid of our enemies. We are happy to say, we are not now troubled with them. Wlien fowls have the opportunity of dusting, and the material for enjoying it, there is little danger of vermin. We use road gi-it larcelyin making the floors of our poultry-houses, and eupply the fowls' runs with heaps of it. In these they busk all day, and when they do so they have no parasites. We fancy these are appliances you have not adopted. We advise you to do so, and to thoroughly lime-white the wholo of your houses, not with a sticky whitewash, but with limo pimply slaked with water to the consistence of cream. Every hole and corner should be thoroughly washed out with it, and while the fowls are absent frnm the house it is well tu place three or four smiiU heaps of lime and to slake them on the floor, shutting doors and windows. Fowls should be kept scrupulously clean. There is no doubt that where their excrement is permitted to lie about it engenders vermin. Buckwheat as Poultry Food (ir. F.).— Buckwheat meal is largely used in France in fattening poultry, being a favourite food with our neighbours. It is not much thought of in England. We use it only for fancy Ducks. We shoiUd not give it to chickens, as from its oily and fattening properties it is injurious to the growth of feathers. We believe there is no known food so good as ground oats as they are ground in Sussjx. The whole uf the coru is ground together till it all mixes with wato c flour. Nothing whatever is taken from it in shape of bran, ite. The Susses fowls are the best in the ivorld. The breed of them is Dorking, but the food is exclusively ground oats. Flooring of Pigstye and Fowl-house (A Recent SubscTibcr).~G&s tar and road drift would not form a hard flooriuy Lime rubbish is required to make the asphalte flooring, and we have repeatedly published the recipe for making it. No such flooring is desiiMlile for a fowl-house. Road drift or sand alone is desirable. The surface to be raked every moniing. Preserving Spare Combb {Disappointment).— Wra-p each comb sepa- rately in paper, and put them away carefully in a clean and dry drawer or box. Uniting Weak Stocks (Novice).— To resort to fumigation after having suceceeded in driving is so retrogi'ade a step that we hope you will think better of it, as we believe that the former inflicts permanent injury on all bees that are subjected to it. Fumigation is best performeu in the evening when all the bees are at home. There is no more necessity for removing the superfluous queen after fumigation than there is when efl"ecliug unions by driving. Cat's Hair Falling Off (C. A. J.).—X small teaspoonful of anlphor daily for a week may arrest the falling ofi" of the hair, but we could not advise conndently without seeing the animal. POULTRY MARKET.— .July IT. Sultan, Viceroy, and Belgians have caused an increased consumption of poultry without addinj* to the supply, rise in prices for a few days only. s d. B. d Larpo Fowls 3 6 to 4 0 Smaller do ii G 8 0 Chickens 1 9 2 0 Geese 6 9 6 6 Ducks 3 0 3 6 Pigeons U 9 0 10 The consequence has been a B. d s. d Pheasants 0 0 to 0 0 Partridges 0 0 0 0 Grouse 0 0 0 0 Guinea Fowls 0 0 0 0 Rabbits 15 16 WUddo .-.. 0 8 0 9 Jnly K, 1807. 1 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. WEEKLY CALENDAR. Day of Month °oV ATeraifc Temperature Ram is laat 40 years. Sob 8nn J Hoon Moon Moon'a nook before Sua. or Vear. JULY 25-81, 1847. near London. Rises. Sots. 1 Eiaea. Seta. Age. Day. Nirtt. Mean. Days. m. h. m. h. m. b. m. h. Days. m. B. 05 Tn Twilight ond« 11.20 P.M. 74,1 49.4 81.7 12 15 at 4 68af7 morn. 89af 1 24 C 13 206 !16 F 7J1.H 60.2 62.4 19 16 4 57 7 lafO 51 2 26 G 11 207 1!7 S Roval lltjrticiUlnrnl Society, rromenado 7.'i.0 61.0 63 0 17 17 4 65 7 41 0 3 4 26 6 14 208 28 SCN 6 Sunday aiter Thimty. [4 p.m. 7e.8 61.0 63.6 19 19 4 64 7 ; 29 1 1(1 5 27 8 13 209 a<) M 76.1 6i).l! 63.a 17 20 4 52 7 , 2« 2 9 6 as 6 12 210 80 To Buckingham Horlioultaral Show. 7S.8 60.3 62.8 16 23 4 51 7 84 S .w r, 29 6 10 211 ill W 75.1 60.5 62.8 15 23 4 49 7 49 4 42 7 • G « 212 From ohwermlionfl tnken noar London tlnrinR the laat forty yoars, tho averase day tompprataro of tho week la 75-1^ J and its night toiDporntnro 60.4". The greatebt heat waa 92", on tlic 25th, 1844 ; and tho lowest cold 32% on the 23rd, 1862. Tho greatest lall of r&in was 1 39 Inch. 1 PAROCHIAL HARVEST FESTIVALS AND HORTICULTURAL SHOWS. ■ many a tiling wo say, "All, if wo had but known it before ! What a pity wo illJ not think of it in time ! " 'I'lius, sup- pose a large party is to be given : the ladies of the liouse hold solemn coiiclave.s upon it, they talk about it, they give hints to cacli other, they dream about it. they consult paterfamilias so frequently — at least, not consult — they talk at him about it if he has ventured an idea contrary to theirs, until ho gets up and lidgets, and rubs his bald head (all bald men do), and walks about the room whenever the coming p;irty is mentioned, and perhaps vents a " Bother it ! you have got me into this scrape, and you may get me out of it. In my young d.iys a bit of lish and a bit of beef, and tart, and custard, and cheese, did well enough : but the world 's grown so grand now ! " And having said this, the worthy man feels relieved, and yields to anything. Well, the party is over, and went off satisfactorily ; but during the whole of the following weelc there arc darted out at intervals such observations as these — " Oh, but if we had but tliought of tha(, how charming tlio table would have looked!" Or, "I have just now. dear, (linught of the very thing we ought to have had to complete the sweet course!" But this "after-wit" is of no nsc. Now tho harvest is yet far from ripe, and the Apples, and Pears, and Plums, and Grapes (happy those who have any !) are yet wee, wee things ; so tliat when I write about harvest festivals, as I now do, I am speaking in good time, and before any arrangements liave been made, being careful that my wit shall not be after-wit. Harvest festivals have become very gener.il in the last few ycar.s in Wilts, and surely no festivals can be more suitable : but what I wish to impress upon our clerical readers, their wives, and their daugliters, is that itparocliuil Iwrlicuhurnl shnw vtay be limtfficlallii cunliinal tcith a hir- ycst fcxtinil. Let me describe one sucli festival and show at which I was present and took part, and thus allow me to recommend for adoption what has been tried and found to sncoeed. There is a village not very far from me which is a very pretty village, chiefly from its possessing what is now rare, a village green ; and by a village green I mean a central space round which the houses are dotted — not in rows streetwise, but some houses standing fair and fronting the green with pretty gardens, then some with gable ends to the green, and then cottages slipping away oblicjucly ; and these fashions repeated over and over again, until there re- No. 330 -Vol, XIII., ' New Sembs. mains a sort of oblong bit of grass surrounded by houses placed as if by chance, with notliing whatever formal in their arrangement. Such is the green of the village to which I refer. Then the green has the church lying in one quiet corner, and the village school rather far off : this is well, for I like not the noise of children's voices to be- too near the giavevard. And then in nuother quiet spot i» the parsonage, with a wall in front — a low wall : this, too, is well, for I like not any lines of harsh separation in villages, but that the inhabitants should look and feel to be one family. Certainly this vill.igc green is perfection. There the little childi-en tumble about in the sunshine : there the big babies are carried by their staggering and scarce bigger sisters ; there the noisy youngsters play their juvenile games : and there the youthii and young men play cricket, and old men on one stick or two totter on and sou themselves, and old women stop, and talk, and talk away : and there we sometimes sec little children, all importance, walking across " to shop " for mother, or to post a letter to uncle Thomas in New Zealand. A village to my mind can never be perfect unless it has its green. I dislilic villages whose formal street looks like the worst part of a. town left there by mistake. Well, I was invited to the harvest festival and horticul- tural show in the village which I have endeavoured to describe. We assembled at the vicarage at two o'clock Tlic vicar, good man, was not there — he was suijcrintending in the schoolroom ; but of what he there superintended more hereafter. Soon the church bell was heard, and we- wended our way towards the building whence the sound proceeded. And then mark the advantage of a village green, and what a pleasant feature it is ! Yiui could eee from all parts the people beginning to go forth from thetr homes, locking their doors, shutting their garden gates,- and a village crowd gradually gathering. The schooL children were being marched in order ; the teachers fussy and anxious, as all teachers are, lest the ranks should be broken. We reached the churchyard gate — a rustic gate ; and here let me pause and say a word about tliis God's- acre, and God s house witliin it. The church was built but a few years ago — ten or a dozen, and has no aisles — merely a nave, and chancel, and vestry, \vith a bell-turret on its west end ; and yet it is very pretty, and is becoming weather-stained, which takes off the new look and tones down the colour. But the feature T especially like is one in the churchyard, for aronnd it is a broad border between the sunk fence and the portion for interment. This is not only planted with slirubs. but is also gay— no, I will rather say lively, witli flowers, herbaceous flowers chiefly, but some annuals, and even bedding plants. As I have passed by it year after year there has always been colour from early spring to late autumn Tliis is a very pretty feature, this encircling border full of flower-hfe, and seems to my mind like a kind living hand taking care of the deceased within. Bnt while I am gating the beU is beginning to show signs of stopping, and so I hurry on. I pass the wooden porch up which flowers are carefully trained, and I enter the neat solemn building. It is a mistake to think that a church must No. 9W.— Vol. XXXVIlI., Olb SEEraa. s§ JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEK AND COTTAGE GAEDENER. [ Jul7 25,. 1867. needs be old to be cUurch-like and to affect the miad as a church ought, making one instinctively feel that it is a church. True it is that we may prefer an ancient building well restored, where; " An heraldic shield. Varying its tincture with the chanfreful light. Imbues the altar window. Fixed aloft A faded hatchment hangs, and one by time Yet undiscoloured ; and on the floor beneath Sepulchral stones appear, with emblems graven. And foot.worn epitaphs, and some with small And shining effigies of brass inlaid." Such a church we may prefer ; but so well is church architec- ture understood, that many a new and inexpensive building conveys to the mind church-like feelings. As I entered this village church on this harvest festival there lay, leaning against the communion rails, a goodly sheaf of Wheat. Surely none could object to a decoration so simple yet expressive. Suitable psalms and lessons were read, and hymns sung ; and I ascended the pulpit to give a brief and, I hope, not unsuitable address. More of heart seemed in the service than on ordinary occasions ; perhaps that sheaf of Wheat, that silent reminder of thankfulness due, had some- thing to do with it. The harvest service over, we partly re- crossed the green to reach the schoolroom, exchanging greet- ings, meeting, of course, that cantankerous individual (life is never wholly smooth), "who saw no good in these sort of things; it made poor folks idle — and — and — and ." Bat no more of him. As said a good-natured man, "it takes all sorts to make a world ;" so we will jjut one sort against another, and be comforted. The schoolroom door is at length opened, and we find the interior transformed into a horticultural show. The sloping desks, their slope reversed and all joined together, formed a sloping counter, which was covered with white calico ; upon this stood, each prevented slipping forward by a couple of slender nails, numerous plates of Apples, Pears, Plums, Peaches, Grapes, and other fruits. Grand old-fashioned china were some of the plates, taken out of snug cupboards for the day. There were floral devices in other parts of the room. On a side table stood a cottage, and garden, and arbour, neatly made to imitate reality, the work of a maid servant. Then, of course, there were gouty-looking Vegetable Marrows, green caterpillar-like Cucumbers, plates of Potatoes cooked and un- cooked. In the class-room were the farm roots, and the less ornamental vegetables. Texts in flowers decorated the walls of the schoolroom, and a floral crown was suspended from the ceiling. Wisely, so I think, no prizes were given. A village is so small a place, people such close neighbours, tittle-tattle so rife, that there might easily be heartburnings, disputes, tiffs, 'huffs, and even grave quarrels. As it was, everybody seemed convinced he or she deserved to have had the first prize. How iondly and proudly, not " TJpw.ir.DS and Oswards" more so, did .John hang over his plate of Potatoes! How pleased Mary was with her dish of Grapes ! And Mary's Mary, little 5Poll, eyed with infinite gratification a plate of Apples off her own tree, which father had grafted. Bless the folks, they seemed very happy, and reconciled with pleasurable self-satis- faction any little supposed inferiority, thus — " If Thomas's be ■the biggest bunch, mine has the biggest berries;" or, "Wil- lum's (Wiltshire for William's) Pears be bigger nor mine, but hisu eat like taties, but mine melt in the mouth like ih utter." So each seemed satisfied, and each in thought had a first prize. Much pleasure, too, seemed to have been caused by the vicar having written in his good round hand (clergymen write better than they formerly did, it is a poor vanity to be proud of writ- ing badly), each' one's name, and the name of the fruit; but whether Dr. Hogg would have said in all cases it was the right name I much dou'ot, for on the card was often merely a local name. The crowd entered at one door, passed through slowly, and out at the opposite door, so that there was no crushing from people meeting, no confusion and tearing of skirts, or a thin man sandwiched between two fat ones. This horticultural show was, of course, strictly parochial : in that consisted a great excellence. In due time, as the evening camo on, there was a public tea in the open air, not formal, but each one, or each group of friends, took tea, and then walked again into the schoolroom. The vicar broke up the paity early, so that good order might not be distuibed, and all might be at their homes bv daylight. Such was this Parochial Harvest J?estival and Horliciiltural Show. I have put an account of it on paper, believing that it is a copy worth}' of general imitation. — Wiltshire Uectoi:. JUDGING GRAPES. Any one who is in the habit of attending our great horticul- tural exhibitions, and is at all interested in the culture of Grapes, must have very fre(iueutly observed what Mr. Thom- son complains of in the last number of The Jouknal of Hor- ticulture— the want of " some fixed principles to guide judges when deciding on the merits of Grapes." We are certainly very much in want of some fixed and generally recognised standard to guide judges and competitors, so that there may be less chance and more certainty in the judging and selection of fruit for exhibition purposes. I quite agree with what Mr. Thomson soys about fine flavour ■ not being always associated with high colour and fine bloom. It not unfrequently happens that the reverse is the case, not only with Black Hamburghs, but also with Muscats and other varieties, where I have frequently observed high colour without fine flavour, and fine flavour without high colour. In my ex- perience this has been the exception, not the rule; it never- theless points out the necessity of all judges tasting Grapes before deciding on their merits, and not taking it for granted that because they are well coloured they will be well flavoured. It is well known that some varieties, remarkable for their fine colour and bloom, are not high flavoured — such as the Black Prince, and amongst Hamburghs the Dutch Hamburgh, which is often shown by exhibitors for the Black Hamburgh, and difficult without tasting to distinguish from it. The Dutch Hamburgh produces a very large berry, and generally colours well; indeed, when well grown, it is one of the finest-looking varieties of Hamburgh in cultivation. I have it at present growing with berries nearly as large as Orleans Plums, and the colour all that could be desired. In the same house there is growing a Vine of the Victoria Hamburgh with equally large berries, but not so highly coloured, the bunches being some- what larger than those of the Dutch Hamburgh. Were the Dutch Hamburgh placed on an exhibition table against the Victoria Hamburgh, according to the prevalent mode of judging the high colour of the Dutch Hamburgh would secure for it the award of the judges. Were they placed on any nobleman or gentle- man's table the award would assuredly be given in favour of the Victoria Hamburgh, its delicate flesh and fine flavour at once counterbalancing the finer appearance of the Dutch Ham- burgh, which, however well finished, is but a coarse-fleshed and inferior-flavoured variety of Hamburgh. Although long of opinion that too much weight has been given by judges to colour, and too little to flavour, still I think that a large allowance should always be made where colour exists in a high degree, and is associated with fine flavour ; but with- out this requisite quality I consider no award should ever be made by judges, however pleasing and attractive the appearance of the tjiapes may be on an exhibition table, because without flavour they are unpalatable, and, consequently, unfit for the purpose for which they are grown. — Auchibald Fowlek, Castle Kennedy J Striutraer. STKAWBEllllIES— POTATOES. Eclipse, Wonderful, Princess Alice, Marguerite, Sir Joseph Paxton, Premier, President, are all inferior in flavour to In- gram's Prince of AVales. This variety is so hardy and so fruitful, so juicy, and has such a pleasing flavour, that I value it above all those I have mentioned. Mr. Tottie's gardener, a good fruitist, was here the other day ; he pronounced Prince of Wales, La Constante, and British Queen the best three varieties for general purposes, and he is right. La Constante gives me an excellent crop ; not so good as last year, but very fair considering all things. British Queen is very healthy, and shows its exceeding hardi- ness by looking nearly as well as last year. The crop is light, not because the plant failed to flower, but the frost or cutting winds killed two-thirds of the flowers. La Constante also suffered from the same cause. Crimson Queen was badly cut up, but is giving an excellent crop. Frogmore Late Pine shows tenderness, and has suffered more than any other sort. John Powell is very good, but not equal to British Queen. Dr. Hogg is most excellent, with a pleasing Pine flavour. I intend to increase this variety all I can. Souvenir do la Kiefi' is hardy, and a stronger grower than La Constante, from which it was raised. It is later thau July 2i, 1667. 1 JOURNAL OP HOBIICULTURB AND COTTAGE GABDENEB. 67 this laet variety, and is not ripe yet (July 16th), so I cannot speak as to Ua flavour. I have heard some were disappointed that Lord Clyde Strawberry, raised Viy Mr. Dean, of Bradford, did not prove to be 80 good 08 he expedited. I only wish his customers could see the plants he gave mo. They are loaded with line fruit. It is a very hardy, free-beariug variety, and the liavour of the fruit is most delicious. It is superior to many of the new sorts which Imvo been highly praised. I still recommend the followiuf; sorts for general planting : — 1, Keens' SeodliuR ; 2, Prince of Wales (luKrara's), the best for preserviuR ; ;i, British Queen ; 4, La Constante. Where the British Queen does not flourish I should advise John Powell being tried. Dr. Hot,'^; will, I hope, prove to be the best late Strawberry ; and if any other variety is desireil, I commend Lord Clyde before nil others. I have not tried Cockscomb, which Mr. EadclyHe so strongly recommends. My Potatoes are looking well. Itivers's Eoyal Ashleaf justi- fies this year again all I have said in its praise. I have one or two new sorts planted this ye:ir, Bradford Seedling being one. I have not loolced to see what sort of crop I am likely to have of it ; I can only say the tops look healthy and strong. I am growing the Ashtop i'luke this year, and like the appearance of the plant much. — C. Mabsden, Garnravt. Vicarage, Li-eiU. ' YUCCAS, AND THEIR CULTURE. I H.U'E great pleasure in seconding all that Mr. McDonald has said at page 20 in favour of the Yuccas, with some slight exception ; at the same time I advocate the claims of these plants quite as much as he can desire, and possibly for pur- poses different from those which he has set forth. As the fashion of the day is favourable to the cultivation of plants presenting great dissimilarity in character and outline, the Yuccas now receive a share of that attention to which they are entitled, but which has not in all cases been accorded to them, perhaps in some instances owing to their being less rapidly increased than most plants, as well as from an idea that their hardiness is questionable. Although they cannot bo propagated so rapidly as many of the soft-wooded summer oocnpants of our flower gardens, still the process is more easy than many suppose. The small amount of care required in their cultivation also gives them an additional claim to be more generally grown than they now are. Of the Yuccas in most general estimation, those with which I am best acquainted are Y. gloriosa, aloilolia. and recurva, which, either in themselves or in some of their intermediate varieties, seem to run into each other in a way that makes it difficult to determine to which of these species certain plants are to be referred — at least, such is the case with those here, and their number is very considerable. Yucca filamentosa . is, however, widely different, while in its variegated form it has not yet become sufticiently plentiful to be planted out of doors in snch numbers as to make that show which no doubt it will do in course of time. I am not sure that it can be increased to such an extent as some of the larger-growing kinds first mentioned, and we must at present regard it more as a house than an out-door plant. I am disposed to differ from my friend Mr. McDonald, who recommends for Yuccas a good rich soil, for although I have no doubt that the plants will flourish in such for a time, I am far from sanguine that it is the most proper : and as we have been pretty successful with them here, having sometimes had a dozen or more plants in flower at a time, and some of them 10 feet high, the soil and situation may be regarded as not being far wrong, and these may be described in a fe-.v words. At the base of a terrace wall, about 10 feet high and facing the soutli, a border, 10 feet wide and some 200 feet long, was planted many years ago with the varieties of Yucca mentioned in the beginning of this article, intermixed with a few Irises, more especially towards the front of the border. The wall itself, I may state, is covered witli such plants as Ceanothus, Engenias, Myrtles, New Zealand Veronicas, Escallonia macran- tha, and several kinds of climbers not unusually met with on conservatory walls, although no protection is given. The border is planted irregularly with Yuccas, some of the plants being upwards of twenty years old, but the greater portion much less, as by various mishaps, as well as by occasionally heading-down, the number and size of the old plants has been limited. The border, however, is tolerably well covered, and where a cluster is formed by plants growing near each other, the intruder will find that the sharp points of the leaves penetrate ordinary clothing more than is agreeable. The position is one facing the south, and this circnmstance has done no harm beyond inducing a larger number of plants to push forth their flower-spikes later in the autumn than there is mild open weather to complete their opening. This, however, was no doubt also in a measure due to the character of the soil they grow in, which, instead of being a rich loam, is one that would be considered of very inferior quality for kitclien-garden purposes. It may be roughly described as con- sisting of three-fourths stones, the remainder being a yellow sandy loam, not of itself so porous as an ordinary sandy or gravelly soil ; but in conjunction with the stones it is open enough for any plant requiring a porous scil. Most of the material composing this border was the subsoil obtained from an excavation, and some alterations rendering it necessary to raise the border about a foot ten years ago, this soil was used for the purpose, and has answered well. The plants which seem to thrive in it are most of the Cypresses, Arbor Vitfp, and common Laurels. Ilhododendrons and kindred plants will barely live, and Lily of the Valley drags out a miserable existence. Not having had experience with Yuccas in soil of a contrary description, I cannot be positive they will not succeed in such, but I can confinn Mr. McDonald's re- marks as to the necessity of deep soil ; for in that where the plantation referred to is growing, the roots of some Pinnses have been found several feet below the surface, although the ground had never been disturbed beyond the usual spade'a depth. The presence of so many stones allows a more reody passage of the roots downwards than the hard obstinate clay- bottom of many soils; and plants whose roots penetrate to so great a depth rarely suffer for want of moisture. Amongst the positions suitable for Yuccas, I can hardly coin- cide with Mr. McDonald in advising their being planted on rock- work, unless the latter is on rather an extensive scale, as they attain too large a size for those tiny imitations so often met with ; but where natural rock, or artificial rockwork on a suffi- ciently extensive scale exists, there the Yuccas may have a place. There are, however, so many positions in which Yuccas may be planted, that it is not diflicult to find a suitable one. As comer plants in a geometrical garden, they are always accept- able, their outline and symmetry giving them a decided advan- tage over most other plants. Dotted about on the turf they look well, more especially if the plants are large. One which is thus planted here, has a stem 1 feet high to the first tier of leaves, but the head has latterly become much injured. Other positions might be cited as suitable to Y'nccas, but do not plant too close to walks, on account of the sharp-pointed leaves. Perhaps the best mode of planting is in a border by them- selves, or along with kindred plants, for their tropical aspect commands more attention when they are in number ; and when such a border is well chosen, and its occupants appear to be at home in it, few will be disposed to find fault with them, or recommend a change. The Yuccas increase but slowly, but where an old plant exists, it may be multiplied to a gieater extent than may be supposed. Where a number of plants of vario..i sizes exist, it sometimes happens that a leggy one is broken by a heavy load of snow in winter, or in some other way; in this case it is best to leave the stump in the ground, remove the head, and if the latter is put in as a cutting, it will very probably grow, while a numerous tuft of young shoots will be formed on tbe short stem that is left in the ground. In general, these sbonld remain till the following spring, when a considerable nnmber of them msiy be cut off along with a little heel of the old stem, and put in as cuttings in some place not too much shaded, as they will have to stand a year or more, perhaps, without being removed. Of course, plenty of sand is necessary, and if extremely hot weather follow, afford shade accordingly ; but I have put such cuttings in about August without any attention, and they have made good plants. The aid of glass will expedite the rooting process, but I question mach if heat is wanted in any way. The Yuccas are at all times slow-growing, and their propagation cannot be so quick as that of many other plants ; but as they require very little attention, and a cut-down old plant affords a goodly number of cuttings, somewhat like Pine Apple crowns, or small suckers, they may be had in greater numbers than hitherto if the demand should increase. With regard to tbe hardiness of the plants. I have never I seen our most severe winter have the least effect on them ; but heavy falls of snow sometimes load the tops so much that these 1 break off, or where a plant has two or three heads, one of them iS JOUBNAIi OP HOBTICUIiTUBE AND COTTAGB GABDKNEB. [ Jnlr 25, 1867. may be eplit off. A mild winter is, however, serviceable in one respect, as the plants disposed to bloom do so earlier than when the winter is severe, for the Yuccas seem to bloom indis- criminately at all times of the year, when the weather is open. I have had several in full bloom in December, hut more fre- 'juently a number of plants are just rising into bloom at that time, and are cut off by the hard weather that may not set in till after Christmas; a fine autumu, unfortunately, starting such plants into flower at that unfavourable period. Hot, dry seasons are most favourable to the plants' blooming ; the dry summers of 1858 and 1859 were especially propitious. Those who have not seen Yucca glorioea with a full-grown spike of flowers, have certainly not seen one of the noblest of all flower- ing plants, for the beauty of the spike is nut less remarkable than its weight, and altogetlier the tropical aspect of the plant gives it an importance entilling it to a more extended culti- vation than it has yet received. — J. Robson. VIOLA CORNUTA DYING OFF— VIOLA LUTEA AS A BEDDING PLANT. A COERESPONDENT Writing from Audley End, Saffron Walden, wishes to know if any of the readers of The Joohnal of Hob- TiCTJLTnEE have lost their plants of Viola comuta. It ap- pears by his letter, Ihat eaily last spring he planted eight beds of Viola cornuta, which did very well until a few weeks ago. Lately, it appears, the plants have been dying off in patehes, ao much so that he is afraid of losiug them all. Singularly enough, the very same evil has happened iu the case of the plants which Mr. Bennett was good enough to send me fi'om Osberton Hall. They were planted with just the same care as my own variety of Viola cornuta, and only a walk divided the two rows. They were planted on the same day, and the same amount of care was bestowed on each. My instructions at the time of planting were — Let there be no difference in the quantity of leaf soil placed beneath each row, as I wish Mr. Bennett's variety to be placed under precisely the same con- ditions as my own. My instructions were faithfully carried out. At the present time Viola comuta Mauve Queen forms a perfect sheet of bloom, not a single plant having failed in the row 50 yards long ; but on the other side of the walk the case is very different, iu the whole row not a single plant has done well ; they have been constantly dying off, just in the ^ame manner as those at Audley End. I have watered the beds withmanure water, and, as a last resource, yesterday (July 18th), I had the ground sprinkled over with guano between the plants. At present they have a very sorry appearance. In making the above statement, I trust that Mr. Bennett will not think I wish to depreciate his variety. I saw it planted out at the Royal Botanic Gaidens, Kew, on the 19th of May, and was very much pleased with its appearance at that time. I considered it well worthy of the name which I suggested for it — Purple Queen ; for the flowers were to all intents a beautiful purple. Should this meet the eye of Mr. Smith, the Curator, it would be very interesting it he would favour the readers of the Journal, by reporting the pre.?ent condition of the plant, and whether it has suffered the same fate as at Audley End (I pre- sume that it is the Purple Queen variety which is there grown) ; also, whether Wills's variety is not perfectly different from Purple Queen in every feature — namely, profusion of flower, colour, habit, and freedom of growth. I noticed in the Royal Horticultural Society's gardens. South Kensington, on the 2nd of this mouth, both Mr. Bennett's variety and my own, and the difference indicated above could be plainly seen by any casual observer. I sent Mr. Bennett some plants of my variety, and have little doubt that he also has found out the difference. It would be exceedingly interesting if he would give his opinion, for I am sure both Mr. Bennett and myself are anxious to provide the gardening public with the fullest information we pos,sesR as to thn relative merits ot the two Vinlas, or, indeed, any other valuable decorative i)lant. I enclose flowers ot each variety, by which the Editors of The Journal of Horticultork ■will at once see that there is a decided difference in the colour, size, and shape of the flower. The upper petals ot Mr. Bennett's vaiiety are very much narrower than those of mine, so also are the lower petals. The habit of Mr. Bennett's variety is more procumbent, and the edges of the leaves are more ser- rated. As I have before stated, I have watched the growth of Viola cornuta in extremely hot and dry seaFons, and in soils as widely different as possible, yet the effect has been precisely the same. In a letter which I have this week received from my friend, Mr. Muir, at Oulton Paik, he tells me how beautiful Viola cornuta is there again this season ; he says a six-inch band has spread to 18 inches, and is a perfect sheet of bloom. Will Mr. Drewett say how it is doing with him at the Den- bies this season ? Last year he gave me credit for having re- introduced to our gardens one of the most chaste and beautiful plants for bedding purposes. I hope he will state whether or no he still maintains the same opinion of it. I must not forget to remark how beautiful Viola lutea is with me now. It grows much more freely than it did last year ; the habit is all that could be desired, being vei^y dwarf and compact ; and the foliage is of a bright glossy green. The plant does not grow more than 4 inches high, and flowers most profusely throughout the season. It seeds very freely, and reproduces itself true from seed. This is not always the case with Viola cornuta if the seed is collected indiscriminately, but if gathered from one plant only the produce does not vary so much. I predict a brilliant future for Viola lutea, it is certainly the best yellow dwarf edging plant I have overseen ; it is perfectly hardy. Those who may wish to grow it in quantity should at once order it, and begin propagating it. Messrs. J. Carter & Co., I believe, have secured the principal stock of it from Mr. Tyerman. I should be glad if the correspondent at Audley End would send me, properly packed, and with flowers on, a small piece of the kind which he grows, so that I may see if it is Mr. Bennett's or my variety. — J. Wills. ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S EXHIBITION AT BURY ST. EDMUNDS.— July IC. The following is in contiunalion of our report of last week : — In the class for miscellaneous cut Hoses, a fine stand of seventy- two varieties was slio\yn by Mr. B. Ji. Cant, of Colchester. It con- tained some glorious blooms of H.P.'s Madame Vidot» Francois Louvat, Madume Victor Vcrdier, Le lihone, extra fine ; Alfred Colomb, Senateur Vaisse, Due de Wellington, Madame Clemence Joigneaux, Xavier Olibo, Comtesse de Paris, Maurice Bemardin, and Anna de Diesbacb. The following Tea Kosea were also very fine — Madame Willermoz, Souvenir d'uu Ami, Niphetos, President, DevoniensiB, and Madame Bravy. Messrs. Ijee were second. The silver cup given by the gardeners of SuffolL: for the best twelve cut Koses grown by a SulTolk gardener, was aivardedto Mr. W. Nichol, gardener to J. H. Powell, lOsq., Drinkstone Park, Bury St. Edmunds. The flowers were all young aud fresh, and of good quafity. The sorts were Duo de Kohan, Princess of Wales, Maurice Bemardin, Marechal VaUlant, Lord Macaulay, Jean Goujon, Charles Lefebvre, La Ville de St. Denis, Madame Crapelet, John Hopper, Cloth of Gold, and Marechal Niel. Mr. Keen, gardener to J. G. Sheppard, Esq., Camp- sey Ash, was second. Tweuty-four varieties were finely shown by Mr. W. Ingle, gardener to C. G. Kound, Esq., Birch Hall, Colchester ; R. B. Postans, Esq., of Brentwood, l>eing second. In the class for forty-eight varieties, that veteran Rose grower, Mr. J. T. Hedge, Reed Hall, Colchester, was first with a good stand of blooms, among which were Madame Victor Verdier, Beauty of Waltham, Due de Wellington, Souvenir do Comto Cavour, Madame Boll, Souvenir do Marechal Serrurler, Gloire de Santcnay, Madame Charles Crapelet, Duchesse de Momy, and Mario Banmann. Forty-eight varieties from Mr. B. R. Cant con- tained Komo of the fini'st flowers that have been shown this season. DucliRRHo de Momy, Marie Baumann, Madame Victor Verdier, Beauty of Waltham, Comtesse de Paris, Charles Lefebvre, Pierre Notting, Niphetos, Devoniensis, Madame Caillat, La Brillaute, and Madame Rouaset, were very fine indeed. Messrs. J. & C. Lee wore second, having some good blooms. In the Amateurs' class for twelve Scarlet Pelargoniums, Mr. Fore- man, who was first, had good plants, among which the following were conspicuous : — The Clipjier, Culford Rose, Rose Rendatler Dr. Lindley, Madame Rudersdorll, and Rose Pei-fettion. Mr. D. T. Fish was second with well-grown plants, but over-trained ; and Mr. P. Grieve third. In the Nurseijmen's class for the same, Mr. John Barrett, Cotton Lane Nursery, Bury St. Edmunds, was first with some capital plants, remarkably well flowered. Mr. J. J. Chater was second with plants much inferior to the foregoing. An interesting class in this section was one of six Pelargoniums, including Nosegays. The first prize was gained by Mr. Foreman, gardener to the Rev. F. Cheere, with some good plants. The nurserymen bad to contribute twelve plants in thi.s section, and the first prize was taken by Mr. Barrett with some good specimens, among which Le Grand, Duchess, Black Dwarf, and Lady CuUum were conspicuous. The class for six Variegated Pelargoniums, including Nosegays, was warmly contested, Messrs. Saltmarsh & Son, of Chelmsford, being first with small but remarkably well-gi'own plants of Argus, Mrs. Pollock, Countess, Variegatum Quadricolor, Culford Beauty, and Sunset. Mr. Foreman was second wdth much larger but not such well-grown plants, Mr. Grieve being third. July 25, 1867. J JOURNAL OF HORTICULTDRE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 5$ The class for six now Vftriegatod PelarKoniums was well represontod, Messrs. Soltiuarsh A; Sou apjnin being first with splendid plants of Crown Jewfl, Rwunsdown. Mct«ur, Suniise, Bird of Piiradisw, and Laily CuUum. Mr. P. OrinTO was Hucond with Lacy Griovo, Victoria Kepina, Whito Lady, It:iUa TTuita, Lady CuUara, and Lifjht and Shodo, a soedling variety of good promise. Third, Mr. Jolrn Mann, of Brentwood. The silver cup piven by the county for the host twfdvo scfidlinf; VarieRatod Pflargoninma of 1866-7, was won by Mr. Peter GrioTo, with s[>leudid plants of Isabella Clay, Clemray, Kva Finh, Uothloy, Allanton, Victoria Ileaina. Iliawiithu, Black Adder, Liz/.ie Paget, Victor Galbraith, Bride of Dandolot, and Fanny Ntnvhum. Mr. Grieve also nhowid a second lot that were nnnamod, but all wore of Oitra quality. MosBra. F. & A. Smith and J. J. Chaler ahso exhibited. Sub-Florai< Committkk. — There were but few subjects for the Committee to examine, and they were so dispersed, and probably the opportunity of entering the plants respectively so diiHcult, that it is possible that Bomc of them wuro overloolrud. Messrs. Vuitch received a special certilicat-*! for a mo^t interesting oolleetion of new and rare plants, the greater part of which had nveived first-class certilicates ; and Mr. Bull bad a similar award for Dalechamiiia E-ouzliana rosea. Messrs. Smith, Dulwich, received first-class certificates for two seed- ling Bron/.e Zonal Pelargoniums with reddish-bronze zones on a yellow gronnd. Criterion soomed very promising and distinct, though Korae- what resembling WilLs's Queen Victoria. The other, Feu do Joi(», is one of the same section with a more vivid zone. There were many other excellent seedlings but not sufficiently distinct. The similarity and the endless number of seedliugs of these high-ooloured Zonal Pelargoniums, make it very difficult to discover improvements on what have been determined to bo first-rate kinds. Mr, Tamer, Slough, received throe first-class certificates for seedling Camations. and a Picotee — namely. Carnation True Blue, a beauti- ful purple tlake ; Kccentrio Jack, a scarlet bizarre ; and Picotee Mrs. Fisher, a light scarlot-edged variety with a pure white gronnd, and Tory beautiful. A second-class certificate was awarded for Carnation Anthony Dennis, a large, heav^', crimson bizarre. Mr. Maun, lircntwood, exhibited a splendid mass of his exquisite scarlet Zonal Pelargonium Ijord Derby ; it was the admiration of every person who saw it, and is decidedly the very best scarlet Zonal in ex- istence. A first-class certificate was awarded it in thu spring, a special certificate waM given on this occasion to certify \t^ continued good character. Mr. J. Hill, Norwich, brought several plants of a double aeedUng Fuchsia, gigantic in size, but of bad form ; a commendiition was givou it a^* a nseful deoorative and market plant. Mr. Robert Pottitt exhibited a seedling Zonal Pelargonium, called Reino d' Argent ; Mr. J. Denson twelve very ordinary seedling Zonals ; Mr. G. Shepherd, gardener to J. Berners. Esq., six Zonals, some of them of the Tricolor seetiou, but of no merit; Messrs. Wood and Cngram, Zonal seedling Viceroy ; Mr. Robert Rea twelve seedling Zonals : Messrs. J. Nunn it Hobday, Norwich, three seedling Zonals ; but none of these could bo considered improvements on or even equal to many in cultivation. In Mr. Grieve's collection of twelve Tricolor seedlings of IHtJG and 18G7, Kva Fish, Isabella Clay, and the splendid- ooloored Victoria Rogina were very conspicuous. In all yon have said of this Show I heartily concur ; but as an out- aider and a hurried visitor 1 send you the following random thoughts. I have oftan8 Joe, Den- man, Aglaia. Fourth f tind of six, Mr. H. Travis — Charles, Violet Aimable. Heroine, Sans Joe, Atlas, Aglaia. Filth stand of six. Dr. Hardy— Gari- baldi, Qtieen of Korlb, Heroine, Sir J. Paxton, Lord Denman, Lady C. Gordon. Sixth stand of six, Mr. Sharpo— ISaflterpiece, Violet Aimable, Heroine, Storer's Seedling, Ducbesa of Sutberland, Aglaia. Firtit stand of three Koatherod, Mr. Wm. Lee— Heroime, Paxton, Violet Aimable. Second stand of three Feathered, Mr. Haynes — Lord aydney, Beedling, Heroine. Third stand of three leathered, Mr. Juo. Morris — Devonshire, Bienfait, Aglaia. Fourth stind of threo Keatherod, Mr. Millar— Masterpiece, Heroine, Edgar. Fiftii ^'tand of three Feathered, Mr. Haynes -Koyal Sovereign, Seedling, A^^laia. Sixth stand of three Feathered, Mr. Parkinson— Willison'n King. Vi( torta Rogina, Heroine. First stand of three Flamed, Mr. Haynes— I'aiton, Denman, Triomphe Royal. Second stand of three Flamed, Mr. T. MeUor-Mastorpieee, Bacchus, Aglaia. Third stand of threo Flum^d, Mr. J. Mooros— Polly, Denman. Aglaia. Fourth stand of threo I lamed, Mr. Hayneti — Triomphe Royal, Ducbeaa of Sutherland, Lord Sidney. Fifth stand of three Flamed.Mr. Thurston— Sir J. Paxton, Lord iJesmau, Aglaia. bixth stand of threo Flamed, Mr. Wm. Lea — Sans Joe, Duchetjs of butherland, Aglaia. First stand of two, Feathered and Flamod, Mr. T. Mellor— Charles, Sans Joe. Second stand of two ditto, Mr. J. Mooros— Heroine, Denman. Third stand of two ditto, Mr. Wm. Lea— Heroine, Dovonahiro, Fourth stand of two ditto, Mr. SVm. Longson — Heroine, Deamau. Fifth Etand of two ditto, Mr. W. Davenport— Charles, Polypbemun. Sixth stand ot two ditto, Mr. Wm. Davenport — no prize. The best Feathered Tulip in the whole Exhibition, Mr. John Torner— Ape lies. The best Flamed ditto, Mr. H. Travis— AUas. FBATnERED BizARREB. — 1, Apelles, J. Turner; 2, Charlo6. Thos. Mellor; 3, Paxton. Wm. Lea; 4, Devonshire, Wm. Lea; G, Magnum, J. Hart; G, Lord Lilford. Luke Ashmole; 7, P.obort Guest, J. MorriB; 8, Maateriiico, T. Mellor; 9, turpasse Catafalque, J. Enott ; 10, Lord Byron, K. Keyzey. FEATHEitED BvBLfEMEKS — 1, Adoni?, W'm. Lea ; 2, Lancashire Hero, G. Mort ; B. Seedling, G. Mort ; 4, Queen of North, Wm. Lea; 5, Violet Aimable, Wm. Lea; 6, Cotterill's Purity, Wm. Lea; 7, Seedling, David Jackson ; 8, Besaie, Wm. Lea ; 9, British Quocn, W. Willison ; 10, Seed- ling, — Haynes. Feathered Roses.— 1, Heroine, R.Key::ey; ii, Aglaia, Wm. Lea; 8, Kale Connor, Dr. Hardy; 4, Beauty of Home, O. Mort ; 5. Julia Farnese, R. Keyzey ; 6, Lady Crewe, John Knott ; 7, Ceriso primo Superbe, J. P. Sharp ; 8, Inimitable, J. Hart; 9, Madame St. Arnaud, J. Morris ; 10, Andromeda, John Knott. Flamed Bizarres.—I, Paxton, John Hart; 2, Sana Joe, T. Mellor; 8, Merit, Wm. Hart; 4, Polyphemus, J. Thuj-^lon; 5, Mr. Hoxtall, — Haynes; 6, Emperor Nicholas, Dr. Hardy; 7. Ur. Hardy, — Haynes; 8, Paxton, J. Thm-aton; 9, Saxon, W. Hart: IlI, Lord Palmeraton, — Haynea. i-XAMED BTBLfEMENs.—l, Lord Denman, W. Davenport : 2, Surpassant, J. Hart; 3, Princess Koyal, D. Wooliey ; 4, Aloxfinder Magnus. Hugh Hcnsley; 5, Gavazzi, J. lIirL; 6, Ducue^s o5 Sutherland, Dr. Hardy; 7, Wallers, G. Mort ; 8, Bieufait, W. Davenport ; 9, Salvator Rosa, Joshoa lia-zuo; 10, Queen of North, U. Steward. Flausd Roses.— 1, Triomphe Roval, Wm. Hait ; 2, Aglaia, J.Thurston; 8, Mabel, T. Mellor; 4. Juliet, W. Willisoa; 5, Lavandioken, W. Daven- port; 6, Rose Guerre, G. Mort; 7,Camilas, O. Jdorl; 8, Madam o St. Ar- naml, T. Mellor; 9, Village Maid, G. Mort; 10, Lady C. Gordon, J. Thurston. Breeders. — First stand of six, Wm. Longson — Dr. Hardy, Sarah, Ann Hathaway, Paxton, Sutherland, Mabel. Second stand of 'bL\. Wm. Lea — Nicholas, Adonis, Olivia, Seedling, Miss Atberton, Queen of Eng- land. Third stand of six, O. Mort— Unknown, Lady Atherton. Queen of England, Paxton, Seedling, Juliet. Fourth stand of six, T. Mellor— Storer's Seedling, Duko of Manehester, Annie McGregor, Sir Colin Campbell, Sarah Sophia, Queen of England. Breeders.— First t^tand of three, Wm. Lea— Ariosta, Miss Atherton, Queen of England. Second staud of three, J. Moorea— Paxton, Earl Warwick, Seedling. Third stand of three, J. Warren — Paxton, Seed- ling, Seedling. Fourth stand of three, Wm. Longson- Paxton, Adonis, Miss Boot. Fifth stand of three, T. Mellor— Storer's Seedling, Wm. Bentley, Queen of England. Sixth stand of three, P. Swindells- Dukeof Hamilton, Unknown, Unknown. Bizarre Breedcrs. — 1, Seedling, Wm. Lea ; *2, Nicholas, W. Longson; 3, Paxton, J. Hall ; 4, Seedling, W. Lea ; 5, Ashmole No. 1, Luke Ashmole ; 6, Seedling, W. Lea. Byblceuan Breeders. — 1, Adonis, J. Hart; 2, Delicata, J. Moorea; 8, Miss Whittaker, G. Mort; 4, Duchess of Sotherland, W. Longson 5, Seedling, J. Thurston ; G, Miss Forrest, J. Peaooek. Rose Breedeks. — 1, Queen of England, Wm. Lea ; 2, Juliet, Wm. Lea; S, Martin's Seedling, Jno, Hart; 4, J. Waterson, T. Mellor ; 5, Mabel, Wm. Longson ; 6, Veritas, K. Kcysey. The best Breeder in the whole Exliibition, T. Mellor— Storer's Seedling. [This report was to have been Fcnt to us at the time of the Show being held, bnt has only just been received ; and we should not insert it if it were not that Tulip-prowers being about to take np their balbs, and having to repair losses luid add to their rarietie^. may find some of tho lists and notes usefal. j TROPOSED EXHIBITION OF VARIEGATED ZONAL PELARGONIUMS. No one seems to have taken any notice of Mr. Watson's challenge,* which appeared in the GanUners' ChronicU and in the Journal of Horticulture lately; but it would be very in- teresting to have, this autumn, an ejthibition of those beautifol plants. That held on the 21st of May was too early in the season ; I would, therefore, suggest that an exhibition be held at South • With respect to this, Mr. D. T. Fish writes—" Thftt owing chiefly to Ihe lateness of the proposal, and the fact of Mr. Watson baring required six plan ta of each variety, the amount of sapport was not sufficient to enable the prizes to be offered. He has, therefore, retumod the money with which he has been cntnisted." r JOUllNAL OF UORTICULTUfiE AND COTTAGE GAKDENKB. [ July 35, 1867. Kensington in connection with tbe Floral Committee's Meeting on the 17th of September, and that to supply the necessary funds ft subscription be commenced amongst nurserymen and raisers of new Pelargoniums. If twenty persons could be found to subscribe £2 each, twelve prizes could be given ; this would make the exhibition attractive, and would induce every one having few or many of these Pelargoniums to exhibit their productions. General satisfaction would thus he given; the very best of the varieties sent out this season, and those that are in course of preparation for next year, would be seen ; and much confusion would be avoided. I would suggest that there be four classes, and that three prizes be given in each — viz. : — Class I. — For the best twelve Gold and Silver Zonate or Tri- color Pelargoniums, including those sent out in 1867, and those to be sent out in 1808, one plant of each variety. The first prize to be given for the best and most distinct collection. First prize, HI ; second, £5 ; third, £3. Class II. — For the best six varieties, three plants of each. Conditions the same as in Class I. First prize, £.5 ; second, £3 , third, £2. Class III. — For the best three varieties, six plants of each. First prize, £4 ; second, £3 ; third, £2. Class IV. — For the best and most distinct Tricolor, either Gold or Silver- variegated. First prize, £3 ; second, £2 ; third, £1. I thint the above would give all a chance of competing, those only possessing one or three good kinds, and those having twelve. Three prizes may also be offered for the best varieties of Gold Zonal Pelargoniums. I would also suggest that three amateur jurors of known ability be appointed, and that the Council of the Koyal Horticultural Society be invited to offer extra or special prizes for plants possessing superior merit that are not provided for in the above classes. I shall have pleasure in contributing £2 for this purpose, and hope we may see a spirited competition. — J. Wills. DUTY-FREE TOBACCO. I A3I surprised at the objections raised by Mr. Tafe (page 27), to my suggestions as to Cayenne pepper. It he had said that the mixture would be annoying to the gardener, unless he took great care not to breathe the atmosphere, I could have under- stood it ; but how the mixture can fail to protect the revenue, I am unable to conjecture. If Mr. Tafe puts half a grain into a pipe of tobacco, he will never try the experiment again. As to damaging plants, red pepper, by itself, has often been re- commended as a fumigator. — G. S. WHO IS AX AJiIATEUU? Will you inform me if any gentleman growing plants and selling them to make a profit may show at a horticultural show as an amateur ? — A FivE-YE.iES SuiiscRiDEU. [Selling a portion of the produce of a garden does not render the seller a nurseryman. Many noblemen and gentlemen who exhibit annually sell the surplus fruits of their gardens and forcing-houses, yet are not excluded by so doing from contend- ing for prizes in the amateur classes.] as those of the other departments of the country. On Monday evening His Grace tho President of the Koyal Horticultural Society gave a conversazione in the conservatory at South Kensington, which for the extent of the arrangements and the brilliancy of the company equalled in its way anything that has been given in honour of His Imperial Majesty. Th« gar- dens were tastefully illuminated with Chinese lanterns sus- pended on the trees, and coloured lamps defining the outlines of the flower-beds ; while the terraces were lined with guards- men, holding Bengal lights. At the new India Ofllce, too, horticultural skill was brought into requisition by the utilisa- tion of the great resources of Messrs. Veitch keep the luoiBture iu the earth from cscapin);. There isi no moro fertile source of milJew iu Teas than a dripping moiat atmosphere in the autumn, ami too muah dryness at the roots. In such weather it is <|uite aH imporlaut that the roots should be moist as in bright sunny weather, and in some oases even more so ; as iu dull moist weather less moisture rises from beneath to be partly appropriated by the roots as it passes. I'rom such a cause we have often sejen more bolted Celery in ft shady drippini* season than iu a dry and sunny one. We are also more apt to be lulled into a false security ; for in garden- ing, appearances alone are often deceptive. We have examined Celery plants apparently nourishing, the moisture hanging late about the foliage before being evaporated, and yet the plants would throw up their seeJ-stulks even in suoh weather ; and ill almost every case, though the surface soil was moist, the mass of the roots might as well have been in a bed of dry ashes. Dryness at the roots greatly promotes seed-bearing, and this holds equally true whether applied to a Cabbage or a Pine Apple. Our skill must be directed to produce fecundity at the right time, so as to obtain the result wo most want, whether that be foliage or fruit. There are many old customs in gardening that are worth preserving. One of these is drenching the roots of all winter vegetables, after taking up carefully, in a thick paint formed of rotten dung, loam, and water, which prevents tlie roots suffer- ing for the short time they are exposed before planting. What adheres of the mixture also gives an encouragement to the young roots to begin and work at once. There is a diificnlty in making men attend to this simple matter, and the conse- quence is that basketsfiil of plants are taken up, and nearly withered before they are put into the earth, and some days' growth is tlius frequently lost, notwithstanding all future waterings. A great object would be gained were the impression produced that no plant should siifl'er from changes more than it is possible to prevent. All plants in n growing state, before they change their quarters into fresli pots or into the open soil, oi'e the better of having their tissues well supplied with moisture : hence the importance of planting in moist weather. Hence, too, the importance of every pot plant being well watered before it is transferred to a larger pot. We not long ago met with an iustanoe of what water can do. A large number of young Laiuela were sent to a place in May. They had travelled iu crates, and having had no drenching at the roots — no puddling, they were pretty well dried up. Part of these were taken away aud planted as they were, and scarcely one of them over made a green leaf. The others were placed for six hours, in turns, in largo tubs liUed with water, and of these, though many of their leaves dropped, scarcely one failed to make fine good growth. Of course, when Cabbage and Broccoli plants are pricked out and lifted with a spade or trowel, the best policy is to lake them up with halls, aud these balls, though damp, not so wet as to cause the earth to fall from the roots. Suoh plants scarcely ever suiier from the moving. When taken direct from seed- beds the earth should be well watered, and instead of pulling at once, the soil, if at all hard, should be eased with the points of a fork, and then the roots dipped or puddled before planting. Need we add what has previously been insisted on, that one oblique stroke of the dibber is all that is necessary to 6x the roots properly ? A score of strokes will not do the work eo well. Last autumn we were asked to look at a large plantation of winter stuff, that after repeated waterings looked as woe- begone as oould be conceived. " They were carefully planted," wc were told, and we could see the marks of the dibber as if from four to seven strokes had been used to every plant, and yet almost every plant was firmly hung by the neck, and the roots were mostly in a hollow, aud therefore could not catch the earth until either that earth had been washed to them, or they had progressed enough to catch the earth at the sides of the hole. There is, then, something iu the planting of a Cabbage. If the plant can he easily pulled up after planting, it is a sign the work hos not been done ; one oblique stroke of the dibbor, and then brought towards the top of the plant, firms the soil about the roots, so that it is not an easy matter to pull up such a plant. This one stroke leaves a hole, and if that is on eyesore, merely pull the point of the dibber across the hole, the point bringing some earth with it, and that will fill it sufficiently, as, though not so firm as the rest of the ground, it will prove a hotter receptacle for the watering that raagsaa, or enlivening the conservatory in the depth of winter. With regard to all these purposes the plants demand a con- siderable share of attention, especially at this period, liudding, cutting-striking, final potting, itj., arc in-oci'sses of paramount importance at the present moment. Tlio Hybrid I'orpetuals, Teas, Bourbons, and the Chinas are tlio most eligible elassos from which to select for pot-culture. Proceed with Kjse-bud- ding without delay. Keep down suckers, aud clear the stems of wild shoots. See that all hips are cut away from those which blossomed early ; these exhaust the plant much. Climbing Eoses out of bloom trained against walls would ho much im- proved next season by having a largo portion of tho old wood cat away, nailing or tying-in as many of the strong young shoots as are necessary to replace those which have been re- moved. Climbers of all kinds sliould bo constautly nailed or tied as thoy advanoo in growth, in order to prevent them from being injured by the wind. OKEKSnOUSE AND COSSERV.ITOKT. Tho pot Roses intended to flower in the conservatory late in the autumn, should now receive whatever pruning is necessary. All those which require a shift should havo it forthwith, in order tliat they may have a pot full of healthy roots by the flowering porioj ; this, and the application of liquid manure, together with a sweet and mihl atmosphere, will perform wonders. After these operations they should he placed in some open and airy spot, and if plunged in ashes they should be frequently turned. (Jive them regular wateriugs, and persist in picking off the blossom-buds as they appear, from those re- quired to blossom in November and December. Look out and enoourage a good supply of plants for a lato autumn display. Fachsias and Achimenes in succession, and even choice Ver- benas in somewhat thick masses in wide-mouthed pots, will add to the general effect. Remember tliat all those required to blo.ssom in midwinter, must have their final shift in good time. There is no success in forcing, or even retarding, without a pot full of roots. Head down the early-flowering Pelargoniums, still continue to expose them to the open nir until they begin to break, whan they must be removed into the house. Continue to, propagate them by cuttings, whioh will now strike freely in the open border. Pick off all decaying and decayed flowers in the conservatory aud greenhouses, and lot cleanliness prevail is all departments. BTON-E. "' Stovo plants in general having made a good growth, the next point is to get such growth matured. Afford a moro free cir- cnlation of air, and avoid shading as much as possible. The utility of a second house for Orchids will be more readily seen at this period than, perhaps, any other. The early-growing kinds, several of which are winter or early spring bloomers, will now require the withdrawal of a portion of the atmospheric njoisture still necessary to many others ; several of them, such as the Cattleyas, might be removed to a vinery were it not for the attacks of snails and slugs. To those who are oorapelled to grow their whole stock in one house, we would offer the following advice : — Keep a free circulation of air by day at this period, and oven all niglit, if possible, endeavour to have a good source of atmospheric moisture in the latter half of the day, and dis- pense with shading as much as possible. Many of tho plants iatendod for winter flowering should be repotted and encouraged by all moans. Continue the directions given in former calen- dars, and use all moans to ripen and harden tho shoots of suc- culent plants before tho approach of winter. When plants of a softwoodod nature are kept growing until winter approaches, their ruin is in most cases ensured. When plants ai'e intended to bloom freely in the following season, their juices must be properly elaborated. Light and air are indispensable to effect this ; a growth accomplished under these circumstances will bo much more favourable for the production of blossom than that produced in a close and shaded stove. — W. Keane. DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. KITCHEN OARDEN. Never conld there have been better weather for planting out all kinds of winter vegetables, as, after tvateriiiri. tho heavy showers obviated the necessity of further supplies. Watering was accordingly confined to such half-aquatics as Celery, and " running " in their case will, therefore, be reduced to a mimimum, for dryness in the young ami even the advanced state is the great cause of running iu early Celery. Some strong rows of Peas, nothwithstanding the rains, showed M JOCBNAL OP HOBTICULTUBB AND COTTAGK GABDENEB. c Jui7 as, iser. may be neeeesary. TUtu, then, a little will be gained when it is understood that two strokes at the most from the dibber will do for planting any Cabbage — better, in fact, than twenty ; jast as in pointing small sticks for plants, two strokes of the knife will leave as good a point as if that point were whittled as oaiefully as would be required for a lady's bodkin. FBBIT DKPARTMENT. The rains have rather injured the Strawberries, and will render their season shorter. Those turned out from forced pots will afford some gatherings directly. These rains have so washed the bushes that we have never seen Currants and Goose- berries finer ; and what is another great benefit, they have brought such numbers of snails and worms to the surface, that oar blackbirds and thrushes have been moderate in their de- mands on us. We will not expect such armies again until the ground becomes hard, and soft food is scarce. We will proceed as soon as possible in placing a lot of Strawberry-runners in pots and beds. We are generally late in obtaining runners, and we are jast preparing a little material in the shape of short grass and litter, and with that we will make a temporary bed with a little heat below it, and prick out the runners for future potting. Many people imagine that we have everything we want ; but that is n great mistake, and a very general one, even as respects some of our largest and finest places. In many of these the most severe economy and the veriest make- shifts must be resorted to. These temporary beds of ours will be formed with the bole of a tree for the back and another for the front, sometimes with pots for back and front, with a rail from pot to pot, and a wisp of litter stuffed in between the rail and the soil, and then the bed will be covered with old sashes or a piece of calico — the latter when cheaper being one of the most useful materials in a garden ; for many purposes, such as abeltering bedding plants, it is superior to glass. We are behind with our fruit trees as to summer pruning, bnt as they are well loaded and showing plenty of fruit-bnda, they will take less harm. The noise of the gun saved the buds in the garden. As a singular fact, we may mention that there are a few trees intended for a small orchard near the farm, and for years the produce has been next to nothing, though they tire well suppUed with buda every season ; but no sooner do they begin to swell than armies of sparrows, &o., from the farm clear out every bud, and the number of the trees would not compensate for the trouble of watching them. Melons in frames aro not ripening so fast as they would have done in more sunny weather. All in such places should be elevated on tiles, slate.'!, or pots to keep the fruit from the damp ground. Melons on trellises should have their fruit supported when a little more than half grovra. Before that time we think they are the better of having to support their own weight. As a general rule. Melons on trellises are the best in flavour, though fine fruit is obtained from frames. Turned out in frames and pita the last crop of Melons for the season, using large plants. In most places here they are very healthy, but in one small pit the leaves have turned yellowish before the fruit was perfected, and we would give something to know the cause. In a smaU piece of this pit, but shut oS by a temporary division from the rest, some of these strong yonng plants were turned out a week ago, after cleaning the paint, renewing the soil, Sitt, The leaves in a day or two began to be affected, becoming yellowish at the edges, and then the yellowness spread gradually all over the larger leaves. The plants from the same place turned out into frames showed no such symptoms. Insects had nothing to do with it. We should have blamed scorching, but the back of the wall of the pit was coloured with soot and lime, so as to prevent any extra re- flection of heat and light. The plants stood in a frame where there were a few Cucumbers in pots a little touched with the fly, and to clear them before planting, half a peck of bruised Laurel leaves was put in front of them, but not opposite the Melons. We know this is dangerous for Melons, and we would have thought the poison in the Laurel leaves that killed the fly might have injured the Melon plants, but for the fact that those taken a day or two later to frames showed no such symp- toms, nor do the few plants still left. With all our care as to dulling the colour of the walls, in this little piece of a pit there have been similar symptoms as respects Melons all the season, whilst close to them are other plants green and in fine health. We will have another trial, and watch closely. Mean- while we should be glad if any cause could be assigned. The plants received the usual treatment. We mention this, be- cause something may have escaped our attention, and because we believe that failures are often as instructive as successes. more especially when the causes can be traced, which we cannot do in the present instance. The large leaves have been removed from these transplanted plants, and we perceive that the smaller leaves near the points are becoming similarly affected. We may mention that the colouring of the wall was done with lime becoming quite mild ; soot was mixed to tone down the colour, and air was left on night and day after the colouring. In some cases where we have mixed quicklime and sulphur for whitewashing, we have found it desirable not to set tender plants in the place for some days, unless plenty of air was left on at night. We may also mention that in a neighbouring pit where the leaves are all that could be desired, the colour of the walls was toned down in a similar way. In small places with the back wall exposed, we have long given up having the walls of a bright white in summer, to avoid the reflection of heat and light, which in such cases is so apt to bum. After the end of autumn we are as often glad to have the walls white to have all the light we can. OENAMESTAL DEPARTMENT. We have done more here than elsewhere in fresh regulat- ing plant-houses, and conservatories, potting, and cleaning, and putting the lawn and flower-beds in as fine a condition as possible, and if only sunny weather should come, we should have fine masses of bloom on a rich green carpet. — E. F. COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— July 34. As the London season declines, so do the prices of all forced produce, and we have now a supply far in excess of our requirements, of BngliBh Pine Apples in particular. Strawberries are nearly over, and Raspberries hardly worth aendinf? to market. Continental supplies chiefly consist of Plums, Peaches, Nectarines, and Melona. The Potato trade Is as before. Regents are very sound and good. FETJIT, Apples ^ sieve Apricots doz Cherries lb. Chestnuts bush. Currants ^ sieve Black do. Figs doz. Filberts lb. Cobs lb. Gooseberries . . quart Grapes, Hothouse, .lb. Lemons 100 d. B. 0to4 0 4 Melons each Nectarines doz. Oranges 100 Peaches doz. Pears (dessert) ..doz. Pine Apples lb. Pluma A sieve Quinces doz. Raspberrips lb. Strawberries lb. d. 8. d 0to5 0 0 8 14 10 S Walnuts buah. 10 Green. per lOO 1 Artichokes each Asparagus .... bundle Beans, Kidney, A sieve ScarletRon.l sieve Beet, Red doz. Broccoli bundle Brus. Sprouts i sieve Cabbage dor- Capsicums 100 Carrots bunch Cauliflower doz. Celery bundle Cucumbers each pickling .... doz. Endive doz. Fennel bunch Garlic lb. Herbs bunch Horseradish . . bundle VEOETABLES. d. B. d 3 too 6 0 0 X/oeks bunch Lettuce .... per score Mushrooms .... pottle Mnstd.& Cress, punnet Onions.. per doz. bchs. Parsley per sieve Parsnips doz. Peas per quart Potatoes bushel Kidney do. New lb. Radishes doz. bunches lUiubarb bundle Savoys doz. Sea-kale basket Shallots lb. Spinach bushel Tomatoes. . . . per doz. Turnips bunch d. 3to0 0 0 3 0 0 9 6 0 0 s. d TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED. Dilliatone & "Woodthorpe, Monro Nnrsery, Sible Hedingham and Braintree, Essex. — Catalogue of New and Choice Plants, TO CORRESPONDENTS. *»* We request that no one will write privately to the depart- mental writers of the "Journal of Horticulture, Cottage Gardener, and Country Gentleman.'* By so doing they are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All communications should therefore be addressed solely to The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, d'c.^ 171, FUet Streety London, E.G. N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. Kkw Oardkns (Jn^uircr).— There is no Committee of BCanagement. Dr. Hooker ia Director, and Mr. J. Smith, Curator. j>i7 as, isn. 1 JOURNAL OP HOBTICULTURB AND COTTAGE GABDEMEB. Pka (y. B. H.).—Tbo varioly you aont to us Is known aa tho Purplo- poddud Fou. ScsDLnto PsnAHOOMiai {John Deant).—Tho flower wag quiu ihid' The very crimson fl.ime ontrasta atrikingly with tho duad wliite oi the ground culuur; but no judi^ment can bo formed from a singlo flower. Send a potted plant to the Floral Committee of tho Royal UorticuUural Society. VARIEO.ITED Phlox (/Ji'o),— Wo do not remember having seen a varie- gated Phlox, but do not on that account consider it either rare or valu- able. More varicKiitions in plants havo been brought to our uotico this year than in any previous aeasou, and next year most of those variegations will have pasaed away. VarioKatiou of itsolt dooa not give value to a plant ; ita beauty or utility muat bo increased by tho variojiatiou, and tho variegulioD muat be permanont or it is valueless. Dove I'UNT (C iI.).~U by this name you intend Perisloria ehita, it is a Btovo Orchid, but might .lucceod in a warm greonhouso. If you write to any of the chief nursorj'meu, who advertise in our Journal, they will sund you particulars of price, <&o. Kkd Ccrrants I a SuhtcribfT fram 1848).— Raby Castle, Victoria, and Goliath are synonyms of ono and tho same variety. CucuMDKU [liarr it Hu^drn], — Your Cucumber called " International," of which you forwarded us a specimen, 24 inches long, is straight and handsome, rather too much neck, but, neverthcleas, a very excellent variety. DuiUA Tubes (W.H. M.).— Nest week. ViNEBY, Ac. (Amateur, SloW).—Yan cannot have all advantages from any one plan. If you take the walk round the stage, tliough it should bo narrow I'r at tho ends, you c.in walk round it. If the walk is on three sides, you muat come back when you reach the division, unless you have a door there, when, of course, the objection does not apply, and you will do right in having your stage up to the division. You will be right whether you have a door or not, if you do uot mind the turniog back. Of course, you will gain all the width of the passage for stage. We would in ad- dition to A, build tho walls c and b, so as to form the pit, and a wooden coping to these four-inch walla would be the best. Such a pit could bo filled with fermenting material before starting the Vines, and would be useful for forwarding what you most liked; but wo would not grow Cu- cumbers there below the Vines, as they might bring thrips and fly. Such a pit with a trellis over it might be filled with bedding and hardy greenhouse plants in winter, and after the Viues were in leaf, you could grow Mossed, Foma, Calndiums, tender annuals, 4c. It matters little whether yoiir wall c be higher than A or not, but il higher you would require a sloping instead of a level stage iu winter. PoTTiNo Markchal Niel Rose — Planting RrsRS on the Manetti Stock (C T.). — You may place this Rose in a larger-sized pot at the end of September and any time afterwards up to November, u.sing a compost of one-half turfy loam and ono-balf well-rotted manure and leaf mould in equal proportions, adding sand liberally. Good drainage is essential, and the soil should be used rather rough. In planting Rosea on the Uanetti stock they should be covered with soil an iuch ortwo deeper than tho bud, Ar the junction of the bud or graft with the stock should bo covered with soil, but not deeper than 3 inches. Camellias Dnhealtht (Flora).— (The part of the stem sent is badly infested with a fungus ; but that is not the cause of the plants' dying. Tho parasite is only what may be found on the stems of all plants in- fested with coccus or scale, which you may remove with tho iwint of a knife, and afterwards wash clean the leaves and stems with a sponge, using a solution of 4 or.s. of soft soap to a gallon of water, ."-yrlnge with water at 140* . The painting of the house is injurious to plants at this aoasoD, and the soda water you name, if strong, will destroy what it falls upon. Wash tho M}Ttlea forcibly with a syringe, repeating this washing twice or thrico in the course of a-week, using a solution of soft soap at the rate of 'i ozs. to a gallon of water, and afterwards set them out of doors, taking care to keep them well watered, but not in a saturated con- dition. Take them in-doors in September. Climuino Devoniensis Rose not Flowering [B. Q. ff.).—The fact of your liose being cut off to within 2 feet of the ground is in a measure auflicieut to account for its not flowering. We suppose your plant is against a wall, and if so, and in good rich soil, with the mere removal of the tips of the shoots it will in a abort time flower freelj^. All it appears to waut with you is growth, and to this end a top-dressmg of manure in autunm will do good, tho watering being copious dm-ing dry weather in summer. Vapour from Hot-wateb Pipes {C S.).— It is a very common practice to sprinkle water on tho hot-water pipes during the forcing of Vines ; and when the pipes are not vorj- hot, doing so, as well as sprinkling every available surface twice or thrice a-day, is not injurious; but if the pipes are vei'v hot sprinkling them is calculated to do more harm than good. Traintno FntJiT Tbbrs tpon Roofs {J. C). — Your proposed training is novel, and not likely to answer for tho Peach, Nectarine, and Apricot trees, though it may do for Pear and Plum trees ; but wo apprehend the shoots ul these will be difllcult of training, and that their leaves will very soon injui'o the roof. Tho best trollising is galvanised wire, as you pro- pose, but wo think yonr chances of a crop are very small in respect of the Peach, Nectarine, and Apricot trees, which would be better kept on tho nine-feet wall. Tho covering of your farm-yard with galvitnised wire netting will not injure tho lower parts of tho trees nnlcss tho mesh of the netting bo small, when it will interfere with their fruitfulness on account of tho sun's rays being obstructed. As the trees are young wa advise you to remove the 31, ai.d to plant standards, with stems of the height at which the wire is fixed, providing you see your way to get at the branches for the purposes of pruning and training. OXALIS CORNICULATA BtmBA iPrrplex).~ll 18 easily propagated from seed sown early in Maroh aud placed in a gentle heat ; or a few good plants taken up in autumn, planted in a cold frnnio or ]>it in a dry, loitered situation, and treated like Calceolarias, will in March furnish a number of running shoots. These, if taken off with the poiula, or even with only two or three joints, potted, in small pota or pot in soil at 2 or '■i inches apart, with or without heat, will soon become good plants ; but they succeed best with a mild bottom heat. In dry. gravelly aoUA ibiM Oxalia ia quite hardy, seeding on tho walks, from whioh the plants tn not easily eradicated. LILIC5I OIOANTEDM OFFSETS (An rruK SubKr{hrT).—lX il nsoal for this plant after flowering to throw up ofl'seta or euokera, which should b* removed and potted oIT singly, and these in their turn will flower and give their quota of offsets. Watebino Vines (A Co-mtant Bender).— Now that tho Grapes ar» swelling a good watering would do good ; but if they ore coloured it will not bo of service. You should have given at least three good waterings: one when the fruit was set, when about half swelled, and again a short time before they changed colour. Market Phas (A'ocict).— Advancer, and a few days later Voitofa's For- fection. Eradicatino Dandelions from a Lawn (Younn Amatfur\.—ka the weather ia now moist dig thorn np with a Dock-apud, which you can obtain of any ironmonger, and there ia still time for tho turf closing In around tho openinga ; or you may defer it till spring, when you may take them up as soon as you con discern them. Caually they dio by frequent cutting, and they are not often troublesomo in lawns frequently mown. Daiaioa and Plantains are more dilHcalt to doal with. We have seen tha latter as well as Dandelions cut off just under tho surface early in spring, and a pinch of salt applied to tho root that was left ; but tho plants sent up suckers laterally, so that the evil was not mnch diminished. Taking Two Cnops or Hav in a Year (/rfern).— Unless the land l3 naturally good two cropa of hay will be found very exhausting, and heavy and expensive manuring will be necessary to enable it to support snob a drain on its rofourcos. In districts where two orops are cut it ia usual to manuro with well-rotted dung or compost in a tolerably pulverised con- dition between the crops— say in tho middle of July; otherwise, where irrigation is available, that moans is adopted to renovate the ground. In your case we should think a good dressing of nitrate of sods between tha two crops would be most easily applied, and would cause no troubla nor annoyance ; but if you continue to expoot two crops each year yea must apply a more bulky manore in winter. As you say your aoU is thia aud resting on the red sandstone, we wonid advise you to collect as much road scrapings as you can, together with all aoouringa of ponds, ditches, Ac. If these can be brought together in summer, dung mixed with them, and the whole turned once or twice, the heap may be laid on before Christmas at the rate of at least twenty one-horse cartloads per acre, spread over the surface, and harrowed in during winter. Such dresaings help to destroy the moss ; but if the soil is at all inclined to be o( a clnyey nature, let lime bo mixed with the ditch-parings and turfy matters. Wo would not lime, however, whore iron prevails, and this we expect ia tho case in tho soil you describe. Wo hardly think it la worth while sowing Italian Kyo Graaa on an esiating pasture aa yon describe, but we would BOW a little Clover; and we must remind you that taking two cropa of hay in one season is unfavourable to tho finer pasture Grasses doing well, aa in most cases where this is practised tbe coarser Grsssos only prevail, many of the finer Grasses being deatroyod by their more rampant brethren. Diseased Grapes (T. P.I.— The berries of Lady Downo's Grape you enclosed are very badly spotted. It usually arises from defective root- action. If tho roots can bo kept warmer and watered occasionally with weak tepid liquid manure, and more air admitted, the disease may be arrested. Pick off the diseased berrioa as soon as dcto«tod,but tho disease ia not infectious. Potting Azaleas (A Constant Reader).— U i« not too late to pot Ajoleae after they have made their growth, care being taken not to injure tha roots, and not to over-pot. Tacsonia Van-Volxemi Tbeatjibnt (T. H.)— Your plant should be put to rest in autumn, and kept dry at the root during the winter. About the middle of February it should bo pruned, and may bo repotti-d, remov- ing mnstof the old soil, and have a lees-siaed pot. A compost of two- thirds Ught turfy loam, and one-third leaf mould, with a free admixture of tilver sand will grow it well, free draiusgo being provided. The pot should bo placed in a gentle hotbed, tho soil being kept only just moist until growth fairly commences, when tho watermg should be more plentiful. When the pot becomes filled with roots, the plant should have a ahift into the pot in which it is to bloom, and bo again plunged m the hotbed unia it recovers from tho potting, when it may tie gradually with- drawn from the bed. The atmosphere should be moist, and the roota must not suffer Irom want of water, but a saturated soil is bad. 'The shoots ahould bo regulated upon tho wire frequently, and must not bo too much crowded. It cannot have too much light, and free ventilation 13 essential. It does admirably in a warm greenhouse. So far as we know it will not survive the winter and bloom out of doors even against a wall, but we have not tried it. STBAWBEBBiEa ON A l-LOPlUG BANK (W. Ji.).— We think that U you give the Strawberries time they will bear fmit, especially if you afford a good mulching of littery manure in June, and water them dnnng dry weather. Raspberries would probably succeed if the situation is not too much exposed, and the ground might, by being dug up and left rougn through the winter, be made suitsblo tor sowing with Orasa seeds next April. You may sow Fcatuca duriuscula, 4 lbs. ; Cynnsurua cnstatus, 8 lbs. ; Festuca tennifolia, '2 lbs. ; Poa nemornlls, 2 lbs. ; Poa tnviolia, 8 lbs. ; LoUum perenne, 24 lbs. ; TriloUum rcpona, 8 lbs. ; and Iriiohum minus, 4 lbs. The above quantity is for an acre of ground. Roses on Light Son. (P. M. N.).--Your soil being light it is hardly possible to manuro ;it too heavily. Wo recommend n good dressing of m annre in November to bo left on tho surface, and neatly pointed-in m a pring, when vou may apply a dressing of aoot between the plants, m aking the soil quite black. If you were to hoe the ground in a day or tw o afterwards, put on a mulching of short littery manuro 3 inches thick, and give copious waterings in dry weather, you would have Koses lor bouquets in plenty. Those named in tho "Garden Manual will siut you. Names of Plants (A. ltoherUon).~We oonnot undertake to name vn- ritliea, nor so many, and not unless each specimen is numbered. (Mr« SmuHc).— Philadelphus speciosus. (John.- Deutzia aonbra. {I. H. B.). — ij Spima ulmaria; 2. Hypericum perforatum; S, Aspidlum Filix- fcemina ; 4, Allosorus erispns ; 6, Aspidium spinulosum ; 6, Aspidium sp. (A. A'.).— Erica cerlnthoides. 68 ■JOUENAL OF HOETICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GABDENER. [ July 26, 1807. METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS in the Suburbs of London for the Week ending July' 2;3rd. DATS. BABOMETEE. THKRMOMETER. Wind. Rata In inahea. Gbxekal Keiiabks, Air. Earth. Hai. Min. Max. Min. I It. dp. 2 ft. dp. JInFse? of white clouds; boisterous ; cloudy at night. Ruin : low white clouds; fine. Cloudy and boisterous ; overcast ; cloudy. CItar ; partially clouded; rain at night. ' Cloudy; cloudy throughout. CUnidv; fine, ^\ith while clouils : rain. Cloudy ; showery ; heavy showers at night. Wed. . 17 Thnrs. 18 Fri. .. 19 Sat. ,. 20 Bnn... 21 Mon... •22 Tnes. . 23 Hon 29.727 29.677 29 743 29 802 29.643 29.072 29.612 29.623 29.487 29.574 29.683 29.605 29.651 29.598 70 68 65 70 72 74 72 EC 54 53 63 51 53 48 63 63 62 62 63 f4 64 60 60 59 59 59 60 60 W. W. w. w. s.w. 8. 8. .32 .06 .01 .13 .02 .20 .02 29.68-2 29.603 70,14 52.29 62.»6 59.57 0.7C POULTRY, BEE, and HOUSEHOLD CHROUICLE- FAILURES IN GAME BANTAM BREEDING THIS SEASON. Is answer to " Nottinc.hamship.e," I bib sorry to say that I ana one of those unfortunate sufferers with my fowls ; I never had such mortality amongst my fowls since I have been a breeder. I have Ifad hatched this season about sixty chickens, and now (July IGth), have twenty living. During the last six days I have lost sixteen. The place in which I keep them is a pen about 5 yards long and 3 wide, and I let them run out I to catch the morning sun, and in the afternoon they are in the pen. They are always on dry soil. No grass run. I had eleven chickens in one clutch, and when five days old they began to fail just in the same way as " Nottingh.^mshire" describes, being affected with purging, loss of appetite, drooping the wings, and swelhng behind, and they became too weak to follow the hen. "When I have seen them in this state I have placed them in flannel at the side of the fire, but I have never been able to bring one round. In the next pen to the eleven I had another hen with eight chickens. When about ten days old they failed similarly, and I have two left out of the eight. The malady seems to me to be infectious. The diet of the chickens has been meal, bread and ale, and egg chopped tine. To each of them when attacked I gave two nights successively, a pill containing prepared chalk, cayenne, and citrate of iron, but it had no effect. I have a olutch of Hamburghs all right, and doing well. I have also a clutch of chickens on a grass run all doing well, and at the same place my friend has lost nineteen Hamburgh chicks with the same disease. If any of my brother poultry breeders could state a remedy I should feel greatly obliged. light on this matter, for I think tlie coming year will find us with a very Umited supply of Game chickens. Has this disease, do you think, been occasioned by the very changeable weather ? I think not ; neither do I think it is the weakened constitution of Game fowls, although I am willing to admit that Game are the only fowls that seem to have suffered, most if not all other breeds having prettj' good broods. — W. C, Nantwiclt. I AM glad that your correspondents " Xoreshiee " and " Not- Tison.vjisnip.E " have brought before the readers of " our Journal " the mortality of Game chickens. I can quite indorse all they have said. I know of no breeder of Game fowls who has been successful this year. In my own case, I may say that the number of chicks reared in comparison with the number of eggs sat upon is very small — I should think not more than ten per cent., and this applies as much to Game Bantams as to other Game fowls. I will state my own observations on this most vexatious disease. The first symptom I observe is a very early shooting of the wing feathers, and when about nine days old the crop becomes soft and slightly enlarged, or, as an old breeder ex- presses it, " their craw gets puggey," their wings drop, and a few days end their existence. Now for the remedy. I have tried all the recipes I could think of, but without the slightest success. When once the chick has been attacked I have neither found nor heard of the slightest good being effected. I believe that this disease is worse on grass walks than on gravel or lime walks. I thought once that it might arise from fowls being reared on the same walks for years, but on moving them to fresh walks and pas- tures the same failure takes place. Had this disease occurred in a few yards I should have thought nothing of it, but I believe it to be general. I hear of no one in England who has had good luck with Game chickens. Only this morning I hear from a friend in Staffordshire that his success has been very Utile, not having reared 25 per cent, of the chickens hatched. I hope that some of our poultry-keepers will be able to throw THE PROPER WEIGHT FOR GAME FOWLS AT EXHIBITIONS. The average weight of Game cocks at exhibitions is now about GJ lbs., and runs from 6 lbs. to 7ilbs. The old favourite fighting weight was 4J lbs., especially at the Royal Cockpit, Tufton Street, "Westminster, Loudon ; and 4^ lbs. is allowed to be the most active weight of all, ani large enough for strength. The weight best combining activity with strength is, on the whole, 5} lbs., and this is my favourite weight for brood cocks. I think that when weighing more than 5J lbs., Game cocks begin to loso symmetry, and become too slow, heavy, and often clumsy. Game cocks are, of course, never weighed at exhibitions, and I think our poultry judges are mainly to be blamed for not checking the undue and great advance in the weight of Game fowls. Such large fine birds are undoubtedly noble Epecimens, but are never so sharp, fierce, or active as those of the middle size, and, though much more powerful in appearance, would soon be killed by active sharp birds. We do not want Game fowls to approach the size uf Dorkings, at least no true Game fancier would wish them to do so, and with all their nnble ap- pearance such large Game cocks are slow, heavy in fiesli and bone, often clumsy, and even resembling Malays. I hold that 51 lbs., or 1 lb. more than the highest fighting weight, is about the most correct exhibition weight, and that 3! lbs. for exhi- bition hens is correct, as i lbs. -hens are all slow and breed slow cocks. (Hens, of course, are heavier when full of e^-gs than at other times.) A few years ago the S.j lbs. birds tO(.k all the cups and prizes, but now we seem to have advanced another pound in weight. If the Game judges do not combine to- check and discountenance this approach to " Dorking clumsi- ness," in a few years we shall not see a quick, sharp, fiery, symmetrical, or really " Game " cock at any of our exhibitions. I prefer the old "cockers'" way of breeding, and breed my Game fowls strictly in accordance with the old usages, and not for large, heavy, exhibition birds; brood cocks, 54 lbs. ; cocks on " out-walks," ik lbs. each ; hens from 3 lbs. to 3J lbs., no heavier. All the chief exhibitors seem to have the r birds too heavy both in flesh and bone for really good birds. A heavy Game cock is far inferior to a light active bird, and jui'ges shoul.d remember that these large birds, heavy in fle.sh, and coarse '» bone, should never take prizes, and the judges should give the prizes to middle-sized birds, fine in bone, and also fine and active in shape. I do not write as an exhibitor, as I never have exhibited since 1857, and do not mean to exhibit again. I had several large cocks weighing from 6 lbs. to 7 lbs., and they were all heavy slow birds with one exception. These wero Black-breasted Beds and one Brown Ked. I hear that in York- shire and Staffordshire, in some places, they have Brown Keds weighing as much as II lbs., and IBlack-breasted Keds aud Dnek- wings of 8 lbs., bred for exhibition purposes, or for farmyards. Judges surely know that Game cocks " like Dorkings '' are not required even for exhibition. I think that while judging, the weights of the larger breeds must run too much in their heads. Jaly 25, 1867. ] JOUBNAL OP HORTIOULTORB AND COTTAGE GABDBNEB. StronR, active, fierce, fine-boned, and symmetrical bij?b-bred birds uro tlio true cup birds in Game fowls, I buvo only seen one yood liirge bird exhibited yet. — Newmaiiket. MANCHESTER AND I.IVEUPOO]. CENTENARY KXHIIJITION. OxK hundred years of aso ! Truly it is a great ago, and we heartily wish that the aged individual may survive the throes of th« approuching excitement ; yet surely thcro are most alarming symptoms of second infancy, or even of a more danger- ous Condition. Let us turn to the prize schedule and examine for ourselves. I sent for it in the hope that at one hundred years of age I could surely take a notch or two from it, enter in every iiossible shape, even though I won nothing I I of course nlludo only to the portion that interests us — poultry. I expecteil to Mud a great variety of classes and a faultless schedule. Who would not after the experience of a hundred years '.' The Show is for produce of 181)7. To this there is no possible objection ; but the schedule as regards poultry is headed thus : — " By the rules of the Society poultry m'lst be sent in charge of some person to the Show, and who will take charge of and be responsible for it when the Show is over." Such a regula- tion as this must defeat itself. None but the largest poultry breeders could do this ; and if tho attendant is to stop four days in JIanchester, a small portion of the gilt would certainly be taken olT the prize niom>y by his expenses. To carry out this regulation would, I imagine, greatly limit the entries. Such an idea would seem to have presented itself totheframers of the prize list, as there is an addition that " there will be an assistant appointed to receive," etc. For this, however, every exhibitor will have to pay " 2,>-. per pen extra ! " Now. I con- tend that to place all exhibitors on equal terms, no servant or person in charge of poultry should have access to the interior of the Exhibition until after the .Tudges have awarded the prizes. The less wealthy exhibitors should have an equal chance, and there is a variety of ways in which an interested party c;in improve bis position if ho have access to the interior of the Kxhibition, and yet not mean to act in any way dis- honestly. The above position is, I believe, sound, and would meet tho views of the great body of exhibitors. The prizes are liberal, but at many even of the minor exhi- bitions— tho Basingstoke Agricultural, for example, Brahmasare divided into Light and Dark. At this grand centenary in the year of grace I8C,7 they are exhibited together, although Dork- ings have ten and (iame fifteen prizes ; but, as though insnlt must be added to injury, this, now most decidedly one of the very popular breeds in tho country, and one that is entered more than respectably at every exhibition, is offered smaller prizes. This, however, is not tho great blot of the " centenary schedule." Will any north-country breeder believe the evi- dence of his senses when he finds that there is no class cither for (iiild or Silver-spangled Hambnrghs? To make amends for this, there is a class and equal money offered to Black Haniliurghs. \YeIl, I do not doubt that many exhibitors of the French breeds expected, and, I confesi', with justice, classes for these fowls. Where are they? Echo answers, "Where?" These. Spangled Hambnrghs, Malays, &c., have three compa- ratively small prizes offered between them ! I eIso regret very much the two bens necessary for a pen ; there is no question that it will lessen the entries. Tho single hen is now becoming the rule and not the exception, and all, the poor birds included, rejoice at it ; but when we arrive at our liundredth year perhaps we may see differently. I will only notice one of the concluding regulations — "All pens will be disqualified if the plumage of the birds shall have been trimmed," th of August. It is a first attempt. POULTRY AT THE ROYAI^ AGRICULTURAL SHOW AT BURY ST. EDMUNDS. '• TnKRP. always in sonuthing, I declare," says Mrs. Baldtrstone, " whenever I make op my luiud to enjoy myaelf." So there was at Bury St. Kdmuiidii. Wo went down with tho past aUve in our memo- ries. Tht- goodly row of jii.ns wull tenanted te^tiiicd to the desire of the t-Ute to gain one ..f thesKoyal prizes. Wo thought of what we had so often scon— the luighty collection of stock and implements ; tho urbane, practifird. and etheient staff; tho daily growing number of viyitors ; uud the hot but pleasant snmmcr weather that made a ro- treat nuder canvas very desirable from time to time. These luldcd to the spocc enclosed, and the facilities for obtaining everything that was ueeded, gave it the character of a/tfe t:kainp<'trr held in an en- closed park. Sunday gave an earnest of the weather to be expected at liury. All tho clemeuts were let loose; wind, thunder, and light* ning. ruin. hail, and tempest. Streets were converted into rivers, and hailstones had to be shovelled oil" roofs and out of gutters. There was comfort in the idea that it would probably clear off and ensure Hue weather. We ventured to say so to one of the '" oldest inhabitants " whom we met while wo were strolling about the churchyard ; bnt he answered ns rather testdy. " Ah ! " said he, " you don t know Bury. There never was a line day yet for a public meeting;, or for a pabUc occasion of any kind." We were discouraged, and thought wo would (juietly pass on ; we essayed to do so, but were not lot off so easily; the old inhabitant gave chase, overtook us, and touching our elbow, said, " It will be a wet week ; 1 11 bet anything of it.' He was right in this instance ; we had most abominable weather, casting gloom over that which otherwise would have been a charming treat. The locality was well chosen, being separated only by the river from the Abbey gardens. A most essential point that cannot be over-nUed was here attained : it was close to two railway stations. It was a very beautiful sight from tho railway on the road to Ipswich. The long rows of covered sheds filled with stock or implements, the different tents and offices gaily decorated with tho colours of all the nations that ever were and those that have never existed. The long rowg of stabling, and the circus or ring in ivhich the horses of different broods showed their proficiencv in their varied characteristics, and last, not least, the poultry. Beyond this the bcautifnl Abbey gardens and the extensive gi-ound still nearly encircled by tho remains of this noble pile. We doubt not if such institutions were still extant wo should find the inmates among our best poultry amateurs and exhibitors. Throughout tho Continent, at all the largo monastei-ics. Pheasants, fowls, and Kabbits are bred by tho brethren, and we are in a position to athrm they are clever and successful in the pursuit. Wo are bound to thonk tho Itoyal Agricultural Society of England for again calling the attention of those whom they most seek to benefit to the merits of poultry. Hundreds in Surrey. Sussex, and Kent for fowls, Bucks and Oson for Ducks, may tell of the large sums they have received this year. For weeks (i.<. each was an average price for both ; exceptions in favour of a higher price were common, and even the ill-fed and worsobred Irish chickens sold at 'As. each. Fowls arc not extravagant eaters, they are not expensive to rear, half the food they consume would be wasted if they did not eat it. Eggs alono will pay for their food. They are vigorous destroyers of all gi'ubs, worms, and other creepers on the surface of the earth. They search for and devour those that hide and burrow boueath it. Th»y are always turning over tho surface. The time must come when an effort will bo made to keep at home the nkillions that are sent abroad, and it will be effected by the instrumentality of such societies as this. The first class was that for Coloured Dui'l-iu;is, numerous and good. In this, as in many other classes, the good feather of the birds was remarkable ; considering that many regard the north of Kngland lu nn- favourablc for this breed, it is astonishing how many first prizes in tha teeth of great competition with the south go into those parts. The first prize went to Stoffordshire ; tho second and third stayed nearer home, they went into Essex. The show of chickens was wonderful consider- ing the season. The prizes went to Sussex, Essex, and Bucks. In these we have iigain to remark on the carelessness that seems to guide tho choice of exhibitors when they take birds with legs that almost amount to deformity. Twenty-eight liens of good dark lirahmas justified the prizes offered for theui. We .an speak highly of them. They answered the call of the Society fr. m all parts. In proof thereof, we notice the first prize went to Ireland, tho second to Aberdeen, the third to Yorkshire. Light Brahmas, fewer ia numbers, took prizes to Surrey, Essex, and Kent. Tho Buff Corliiiis pnt us in mind in numbers and ijuality of the olden times. There wore beautiful birds among them. Shetfield had the first, Birmingham the second, and F.ssox took tlie third. These birds were in capital feather; they were also honestly shown. In other Cochins the Grouse were better than the White ; some of the former were excoUont. Crrve Cfur and Lo Flr'ehf came to ns from France with the r«p«- tation of being marrelloas layers, also excellent fur the table. The 70 JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTHRE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. t July 25, 1867. Boyol Agnealtnro] Society of England, bearing in mind the importa- tion of 400,000,000 of eggs annually, offered liberal prizes for the three beat known French breeds. Good birds were shown in every class, ftnd it is probable that if many more had been exhibited the awards would have been the eame as regards the first prizes, bnt the entries were disappointing in nnmbers. The Houdans were more numerous than both the others put together. Spanish were very good. All the prizes went to the north. The Game showed the Brown Reds in great perfection. In size, colour, shape, and handling they were perfect. We greatly admired the chiciens shown by Mr. Wood ; they will be hard to beat when they are adults. The Black Reds and Duckwings were good, but we did not think the FUes up to the mark. Both in Spangled and Pencilled the Golden were better than the Silver Han^Jmryhs. The Golden-spangled were very strong. There were thirty-seven pens of Bantams entered. The Game were not BO good as we have seen, although the prize pens were not without merit. In the Bantam variety class we greatly admired the first-prize Buff Cochins. We also much admired two pens of Indian Bantams belonging to Sir E. C. Kerrison. Nothing could improve the quality of the Turhcys shown, but the entries were not so numerous as they should have been for the prizes offered. The three first pens in the prize list were of unusual weight. We may say the same of the Gc^e. Nothing need be better, but there should have been more entries. The Duclcs were numerous, but not fiufficiently meritorious to coll for remark. Many good pens arrived too late for competition, and were labelled to that effect. We published last week the prize list and the names of the Judges. It is nnneeessary to add that all connected with the Society were zealous in the discharge of their duties. We know no other so fortu- nate in its selection of officers. BUDE POULTRY SHOW. This was held at Bnde Haven, Cornwall, on the Ifttli inst. The following are the awards : — DoBKlNOS (Coloured).— First and Second, Rev. A. C. Thynne. Third, Rev. J. R. Wbyte. Fourth, J. Brock. CorS:.— First. J. Tarrett. Second, J. Bines. ChUkcns. — First and Second, Rev. A. C. Thynne. SPiNlBH.— First, J. H. Eeed. Second, W. Leach, t'dicicns.— First, J. Reed. Second, H. M. Bazley. Game.— First, W. H. B. Cohim. Second, .J. Francis. Third, J. .Joce. OMe*fn*.— First and Second, W. H. B. Coham. CkjoHiN-CHlKAS.— Prize, W. L. Trewin. BaiHMis.— First, J. H Reed. Second, Rev. C. N. Sillifant. Malays.— First and Second, H. Darch. CoENlSH. - First and Second, D. Maynard. Hahburohs iGoldcn-pencilled).- First and Second, J. F. Delinar. Hambdrghs (Golduu-bpansled —First and Second, J. F. Delmar. EAKBOEons {>ilYcrpencilled).— First and Second, J. Walter. HAMBOROns (Silver' spangled). — First and Second, W. M. Lancester. Hambdrohs (Golden-pencilled and bilver-pencilled). — C/iicfcejw.— Prize, J. F. Delmar. PoLANns (Golden-spangled).- First, F. Eanett. Second, A. Wonnacott. PoLANDs (Black).— Prize, W. L. Trewin. BARHnooR Fowl.— First and Second, H. Francis. Third, W. J. Lyle. Fourth, T. Glass. Filth, J. B. Lyle. Bajitamb (White).— First, S. Lyle. Second, T. M. Medland. Bantahs (Black).— First and Second, H. M. Bazely. Gdinea Fowls.— Prize, W. M. Lancaster. BncKB (Aylesbury).- First, J. Bines. Second, W. Bines. Diu^klings. — Prize, Rev. T. 8. Carnsew. Ducks (Common).— First, T. Pickard. Second and Fourth, J. R. Cotton. Third, G. Piper. Dufklings.~Vu%i, T. Shephard. Second, J. Bines. Third, W. Paddon. Docks (Kouen).— Prize, Rev. E. R. Wright. Geebk.— First, J. Sanders. Second and Third, — Pandrey. Tdbkess.— First, J. Heal. Second, H. Heal. Third, — Risdon. PlGEoKB.— First, J. M. Braund. becond, J. Heal. Third, T. Medland. Barht, Pouters, Fantaila, Jacobins, and Turbits. — Prizes, J. M. Braund. Trumpeters, Tu.mbUrs, and Wuaa.— Prizes, Rev. J. R. Whyte. Rabbits.- ioBfl-tarcd,- Prize, W. Gist. Common.— First, H. Sanders. Second, R. Francis. EiTBA Prizes.— ^4)11/ Pure Breed.— Tiiet, T. Wood (Anconas). Second, Rev. C. H. Sillilant (Black Cochins). Cocls.— First, J. tt Reed (SpanishJ. Second, A. West (Game). Third, H. Darch (Malay). Extra Prizes Given by Wllliam Mabklll, Esq. — First, J. Stanbury. Second, J. Penfoond. THE SEX OF EGGS. Tod may smile, Messrs. Editors, at my simplicity in attri- batiiig a gender to eggs ; btit, of course, you knuw what I mean — the Bex of the chickens which the eggs will produce. This season I have been unfortunate in having a preponderance of male birds, and on mentioning the matter to an elderly lady friend who has had great experience in the rearing of poultry, she informed me that it is as easy to detect the sex of eggs as it is to detect the sex of grown birds, and that before she re- tired from her farm she took care that all her early chickens ■were pullets and her late ones cockerels, the latter being more valaable in the market. Her mode of ascertaining was this : — She took the eggs into a dark room and held them separately in front of a lighted candle, thick end upwards, and on placing her eye against the egg the fertilising agent could be very clearly perceived. If this was exactly at the top of the egg a male chicken would be produced ; if on one side, a female. I intend trying the experiment another season, and, probably, some of your subscribers who may have been equally unfor- tunate with myself may be induced to do likewise. — Lindcm. MAJOR MUNN'S BAR-FIIAME HIVE. In your reply to " Wax " in your last number, I observe the statement that " Major Munn'a three-cornered frames were hinged to the hive, and were not interchangeable." Now, I think this matter ought to be put right as early as possible ; and I, being pretty well acquainted with the hive referred to, beg to state to your numerous readers, that one of the main features in Major Munn's bar-and-frame hive i?, that the frames are interchangeable — just as much so as Huber's, Baron Von Berlepsch's, or the Langstroth hives. Major Munn's hive is not generally made with the frames " hinged to the hive ;" and the only one I ever saw with hinges to the frames is in the Edinburgh Museum, and these hinges do not at all interfere with theiuterchaugeability of the frames. — Sddbdkt. [We only spoke of Major Munn's hive as wo had seen it, and were not aware that alterations had been made in its con- struction.] HONEY HARVEST. I AM sorry to see in " our Journal" so many complaints of the bad honey harvest this year. The early part of the season was, no doubt, very unfavourable for honey gathering, but I think that those of your correspondents who expected such a famine in their hives when they wrote a few weeks ago will be able to send a much more satisfactory report now. During the recent hot weather honeydew has been very abundant on the oak trees, and the bees have made good use of it. 1 was surprised to see in your number for June 27th a doubt expressed that tees benefited directly from honeydew. I have studied considerably the sources from which they collect their food, and am convinced that when honeydew is abundant (which, however, does not frequently occur), it affords them a more plentiful harvest than auy flowers. 1 have seen hundreds of bees on a single oak tree licking the saccharine matter from its leaves ; but when I consider that thero are, perhaps, as many oak trees as bees in the country, I am not surprised that the latter have not often been noticed on them, and that, con- sequently, people are incredulous as to bees procuring honey from this source. I have several beautiful supers, containing, perhaps, 20 lbs. each, all collected within the last month. I had no swarm until the end of June, but one has given me a splendid glass of about 6 lbs. already. — An Isle of Wight Bee-keepek. BEES ENTERING SUPERS. Wishing to effect this, I this year placed supers on two stocks, when, by increase of the number of bees and fine weather, it seemed advisable to give them room, so as to try to prevent swarming. The weather afterwards became cold, so I shut off the bees from the supers until it became fine again, as they had not yet made much comb. This practice I carried on during the changes of temperature until the bees seemed securely at home in the supers, and now these are nearly filled. I may add that each time the sides were removed to allow the bees to pass up, I put honey in tile guide-combs, and slightly smeared the sides of the supers (which are of wood), with a little honey. There may be nothing new in this plan, but it havinf; been successful, I venture to bring it under the notice of the readers of " our Journal." — C. A. J. Success in Hatching. — In one of my first hatches of chickens this season a Cochin hen brought off nineteen chickens out of nineteen eggs, and a twentieth, which was laid to the others a week after sitting, had a chicken in it also. — J. li. Aldked. July 1!C, 1867. ] JOUBNAL OF HOBTICULTOBE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB. 71 VAGARIES OF BEES. H.IV1NC! a somewhat singular case in my apiary, I shall be glad of your opinion aa to how it can be accounted for. My stock at the commcucement of the season I will call in the order in which they were :— Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10. No. i was very strong in February and March, but soon lost its strength uniiccouutably, so that I determined to drive the bees and unite them to a swarm on the lirst opportunity. Nos. 7 and 10 swarmed June 'JCth, and I united them in the evening, placing them in a Woodbury-hive, No. 6. (This is now quite full of honey, and the bees have commenced building in a Woodbury super.) On July 10th, No. 1 swarmed, and in the evening I drove No. 4, sprinkled both lots, and united them in No. 8. When I took out the comb from No. 4, I found the queen quite alone (I have reason to believe that she was a young queen raised lust year), and only about 150 or 200 cells occupied with brood, part worker and part drone in worker cells, with very few eggs, and they adhering to the aide instead of the bottom of the cells. I intended to forward tho queen to you but she was accidentally lost. Next morning (July 11th), the bees in No. 8 left the hive and joined No. 7, which had swarmed fifteen days previously, and had given no intimation of casting, and I found the queen of No. 8 encased and dead. About 2 P.M. the same day they rose again from No. 7, and I hived them in a Woodbury, placing it where No. 4 was, and they are doing well. Now comes the carious part of it. There are three or four queens piping in No. 7 to-night (July 17tb), twenty-one days after tho issue of the first awarm, and six days after the second. My impression is, that the young queen must have been mature at tho time of the first swarm, and that she must havebeen pre- paring to Bwiirm at the time the strangers joined them, thou g oven then it leaves no time for her impregnation, or between that and commencing laying. Can you enlighten me or suggest a more probable solution ?— Sheiiwooi> Foiiestee. [Wo think it most likely that the deserted queen found in No. 4 waa a drone-breeder, and that what you supposed to be worker-brood was really unsealed di'one-brood in worker-cells. Could you have sent us tho queen, a post mortem examination would at once have decided the point. The conjoined bees in No. 8 appear to have been placed too near No. 7, and the re- turning bees from the former having raised what the Germans call the " swarm-tune," probably attracted stragglers from the latter, and ibis immigration set on foot the regicidal attack which resulted in the death of the queen of No. 8, and the subsequent voluntary union which took place. The fact of young queens piping twenty-one days after the issue of the first swaim ia remarkable, but not altogether inexplicable. We have kuown a queen hatched so late as the twentieth or twenty- first day after the removal of the old one, and assuming Huber to be, as we believe him to be, correct in his slatemeut that young queens are often confined to their cells for some time after they have arrived at maturity, the delay ia not so ex- traordiuary as might at first sight appear. Wo i-hall lio gfad to receive an account of your attempt at propagating Ligurians.j BEES IN BERTHSHIRE. TniB season in Scotland has been the most unpropitious and disastrous to bees which has ever come under my notice. The one halt of my apiary haa perished. Some colonies have died of starvation, others of sheer diminution of numbers, owing to the queen's not breeding, though having abundance of stores. Tiio bees have iiterally been confined to their hives (with the exce^>tilln of some weeks), from Si.ptember, 1800, to Jime, 18G7, without being able to collect honey or farina. Even yet tho season is unfavourable, and throughout the whole of this district there are only two or three natural swarms. Two Ligurian queens, which were sent me by Mr. Woodbury, having been put into strong hives last October, survived the winter and began to breed beautifully marked bees in spring ; but, like many of my black colonies, owing to the inclemency* of the spring, they did not multiply very rapidly, and, indeed, become stationary, or rather began to decline. I supplied them with food, bat, looking into the interior of one of the hives one frosty morning, I fouud the whole of the bees a benumbed and inanimate moss. 1 immediately transferred the hive to a warm room, and in the course of an hour or two they were all appa- rently resuscitated and restored to Ufe and motion. I gave them a supply of syrup, which they greedily dercured. I sus- pected, however, that in conaequenca of this disaster the hive might ultimately succumb. They continued to work when the days were fine, but they made little or no increase to their numbers. When I examined them about a week ago their numbers appeared to bo reduced to four hundred or five hun- dred. The other Ligurian hive ia making progress, but is still weak, having, perhaps, about two thousand bees. I have now to relate a rather unusual incident in connection with the first Ligurian hive mentioned above, and a Ligurian stock (not piue), given to me last year. The queen of this latter hive breeds Ligurian bees of the most beautiful colour and form, and also bees greyer in colour than the common black bees. The stock, though having literally no stores left in spring, bred rapidly, and drones made their appearance about the middle of May. The bees of this stock were so voracious that they would sip up any quantity of syrup. The stock became very full of bees, and though there waa no ex- pectation of a swarm, owing to the inclemency of the weather, and they were so much under my eye that it was next to im- possible they could have swarmed without being observed, yet on Tuesday week (June 26th), I was astonished to find a dead queen lying at the entrance of this hive with a few beea around it. I was unable to decide whether old or young. I sat down on a seat beside the hive, and in a short time I heard the usual piping that precedes the second swarm. I then put my ear close to the hive and heard distinctly the two voices or aounds that are uaually heard — the tenor and bass. On Wednesday the hive swarmed, and, to my astoniahment, the awarm was no larger than an ordinary second or cast. I turned up the stock and found it " choke full " of bees. When the awarm had cluatered on the branch of the tree I noticed that some other bees were joining it. In the course of a few minutea I found that fighting had commenced, as a consider- able number of pairs of bees in deadly conflict were falling on the ground and perishing. I had the swarm hived in a skep f ull ot,comb. On inverting it I found a queen encased. I immediately took a spoon, and by means of it conveyed the cluster into a small vessel, and having sprinkled the bees with water I found a fine queen in the heart of it. She waa imme- diately set at liberty, and was apparently uninjured. I put her into a zinc cage, placing the cage in a stock whose queen had recently died, and which was rearing young queens, in- tending next morning to abstract the black young queen and to substitute the Ligurian. To my disappointment, however, next day I found her dead in the cage. On examining the weakest of the Ligurian hives to which I have referred above, I found to my surprise the beea had all left, queen and all. They had evidently deserted their hive (as a hunger swarm), and joined the second swarm that came off from the stock hive. It was no doubt their queen I found encased, and which died, as I have described. 1 had to-day (4th July), another case of an old queen deserting with about three hundred bees (all the bees in the hive), and alighting on the top of another stock. — J. L. FOUIi BROOD OR CHILLED BROOD? I BEG to submit a suggestion as to the cause of foul brood, or, at any rale, one of the causes, and to preface a statement of the circumstances on which my opinion has been founded. I commenced beekeeping operations this spring with eleven stocks, of which ten were very strong, as may be surmised when I say that in spite of every effort to prevent swarming I have succeeded in only three cases, the remaining seven stocks having sent out eleven swarms, of which four issued from an equal number of black bee-hives, while seven have to be credited to three Ligurian hives. The single exception to the general prosperity was a Ligurian stock, which never appeared last year to recover the sending out of a second swarm ou the 11th of June, which equalled any first swarm I ever saw, so far aa numbers were concerned, and all through the winter the weakness of the hive in question was the subject of fre- quent observation. I should have suspected, indeed, the loss of the queen, but that tho beea carried in pollen, and on the IGth of June I removed the crown-board and lilted out all tie ten Woodbury frames, carefully inspecting them one by one. The combs I "found well stored with honey and brood ; but the bees had evidently been driven by the unusual severity of the weather to cluster together about the centre of the hive, so that the outside ccmbs were bare, and these, irom the decaying 72 JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ July 25, ifier. larVfB and nymphB in their cells, quickly proclaimed to one's organs, both of sight and smeU, that foul brood had attacked the hive. My first impression was to destroy the stock as soon as evening should have brought the dwindled family together ; but observing that four of the frames were well covered with bees and with plenty of brood in all stages, and quite fragrant, I restored these latter, burying all the rest. The result of this change in the interior economy of the hive was quickly per- ceptible in the increased activity of its inmates, and on the 7th of July I again took off the crown-board and examined the fonr frames, finding them in most excellent condition in every respect. On the 14th of July I again commenced the inspecting pro- cess ; but the moment I exposed the interior of the hive to view the bees rushed out and assailed me so vigorously that I was satisfied all was going on well, and lest any diminution of numbers should result from loss of stings, I restored the crown-board to its place again. The inference I draw from the above facts is that foul brood is in some cases caused by an insufficiency of bees to keep up in the hive the amount of warmth required to mature the rising generation, especially when very hot weather encourages egg-laying in all parts of the hive, only to be followed by cold of an unusual degree. The comb being then deserted by the bees, the grub dies and putrifies, becoming feculent, and soak- ing more or less into the wax surrounding. Instead of increas- ing the strength and activity of the colony, the decomposing brood becomes a double source of weakness — negative by the non-increase, and positive by the bad effect upon the bees, whose strong dislike of noxious odours of any kind must be well known to every apiarian. In two other instances lately at a friend's apiary, foul brood may be traced to precisely similar causes, in these, unhappily, involving the total loss of the stocks. — C. H. Hodgson. [This appears to be a case, not of foul brood but chiUed brood. Virulent foul brood is highly infectious, and cannot be cured by excision. Its cure by any process is, in fact, so troublesome in practice and so uncertain in its results, whilst the risk of spreading the disease is so great, that it is far better to treat it like the cattle plague and " stamp it out " without delay as soon as its existence is ascertained.] BEES IN A DECAYED STRAW KTVE. I HAVE an old straw hive full of honey and bees. It is fall- ing to pieces. It has a second hive on the top of it, put on last year to protect it for the winter. This makes matters worse, as it also is fiUed with honey and bees, and the bees are, besides, clustered all over the hive outside. I cannot leave them in this state for the winter. What would you advise me to do ?— S. D. K. [The bees will all betake themselves inside the hive as soon as the nights become chilly. We should then drive, and unite them to another stock in the manner described in page 59 of the last edition of "Bee-keeping for the Many." Do not use chloroform. ] OUR LETTER BOX. EcBV PocLTKY Snow.— Mr. J. p. Bott, Cartiflelds, Hatfield Peveril, near Chelmsford, iurorms us thnt be received high commendations in class 1 for Coloured Dorkings, and class 18. Spanish Fowls too Fat (D. H.).— As the food of your fowls is lying on the floor, they are overfed. They should not be fed in the house, and food should be given only so long as they will run after it. They are feverish, or they would not lose their feathers. Reduce their nllowanee of corn, and give lettuce, growing grass, and peat earth. Laving fowls are always subject to sudden death when they are too fat. HoCDAN Cock Lajie (M. A. F.).— Wo have not found Houdans get bumble-footed like Dorkings, nor do we think they will be so. We believe that on examination you will find some injaiT. Try whether pressure gives pain. We prefer dark cooks to breed ft-om, and'think the chickens should bo darker than adults. It is one of the breeds in which there is a tendency to become lighter as the birds grow older. SEARPiG GcrsEA Fowf.s (E. C. W.)— Guinea chicks want to be fed like young Pheasants on curd, dough, boiled eggs chopped fine, and bread and milk. The hen should be kept in confinement. Nothing is so pre- jadioial to chickens of all kinds as to be kept in a room. It is productive of cramp, it is bad for the feet, and yields no food. Extensive PontTBY-BnEEDiNc; (Pos«iro1.— Ptinltry-breeding on a large scale has never yet been found protiUable. It. has not succeeded at Bromley. It will pay as an adjunct to an agricultural establishment, but it.9linnot stand alcine. Swollen Toes in Fowls iA. W, S.).— We have never seen the disease you mention, except in La Fleche cocks. It is common to all birds in frosty weather, but then the naUs come ofF, and the toe heals, remaining only a little swollen. If you have either stone, wood, or asphaltum pave- ment in your house, it may have te do with it. lNT»rrrNO Hens to Lay in Winter {H^. — .\nimal and other stimulating food will make fowls lay in the winter. The same may be aoeouiplished by getting fowls of the proper age without resorting to undue or improper feediug. We are certain that the purchase of some thousands would be a losing investment. You can only ascertain whether eggs are clear or fecundated after they have been under a heu for five or six days. Poultry is a Small Enclosure [A Coitu'tcr). — Yon can keep a score of hens and rear chickens from them on 500 square yards. If it is not all grass, you will have to supply them with helps. They must always have plenty of green food and dust. A broody hen may be made to sit in a strange place, by being put on her eggs at night in the dark, and shut down so closely that she cannot leave them. After a day or two she will keep to them. Food for Young FHEi.s\NT^ (Constant Subscriber). — Buy Baily's boot on " Pheasants and Pheasantries." You should not give ant's eggs till they are wanted, by doing so you have deprived yourself of a resource in youi' time of need. Feed on curd, dough, bread and milk, and boiled eggs. Keep them dry, and keep the hen shut up. " W. S., Shrewsburn." We have a letter for you if you will scud us your full address. Ground Oats for Poultry {M. A. F. and G. P.). — We know of no place where these can be obtained except at Mr. Agate's, Slaugham Mills, near Crawley, Sussex. Young Turkeys with Swollen Heads iYounp Befjinner). — Give your Turkeys directly some bread steeped in the strongest ale you have. Put a strong solution of camphor in all the water they have to drink. Wash their eyes with celd water and vinegar. Keep the hen constantly shut up under a rip ; it must be one that will .tIIow the poults to run in and out. Feed generously on oatmeal mixed with milk, and with green onion tops chopped fine, and mixed with it. Put the hen in a di-y sunny place, and spare neither ale nor camphor. If you neglect the disease, all your poults will die. Sale of Eggs f^. H. E.). — The best purchasers are the vendors of eggs in your neighbourhood. Fresh-laid eggs are always more sought after than those imported, and readily command a higher price. Kemoving Bees to a Distance [A. S.).— We should certainly defer the removal until the autumn. The season is now too far adv.-mced to render it probable that the bees will again take to the super, and in this case we do not see how you can obtain any profit from them this year without deteriorating the stock. Payne's Hive (Inquirer). — The best answer we can give is the follow- ing extract from " Ee^-keeping for the Many,"' which you can have free by post from our office, if you enclose five postage stamps with your address : — " Procure a supply of Payne's Improved Cottage Hives ; also, of small hives, 8 inches in diameter and 7 inches deep, flat at the top. with a bit of glass in one side covered by a shutter. This hive is in shape the same as the large one, and with a hole in the top, covered with a piece of straw-work in the same manner." Silkworms (F. S. F.). — The beet works on their management are Italian. We published a translation of one by M. Ricii, in the Tenth Volume of our first series. GiSHURST Compound (If.).— If your pet dog ate any of the Gishurst compound it may have killed him. We do not know the composition of the compound ; but as it kiUa insects, in larger quantity it may bo fatal to a dog. Raspberry Vinegar {E. S.). — One quart of Raspberries to be put into a quart of the best vinegar ; let them remain aweek, stirring occasionally ; then add 1 lb. of loaf sugar, boil very gently for twenty minutes, strain, and when cold bottle it. Brewing iSrcu-er). — We know of no reason why wrought-iron boilers should not be used, though copper boilers arc employed. We do not know what information you seek by asking, " Who is the best brewer '.'" POULTRY MAKKET.— July 2L Sultan, Viceroy, and Belgians ore all gone. Trade feels it, and senders may now expect very ditfercut retui"ns. s d. s. d ) : s. d 8. d Large Fowls .... 8 0 to 8 B, Pheasants .. n 0 too 0 Smaller do 2 fi s 0 Partridges .. 0 0 0 U Chickens 1 :i 1 (i Grouse .. (1 0 0 0 Goslings .... 6 0 f. fi Guinea Fowls..,.. .. u U 0 0 Ducklings .... 1 n 2 0 Babbits....... .. 1 5 1 li Pigeons 0 s 0 » Wuddo^, ...,,,,. .. U B 0 S) ADgust 1, 1867. ] JOURNAL OF HORTIOOLTTJEE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE. 75 WEEKLY CALENDAR. Day of Month Week. AUGUST 1-7, 1867. Average Teinporalarc Dear Iioodon. Kain in lant 40 years. Snn RiiicB. 8an Moon Seta. Kisrrs. Moon Seta. Moon's Age. Cloek before Snn. "oV Year. 1 '2 8 4 5 6 7 To F 8- SCN M Tu W Lammas. Roynl UorticuUnral Society, Promcnailo. 7 Sunday afteu Tkinity. Royal Horticnlturrtl Society, Fruit, Floral, {and General Uectiogs . Dav. 75.8 7,'i.« 71.8 7S.8 74.S 73.4 71.7 NIeht. 50 3 ni.i .50.6 60.8 51.3 50.0 D0.9 Mean. H8.0 634 (12 7 fiS.S 62.8 62.0 62.8 Days. 18 11) 20 17 IS 19 14 in. h. 25 at 4 20 4 28 4 29 4 81 4 53 4 54 4 m. h. 47 at 7 45 7 44 7 43 7 41 7 .39 7 37 7 u. 11. SafH 23 7 36 8 48 9 m 10 nftor. 10 1 m. h. 18atR 49 8 18 0 45 9 11 10 88 10 8 11 Days. 2 S G }> m. ■. 0 5 6 1 6 B7 6 52 6 47 S 41 C 81 21 S 214 215 2Ig 317 218 219 Prom observations taken near London diirlni? tlie last forty yoara, tlio avoraRo day tomperatnro of tho week is 74 0 • and its niuhl la'inch"" """' ™ '*'' ' "'"' "'" ''"'*" "''' ''^^'' °" ""^ "'"'• '*^^- Tiao fc-reatcst faU ol raia ,?« SriU.VL CORDONS. .1 ^ -.,/.- .t* I KOM time fo time I liave recommended in " onr .Tour- nal " tliis mode of training fniit trees, which especially suits the Peach, and tln! progress made by the young spiral cordons in my new liousc would at once convince any sceptical visitor of its advantages. These young trees, planted in groups of five, at intervals of 15 inches, have already made immense strides towards the glass, and are regularly clothed with good bearing shoots from base to point, the buds prominent, the wood iirm, and tho folinge clean and healthy, promising a heavy crop next season. I removed all the fruit from them to favour development, being convinced that, in most cases, trees arc ruined by early bearing, whether in orchard-houses or in the open ground. Cases may, however, occur where excessive growth requires checking by every means in our power ; and, indeed, some of the standards in tho new house are becommg troublesome, and difficult to keep in balance. Tliere is no doubt in my mind, however, now that spiral cordons for '.he borders, intermingled with pyramids in pots, kept rather low so that the sun may freely shine on the lower portions of the wall trees (in lean-to's), will be the future style of border-planting for orchard-houses. For tho walls of lean-to's nothing equals diagonal cor- dons in productiveness, simplicity, and beauty. In the case of span-roofed orchard-houses, parallel rows of diagonal cordons, planted in borders, and trained on horizontal wires kept tight, with guiding rods of osier to l;eep the leaders straiglit, are ■I'ery beautiful, and most fertile. IJows of potted trees, kept low, are placed near the sides of such a house ; the rest are all diagonal cordons on either side of the walks. I wish readers of this .Tournal could see the liouse of a friend near Ijondon, who generally styles himself " your persevering disciple" when «Titing to me, and well merits tlie title ; and, in truth, orchard -houses were made for such men. They arc a never-failing souroo of pleasure and interest to them. This gentleman, who is a man of busi- ness, rises regularly at .'> a.m., and prunes till breakfast- time. Then to Ijondon, and after dinner, on liis return, till nightfall his chief occupaticm and only recreation is pruning, and superintending the watering of his beloved trees. Of these there may be nearly a thousand by this time, all beatitifully pruned and trained Tho houses are span roofed, 700 or 800 feet long, and planted with diagonal cordons, except near the sides. My friend wished to make the trees meet in an arch overhead, btit tliis plan, though picturesque, I declined to recommend. I should liave pre- No. S9I.— Vol. JUL, Nbw Sbhiii. ferred spiral cordons for the second rows of trees, tho two central rows remaining diagonals of immense length and power. With potted trees near the sides such an arran''e- ment seems to me not very ea.sy to beat. As to appearance- when in bloom, it must be splendid. JMy own predilections are all for lean-to houses, heate*' or unheated ; nevertheless, by a combination of this form with the span-roofed, every object would be obtained. By- dividing tho houses by means of glass partitions, and by the application of various degrees of lieat, a succession of fruit would be secured. But whatever bo the form of the Jiouse, spiral and diago- nal cordons are what I prefer, with potted trees for tho- sides of the iiouses, or to mix with the others. Large- standard trees are beautiful, but not so easy to restrain, nor so productive : moreover, tliey are a return to former^ now exploded, notions. More trees, smaller in form, and closely stopped, represent the more modern idea's— ia orchiird-house trees at least. Each of my groups of spiral cordons, of five trees together, takes up about the samo- space as a large standard, and will, probablv, bear tliree times as much fruit ; of varieties, too, ripeninij from .July to October, instead of all at once. As to priinin", these groups can be managed by a child, so to speak. At Bill.ancourt there were exhibited some small speci- mens of Apple trees in pots, trained spirally, which had a good appearance ; they were intended for a novel portable orchard-house, the invention of some French gardener at Montpellier. These orchard-houses were a step in the right direction made by our neighbours ; tliey afforded a, hint which might be useful for such persons'as could not iind space for larger houses. For choice Cherrv tree.s in pots, easily sheltered, or for select American Apple trees, they seemed well adapted. In these cases the si)irat form had been chosen, with a just appreciation, bv our foreign friends. If ever they seriously adopt, orcliard-houses. there- is no doubt that cordons such as here spoken of will be those chietly used. As it is, cordon training is making such rapid advances in popularity that it is no longer necessary to advocate it in these pages. Only, as spiral cordons were first tried in our hotises (they are not adapted for open-air work), they liave many cl.aims, besides their evident utilitv. to be again brought before tlie notice of the leaders of "this .lournaL To my clerical brethren. esp>(-iilly. always in advance in horticultural novelties— and they will not mind mv saying it, I know — sometimes in advance ('.') of my good friend llivers in " departing from liis teaching with advantage," let me hero recommend these beautiful cordons. ° Another reason for so doing Is to be found in the oppo- sition any novelty always meets at the hands of preiudioej men. Whilst in Paris a learticd professor, wlio hail written certain heavy works on kinrlred s.ihjects. but rcfu^^es to recognise any opinion but liis own. said to me, '• uli ; von, too, liave gone into the corks.rew line (donne dans /« 'tire- hiiduiii), together with I)u I5i-..-,iil and Grusseut." Charmed to be condemned iu such excellent company, no reply was needed; but when the mvmt proceeded "to a.ssert that English gardeners could grow n.. Crape at all equal to tlie .>•• . '.19.- Vol. XXXVIll., 0i.» Sewbs. 74 JOmiNAIi OF HOETICULTtJBE AND COTTAGE GAEDEKEE. [ Anenst 1, 1S67. venerable Chasselas deFontainebleau either inbeanty or flavonr, it was abundantly evident that bis was one of those special organisations in which opposition to progress is a rule and a principle. But this gentleman does not stand alone ; there are many who have no sympathy with the experiences of others, and refuse to recognise any truth except what falls within their limited vision. It will take years before either orchard-houses or ground vineries will become popular abroad, though well salted to many districts. In England, however, we have many evidences of their popularity, and of the increasing know- ledge of those who work them. — T. Bkkhadt. APRICOT CULTURE. The Apricot succeeds in all soils where the wild Plum (Primus insititia) flourishes, and the conclusion may be safely acted upon, that where the Plum succeeds there the Apricot •will also do so. It may also be accepted as an axiom, that in soils where the Ehododendron is at home, the Apricot is a pining stranger; and this does not apply to peat soils alone, in which the Ehododendron spreads itself from self-sown seeds, but to those strong clays where the Ehododendron is nearly if not quite as much at home. The Apricot likes a good friable loam, and such the soil may be from fine particles of sand, coarser gravel, or pieces of chalk entering into its composition, and it appears to me that it does not matter which. Strong clay soils the tree does not thrive in, except those containing a large pro- portion of marl, nor will it succeed in strong loams so well as in those that are sandy and friable. The first requisite in the culture of the Apricot, as of all fruits in our climate, is good drainage. The ground, therefore, ought to be so draiued that no water shall remain stagnant within 3 feet of the surface, and this ought to be most care- fully attended to on what are known as deep loams, for in these the roots soon penetrate deeply. In moist seasons the trees grow rapidly, and from the great amount of evaporation taking place by the foliage, the soil becomes dry, and the roots are thus rendered altogether useless; the trees make a quan- tity of wood, and canker results. Shallow soils are far superior to those which are deep for Apricots, and, indeed, for all fruit trees, for they are drier in winter, and warmer ; the trees are not so liable to run to wood, and their roots may not only be fed, but kept moist and near the surface by top-dressings of rich compost. In soils of a rather sandy, friable nature it will be sufficient to drain the border to a depth of 4 feet, and not less than 3 feet, and to trench it to the latter depth, mixing along with i! ■- the trenching a quantity of fresh turf (the fuller of fibre tlie better), at the rate of a cartload to every ten square yards of surface, and where the soil is adhesive a like quantity of chalk broken small, gravel, or sharp sand, will be of service in checking luxuriance, and promoting a sturdy growth. In trenching, it the lower part is adhesive it should be turned to the top, where, by the action of frost and air, and mixing with friable compost, it miiy be rendered open. Where the soil is a strong clay, and the subsoil is wet, it is well to make a new border. In that case all the soil should be dug out, taking away all that is of a stiff, stubborn nature, but retaining the more friable portion for mixing with the fresh oompo^t. The soil ought to be taken out to a depth of 3 feet, and the bottom should inclire from the wall at the back to the front. At 3 feet from the front, and at 1 foot 6 inches from the wnll, there should be drains along the border, and 1 foot deeper than the bottom. No soil is to be placed over the drain tilfs, but they and the buttom of the border should be covered with brickbats or stones, as in making the foundation for a walk. If the subsoil is strong and wet, it would be well to con- crete the bottom, in whii;h case the excavation should be made 6 inches deeper, and that depth of lime riddlings or lime in the proportion of one part, and two parts gravel, should be put on soft, nijfl when the mixture hardens it must be beaten firm. Xfpon this a drainage of l>rickbats. broken stones, &o., should be placed to the depth of from 6 to 9 inches. The border may then be filled 6 inches above its intended height, to allow for settling, using for the purpose the top spit of a pasture Wiere the soil is of a g.nirl loamy character, and sandy rather tbati clayey. Bear in mind that the less soil and the more tnrT taken the belter the bnrder will be, and to keep it open add a'lbad of chalk in pieces from the size of a hen's egg down to tifat iif a htizel nut to every six of soil, in case of the latter 'beiug deficient in CHlcareoUa matter, also the same quantity of ehiYp saiid, yarj-ingtheSai'tigredientsaiiedtaihg'ld'the friability or adhesiveness of the loam. The border should be equal in width to the height of the wall against which the trees are planted. As a rule, the border may be 12 feet wide, and the surface of the border ought to have a slope frcm the wall to the front of not less than 1 foot, nor more than 2 feet. In sheltered spots in the south, the Apricot succeeds as a standard, but the kinds are the Breda, and the Common or Roman. The fruit, however, is in general small for the kind, and the crop exceptional rather than certain. Mr. Eive'r.^? states it may be calculated upon twice in seven years. Mr. Thomp- son, in his " Gardener's Assistant," page 536, writes, " In the south of England, some kinds of Apricots, such as the Breda, and the Eoman or Common, bear well as standards, if the springs are favourable, and although the fruit of such is not so large as from trees on walls, yet it is more juicy, and of richer flavour." I allude to this as conclusive of the uncertainty of the bearing of standard Apricot trees in the open air, and as proving that walls, as retainers of heat, are destructive of juiciness and flavour. Might 1 ask in what way an orchard-house, whose merits are the protection of the blossoms from frost, the throw- ing oS heavy rains, and the retention of heat to the trees, can give more juiciness and flavour than exist in fruit against a wall, when the retention of heat by the last destroys these qualities '/ As to the culture of Apricots as out-door standards, they have proved with me only productive of blossoms, and fruit which never ripens. Against an east or west wall the Apricot may succeed in the south, and no doubt does in the warmer parts ; but in the east and west of England it requires south-east or south-west aspects, and in exposed situations, and for the whole of the north country, a south aspect is needed for ripening the fruit well. In some elevated and exposed localities the crop is not a certain one, even upon a wall with a south aspect ; hence we find the trees trained against flued or hot walls in some parts, but such are now becoming obsolete, either from their inutility, or the cheap- ness of glass, neither of which circumstances, however, is any excuse for the trees not producing good crops. I have grown Apricot trees on such walls successfully not one year but many ; but I admit Apricots can be grown quite as well under glass. The best time to plant Apricot trees is the first moist weather succeeding Michaelmas-day ; for, by planting early, young roots are secured wherewith to make a good start in the following year. Take up the tree carefully and remove it with as much earth adhering to the roots as practicable. It is better to pay a little more for this being done at the nursery, and if neatly packed and the foliage covered with matting, the trees may be safely transmitted by rail to any part of the island. In planting, the trees should be placed on the border, their roots spread out at full length over the surface, and if they can be covered with C inches of soil, and the stem be as deep in the ground as it was before, that is the best way to plant Apricots ; but if a greater depth of soil than 6 inches is required to cover the stem to its former depth, take out soil, but not an inch more than is absolutely necessary to plant the tree as deeply as before, and yet on an elevation 6 inches higher than the rest of the surface. In the ease of heavy, wet soils, it is well to e::- tend the roots on the surface, and to place soil over them, which will be equivalent to planting the trees on a cone. The roots should not bo covered more than C inches, nor less than 3 inches deep. The soil used for planting may be three or four barrowloads of rather light loam, the turf from a pasture cut 3 or 4 inches thick, and chopped up rather finely. After planting give a good watering, and sprinkle the foliage with water through a rosed watering-pot. If the sky is clear a mat should be placed over the trees for a day or two, and the foliage sprinkled with water morning and evening for a week. The leaves will soon fall, and the roots by that time will have taken hold of the soil. The ground about the trees should now be mulched with 3 inches of rather long stable or farmyard manure, and then the trees are safe for the winter. There may be cases in which the trees cannot be planted so early as the end of September, but planting chould be per- formed as soon afterwards as possible, and not later than the middle of November if the trees are expected to luuke a good start in the fidlowing year, for after this time fre^h roots cannot well be formed. Planting may be done any time between Sep- tember and March, but planting later than the middle of No- vember, though commonly practised, is unnatural, and less successful. I may here state for the Information of those having unfruit- ful, though not very old Apricot trees, that the best lime in the yea* to HfrtBetai is the middle bf September, and for' three August 1, 18S7. ] JOUKNAL OP HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAIiDENEB. 75 wooks afterwards. The trees shoulJ be taken up very carefully, unnailing the branches, of course, and when out of the hole liU it up, and plant them on the surface, spreading out the roots, and covering these not deeper than 3 inches with chopped turf, placing also a thin layer under them. A good watering, and freijucnt sprinklings of the foliage, will encourage speedy rooting. Lifting is best performed during showery weather. The surface should bo mulched with i inches of littery manure when the leaves full. I find trees moved in September, aud up to the second week in October, are now covered with fruit like strings of Onions; but those moved in Kovemberhavo dropped most of the fruit that set. and their growth is meagre, wbilst the others, notwithstanding the fruit, have made plenty of wood. The Apricot does not succeed against a low wall, as it is im- patient of the close cutting of the branches, and this must be done upon a low wall, unless root-pruning is extensively prac- tised, and the roots are restricted. ,\pricots should have a wall 12 feet high, or one not less than 9 or 10 feet in height, but the higher the better. Against a U-foot wall 27 feet is not too great a distance to plant tho trees apart ; on a lOfeet wall '25 feet may be allowed ; on one of 11 feet, 23 feet ; 12 feet, 21 feet ; and 2 feet closer for every additional foot in the height of the wall. Against walls more than l(t feet in height, a standard should be planted midway between the dwarfs. The principal varieties are — Large Early.— GooA, and tho best of all the enrly vnrioties. Kaia/ux.— A good bearer, richly flavoured, and earlier than tho Moor- park. BerMkfrk. — Good in every respect ; one of the very best. Royal. — Not equnl to the Moorpark, but tho tree is not bo liable to lose its branches by dying off. Moorpnrlc. — \Vt;il known, tree very subject to die off by limbs. MtL^eh-iTtiitch. — Very prodnctivo in li«ht and chalky soils, but on hea\-y, wet soils a bad bearer, and tender. Kruit small, of a line rich flavour. Shipley's. — A Rrcat bearer, but of no use except for preserving. Breda. — Small, and moderately rich-flavoured. Tho treo requires plenty of room, and is a shy bearer whilst young. Oranoe. — Its earliness and productiveness are its only recommendations. Turkey. — A fiuo sort for preserving. The first five are the best for dessert, and to them may be added the Orange, on account of its earliness. The Koman is the only kind succeeding well as a standard, but has no other merit. — G. Abbey. JUDGING GRAPES. In common with Mr. W. Thomson, I think it very desirable that the Fruit Committee of the Koyal Horticultural Society should turn their attention to this subject, with a view to " draw up and publish a set of rules for judging Grapes." I think this may be satisfactorily done if every one of experience will join in the endeavour, by contributing simple aud faith- ful accounts of any striking instances bearing on this particular point that have come under personal observation. Mr. Thomson does not say in his article (page .37), wliether or not he would consider the colour of Grapes a true criterion to judge the flavour by, or whether he considers it requisite on all occasions to taste them, which I conclude he does. I take for granted that he merely mentions tho instance of finding the brown Grapes the finest in flavour and the jet black ones sonr, to show the great mistake of judging of the flavour in proportion to the different degrees of blackness, and not that he would set up the brown as the standard colour to be relied upon as a true indication of the greatest excellency in flavour, and jet black as a true indication of sourness. It is very desirable that Mr. Thomson should state definitely his ideas on this point. In the meantime I may mention a circumstance bearing upon this subject that occurred at the fruit table at the National Exhibition at Manchester, referred to by Mr. Thomson, con- cerning those very same two lota of Grapes — viz., Mr. Mere- dith's and my own. I had noticed at the lime of removing the fruit that there had been three or four berries taken from my bunches, and also from those of Mr. Meredith, but took no further notice of the circumstance ; but at a recent horticultural exhibition in this county I met and entered into conversation with an eminent gardener who had been ofliciating as judge. He told me that during a very warm controversy respecting tho re- spective merits of the two exhibitions in question, it was decided upon, for the satisfaction of a reporter to a Nottingham paper (if I recollect aright), to taste them. I should Uko cither the gentleman in question or some other eye-witness to state what were tho results ; but as none of them may be inclined to come forward, I may mention that I was informed that it was decided that tho blackest Grapes were found to be superior in flavour as compared with the others ; so that this particular instance referred to by Mr. Thomson would tend rather in favour of the black than the brown hue. I mention this circumstance just to induce amateurs to pause before they jump at any conclusion on this subject. If we aro to understand Jlr. Thomson merely to mean that he does not consider the colour of the Grape a true criterion by which to judge of the flavour, then I agree with almost everything he says, though my experience differs from his ; because by far the finest-flavoured Grapes that I ever tasted had a very much finer colour and bloom than any ether Grapes I ever saw. Other competent judges said the same. As a rule. Grapes ripened by full exposure to the sun's rays are deficient in blackness, especially if acted upon by a sudden flash of bright, hot, sunny weather when about half coloured, or snatched up quickly, as it is termed ; yet it is full exposure to the sun's rays, with a free circulation of air, that is indis- pensable to ensuring sweetness and flavour. The Grapes to which I refe;rred as possessing the finest flavour combined with the greatest perfection as regards colour and bloom, were ripened by full exposure to solar influences in the house in which they grew. They were shaded by rather more foliage at ono end, besides being shaded by a large Sycamore tree outside. The Grapes at that end of the house were quite equal in point of colour, but not in bloom and flavour. Other instances besides this have come under my observa- tion, impressing mo with the necessity of attaching more im- portance to the bloom than Mr. Thomson expresses himself to do. I propose that bloom shall have the same number of points as colour and size of berry ; hut I consider bloom of more importance than either colour or size of berry. A bunch of jet black Grapes without bloom is nothing to compare in appearance with Grapes covered with a thick coat of bloom. I also consider bloom a greater indication of flavour than colour. I would give it two marks if not three, for bloom is the same to the eye as flavour is to the palate. Grapes combining flavour, blackness, and bloom possess a vinous flavour which I never found to exist when the colour was any shade of red or brown, but I do not think such Grapes ever surpassed some brown ones I have tasted for mere sweetness. As regards the size of the berries, I have found that when they go above a certain size they are generally deficient in colour ; and in cases where odd, very large berries occur in tho same bunch with ordinary-sized ones, they will be deficient in colour but not in flavour. Nevertheless, the largest berries I ever saw wore quite black ; they were exhibited at the 1866 May exhibition of tho Liverpool Botanic Society, and carried off first, second, and third prizes, although Mr. Meredith and tho Earl of Derby competed in tho same class. I saw nothing to compare with them for size of berry, and nothing to surpass them for colour, even at the International Exhibition at London in the same month. They were exhibited by Mr. Pilkington, of Kccleston Hall, near Prescot. The next largest in size of berry I ever saw, yet perfect in colour and bloom, were at Mr. SJeredith's, in the vinery at the east side of his residence. These in size of berry, size of bunch, blackness, and bloom combined, surpassed anything I ever saw before or since. Ono more instance which I may mention as showing flavonr, blackness, and size of berry combined I know Mr. Thomson is ac- quainted with — namely., a large old Vine in the large middle vinery at Wrotham Park, Herts. This Vine had stood in the same position ever since tho house was first pknted, I believe ; but all the other Vines were new. Mr. Thomson gives a full account of removing all the old ones and renew^ing the border and Vines in this house, in his excellent work on the cultiva- tion of the Vine — a work which no one ought to be without. This old Vine, during the two years that I had charge of it, bore larger berries, jet black, and "of finer flavour, than any other Vine in the house. These four instances are quite faithful, and tend to convinoo me that, after all, the very best Grapes are those largest in berry, finest in bloom, and blackest. As I said before, they possess a vinous flavour of which the brown ones are destitute, yet it is (juite true that a cool shady atmosphere is more con- ducive to the blackening of Grapes than exposure to the sun ; still Grapes that aro (luito black, yet fully exposed to the son and air, must be the very best Grapes. Yet I do not think this can be accompUahed more than three or four years together p JOUllNAL OF HORTICULTURE AlsD COTTAGE GAltDENEB. [ Angnst 1, 1867. without renewing Ibe borJer, as it is while the Vines are in their prime, in a bonier made of ^ood turf without any manure, that their produce may be brought to this perfection. I have always found Grapes inferior in colour when it was requisite to apply manure water or guano ; but where the natsral soil is suitable for the Vine, and the roots arc not confined to the prepared border, I have known them produce Grapes of the finest quality for many years. This being a very important subject, I hope some of our best men will take it up with a sincere desire to set up a correct standard. For my part I cannot see how Mr. Thomson's can be improved upon, except by giving more points to bloom.— T. Dixon, Waterdale, Suilon St. HcUn's. Mk. Thomson has done good service in again arousing atten- tion to the vexed qnestion of judging Grapes. 1 never yet could reconcile myself to the idea that it was of more consequence to gratify tho eyo than the palate. I have invariably found that Hamburgh (irapes of a fine flame colour, are higher flavoured and thinner-skinned than those of that dense black colour so insisted on by many judges. The assertion that flavour and colour go together is what I cannot subscribe to. Mr. Thomson's ten points of excellence, I think, cannot be improved, and if the Fruit Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society can draw up a set of rules that will be followed, and generally acknowledged, it will save judges much unpleasantness. — Thosias Shoeti, llccVficld Place. I, AND, no doubt, many others, agree with Mr. Thomson as to the necessity for a recognised standard for Grape-judging; but I venture to think that his standard is not a correct one. I so think, because, with very rare exceptions, good colour and flavour are united in the Hamburgh. 2nd, Because in most shows, excepting a few of the very largest, all Black Grapes form one class ; consequently, vrere flavour the main test, how often should we see the small Fron- tignan exclude tho Hamburgh, and, perhaps, a poor-looking dish of the latter beat a well-finished dish of the same variety. 3rd, Because people's taste differ so much. 4th, Many employers would not allow their gardeners to exhibit, if the best bunches iu tho house were to be mutilated by the judges. _ I think the following a good standard — Colour, two points ; size of berry, two points ; size of bunch, one point ; symmetry of bunch, one point. Total, six points. By the above, colour and size of berry would be two-thirds, which I think they deserve. I hope the readers of "our Journal " will give their opinions freely, so as to settle the qaestion soon. — John Aluston. LACHENALIA QUADPJCOLOR, AND HOW TO GROW IT. I HAVE often been surprised by not seeing this beautiful flower more cultivated than it is. Coming into bloom in February, continuing in beauty for eight or teu weeks with proper care in watering, and bavin'.' such beautiful scarlet and jellow bell-sbaped flowers, it is one of our brightest and most useful of garden decorations. More than that, it has a very pretty effect, either for the dinner-table or conservatory. My plan of growing it is to pot the bulbs in July, or the be- ginning of August, in some rather heavy loam, or decayed turf, about three-quarters, and one-qu!irter well decayed leaf mould and sand. I plant about a dozen bulbs in a six-inch pot, cover the bulbs over to the depth of about three-quarters of an inch with soil, and place the pots out of doors on some ashes, or in any place where the worms will not find their way into them. There they are left until there are signs of frost, and then I take them to a cold frame, or place them on the shelves in a north house, or in any other where there is not much fire heat. Only just enough water should be given in the winter months to keep the leaves from flagging. About the end of January a pot or two may be taken to a warmer house, if the plants are wanted for table decoration ; they will stand gentle forcing. When the pots are full of roots supply water, and as long as the loaves are green after flower- ing, but no longer. Then the pots may he laid on their sides an any cool, dry place. Under this treatment I have never failed to have healthy, short, stout leaves, standing erect, and spikes of bloom not requiring any support. I should like to see prizes offered at some of the Eoyal Hor- ticultural Society's Exhibitions for a collection of bulbs in flower. I think they are too little cultivated, and out of a hundred persons who saw this Lachenalia in bloom here, not one had seen it before. — T. Elcome, liltuc/ Gardem. POLEMONIUM C.ERULEUM VARIEGATUM. Many of your readers may have seen this charming Pole- mouium in a mixed border of choice herbaceous plants, and I will venture to affirm that ninety-nine out of every hundred would exclaim, " How beautiful ! " It is, however, much more beautiful in a cool, moderately shaded conservatory or fernery, where its gracefully arching Fern-like foliage is extremely in- viting and refreshing : the beautiful silvery variegation offering a most pleasing contrast to the various shades of green which are exhibited by the fronds of the Ferns, or to the coloured leaves of such plants as Coleus, Perilla, Iresine, and Tricolored Pelargoniums. Its culture being so simple, is another recom- mendation. It succeeds well, flourishing in light friable loam and leaf mould, with a very small quantity of silver sand. — B. J. W. ESTIMATE OF SOME VARIETIES OF STRAWBERRY. AND THEIR CULTURE. The high position which the Strawberry holds, both as a preserving and a dessert fruit, renders it important to elicit in- formation as to the qualities of the various kinds in cultivation, for the guidance of cultivators in determining on those calcu- lated to give the best returns ; and such information is espe- cially valuable at this season, which is that for securing young plants. In all cases it is desirable that the quality and nature of the soil be described ; the acknowledged eapriciousness of many varieties renders this necessary. A brief summary of the mode of culture adopted would add to the value of these notes. The communication of Mr. Douglas, in No. 329, is a move in the right direction. I have this season fruited sixteen varieties, including most of those mentioned in ilr. Douglas's paper. I have carefully noted their merits, and my notes on these sorts are so nearly the same as his, that I will not occupy space by a detailed account of each variety, but will merely state that for weight of produce President bears the palm, that in flavour it is second only to British Queen and Crimson Queen, while in size, shape, and colour it leaves little to be desired. These qualities warrant me in placing it first on my list as a Strawberry for general use- fulness, and one which I can unhesitatingly recommend as well worth growing. Indeed, I regard it as the best "light soil " Strawberry I have yet seen in cultivation. Comte de Paris is my second best. A valuable kind iu all qualities. Of the varieties in Mr. Douglas's list which I do not grow, are Empress Eugc'nie, Eclipse, Su' J. Paxton,andLa Constante. The last-named I have grown in previous years, and while I fully admit its brilliant qualities, I am hound to place a for- midable set-off on the vital point of constitution. It wants stamina. Of other kinds. Wonderful is certainly a wonderful cropper, but I cannot say another word in its favour. Ciimson Queen is in all points equal to British Queen, with the addition of more colour, which it carries entirely through the flesh. Filbert Pine is a good cropper, and of good flavour, but not pre- possessing in appearance. Oscar has fine fruit, but is a very shy bearer. Excellent is a first-rate strain of Keens' Seedling. Newtowu Seedling is a heavy cropper, good in colour, and hangs after it is ripe longer than any variet.y with which I am acquainted. It is, however, only second-rate in flavour. Eleanor is large, and useful on account of its lateness in ripen- ing, though deficient in flavour. The soil here is a light vegetable mould, resting on lime- stone. Trenching 2 feet deep I hold to be a necessity, making the soil good from the top to the bottom. As I take up a portion of old plants every year, I bury them in the ground intended for the new plautatiou. I tread the ground rather firmly, and plant from 20 to 30 inches apart, according to the growth of the sorts used. Sometimes when I have plenty of plants and not much space, instead of setting one plant along every 2 feet o£ Angost 1,1BBT. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 77 the line, I plaint three, to as to fonn a triangle. These be- come immonse stools in the first spring after planting, nnd produce a crop equal to that of the second year. I never dig amongst the plants, but in the autumn give a heavy mulching of sound manure. In the spring I soak with liquid manure when time will allow mc, and in the month of JIarch I never fail to give a good top-dressing of common salt. This salting in light, dry soils I believe to be highly beneficial. A great desideratum is a later kind than we have at present. Than the Strawberry no fruit is more useful ; it is, therefore, important to extend its season, and while most other fi-uits have their late representatives, it remains comparatively sta- tionary in this respect. Who will do honour to himself, and benefit the public, by producing a good, full-flavoured variety, naturally and decidedly late '.' — J. Wuioht, Gardttur to the lion. A. Leslie MeloiUe. TESTIMONI^VL TO Jlli. BRUCE FIXDLAY. It is a common saying amongst Englishmen, " They ma- nage things better in France," but it is very doubtful whether they manage their horticultural exhibitions so well in France as we do in Ilngland. So sensible are the horticulturists of Manchester of the great services rendered on a late occasion by Mr. Findlay for the advancement of horticulture, that they have set to work in good earnest for the purpose of giving him a substantial testimonial. This is as it should be. I am heartily glad to see that the patrons of horticulture in Manchester and its neighbourhood know how to appreciate the labours of their able Curator. It is not only the simple act of expressing their pleasure and gratification for the services rendered with so much care by Mr. l'"indlay, but I see in it the desire to give that encouragement to horticultural taste, which will no doubt be the means of very much improving the position of the Manchester Botanical Society. A sum of more than £100 has already been subscribed for the above purpose. I earnestly hope the testimonial may be made worthy of Mr. Findlay's acceptance. — J. Wills. UNFERTILE BLOSSOMS ON DAVARF PEAR TREES. By Dn. J. S. Hocgiitok. About one year ago I called the attention of the readers of the " Monthly " to the unfertile character of the blossoms on certain Pear trees, which annually exhibit a great profusion of flowers, and yet produce hut little, if any, fruit. I inquired what was the cause of the barrenness of the blossoms, and snggested that the botanical structure of the flowers ought to be examined by competent persons, in order to ascertain where- in they are defective. The particular variety of the Pear to which attention was called as unfruitful, even after being covered with blossoms, was the Duchesse d'AngouKme on the Quince stock. I am happy to say that the proposed investigation into the botanical condition of the blossoms was made about the 1st of May last, by several skilful botanists on my grounds, and part of the report will now be presented to the public. At the time of the examination there were several thousand Duchesse trees, eight, ten, and twelve years old, in full bloom, in close proximity to other varieties which are not so unfertile. The Duchesse trees were what gardeners call " one sheet of bloom." The opinion of all present seemed to be, that so mnch " bloom " must be very exhaustive. Mr. Thomas P. .lames, botanist of the Pennsylvania Horti- cultural Society, examined the flowers very carefully with strong lenses, and said they were (as compared with flowers of other yarieties) very weak in their organisation, although apparently perfectly hermaphrodite ; that the stigmas were evidently feeble, the pollen limited in quantity, and the entire flowers in a low state of vitality. The season was very unfavourable — cold and wet — but the flowers examined had not, at that time, been seriously injured. A large quantity of the Duchesse blossoms were examined very minutely by Professor Horatio C. Wood, Lecturer on Botany in the University of Pennsylvania, under the micro- scope, and I have much pleasure in appending his very acute observations upon this deeply interesting subject. I trust that pomologists will not let the matter stop here, but that they will discuss the best method of avoiding an excess of weak flowers on fruit trees — or, rather, the best means of prodnoiog a proper quantity of strong, well-organised, and well developed fruitful blossoms. ppoFEPSon wood's KEronr. I have examined the blossoms of the Duchesse d'Angouleme Pear. Tliey are certainly sexually perfect, with both the male and female organs apparently normal to the naked eye; but with the microscope I find both the gynoccium and androecium (to use a medical phrase), suffering from general debility. Thus, the anther-cells externally appear to be well developed, large and finely foimed, but they contain scarcely one-third as mnch pollen as similar organs of more fruitful varieties. It seemE to me, further, that the pollen grains themselves are not so well developed,. nor so crowded with granules or fovilla;. In the same way the female organs are defectively organised. For instance, the stigmas are not so large, and the little papilla;, which secrete the so-called stigmalio fluid, are not nearly so numerous nor pronounced as in the flowers of neighbouring trees. In my own mind there is not much donht but that these evident marks of the want of vigorous sexual development have a deeper meaning than appears at first glance. What if there are comparatively few pollen grains? Providence has so pro- vided that the great mass of the pollen is superfluous, and ordinarily is wasted. Surely the mere absence of a part of this superfluity would not produce the barrenness you complain of. It seems to me highly probable that the appreciable want of strength is associated with a similar, but less ajiparent, de- gradation as regards quality ; and there is a consequent want cf power in the germinal matter both of the pollen and ovary, which is the real cause of the bterility. If this explanation be not the correct one, I know of no other. Having thus made a diagnosis in the ease, the next step is, if possible, to discover the cause of the condition, so as to remedy it, if practicable. Is it not probable that the source of the trouble is to bo found in the excessive production of blossoms, which this variety of Pear is notoriously addicted to ? Of all the various life functions of the plant, the process of seed-pro- ducing is, ]iay excdlencr., the exhaustive one. It is well known how it often cripples, or even kills, a previously vigorous tree. Further, the period during the reproductive process, the worst for the plant, in which it eats up its life-capital fastest, is that in which the blossoms are perfected, the pollen shed, and the ovule impregnated. The reasons for this are obviously twofold. In the first place, the production of very highly-vitalised matter rapidly exhausts both the plant and the animal. Now it is at the period alluded to that we have the greatest elaboration of costly products in the flower. Not only are the ovaries, with their contained ovules, and the anthers with their myriad pollen grains, rapidly developing, but the sepals and petals, with their numerous oil glands, are aiding in the prodigal waste of the strength the plant, mayhap, has been years in obtaining. It is readily seen that after impregnation, during the slow, gradual production of the fruit and seed, wo have no such sudden biust of life activity. Again, at this period there is. probably, the greatest loss of nitrogenised principles that occur.^ during the life of the plant. When the leaves are about to die their nitrogenised contente return to the stem and roots, showing the great value to the plant of these principles. The seeds, to be sure, contain moch nitrogenised material ; but then there are comparatively few of them perfected. Not so with the pollen. Yon can often see it almost making little clouds in the air, or dusting thickly the surface of ditches with its countless granules, and each of these is literally gorged with the most highly vitalised nitro- genous material the plant can produce. Surely, then, there is evident cause for the exhaustion of flowering, especially when we take into consideration the rapidity of the process as com- pared with the length of time through which the seed is perfect- ing. That the blossoming i.s very exhaustive, that in it are expended most rapidly the life-forces of the plant, we have numerous proofs. Thus the effects of profuse flowering on very young trees is wtll known. Further, in the flower we have a rapid oxidisation of carbon, or, in other words, a destruction of the bone and sinew of the plant ; which is proven not merely by the evolution of carbonic acid gas, and the taking-in of ox.vgen by the blossoms, but by the heat given off from the flowers — an indisputable proof that there is a more or less rapid burning up of carbon in the flowers themselves, strengthened as it is by ihe intp'-psting re- sults of tl^ experiments of Garreau, Yrolik, and De Yriese^ 78 JQ^BilSlMfj. OF HOE,TICtII.TUBE AND COTTAGE QABDENEB, [ Angnat 1, 18S7. Thus, the latter savani found that the increase of temperature ■was much more marked when the plant-blossom was placed in oxygen than when it was in the nir, and that all evolution of heat ceased when it was placed in nitrogen or carbonic acid — or in other words when it was deprived of oxygen ; while M. Garreau showed that the well-known periodical increase and decrease of temperature in the blossom was accompanied by a similar increase and decrease in the amount of carbonic acid erolved. The rapid absorption of cold water by the root from the soil, the constant evaporation from the foliage, the facility of radia- tion and conduction from the wide-spread open blossoms, with various co-acting circumstances, cause so rapid a loss of heat from ordinary flowers that the increase of temperature is only sensible to very delicate instruments, such as the thermo- electric pile ; but when there is a mass of flowers on a dense spike or spadix, shut up as it were in a spathe, the heat de- veloped is more marked. Thus in some tropical Arums, a difference of 10° or 12° has been noted between the outer air and the immediate vicinity of the flowers. To sum up, in conclusion, it seems most probable that weak- ness of the sexual organs is the cause of the sterility of the Duchesse, and that this weakness ia dependent upon excessive blossoming. If this be so, the indication is evidently to check this excessive flowering. — (American Gardener's Monthly.) SAL^^A TATENS. When the desire for costly ornamental plants, or those diffi- cult to propagate, shall have given place to a taste for plants moderate in price and easily increased, then the merits of Salvia jjatens will, no doubt, be duly recognised. Perhaps the neglect with which it is at present treated, arises in a great measure from the case with which it is obtained ; but few plants can vie with it in colour, and certainly none is more easily propagated iu quantity, for it produces seed in abun- dance, and the seedlings, unlike those of most plants of a similar kind, flower the first season, if afforded the same advantages as those usually given to China Asters. Besides, the old plants i£ taken up and stored like Dahlias, will ailord plenty of cut- tings in spring ; but the roots seem more hardy than Dahlia tubers, for I find that every plant left out during the last winter is growing as vigorously as can be desired, although the winter was anything but favourable either for shrubs or plants, whose roots were not protected by foliage, as the frost and sub- sequent rains have been very hurtful to all such. This Salvia, nevertheless, promises to flower freely, and as the clear bright blue of its blossom is, as yet, approached by no other ordinary bedding plant, its culture has certainly been too hastily aban- doned. Unfortunately, its blooms are easily broken off by rain, and it is questionable whether the defect can be overcome. Possibly if seed were only saved from plants which are found to withstand heavy rain, the progeny might retain the same property. It is, however, more as a border plant, that I claim for Salvia patens a place in the list of garden ornaments. In the mixed herbaceous border this plant is most at home, and it is there that I would advise all who have a garden to plant it. Her- baceous borders are, I hope, fast coming again into favour, and as there are pleuty of plants of the greatest beauty which never at any season present an unsightly aspect, we may indulge in variety without being ofiended by the ripening or decaying stems of plants, which it is hurtful to cut away too soon. Salvia patens is never unsightly, consequently it has a further claim on the attention of those who pride themselves on a choice collection or selection. Even iu the smallest of such it deserves A place. — J. E. FORCING PEAR TREES IN TOTS.' The accompanying BeurrC Gift'ard Pears are from a small tiee I had as a "maiden" from Mr. Rivers, and for three years I kept it in the open ground, but during that time it made very little wood, and the Pears were little good-for- nothing fruit. The autumn before last I dug it up, and after potting put it on the hot border, either at the end of Sep- tember, or early iu October. Last autumn it had pleuty of heat given to its roots up to November, when it was put under glass, and kept without any artificial heat till February, and also quite dry. The house it was placed in was heated by two pipes running under the floor, which is of slate, resting on light ^ron beams. The tree stood close to the front ventilators, which were generally open ; it was not placed on the heated floor, but, of course, was exposed to the warmth arising from it. This amount of heat was at all times very trifling. In June the tree was taken out of the house and plunged in the open ground. The Pears have now (July 26th) been ripe for a week, though we have had wet, cold, cloudy %veather ever since the beginning of the month. DoyennC d'Etfi treated in the same way, excepting that it was kept in a cold orchard-house, ripened in the last week in June. I have also to add, that this season the Beurro Giffaid has grown vigorously, as well as carried two dozen Pears nearly all alike in size, those I send being of the ordinary size. — W. KiNCSLEY, Sont)i Kilvington, Thirs!;. [The fruit of Beurru Giffard was well grown, and the flavour was everything that could be desired. Such a mode of treat- ment as Mr. Kingsley has adopted, and pursues with so much success, must commend itself wherever the finer sorts of fruit are cultivated with difficulty.] THE GREAT ROSE SHOW ROBERT. AT BRIE-COMTE- Tjve tliircl annnal Exliibition by the Hose-growers of Brie-Comte- Robert aud the surroundiDR district, took place on the lltb and 15tll of July. Nearly 82,000 blooms were shown, which for freshness and beauty are stated to have .sur])assed those of the two previous years. They were arranged on gi-een banlis at the sides of the teuts, and in the centre were two masses of Marcchal Neil, one consisting of 300 blooms, and the other of 150 buds, surrounded by 200 blooms of Madame Boll. Other groups of from 200 to 1000 flowers consisted of Of'ntral Jacqueminot. Ainii-e Vibert, Madame Boll, Gloire (\o Dijon, Triomphe de I'Exposition, Souvenir de la Malmaison, and Comtesse de Jaucourt. Mr. Charles Lee, of Hammersmith, was elected the Chairman of the Jury, the other members being M. M. Haage, of Erfurt ; Dickin- son, of New York ; Coers. Mosenthin and Martin, Marest pt-ro, Paillef, aud Fontaine. Among the seedlijigs, twelve in number, submitted to their notice, one called Cleraence Raoui:, was awarded a gold medal. It was raised by M. (Irnnger, of Suisnes, from La Reiuc, and is de- scribed as being large, of fine form and snbstance, white, with tho extremities of the petals of a beautiful satiny rose. Other novelties spoken highly of are named after M. Edonard Morreu, of Liege, and Vicomtesse Yesins, the one being from M. Granger, the other from M. Gautreau pere. The latter has also a seedling, which, though not in flower at the time of the Exhibition, was subsequently seen and approved of by the Congress of rosariaus which assembled at that time, and was named by them after Mr. Charles Lee. On Sunday, July 21st, the Rose-growers, accompanied by M. Camille Bemardin, the President of the Brie Society, and Mr. Charles Lee, had the honour of being presented to their Majesties tho Emperor and tho Empress of the French, in tho Salon de la Paix. at tho Tuil- leries, through the instrumentality of M. Rouher, the Minister of State, who had visited the magnificent display of Roses at Brie on the previous Sunday. There were also present at the reception the Vicomte do Yesins, Prefect of the Seiue-et-Marne ; the Comte de Jau- court, the Baron de Beauverger, M. Joseau ; M. Belin, Mayor of Brie, and the following liose-gi'owers — viz., Messrs. Cocbet, Granger, Desmazuros, Jemeau, Motteau, Vaurin, Jonas, Gautreau, Cechet, Dubois, David, and E. Laroux. The Rose-growers presented to Her Majesty a splendid " corbeille " of nearly three thousand cut Roses. which were surmounted by a large bouqnet of " Impi'ratrice Eugenie." Her Majesty being about to depart for England immediately, directed this "bed of Roses" to be transferred to the Universal Exhibition, where it was much admired. According to M. Camillo Bemardin, there are ninety-six Rose- growers within a radius of five miles of that place, altogether nearly one hundred acres devoted to the cultivation of Roses, and upwards of 2,000,000 of i>lants ready to be sent out next November. BOOK Practical Treatise on the Cultivaiioji of the Grape Vine, By "William Tiiomsox. Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh and London. Fifth Edition. "We have more than once expressed onr high approbation of this volume. It is the sterling work of a first-class gardener, and no better evidence of the estimation iu which it is held by horticulturists could he adduced than the fact that it passed through two editions in 18G2, one in 1863, a fourth in 1865, and the fifth has just been published. There are several valuable additions to this edition, and we will quote one ; — " STOCKS FOR TENDER ^^NES. " Those who have paid most attention to the subject have come to the conclusion that many of the highest-flavoured of our Grapes, Angast 1, 1667. ] JOURNAL OP 'sorticoltum: and cottage gardener. 79 wliich we at the same time the most delicate and difficult to gron vith ButccsH on lliuir owu roota. will one dny bo firowu wilU ijurfixt iusb wUcn we have Jibcovor.'tl tho proper stoclis fur them, ami that latc- riiwning vavictits will bo f;ol to n|ien (-'arlirr wbua paftrd on earlier iitowards of II feet, but. singular to say, very few of tliem yielde«l more than one cob, aud that was so dimiuutive in balk and thinly grained as to render it scarcely worth tho ti'oublo of gathering. Of tho useful frees already growing in tho gardens, I may mention the following as having fruited and seeded for the first time during the year — a fact which may ho regarded as the best proof of their effectual acclimatisation — viz., .Mlspice (Eugenia pimento!. Avocado Pear (Porsca gratissjuui). Tallow tree (Stillingiasobiferat, Cherimoly (Anona cheriniolia). and Mango (Mangifera indica). The trees and shrnba which I noticed in previous reports as having fruited and seeded, con- tinue to produce excellont crops, tlie size and quality of the fruit in- creasing OS tho trees advance iu maturity. Tho Coflfco shrubs have yielded this season an unusually large and fine crop, and continue to ho a general subjec't of admiration among visitors. The Indigo, Cinna- mon, Cotton. Sugar, Tobacco, Ginger, Cassava, &c., arc in a flourish- ing condition. — W,\lter Hux, Colonial Jlotantst, and Director of JJuliutloU ahlia3, securing Hollyhocks (and time, too, for the wind and rains were telling on theml, ond other tall herbaceous plants. Alas! for the Roses, Friday almost destroyed the beauty of all those in bloom. All shrubs intended to bloom in winter for balls should now be potted firmly in rather small pots that the pots may be crammed with roots before the end of autumn. Most likely we shall have fine sunny weather alter these rains, and in that case the pots of Azaleas and other tender plants out of doors should be protected from the sun heat. The top, in JOTJBNAL OP HOBTICULTtIRE AKD COTTAGE GAKDENEft. [ ingust 1, i^. general, will suffer little ; but few tender plants can stand the variable temperature at the roots, caused by absorbing the sun's most powerful rays during the day, and then being cooled down by evaporation and radiation into a clear sky at night. — E. F. COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— July .31. CoKTiNENTAL soppUes nre aRain very heavy this week, mftny thonsands of packflRcs cominf? on alternate days. A large proportion of these im- portatione find buyers in the northern and midland markets, proving a great boon to the indnstrial populations of those districte. Our own reports are but a repetition of last week. FRUIT. Apples 4 sieve 8 Apricots doz 3 Cherries lb. 0 Chestnuts hush. 0 Corrants A sieve 3 Black ". . do. 5 Figs doz. 3 Filberts lb. 0 CobB Ih. 0 Gooseberries . . quart 0 Grapes, Hothouse, .lb. 2 Letuous 100 8 d. B. Oto4 Melons each Nectarines doz. Oranges 100 Peaches doz. Pears (dessert) .. doz. Pine Apples lb. Plums ^ sieve Quinces doz. Raspberries lb. Strawberries lb. Walnuts bush. 10 n 30 0 n. d. n. d 3 otor> 0 4 0 8 0 8 0 u (1 6 0 30 0 'i 0 3 (1 4 0 0 (1 2 6 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 6 1 6 Green . per 100 16 2 0 VEGETABLES. Artichbkeg each Asparagus .... bundle Beans, Kidney, A sieve ScarletRun.^ sieve Beet, Red doz. Broccoli bundle BruB. Sprouts ^ sieve Cabbage doz. Gapsicnms 100 Carrots hunch Caoliflower doz. Celery bundle Cacumbers each pickling .... doz. Hndive doz. Fennel bunch GarUo lb. Herbs bunch Horseradish . . bundle 8. d. 8. 0 3 too 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 2 2 0 0 0 3 2 6 d 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 8 G 0 Leeks bunch Lettuce .... per score Mushrooms .... pottle Mustd.& Cress, punnet Onions, .per doz. bcbs. Parsley per sieve Parsnips doz. Peas per quart Potatoes bushel Kidney do. Radishes doz. bunches Rhubarb bundle Savoys doz. Sea-kale basket Shallots lb. Spinach bushel Tomatoes. . . . per doz. Turnips bunch Vegetable Marrows . . d. B. d 3 too 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 5 0 3 0 0 9 0 4 5 0 0 0 0 0 TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED. W. Kolli6son & Sons, TootiDg, Surrey, i^,— Catalogue of t^UyvCf Greenhouse, and Hardy Ferns. TO CORRESPONDENTS. *•• We request that no one will write privately to the depart- mental writers of the "Jorirnal of Horticulture, Cottage Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By bo doing they are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. AU communications should therefore be addressed solely to The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, eOc, 171, Fleet Street, London, E.C, We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them an- swered promptly and conveniently, but write them on sepai-ate communications. Also never to send more than two or three questions at once. N.B.— Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. Addhess (J. Ci(rjic).— Mr, Rivers, Sawbridgeworth, Herts. Books (IT. P. iV.).—" The Vine Manual ;" you can have it free bvpost irom our office if yon enclose thirty-two postage stamps with your address. Insects on Pear Leaves (TTM)i7i(7/(').— Thev are " Slimy grubs," the larva? of the Pear saw-fly, Selandria asthiops. ' Dusting the grubs with slacked quicklime destroys them. Gardener Visiting Paris l/j/ncramujt).— Visit Versailles. Jardin de la Muette, Jardm des Plantes, Baron Rothschild's at Bois de Boulofme, Thibaut & Ketelecr's nurseries, Luxembour-j Gardens, Jamin and Du- rand's at Eourg-Ia-Reine. WiLLs's Bronze Zonal pELARao^^c^^s (/j)om(ra).—"Someofmv Bronze and Gold Pelnrt'oninms may be seen at Mr. Bull's Nurserv, Kind's Road, Chelsea. They will probably be exhibited in Rood condition at South Kensington on the 17th of September nest.— J. Wills." Dahlia Tubes (W. H. Jl/.).— The wooden tubes may be obtained of Mr. Putnam, turner, Eton; but any turner could make them. Thev must, of course, fit into the metal tubes, and rise IJ inch above the board. As the stalks differ in size, the holes for these are made rather larger than the etalk, which is kept in its place by a small wooden peg. Red Kidney Bean (E. S.).— The "Rothe Bohnon," about wMc^ yon inquire, itj very probably the Haricot Suisse rouge of the French. Ajjy London seedsman would doubtless supply it. Selection of Vines (T^n-i/fnr« Snhscribrr, Nottinoham).~Xon canxiot do bettpv than keep places for Mrs. Piuce'a Black Muscat and istandish's Royal Ascot, both lirst-rate Grapes. Then you may hove .^alamon's Fronti^nan, Trenthara Black, andBInck Alicante. These are in addition to those you have already— namely. Muscat of Alexandria. Muscat Ham- burgh, Bowcod Mubcat, Golden Haiubui-gh, Black Hamburgh, Lady Downe's, and Muscadine. Mealy Bugs on Grapes Nearly Ripe (On^ n-ko is in Trouble). —Tie are very sorry, indeed, that we know of no means of destroyinc the bugs thoroughly now without injuring the Grapes. When the Grapes were younger they might liave been washed with tobaccs and other water, and then have been well syringed ; but any such treatment now will greatly injure the appearance of the bunches. We would advise dislodging the bug by small, clean, soft brushes, and then destroying it of course — resorting, in fuct, to such temporary relief as will allow the hunches to be presentable. When the fruit is cut and the leaves are becoming yellow we would move every green thing out of the house, and smoke it several nights in succession with sulphur, burned slowlv in a pan with a lot of litter, moss, or grass over it. to increase the density of the smoke and prevent the smoke becoming too hot. Of course every opening in the house should bo closed up. A few diiys afterwards we would syringo the -whole of the woodwork. Vines, walls, shelves, &c., with soft-soap water at about 180^ then clean and wash in the usual way ; and in addi- tion to all this, it would be well to paint all joints and joiniui^s with tui"- pentine. After all such sulphur fumes and washing we have found mealy hugs in clusters where neither smoke nor washing had reached them, in joints and crannies. All the s^urfacc soil, also^ should be re- moved from the house. There is no enemy more difficult to subdue tbau the mealy bug, and it produces successive generations with great rapidity. Wo have no doubt these insects are often transferred by our clothing from place to place. If once they attack the roots of plants there is no means of exterminating them, except by removing all the earth from the roots and thoroughly washing them. Extent of Piping a Boiler Heats (BoiJerR).—V/e do not think a 36-inch-long saddleback boiler will heat efficiently more than from 600 to 700 feet of four-inch piping. We are supposing that the height and width will be about 24 inches. You will want a boiler nearly double the length to heat the 2O0O feet, but better havo two. Thomson's retort is a good boiler, used to be made by SleiUIfjolm. of Dalkeith, and, like the saddle-back, requires less winking thf»n the upright tubular ones ; Monro's cannon boiler is a modification of the retort. Ail boilers do better when sunk considerably below the level of thepipinc As you cannot sink you will wisely use those that require the least sinking, and we have seen the retorts only a little below the pipes. Melons Spotting (./. i>., near DnhUn). — There are two causes for your Melon leaves being spotted and 8hri%elled up. They have evidently suffered a little fiom the sun striking them before air was given in the morning, and whilst they were damp from condensed moisture. Th© leaves being damp would have been of less consequence if the air had not been confined. We could not find an insect, but wa have no doubt that vouhave mvriads of thrips — a little insect that will jump as you approach it. All such leaves as those sent should be instantly removed anti burnt. All those at all fresh should be washed with weak tobacco water, weai soft-soap water, or, perhaps better still, smoked with tobacco when dry, and syringed next morning. This treatment continued may enable you to ripen a crop if the bulk of the leaves are green. If themost of them are ns bad as those sent, then we advise pulling the plants all out and clearing the place. All the remedies will be labour throw away, for you will not have a good Melon. To clean the place, shut up closely and bum a pound of sulphur in it. covering it over with gi-ass or moss. Then re- move the soil, whitewash, and nest season not only attend to early air- gi\'ing, but smoke whenever yon see a trace of the thrips, which we con- sider worse than the red spider. It is just possible that your plants suffer from the red spider too. Fruit Growing {Fruit-Groirer]. — We think your opinion erroneoas. There are numerous works on fruit-growing, and the cultivation of fruits for market does not differ from that required for fruits for private con- sumption. Quantity rather than biph quality is aimed at by the market fruit-grower, because lie knows that the mass of buyers require cheap fruits. You can have "Fruit Gardening for the Many," free by post from our oiBce, if you enclose five i^ostage stamps with your address ; and if its instructions are followed good fruit will bo obtained, provided soil, climate, and attention are suitable. Fruit Trees on a Clay Soil in Ireland i Tr. II. H. .•l.).~The first thing to be done is to have the ground thoroughly drained 3 feet deep^ then trench it over two spits deep. Plant your trees, which we presume will bo either dwarf bushes or pyramids. 6 feet apart, and let the sorts be of Apples — Kerry Pippin, Cox's Orange Pippin, Ross Nonpareil, and ManniuHton's Peannnin. Of Plums — Early Rivers, July Green Gage, Huling's Superb, Purple Gage, and Woolstou Black. Vapour from Hot-water Pipes (C. S.). — We should not like to sprinkle the hot-water pipes in your vinery with guano water if the pipes were above 140 \ and the guano water should unt be stronger than 2 ozs. to the gallon. We prefer the pipes never to he higher tlian 160 when we have plenty of piping. We would rather avoid sprinkling the pipes with ma- nure water if we could. UsNAiLiNG Peach and Nectarine Tree Branches {A. Billimors)^ The branches should not be unnailed. as the wood will ripen much better pgainst the wall than away from it. Keep them neatly trained to it, and do not let the shoots be too close together. Your trees will require all the warmth yoli can give them to ripen the wood, and unnailing them will have just the contrary effect. White Substance in Soil {W. H. B.).— It is difficult to say what is the " M-hite gi-anulatcd substance like small rice" in the soil in your flower-pots. Being pcculisr to that composed uf peat, we think it may be fragments of white quartz or sand, which are very common in somo peats; it may also be sonie fungus arising from the decay of woody fibre ; but in that case the small rice-like lumpa will not be granulated but soft. Without a specimen we are unalde te say what the white sub.^tiince is, or whether it will be injurioua to plants; if quartz or sand it is very beneficial. Apfust I, 18C7. ] JOUBNAIi 07 HOaXICUI.TUBE AMP OOTIAQB ^AJUDSHS^. .87 pLANTrNo HrnAwnERKiES (An Old Suhncrihf-T, DuMin), —Wu think it would bo ftdviHiblo to tflko n crop of Potiitoos, KJdiu-y iJcans, Ac, of your slopini^bcd where Stniw!»errfe8 hrtve nsmilly fiuloil. If thnt is not Hutt- able, Ihi'ii we would trench down tho oUU-qt imrt aH deeply ftH possible, so as to secure thu ho-tsoil fortlio top, iind to Unit top wt; «o\il£ your currespoutlents, I will not mar the discussion at present respecting tho merits of the two varieties, but Invite your corrospondonts to visit Osbertou and prove for themselvoH tho compuratlvo value of tho two. H'-re a chain of Beaton's Variegated Noaogay Pelargonium and Viola coruuta is to bo seen, cqmil to any com- binatloh of colours to bo met with in tho country. I have also atiunntity of Viola iuten, which I will speak of ou a fuluro occabion.— Kdwauu Bennett, 0*hfrton Hall^ Worksop.''^ PiXM AND ApnicoT Treks Infested with Armg (.ri//m).— You may overoomc tho aphis by syxinglng the trees with diluted tobacco water, mado •fcy adding six gallons of water to every gallon of tobacco water as ob- tained from the tobacconist. Wot tho leaves and every part thoroughly: this should be dono in tho evening of w calm day, and in tho morning ■ayringo the trees with a solution of 'Jo/s. of soft soap to a gallon of ■water. Syringe with tho soap solution and pure water on aitoniato .nights for a week. To keep down attacks of aphides syringe strongly on ibtiir tlrbt appear.iuce with tho soap solution already named, wetting tho foliage thoroughly. Grapes Spotted f.V. C.).— The Grapes were spotted from tho moistnro in tho atmosphoro being condensed on tho berries, and the sun shining poworfiilly on the drops causes tho skin to rupture. The evil might bo prevented by allowing more foliage over tho fruit, and by giving air early, BO that the berries may be dry before the sun shines upon them. Stkphanotis Kruit (7' other night for a weok,and then givo a few good syriugiugs with clear water. Liquid JlANrnF. (7*iffn).— Liquid manure if piven in excessive quan- tities and undiluted will kill the roots, and eventually tho trees to which W is applied ; sooner or later, according to the description of plant or tree, and the strength or weakness of the liquid. BuDDrSo Apricot Stocks {Idem) —Now is a good time to bud Apricots, it being performed when tho sap runs freely, which it^ during moist weather. In budding, care should bo taken to insert wood and not bloom buds. CucCHniEns (L/^m).— Cucumbers cnn bo grown very fairly in a frame, pit, or house during tho summer months ; but it is preferable to plant in noil over a slight bottom heat, or plunge the pots, if grown in that w-ay, ia a mild hotbed. Cucumbers are very frequently grown with no bottom heat, beyond a little at the commencement. Planting C^NNA indica Oft of Doobs (John Dearvn). — Canna plants may be planted out of doors in June in good, rich, light, sandy soil, and remain in tho open ground until tho lieginuing of October. They nro best planted iii a sheltered situation, as in one which is exposed their foliage is very liable to bo damaged by wind. The leaf sent us appear* to have been taken from tho Salisburia ndiantifolia, a hordy deciduous tree: bnt wo must have flowers as well as the leaf to be certain of the □ ame of a plant. List of Superioh EasKS {Idem).~H]ihritl PcrpftuaU : Andre Loroy, Alfred de Uougemont, Anna do Diesbach, Baronuo Pelletan do Kinkolin. Beauty of Waltham, Caroline de Siinsnl, Charles Lefebvro, Comte ile Nanteuil, Due de Gazes, Due de Rohan, Frnni.'ois Ijnchorme, Gi-antdis Batailles, Oi-neral Jacqueminot, Gloiro de Sautcuay, Jolm Hopper, Duchessc de Morny, Le Khone, Leopold I., I^ord Maeaulny, Loui.-^o Mag* nnn, Madame Boutin, Mad:ime Victor Verdicr. Marechal Vaill.int, P.iul DflsgmTid. Pierre Netting. Prince Camille do Itoban, Prince L*'on, Senn* teur Vaisse, Vainqneur do GoliiUh, Virginal, and Wlllinm Griftlths. Of BourftoKt -say Acidalio, 15.\ronne Gonella, Kmotion, Paul Joseph, Rev. H. Dombrain, Sonvenir de la Mnlmaison, and ilodelo de Perfection China: Ccis inultiflora, Madame Brcoii, Mrs. Bosauquet, and Napoleon, nlong with Archduke Charles. Tia-sccnUd: Adam, bevoaicuuis, Gloiro I do Dijnn. Lavs, Madame Willermoz, Maivchal Niel, Minn. Souvenir d'un Ami. nod VJeomtesse de Cazo* »rnM ; Ad<»Io Prfrosl. uohesH of Buoclouoh, William Tell, and Coupe d'lleb.'r. Hyt^hil China: Itlairii, Paul Uicaut, Comtoftso Lic.p.'de.Cbvu«dole,ajid Chuloa Duval. Provtnci : Cabbage, Crested or Fringed Mo^s De Meaux, Uolno do Provence, and Unique. ,Vo.«: P.nron do WnssemiFr, Comtcsse Ma- rinais, Common, Lauei, Itcine Blanche, Mario do Blois, and White Bath. Thu colours may bo known from tho catalogues. Cloth of Gold and Safrano Koheh (/d<;m).— Their being budded on the Kriiir will not oauso tho flowor to have a large ctnlro. More liberal treatment and a wanner situation would make good the defect. Water freely, and mulch with hnlt-rotteu mannro. pKAcn AND Nectarine Trees Against a Woodrm Ffkois (K. P.).— Fr.iiu tho flic tluit tho liurdier fruits do well upon your close- boarded wooden fence, but not the Peaches and Nectarine treori. we see nothing but a ronnrmation of our opinion (Bee July 11th, pft«o:JO).in your experience, which is the same as our own. The aspect may be good, but the heat ia not so effectually retained by a wooden wall as by a brick one, henco tho wood of tho trees does not mature, and tlie fruit ripens very badly. The wooden fence would, no doubt, answer admirably for Peaches and Nec- tarines if you were to cover it with glass, and thus make an orchard- house of it. DniDiNG Datallia canadensis {E. H'.\— You may divide Ibiii Fom now, being careful to preserve somo portion of soil as well as root to each division, and after potting keep it close, shaded, and moist until established. You may tint rockwork for a Fern case white by dipping the rock in limo water, and stone colour hy making a thin size of Roman cement, and soaking tho rockwork in it. This Jourmil Li published ovoty Thursday morning. Manetti Stock versus Briar Stock (J;;noramt«).~Tho M.'vnotti i« o vigorous-growing kind of Rose now much iu repute hs a stock for grafting and bu rench Man- "old iT H D) —1. Rhns cotinus, or Vcnetinn bnmnch : 2. Isolepis gra- eiiis"; \i, Selaginella denlieulata. (/Vlix-.-Primula sinensis (^n Old Sub.icrihrri.~lt is AnacharU alsinastrum. Tho only way to destroy promptly this widely-spreading aquatic plant would, undoubtedly, '"octroy all the fish in the pond, and therefore is not advisable. The bevt thinR seems to bo to let the plant .Uo ont when itchooses. Three summerssinco the lake in Kew Gardens was filled with this plant ; last bumnier it was entirely lofet there, another plant h.iviag taken its pUcc, wlu^e the present season there is developed in equal abundance .^.ime Confervoid plant: so that there being preuedenls, next season may witnesd an entire aO- aencc of this plant from your grounds. 88 JOUBNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ .\ugu6t 1, 1867. METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS in the Suburbs of London for the Week ending July .30th. DlTZ. THRRMOMETER. Wind. Rainln inches. General Rbmaess. BABOUETER. Air. Earth. Max. Mm. Max. Min. 1 ft. dp. 2 ft. dp. Wed. . 24 ThnrB. 25 Pri. .. 2ii Sat. .. 27 San... 2.S Mon... 29 Toes. . 30 Uean 29.739 29.P42 29 860 30 047 80.061 8O.0G4 80.027 29.640 29.695 29.575 29.924 29.180 80.000 29.989 71 75 68 64 71 65 72 43 62 47 41 40 88 44 64 63 64 61 61 61 61 61 60 60 69 59 69 69 S. S.E. NE. W. y.E. N. N. .00 148 .40 .02 .00 .00 .00 Very fine throughout. Very fine : cloudy and fine ; rain. Constant heavy r-iin ; boisterous, with rain Cloudy and cold ; rten=ely clouded ; vei-y fine. Fine, with low white clouds ; fine ; -very line at night. Hazy clouds; fine throughout. Fine ; rather cloudy ; very fine at night. 39.948 1 29.708 68.00 48.67 62.14 59.57 1.90 POULTRY, BEE, and HOITSEHOLD CHRONICLE. GAME FOWL BREEDING THIS SEASON. I WENT to see a friend tbe other day who breeds a consider- able number of Game fowls every season, and his treatment is EC different from that adopted by the generality of breeder.', that I think it necessary to give the readers of "our Jour- nal" a few particulars as to his method of rearing the young broods. ; When the chickens are from three to four days old, they are placed with the hen under a stationary coop 3 feet square, with- out a bottom, closed on three sides, having a sloping roof, and latticed in front, with 3 inches intervals. Coops of this description are ranged along the edge of a small stream of water, on a large grass run, and instead of being placed in the highest and driest position, are set at the base of an incline, and where the ground is most liable to be- come saturated with moisture. The land being naturally damp, I noticed thai the soil inside tbe coops was trodden until it was a complete puddle, from their being kept stationary. I was informed that the hens and chickens remained in the coops night and day without any other protection, until the chickens were large enough to leave the old birds, and that they then fly to the trees which surround the ground, and continue there until colder weather approaches. During some of the heavy rains which we have had, the coops were completely flooded, several of the chickens being carried away by the current, but these were afterwards re- covered. Notwithstanding this, all the broods appeared both lively and healthy; indeed, I did not observe a diseased bird. The fowls are fed upon meal, dough, and corn, and although well and carefully bred have no extraordinary care bestowed npon them. My friend tried a few in the kitchen garden, as recommended by "NoTTiN'GH.iMsnir,E," but they did not answer. Another friend of mine informs me that last season he suf- fered very seriously from the same compliiint as that which I recently described, and although he has this season used the same ground for breeding purposes, he has not had a single case. The following particulars I have copied from the MeJbournc Age: — " A sort of epidemic has been very prevalent among fowls up the country (Australia), which is vei-y sudden in its effects, several cases of sudden seizure and death being re- ported from Sandhurst, Majorca, &c. A gentleman, who had five of the tinest and fattest of his lot dead within as many days, says that he attributes their death to being choked with the wind from flying ants, which since the late rains have been swarming in myriads over all the ground, and are eaten greedily by the fowls. On opening the gizzard of one of them, it was found to be quite filled with the ants, the wings of which were sticking in the gullet in great quantity. An old cocker also informs me that numbers of adult birds are dying without ap- parent cause in different parts of Yorkshire." I thank " Nottinghamshire " for his kind remarks, and, as he justly observes, I sincerely wish other breeders, both for- tunate and unfortunate, would give us the result of their ex- perience this season. The pages of this Journal are at all times open to receive communications, and we ought not to be back- ward in advancing the interests of our hobbies. Could any of the numerous readers of the Journal inform me whether there is any ppecifio for roup in fowls ? A friend of mine has tried many medicines for this purpose, but without any happy result. A gentleman informed me the other day that a small piece of blue vitriol rolled in brown soap is a sure cure. • — YORKSHIKE . NOTES ON FANCY PIGEONS.— No. 8. MY OWN CONNECTION AND EXPEKIENCE VnrU FANCY PIGEONS. Having now reviewed all the English writers on fancy Pigeons — re-wrifers I need not notice — I will venture on a chapter of autobiography, a style of writing now somewhat in fashion, so I hope the reader will pardon my for once adopt- ing it. I was a very little boy, when, having in my possession a much- studied juvenile volume containing a history of fancy Pigeons, a digest of old Girton's work, but with illustrations far superior, my imagination was often taxed as to what the real birds could be like — for in the pictures some seemed to have hoods, others very long beaks, others, again, very short ones ; some had blown- out breasts, and others very extensive tails. Well, I wondered and wondered how the living birds looked, when to my surprise and delight my wonder was fully satisfied. It happened thus : I was born in a country town ; therefore, living in a street, neigh- bours' gardens were only separated by walls, and the roofs of buildings in one garden were visible from another. One morning my eye was attracted to an out-building of our next neighbour, for its roof was covered with Pigeons resembling the pictures in my book. Our neighbour was a tradesman in a large way of business, and made periodical visits to London by coach- He was a well-to-do man, and indulged his tastes as they rose — now growing wondrous Cucumbers, then E.^nunculuse3 (how well I remember his long bed with an awning, under which were the eye-dazzling and lovely flowers !) While in London he had been smitten withPigeon-fancying ; he was also a great poultry m.an, specially attached to Black Polish. Thus smitten, he had brought back several hampers full of good Pigeons, for he was regardless of expense when his fancy was concerned, and as a stay-at-home man he delighted in pets. Here, then, were almost all the then-known varieties of fancy Pigeons. As yet Germany had not sent us her " Toys." On this morn- ing our neighbour had let his birds out for the first time, and there they were bowing, cooing, strutting, pouting, or simply preening and sunning themselves on the long thatched roof of his stables, the south side of which he had covered for the birds' convenience with hurdles, whose broad and wide-apart bars made them good perches. What a sight this was to a bird-loving boy ! Here were, feathered and alive, true fancy Pigeons. Soon I learned the names of each variety by com- paring them with my book. Many visitors came to our neigh- bour to see his wonderful Pigeons, for such had hitherto been unknown in that far-away fen town. The result was, his ex- ample was speedily followed, and a perfect Pigeon fnror set in. Coachloads of birds were brought from London by other trades- men, or the young ones were bought as soon as ready, and in different parts of the town were fitted up many Pigeon-lofts. Old Girton was bought and studied, and several persons became adepts in the fancy ; pairing, exchanging, selling their birds, not satisfied until they obtained still better stock. This was in the year 1837, and during that and the five following years, while the furor generally lasted, I never knew so many valuable birds kept in one small town. That sight on that morning made me in heart a Pigeon fancier. How I longed to possess some, but how was it to be managed ? To ^Blue vitriol is sulphate of capper. It should be piven in powder in one-prain doses, ns recommended in our " Poultry Book." It is a poison, and if given in a lump is apt to be injurioas, il not fatal. — Eos. August 1, 1667. ] JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGK GAllDENER. 89 keep Pigeons flying with a neighbour's stock one hundred strong, and only 10 yards distant, was clearly impossible; but when a boy sets liis lioart upon anything uilliuullies soon vanish. ^Ve happened to have an unused building tolerably large and liigb, having no coiling, and, boat of uU, \\ith two aides of latticework, to it was light uuJ airy. But how get the consent of the one boys call, I fear irreverently, " Oovernor." I dreaded a talk, for I might be cut short by one severe reply, so I wrote a note, an early etiort of penmauship, I sealed it — by. the-way, in so doing I scorched the paper — and then I laid my note with a trembling hand on my father's desk, whore he would be sure to see and read it just after he had dined ; for I knew oven then that " a hungry man was an angry man," but the same man is a good easy soul when toasting his toes comfortably after a good dinner. Anxiously I watched through a glass door the opening of that note and the reading it, for stay in the room I dared not, but I saw it caused a smile, and took that as a good omen, although, of course, the paternal pocket and corn-bin would of necessity have to be drawn upon. My stratagem succended, and after a little 'oanter about my scorch- ing the letter, I had a hearty ally iu the one to whom I ad- dressed it. and who then and after saved hia boy from much sin by allowing liim to till tlio garden of the old house at home (blesa its old roof-tree and the venerable one whom it yet cover."), with many pets — Lantams, Hawks, Plovers, Eabbits, and at length I'igcons. Like most beginners, T went year by year through the gra- dations of common birds, half bred birds, less good fancy Pigeons, andiu my thirdyearlrose to the possession of excellent fancy Pigeons. So I began. I kept each pair shut up at night in hutches arranged one above another, in which they also bred. Soon «aoh learnt its home, was readily caught, and by being handled became tame. The Imtches were barred with iron, and so secured from vermin intrusion. During the day the Pigeons flew about the building and came out to a latticed box on the sunny side, in which tliey loved to strut and look out to the expanse of garden. Of an evening when there was a party of young folks, I was accustomed to bring in choice specimens, which were fondled and made much of. Then there were visits to the lofts of other fanciers, and giving or receiving hints. I liked to choose a bright morning in winter for a round of such visita ; then the biids' plumage is in good trim, and themselves lively, and then the Tumblers tumble to perfection. Fanciers differed, some were stupid and bought bad birds at large prices, aome were excellent for one rariety, most were good-natured and readily allowed a boy to see their birds as often as he hkcd, and felt a pleasure in giving pleasure. But there was one cross old curmudgeon (be had the best birds nevertheless), who had to be wheeilied and managed before his loft-door was to be un- locked ; but at length he mounted a short ladder, threw back the door, and revealed the treasures within, revealed them to " my ravished eyes." lie possessed the best Carriers, Black ones ; and Pouters also Black, and the only Almond Tumblers, for ho was a high-class fancier, except that love of eating being his failing, he kept huge Spanish Pamts, and boasted how few it took to make a Tisual-si;;ed pie. Years rolled on, and I had to leave home to be trained for the University, at a cathedral grammar school. How I missed my pets need not be told, nor the long letters of inquiry that I wrote about them. Then came college days, and no Pigeons could be allowed within academic walls, though dogs, cats, and even bees were allowed. College days over, I lived for four years in Scotland, just south of the Grampians, in an old house formerly a place of strength and pretension, and finding an old tower suitable, I resumed the fancy. Miles I rode after a certain strain of Tumblers, right from Forfar.^iire into Kin- cardine. Then the Provost of the town near me was an ardent fancier, and being n Baltic merchant imported Pigeons from IJaesia. A worthy Scotch carpenter was another ally of mine, and to him I gave my birds when I left Scotland. Then, again, in Sussex I had my pets, and now lor years in Wilts, I have tended them with undiminished regard. Thus I have been connected with the fancy for thirty years, and my experience, bought dearly at first by many mistakes, has been considerable. — Wiltshire Ekctob. DRIFFIELD POULTRY SHOW. It 13 sotnowbiit snrpriain^; that tbonf^h ponUrv CTluhitions are now so general, most of tiiose which hnve been Ion?* o^tablishcil can bon?t Drifijeld, and as the day, though at times threatfniug, proved find, the immber of visitors was vcrj- largo. Most of the fowls, as might ba cxpcctod, were lu very bad condition, but the Ginne were, on tho con- Inirv-, excellent. Strange to say, the Humburr/ki were not cqnal to what they shonUl have been — in fact, it appears tlial Yorkshire ia he- ginnini; to lose its prestige for theao btnotifnl varieties. Tho Turkeys anil 6Vc,-f were nnnsnally good- 'I'he pens employed ul Driflield are of a very primitive character, being, iu lact, nothing but brown open-work wicker baskets, of the shape of a beo hive, and have evidently seen much Bcrvici;. The anungonieuts for the Fijcuus and Itabbits were nnaauallj exacting, for exhibitors of both were obliged by the rules to find their own baskets, conseqnently a more irret'ular appiaranco than these divisions l)rc3eutcd could scarcely lie imuKined. A few specimens had excellent show-jious, whilst many, both of Itabbits and Pi^^cons, were so cramped up, that oven to move at all was an utter impossibility ; and all were alike in tho open, cntiiely unprotected from the weather. A thoroughly wet day. had it occurred, must have done incalcnlahle damage to many of the more tender breeds. Now that the Driilield Show ia SO well "supported, it would bo adnsatlo for the Committee to procnte some loldiuK exhibition pons, which, independently of doing good service at their own meetings, would very speedily realise the fall outlay if lent on hire. Wo drop this f ricadij lunt, as in poaltry shows, like all other things, progress is expected. DonKlxr.s.— First. F. K.iy, Bovorlov. Socond, W. Chorter, Drifflold- IlicMv Couimondcil, Mrs. Dale. Scurborongh. C'lictfm.— Prize, D.White, Driflield. IliKhly Comcnonod, F. Key. Cocl.-.— Prize, G. Holmes. Spanish.— First. G, Holmes. Second, O. A. Young. Cock.— Prize, M. Robinson, Cottingham. GA5IE (Bl^ekbroasted nnd other Rods). -First and Second. W . Boyes, Beverley. Uommended, J. W. Pickering, Cob-Dale, Pocklington. Vock. — W. Lavcup, Driffield. Game (DuckniuK imd other Greys).— First nnd Socontt, \v. Boyles. Cod-.— Prize, J. Laycup. _ ._ ,. Gamk (Any other variety).— First, Iteasrs. Tuto * Holmes, DrifflcW. Second, .T. Lnycoek. Coci. — Pri2e, O. Holmes. CTiic';cn«. — Priae, W« Uoves. Hisbly Commended. IX Wool, WiUholmo. Lockiugton. Cmiils-CHrSA.— First, T. H. Biirkor, Hovinijhaui, York. Second, O. A, YonniT. CViic.'.en*.— Prize, R. Lnft, Woodmansey. Highly Commended. T. H. Enrker. Cod-.— Prize, T. H. Barker. PoiANDS.— Prize. O. A. Youu«. Cotlc—Vrizp. O. A. Y'onne. HAMKL-wnis (Golden-spangled).— First, T. Holmes, Driffield. Second, C. Holmes. Commended. .T. BUnch.ird, Driffield. (7o<-*.— Prize, O. A. Youn;j. Commended..!. Blnncbttrd. , /^ -d HAinnTRons iSilvcr-t-pfnclcd). — First, G. Holmos. Second, G. K. Young. CocJ.-.- Prize, J. A. Blanchard. ^ _, „. . HAiiBi-nons fGolden-poncilled).— First, G. Holmes. Second, W. Charier, Driflield. roc/.-.— Prize. T. Holmes. , „ „ , HAMDirsons iSilver-pencUlod).— First, H. Holmes. Second, T. Holmes. Oui-t.- Prize. H. Holmes. , , « Hambcrghs (Any other variety).- Prize, H. Holmes. Commended, K. Mosey. Maltnn. .VSV OTHKR PCBE AKD DiSTrxCT BnEED NOT PBEVIOl!St.V CI.AB9HD.— First, )!. I.oft (Sultan). Second, G. K. Young (Brahma Pootra). Cock.— Prize. K. Loft. . „ .. _ ^. FAastvARD Cboss.— First. Tt. Lott. Seconl. G. Robmson, North Froa- ink'bnm. Coct.— Prize. W Wales. NortW FrodinRham. B.vxTAMs (Black and White).— First, R- .lessou, Hull (Black). Second. Mrs. Dale (White.i CocV.— Prize, J. R. Jessop. _ ,. „ i Bavtams —First, G. Holmes. Second, J. A. BLanchara. Drimold. Cock. —Prize, T. Holmes. .„,,,„ , ,. ExTUA PouLTKV. — Extra Prize, W. G. Purdon, Driffield (Spanish Chickens.) ... , , ^ ,. Geese.— First nnd Second, Mrs. 0. A. Young, DrifBeld. CotUnijt.— Prize, Mrs. O. A. Yonng. _ _ TCRKEYS— First. Mrs. H. Merkin, Jlrifflcld. Second. Mrs. T. Dawson, Poundsworlh, DrilHold. Highly Conlmondad, Mrs. Dale. Poult*.— Prize, Mrs. .Tordan, Eitslbum. . , ,t ,, , . GciKEA Fowls— Prize, O. A. Young. Highly Commended, H. Morkin, DrifBeld. „ ,. ^ , DrcKs (Aylesbnryl.-Firsl, M. Harrison. Second, O. A. lounR. VueK- lintis. — Prize. M. Harrison. Ducks (Uonen).— Second and Commended. Mi-s. Jordan. DucKUngt. — Prize. W. Pierov. Driflield. j i,- t m Dicks (Any other variety).— First. J. R. .Tessop. Second, TV. * 1. Hollbv. Rotseo. I)ucWini7«.-^Prize, Mrs. Jordan. „ _ „ Pi<;koxs.— CVopiirrs.- Prize, F. Key. Co rriVr,.— Prize, R. Bellamy, I.rven. Boverlev. rriimp^l.m. — Prize. G. H. Stephenson. Beverley. .rur.i'.in..— Prisie, P. Bellamy. Conimonded. F. Key. FnnlniJi.— Priia, S. EllrinRtnn. Woodmansov.Bovcrley. Highly Commended, W. Gofton, Driflield ; J W. Topham, iiainton : J. Train, West Lutton. TuMm.— First nnd Extra, F. Kot. Highly Commended. O. H. Pickering. Drlffleld. Commended. A Wnites. Driflield. Uarl.».— Prize. E. \\aites_ Highly C.)mmfn.ied. J Blancbani. A-|m.. — Prize, C. N. Lytbe, totlmgham. Extra Prize. B. Leason. Drilliold. /(iiy otUcr ranXj.-Prize. J. Marshal , Drifllold (Turhils). Highly Commended, A. Leason, Driflloia (OwU). ComraenJed. R. T^oft. « »- . tt n id lUnniTs (Any breed)— First nnd Second. A. H. Easten, Hnll (Pbtob, Grov, and White). Highly Commended, T. Dufliil, BcvcrUy ; J. W. Top- ham', Baiulon. Bitrn.- Extra Prize, A. H. Easten. The .Judges were Kdward Hewitt, Esq., of Sparkbrook, near Bir- mingham ; nnd .Tohn Ord Jolly, Esij., of Green Hammertoa, York. STOCKTON-ON-TEES POULTRY SHOW. The Poultry Show in ccnneotion with tho Dnrham County Agrienl- tnral Society was held at Stockton-on-Tees on Weduetday, .Iniy 24Ui. The prizes otiorud were npon n somewhat hberal scale, bat the cntiiMt ox even a greater number of entries than ever. Sacb was the case at ' were not so numerous as might have been expected 90 JOURNAL OF HOETICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ Au^3t 1, 1867. For the Spanish class the eutire cotiuty of Dnrham diJ not fimiish a single pen ; indeed, there were only two entries, and both of them were from Yorkshire. The cock in the pen which obtained the first prize had a puffy face, invisible eyes, and a falling coinh — a combina- tion of qualities T\hicli breeders of Spanish do not deem very desirable. In Dor/ct'tiffs there wa^^ more competition, and the birds were of a much better qnality. In Class 5, Brahma Pootros, there was only one pen. The cock was certainly a good bird, bnt a rigid adherence to the canons laid down in the " Standard of Excellence " would have compelled the Judges to disqualify the pen, for the cock was pea-combed and the hens were single-combed. Mr. H. Laoy's name was in the list of entries, bnt from some reason which was not given his birds did not appear. He, however, exhibited a Brahma cockerel aud two pullets of very great merit. The C<>c1un- Chinas were very* good, and the Game class was ven,- well represented. Ilavthiirghs. it would seem, are not in much favour with the gentlemen who arranged the schedule of prizes, as they only apportioned one prize in that breed, including in one class Gold or Silver-pencilled or Spangled fowls. There were eight entries, aud the prize was won by a capital pen of Golden- pencilled birds belonging to Mr. Wood, of Halifax. The Ducl:s and ducklings shown by Mr. Leech, of Rochdale, were excellent, and carried off four first prizes. The (kesc and goslings were also good. In Pif/eoiis Mr. H. Yardlcy, of Birminqham, won all the prizes, with the exception of one for Jacobins, which was won by Mr. W. Bolmer, jnn., Stockton. Spakish.— First . G. H. Ventress, Danby. Yarm. Second, Rev. F. Hart Dyke, Acomb, York. i>OREiNos— First, J. White. Warlabv,NorthnHerton. Second, G. Sewell, Bishop Middleham, Ferryhill. C/ia-frf/i^. — First, J. "White. Second, J. Bell, Thornton-le-Moor. Northallerton. Brahma Pootras. — Prize, Kev. A. D. Shnfto, Brancepeth Rectoiy. Chickens.— Prize, H. Lacy, Hebden Eridpe. Cochin -Cu IN A.— Prize. Rev. A. D. Shafto. Chickens. — First, R, Benson, Darlington. Second, G. H. Pi-octer, Durham. Game.— Pi'ize. W. Benii'sirk, Northnllei'ton. Chiclccns. — First, G. B. Bell, Caldwell, Darlington. Second, W. Eenrpark. HAMBURGns (Gold or Silver-pencilled, or spangled!.- Prize, W. Wood, Sheffield. Chickens.— First, W. Smith, Noithallerton. Second, O. A. Young. Driffield, Yorkshire Bautams. — Fiist, G. & H. Ventress. Second. J. Wilson, Tudhoe, Dur- ham. Ducks fAylesbury). — Prize, E. Leech, Rochdale. Ducklings. — Fkst, E. Leech. Second, G. Robinson, Sessey, Thirsk. Ducks f Rouen). —Prize, E. Leech. Ditcfc^'/if/s.— First, E. Leech. Se- cond, W. Bearpark. Geese., — Prize, J. Sherwood. Hilton, Yarm. GosUn(is. — First, J. Carlton. Hilton, Yfirm. Second, O. A. Yountj. Extra Stock. — Highly Commended, R. Hawkins. Old Seabam. Sunder- land (Malays); G. H. Ventress fWhite-crested Black Polish). Turkey.— Prize. C. Trotter, Stockton. Pigeons. — Carricrx. — Prize. H. Yardley. Market Hall. Eirminsham. Almond Tumblers. — Prize, H Yardley. Tumblers {Any other variety). — Prize, H. Yardley. Fa ntai Is,— Vrize, H. Yardley. Barbs — Prize, H. Yardley. Commended. H. Cawood. Thorne. Jacobins. — Pi-ize. W. Bulmer, jun., Yarm Lane, StocUton-on Tees. Commended, H. Yardley; H. W. Thomas. Tt/rbiff.- Prize, H. Yardley. Commended, W. H. Thomas. PoiUers. — Prize, H. Yardb*y. Commended, H. W. Thomas. Rabbits (Any breed).^Prizc, H. Cawood (Himalayas). The Judges were Mr. J. Shorthose, Newcastle, and Mr. K. Pearson. Durham. HASLINGDEN POULTRY SHOW. F'The third annual Exhibition of the Haslinctdeu Agriculturah Society took place July 25th. The* day was tine, and the Show was attended by upwards of eight thousand visitors. ^ The entries of Poultry and Pigeons were numerous, and some fine birds were penned. The following prizes were awarded ; — Cochin-China (Buff or Cinnamon).- First, C. W. Brierley, Middleton fBuff). Second, T. Eott. Woodlands, near Bury (Buflfl. Hiphly Com- mended and Commended, W. A. Taylor, Manchester (Huff). Chicken^.— First, A. Bamford. Ton^e, Middleton (Buflf). Second, W. A. Taylor, Man- chester (Buff). Highly Commended, T. Bott, Woodlands, near Bury (Buff.) CocHiN-CnnJA (Anv other variety).— First. IT. Stretch, Ormskirk (Par- tridRe). Second, T. Bott (Partridge). — HiRhly Commended, J. Bury, Ecelcs (Partridpc); C. M'. Brierley. C/i(c*:e?iS.— Prize, J. H. Schofield, Whitworth, near Rochdale. Brahma Pootras (Any colour).- First, W, Hargreavep.Bacup. Second. H. Lacy, Hebden Bridge. Chickens.— Virst, H. Lacy. Second, E. Carlisle, Rishton. Higbly Commended, G. H. Wheeler. Dorkings (Any colour).— First, J. Robinson, Gnrstang. Second. H. Beldon, Binglev." Highly Commended, C. W. Brierley, Middleton: D. Parsons, CiK-rdmi. near 'preston. Commended, T. Rogers, St. Helens. Chickens.— Tirst.W. A. Taylor, Manchester. Second. T.Pomfiet, Hoghton Lane. Highly Commended. J. Stott, Healey, near Rorbdale. Spa>'ish (Klack).— First, H. Beldon. Second, Messrs. Burch & Boulter. Sheffield. Highly Commended, J. Tbresh, Bradford : Messrs. Burch and Boulter. Chickens -First, H. Beldon. Second. J. Clenes, Walsall. Highly Commended and Commended. Messrs. Burch & Boulter. Game.— Special Prize. Itev. W.J. Mellor, Colwick Rectory, Notting- ham. First nnd Socnod, C. W. Bricrlev. Middleton. Hi-^'hly Comnicuded, J. HoUnnd. Manchester. C/u'cA.-tn. S, Smith. Highly Commended, U. Beldon. Hasiburghs (Silver-pencilled).— First. H. Beldon. Second, H. Picklee, Earby. Highly Commended. G. P. Barnes, Stockport. Chickeiis.— First, and Second. H. Pickles. Highly Commended. H. Beldon. Hamhurgus (Golden-spnngled).- First. N. Mnrlor. Denton. nor\r Man- chester. Second. J. Fieldint,'. Xftwchurch. Highly Commended. J. Roe# Hadfield; S. & R. Ashton. Mottram, Cheshire ; H. Beldon. Chirkrns.— First. S. & R. Ashton. Second. J. Roe. Highly Commended, N. Mnrlor. Hamdcbgiis (Silver-spangled).— First. H. Pickles. Second, J. Fielding, Newchurch. Chickens.— First, J. Fielding. Second. J. Turner, Radcliffe. Highly Commended, J. Fielding. Commended, H. Pickles. Any other Variety.— Fir^t, H. Beldon 'Polands\ Second. Col. Stuart Wortley. Grove End Road, London (Frenchl. Highly Commended, Col. Stuart Wortley (French) ; J. Clegg jun.. High Crompton, noar Oldham (Black Hamburgh). Commended, D. C. Parsons, Guerdon (Cuckoo Dork- ings.) Any VARtETY.— First. J. Marchant, Halifax (Black Spanish). Second, Messrs. Burch & Boulter. Game Bantams.— First, G. Eirtwistle, Making Gate. Second, C. W. Brierley. Bantams (Any other vnriety).— First, N. Marlor. Second, T. C, Harri- son. Highly Commended, Messrs. S. & R. Ashton ; T. Burgess, Brig- house. Yorkshire. Commended, J. W. Morris. Rochdnle (Black.) Turkeys. — First, T. Houlker, Revidge, near Blackburn. Second, E, Leech. Highly Commended, E. Leech. Geese.— First, T. Houlker. Second, E. Leech. Highly Commendedt S. E. Stott. Rochdale. DccKS ( Aylesbury t.— First. E. Leech. Second, J. Robinson. Ducks (Rouen).— Firbt and Second, E. Leech. Highly Commended, T. Houlker. Ducks (Anv other variety i.— First. T. C.Harrison. Socond. G. Fnrness, Accrington fEnst Indians). Highly Commended, C. W. Brierley ; D. Par- sons (Grey Call.) SINGLE COCKS. Ga^tk Cock (Any colour).— First and Second, C. W. Brierley. Com- mended, J. Jackson. Bury fBI'>ck Red.) Gauie Cock (Within four miles of Haslingd en). —First. G. Fumess. Se- cond. F. M. Hindlo, Haslingden. Hitrbh' Commended. C. Haworth. Game Bantam Cock.— First. G. R. Davies, Knutsfnrd. Second, W. & H- Buckley, Accrington. Highly Commended, G. Eirtwistle; J. Holland, Manchester. '•■ PIGEONS. ■[: Carriers.- First. J. Hawlev. Binglev. Second, W. Hargreavea. Bncup- Tumblers. — First. J. Corbridge. Bl'ickbii'-n. Second, J. Hawley. Highlv Commended, J. Hawlov ; FT- Ynrdlcv. Birmingham. Barbs.— First. J. Bromiley. Tnng Moor, near Bolton. Second, W. Har- greavea. Highly Commended, L. Glassy, Rochdale. Owls.— First, A. & B. B. Laycock, Keighley. Second, H. Yardley. Bir- mingham. CnopPERS.- First, J. Hawlev. Second, E. E. M. Rovds. Rochdale. Fantatls.— First. H. Yardley. Second, J. Hawley. Highly Commended, H. Ynrdlcv; -T. Thompson, Binglev. a '^^ TuRBiTs.— First and Second, J. Thompson. Highly Commendea, ,A(^_ Dove. York. DRAGOf^s.- First, J. Thompson, Second. D. Bromilow. Highly Com- mended, H. Yardlcv. TRUMPETERS.-^First and Second. J. Hawlcv. Antwerps — First, J. Hawley. Second, J. Tliompson. Any other Variety.— Prize, J. Thompson. Higbly Commended, T, Kenyon, Accrington (Nuns.) The Judges were Mr. Richard Teehay, Fallwood near Preston, and Mr. K. Sergenson, Liverpool. RAISING LIGURIAN QUEENS— MASSACRE OF DRONES. I HAD a fine early swarm of pure Ligurians given me, aud I am anxious to raise queens for all my hives of black bees, seven in number, without weakening the Ligurians, which are very strong. The Ligurians are in a Woodbury hive, and the black bees are in Grecian hives. Should I take the queen from the Ligurian hive, which has plenty of drones, nnd place her in one of the other hives pre- viously deprived of its black queen, leaving the Ligurians to raise royal celk, and, being thus deprived, save the drones and ensure the young queen's pure impregnation ? The greater portion of the black drones will be killed previously to the hatching of the young queens. I shall be much obliged for information as to the best way to proceed, so as not in any way to endanger the life of my pure queen, and as to the manner in which the royal cells raised, if more than two, are to be treated. May they be in- serted in the combs of the other hives at once, or will the bees destroy them in their anxiety ? Killing of drones has been going on for some days, and ill two hives the entrances bad become so jambed up that it was found necessary to clear the entrance with a hook, the bees being in the most excited state, which subsided on this being effected.— .1. M. H. [Do not on any account risk the life of the Italian queen by attempting to transfer her to any of your other stocks. The best mode of proceeding was detailed by Mr. Woodbury m page 271 of our last volume. After raising a sufficient number of young queens in " nuclei," as therein described, you may il JVngQst I, 1887. 1 JOURNAL OP HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGB QABDENER. 91 you please attempt their substitution for your black queens, but this must not be done until they have commenced egg- laying, and it will be well as a derniiT ressort to confine the black queens in Rmall boxes with about a hundre-l workers, and a piece of sealed honeycomb to each, until either success or failure has been ascertained. You will learn also from Mr. Woodbury's article what to do with any superfluous royal cells.] CONSEQUENCES OF SELLING FOUL BROOD. Is the early part of this month (July), I was mortified to find foul brood in the second Ligurian stock sent mo by Messrs. Neighbour, under the circumstances related in No. 322. as well as in several nuclei. This being a return of the pest, I intend as early as possible to rid my apiary of this terrible malady, and therefore wish to ask two or three questions, which may interest other readers of " our Journal " as well as myself. Ist, Is it absolutely necessary to put the Woodbury hivo- covers through the same process as recommended for the stock hives, or is simply a coat or two of paint sufficient ? 2nd, Can a queen taken from an infected colony bo given in the course of the same da,y to a healthy colony without any danger of the disease going with her '.' 3rd, Have swarms that have corae off from diseased stocks ever been known to be infected from that source, supposing they kept clear of the disease from other ways ? — J. ]3., Bracken Hill. [1, We consider it unnecessary to do anything to the roofs or outside cases, the infection being confined to the hives and their contents. 2, Dzierzon seems to be of opinion that the queen of a dis- eased stock may be introduced into a healthy colony with impunity ; and this opinion is confirmed by our own experi- ence. It is, however, but right to state that some (Jerman writers demur to tliis conclusion, and assert that infection may be conveyed by the queen from one hive to another. 3, We believe that swarms from infected stocks would gene- rally, if not invariably, take the disease with them ; but as we have had no direct experience on this point, we should be glad of the opinions of such of our correspondents as have had better opportunities of judging. When, during the summer of 1803, Mr. Woodbury's apiary was devastated by foul brood, he immediately published in our columns the full piirticnlars of his di.^aster, writing at the same time to all who had that season received bees from him, in order to put them on their guard, and offering them every oompcneation in his power, whilst he reiiolutely refused to part with another stock until ho had succeeded in restoring his entire apiary to perfect health. We commend this example to the attention of Messrs. Neighbour & Sons. They have already done incalculable mischief by disseminating this terrible dis- oase during three successive seasons. ^ UNITING SWARMS. I SHATj. be much obliged to be told where I was wrong in the •following unsuccessful attempt to unite three hives of befts. I was the more disappointed as I had previously succeeded in a similar enterprise. To begin, then, I had at the commencement of this July a box containing a small flight of bees in my apiary, which I desired to strengthen by marriage, as it is called. Thi.s I call A. On Monday, July Sth, a swarm which I call B, issued from an old stock which we will distinguish as D. Swarm B was exceedingly large, which may be accounted for by the lateness of its appearance. My plan was this : to fumigate D and B, and unite them to A. I first operated on D, the very old stock. In four or five minutes the fumes of fungus pulverulentus (called in Suffolk Bull Ficc), applied us they stood, stupified the few btes which remained behind tho swarm. The hive was turned up, the little honey preserved, and the stupified bees, liberally drenched with sugmed ale, were swept into a pail. The swarm B was next operated on. Ten, fifteen, twenty. tbWty mituites elapsed before they showed the least signs of giving in. I therefore gave leave to use tobacco instead of the fungviq. Although the straw hive was covered up with a wet elotli to keep in the fumes, it was, lam sure, three-quarters ol a(t hour before they finaUy euocnmbed. When they were " down," they were in like manner drenched with about a pint of sugared ale, and added to tho D bees already in the pail. Lastly, wo attacked A, a light flight of this year. In this instance also we experienced the greatest difficulty — although it was a li-inch-thick box and made air.tight — in stupifving tho bees. At last they were " down," and were added with a plentiful supply of ale to the others. There was now an enormous heap of bees before us, and the problem was to discover tho best way of coaxing them all up to the capacious box A, which was very partially filled. I took an oblong frame, standing on four legs, a sort of frame-stool, which was exactly the width of the square box A, and tied a large cloth between it, so that the folds of the cloth fell down in the middle ; into this extemporised bag I emptied the bees and set the box A, with comb in, above, and then tied the skirts of the cloth around the box. I then protected tho bag from the cold and went to bed. Next morning, Tuesday, to my dismay, but somehow not to my surprise, I found my bag of bees nearly as large as before. Few if any of them had gone up, for I could see through the windows in the box. They seemed, in fact, overcome with smoke or the liquor. I gave them up for lost, and was vexed enough : but as I could only fail, I determined to try one other plan. I washed them. My servant brought some lukewarm water in a milk- pan, and slipping it under the bag washed it carefully by the help of a new whitening brush. This evidently revived some of them. So when tho tubbing was over, we dropped the sunny side of the cloth containing the bees, and with feathers spread them in the warm sun. This they enjoyed, and several of them, completely tamed by adversity, took kindly to every- thing and crept up into the still teuantloss combs of the box, which I had left where it was. That Tuesday evening I re- placed the remnant of a hght box with the counterbalancing weight of a heavy heart. Out of that enormous heap of bees I am afraid not more than one-quarter survived ; but, strange to say, the box is now strong and prosperous. I spared no pains nor time to succeed, and having failed, I shall be truly obliged to be corrected, that I may do better another time. — W. H. S. [The fungus-smoke which you employed was evidently not strong enouuli, whilst the fumes of tobacco were, as we have found them in our novitiate, so powerful as to prevent the bees from recovering. This mode of uniting stocks should now, however, te considered a thing of tho past, and together with chloroform, deserves to be ranked in pretty nearly the same category as the brimstone-pit. Had you driven the inhabitants of the three stocks one after the other into a capacious empty hive and then inducted them into A, by knocking the cluster out on a cloth, and placing tho hive over it, raised on a couple of sticks to avoid crushing the bees, you would have had no further trouble, and little if any loss of life would have ensued.] TIUS YEARS HONEY-HARVEST. SosiE of y»ur correspondents have sent you most gloomy accounts of their bees. Uudoujjtedly the year has been very unfavourable to honey-gathering. I fed my bees liberally late into the spring, and they are all very strong. I have had four swarms and two flights, and till this recent St. Swilhen'a weather they were rapidly cleaning off the honey-dews, and are now industriously working; but I have taken no caps off. I never saw them looking more strong and healthy. I slmll, however, think rjyself fortunate if my ten stocks get enough to carry them through the winter.— W. H. S., Yaj^lnj, SujTnlk. A QUASI-QUEEN. AnocT a fortnight ago I removed a Ligurian queen, which had commenced egg-laying, from her parent hive (a nucleus box), in order to place her at the head of a strong black ttock. Somewhat to my astonishment her subjeels manifested little or no uneasiness at her loss, nor did they take any steps to supply her place, sealing over all the young worker brood which they possessed without attempting to found royal cells. Look- ing over the combs to-day (July SiUi), I discovered a worker, surrounded by a circle of bees, giving herself all the 8ir< and receiving all the homage due to a legitimate monarch. This pretender to royalty really bhawed a. ton?iderabl«reseml)Unce in shape to a perfect queen, and hat she waa- £<> i«gar4eU ^y JOUENAL Oi- HORTIOULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE. [ Angiiat 1, 1867. the other workers was evidenced by the confusion which cn- BTied upon her removal. It occurred to mo that she might perhaps be fertile, but I could not discover that she had depo- sited any ep;f;s ; it is. nevertheless, possible that she might have done so had her life been longer spared by — A Devonshiee BEE-KEEPEli. nONEY HARVEST— GALES HIVE. Having noticed several letters in your paper lately, com- plaining of the honey harvest this season, I think a few par- ticulars from this neighbourhood may interest some of your readers. My stock is only small, being two of Gale's hive.i. Gale is a carpenter in this town (.Uton), who is very much interested in bees, and he has made these hives, which are certainly the most convenient I every saw, so far as ability to take honey goes. Should you wish, no doubt he would send an account of them, for the benefit of your readers. From my two stocks of bees in Gale's hives, I took on lbs. Juno IStb 24 „ 23nd sl „ 24tli 3" „ 29th S\ July Ist 7i Jnly 2nd . „ 12tli. „ 17th . „ 18th . „ 24tb . IhR. .. SJ . . i .. 4 .. n ..9l Total 48( lbs. up to the present time (July 27th), and I ex- pect to take nearly as much more, some of the drawers being now half full. Each drawer weighs from 3 lbs. to -libs, when fuU, and is very easily taken out of the hive. — Philip Ckowley. BEES NEAR BIRMINGHAM. I KECEivED au artificial Ligurian swavm from Mr. Woodbury, •Tuly 3rd, and emptied the bees out of their travelling box on to the bottom of the bars of an inverted bar hive. I had previously taken a bar of brood, and a little honey as well, nut of two of my black stocks, and put them in the hive ; then I turned this up, and as soon as the bees collected in the hive, put it on the floor. board, and placed them on their stand. They have (as I consider) done very well, for they have filled all the bars but one of a ten-bar hive with combs, the cells of which arc now filled with brood. I have some young Ligurians, as I saw when I opened the hive to-day (.July 23rd). They have gained 9 lbs. in twenty days. Is this not good for a new hive ? Now, as this variety does so well, it seems a great pity that they cannot be kept pure, but that the black drones are likely to mate with the young queens. Is there not some way to prevent this ? I had a black stock in a Neighbour's hive, which I have written to you about before, as being very lazy. The other day I wanted a swarm to send to a friend, so I took off the super, which had been on some time, and the bees, as I thought, were working in it ; but it, like the hive, seemed full of bees only. I then knocked them out and found but little comb, and less honej', for the time it had been on. I next put the hive over a cloth, and beat a lot of bees out till I had the queen. As soon as I had her out I put her in an empty hive to collect the bees, and placed it on the stand. In doing all this a piece of comb came out, which I gave my friends, the Ligurians, the benefit of. I thought by this time I had enough bees for a swarm, so I packed and sent them away. This was done July "ith. Next day I weighed the hive, which made 8 lbs. for the bees and honey, and on the morning of the 22nd I did so again, and they had gained 3 lbs. In the middle of the same day I thought as this hive had done so badly, I would transfer the inmates into a bar hive, for Ihke to look at them often, and I did so, knocked all the bees out, and having found the queen, collected them in an empty hive, and put them on the old stand. I then re- moved the old hive to take the combs out, which I fixed with strings and pieces of wood into the bars. I next put the bees into it, and set it in the old jilace, and all is quiet to-dny (July 23rd), and they have fixed the combs, so that I have been able to remove the supports. There seems to be a large number of drones. Should you suppose that the old queen was mostly a drone breeder ? How many eggs can a queen lay in a day ? and is there any difference between a drone and a worker egg? My other hives have done well lately. No. 1, a bar hive, 1ms made 13 lbs. ; No, 2, ditto, 13 lbs. ; and a Neighbour's hive, 71b9 , in seventeen days. I had all these hives last winter. Why do bees begin so many royal cells ? When is the best time to take bars of honey away ? Is it best to cut out royal cells when you find them beginning, and do not want the bees to swarm? — J. G. [When drones are in excess, the probability is that it arises from an excess of drone-comb, which should be removed, and worker-comb substituted. A good queen can lay 1500 to 2000 eggs a-day, or possibly even more. Von Siebold's investigations demonstrated the fact, that the worker eggs are fecundated, whilst drone eggs are unfecundated. The instinct which leads bees to found a plurality of royal cells seems a wise provision against the possibility of failure. The excision of queen cells can, at any rate, do no harm, under the circumstances you mention. Bare of honey may be removed at any time when they can be spared. The best means of preserving the purity of Ligurians were detailed by Sir. Woodbury, in page 271 of our last volume.] A Negho Discussion AnouT Eggs. — In the fairest village of Western New York, the " culled pusscns," in emulation of their white brethren, formed a debating society for the purpose of improving their minds by the discussion of instructive and entertaining topics. The deliberations of the society were pre- sided over by a venerable darkey, who performed the duties with the utmost dignity peculiar to his colour. The subject for discussion on the occasion of which we write was, " Which am de mudder of the chicken — de hen wot lay de egg, or de hen wot hatches de chick?'' The question was warmly debated, and many reasons pro and con. were urged and combated by the excited disputants. Those in favour of the latter proposi- tion were evidently in the mf jority, and the President made no attempt to conceal that his sympathies were with the dominant' party. At lengtli an intelligent darkey arose from the minority side, and begged leave to state a proposition to this effect : " Spose," said he, " dat you set one dozen Duck's eggs under a hen, and dey hatch, which am de mudder, do Duck or de hen ? " This was a poser, was well put, and nonplussed the other side, even staggering the President, who plainly .=aw the force of the argument but had committed himself too far to- yield without a struggle ; so, after cogitating and scratching his wool a few minutes, a bright idea struck him. Ilising from his chair in all the pride of conscious superiority, he announced : "Ducks am not before de house; chickens am de question; defore I rule de Ducks out ! " and do it he did, to the complete- overthrow of his opponents. OUR LETTER BOX. Choice or Frekcu Foivls {Rev. T. P.).— We believe wc hnve, and hnvB had, more experience in the French breeds than most jieople. Wo have no liesitnfion in enyinp we consider the Houdans the best for peneral purposes. Their laying qualities are of a high order, and 1 hey are as hardy as fowls can be. Their only drawback in oni' eyes is that they do not pit. This necessitates keepinfj two breeds. TJr.cEES IN French Fowls (7". R P.).— It is proved beyond contradie- ' tion ' i the cocks of La FU-eho fowls are subject to diseases unknown to ' our Enplish breeds, and th^t are not common to the hens. The same may be said of the Creve Cceurs. A cock of either breed will be hearty Monday evening, Tuesday morning ho will be choking with ulcerous matter, Thursday he will he nearly well again, and within a week he will lie dead of positive w isting — not an ounce of flesh left on his b'nes. We have never found but one treatment to be useful. It is to allow them no water in their pens, but to give them drink three times per day; when, ill to withhold it altogether. This latter system has cured the only cases we have been able to treat successfully. We had a walk of La Fleche at an isolated fjirm-house. Within two day-s of a heavy shower they were always sict. from drinking from puddles. These birds, we believe, delight iu filthy water, and prefer it to a running stream, or to that fresh from a spring. Etio SnELL in Chickens' Food (E. ,S.)-— We should think all such contrivances as pouuded egg-shells bad for young chickens. When only four or five days old they require soft food that is ea?y of digestion. Your feeding was evidently wrong from the glutinous adliesion of their excrement. In rearing chickens nrtitieially you have to supply tlio heat of the hen, and as nearly as possible to give food such as she would iiud and call them to. She would not do this for egg-shells. Wo beheve sho knows that which we fancy, that the poor little ones could not digest them. FnENcH PLirars.— itce and Lrnrn wishes to be informed how to preservo jdunis in the mode adopted tor those called French plums and sold in jars. He thinks his Victoria plums would do for the purpose. Any of our readers will oblige us by sending us iuformation on the subject. Stock that has not Swarmed (Caroliw).— Are you sure that the stock l-.as not swarmed unperceived ? We should not now ejpeet a swarm to issue, although if one should rise its probable preservation over the ap- proaching winter is only a question of autumnal feeding and a f«w shillings' worth of lump sugar. We know of no means by which you can accelerate swarming, nor should we expect the bees to take to a boll-glass so late in the season. E.-.VPTIAN Bpes (/. II. H.).— Write to T. W. Woodiory, Esq., Moimt liadford, Exeter, Aognst 8, 1867. ) JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 93 WEEKLY CALENDAR. of Month Day of Wfek. AUOC8T 8-14. 1867. Avornpc Tompernture near London. Rain in last 40 years. Sun 8nn Moon Rises. Seta. Rifles. Moon Sets. Moon's Age. Clock before San. Year. 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Th F S Sos M Tu W Meldrum Hortlcultnral Show. Iloyal Horticultural Society, Promenade. 8 Sunday ACTEa Tkinity. Tcwkeflhury Ilorticultnral Show. EUon Horticultunil Show. Day. 74.7 74..-. 75.2 75.8 75.1 747 72.6 Nifht. 49.4 49 9 52.3 60.6 60.4 60.0 60.6 Moan. 6!!.l 62.2 63 7 63.2 62.8 62.4 61.6 Days. 16 15 18 18 15 18 IS m. h. 35 at 4 37 4 38 4 40 4 42 4 43 4 45 4 m. b. n. h. 36 at 7 llaI2 34 7 10 8 82 7 1 B 4 30 7 1 84 4 28 7 1 87 B 86 7 IS 6 20 7 48 6 m. h. 40afll morn. 17 0 69 0 47 1 41 2 89 8 Days. 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 m, B. B 27 5 19 5 11 5 2 4 52 4 42 4 81 220 221 222 228 224 225 226 From observations taken near London during the Inst forty years, the average dnv temperatnre of the week is 74.6^; and its night temperature 60.4\ The greatest heat was 93', on the 10th, 184^ ; and the lowest cold 83', on the 11th, 1864. The greatest fall ot rain was 1.14 Inch. CULTURE OF PYUAMIDAI; SELAGINELLAS. WILL readily comply with your request to inform more than one of your correspon- dents how the Sclnginelliis exhibited at Bury were grown : but a difficulty pre- sents itself at the outset. One correspondent inquires about ctrsia, but it may be tliis or Cicsia arborea that is meant. Now the habits of these two, and therefore the modes of culture, are widely different : hence, to make quite sure of giving; the desired information, I will describe the mode of producing both of these, and the other SelagincUas, as shown. And first, as to ca>sia arborea, the grandest of tliom all. Begin with a strong healthy plant, and pot it in a mixture of rough peat and charcoal, witli at least 2 inclies of drain- age ; plunge it in a bottom heat of 80', and grow it in an atmosphere genial and vaporous — nearly saturated with moisture, and at a temperature of from 70° to H(l°. Shade it carefully from any sunbeam. I-ight, which imparts colour to other plants, robs tliis of that ri>'h blue tinge wliicli con- stitutes one of the cliief elements of its beauty. Under these conditions tlie plant will grow with the strength of a giant and the croctness of a tree, which in fa(!t it is among Lycopods. It roots prodigiously both in the pot and along tlie stem, collecting food aUke from earth and air, and converting it into leaves at a magical rate. Vigorous as it is, its rapidl}' elongating stem will soon become toplieavy, and demand support. At this point of the plant's career the vital question of ultimate size and desired form must be settled once for all. Is it to be a dwarf or a giant '.' 'i. :?, 4, 5, 0, or 10 feet high ? and of what form — flat, round, weeping, or pyramidal'.' 1 have tried various lieights and nearly all forms, and pro- nonnce now in favour of a pyramid of from fi to 8 feet high. This point settled, place the plant in a 13-incli pot in the same material, and under the same condititms as before, being careful to sink it low down in the pot, say ;i inclies from its surface. This will leave space for two or three top-dressings, as the pbints root rapidly upwards. Now for the basis of the pyramid. There are two modes of forming it — one by the aid of a wire trellis of the de- sired shape, another by means of a young Laich or Spruce tree. I showed examples of both at Bury, and hardly know which is the better. Whichevor is used, the first condition of success is to tix it immoveably on or in tlie pot without injury to the roots. This is done by placing a strong wire beneath the rim of the pot, and fixing tlie trejlis or tree firmly as a rock to this wire. If not fixed strongly and tightly, as the plant becomes topheavy the basi.s of tjie pyramid will swerve, some of the branches must break. No. 832.-Vot. Xiil., New ScaiKB. and the fine pyramid of green become a wreck through lack of solidity of base. In training secure plenty of bottom at starting, regulate the growtli once a-week. prevent all entanglement of shoots, as no plant is more impatient of unravelment, keep all the leaves on the external surface of the trellis with the right sides outermost, and the plant will express its gratitude by putting on a robe of such exquisite blue shot silk over it^ green as no other plant can wear, excepting always, however, its lowly but equally lovel.y sister cassia. During the p-owth of the plants, with sufficient drain- age it is scarcely possible to over-water them ; and they drink not only with their roots but with their entire sur- face ; hence the necessity of converting both earth and air into a large drinking-fouutain during their thir.sty — that is, during their rapid-growing period. In winter they demand repose by being kept drier in a temperature not under 65", and if they are treated to a summer regimen in November, the chances are that the moisture so essen- tial to their summer's beauty, would bring upon them the rottenness of a winter's death from which there is no resuiTection. So much for cfesia arborea. Now for the lovely csesia herself. Well, she is a creeping dwarf, lUie many more of her relatives. This suggests to us the mode of culture. There are only two ways of appreciating the beauty of dwarfs. We must either stoop down to them, or raise them up to us. The first is inconvenient and not ver)' effective, the second is both etVective and pleasant. We see them better, and enjoy their excellencies in comfort. But dwarfs are not only sliort but often stout. Placed close to us they become lumpy from their squabbishness. This has long been the case with many of our SelagincUas. Of the dwarfcst stature, they have been spread over such a large I flat surface until the flatness has robbed them of much I of their interest, and seemed to mar by its shadow their 1 exquisite beauty : hence my desire to raise them into pyra- mids or any other desired form, so that the outline of the mass may harmonise witli tlie loveliness of their structure and the beauty of their verdure. ' ' For this purpose all that is needed is an iron trellis of the desired shape, wired over pretty closely, say every 2 inches, and firmly, very firmly, nttaclicd to the pot. Fill the pot within an inch of tlie brim with charcoal, then with a layer of rough peat up to the level. Now a layer of Sclaginella cassia or any other sort, again a layer of peat, and another layer of plants, until tlic top is reached. The chief points in filling up are consolidation, and keeping the centre filled with charcnal alone for drainage. It also requires to be done neatly and cleanly, and when finished tlie whole should be wa.slied over again and again with clean water issuing from a coarse rose. This watering is per- formed for two reasons : one is to soak the whole mass, the other, equally important, is to wash off nt ofice all the j loose soil. The usual waterings must be nppHed gently through a line ro-te. Nothing seems to worry the plants j more tlian the dtjhrig of soil falling down upon them every' time they are watered : hence the necessity that the firSt I washing should be thorough, and' the 'l^ittire Tsaterings N0.9S4.— Vou XXSVIlI., Old Sbribb. 94 JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB. r Aagnst 8, 18W. gentle and careful ; they muBt, however, be frequent. Plants on the side of a steep hiU aeon dry up and wither, and drought is the great enemy of Selaginellas. A careful dust with the syringe may often take the place of the wateriug-pot. From the position of the plants it is obvious that their water-want is not largeness, but frequency of supply. They may require sprinkling four times a-day, or thorough soaking tlu'ough the mass once a-week ; much will depend upon the atmosphere. Moisture in this is of more vital moment for these than for the large sorts ; in fact, perfect success is impossible without it. They may be said to rest upon the peat, and feed upon the air. Their tiny roots before they can grasp the former must perforce collect food from the latter. Unless they find it they wither and perish : hence the necessity of providing them with suitable pabulum through the medium of a moist atmosphere. But although all this heat and moisture are essential to their perfect growth, they may be preserved in beauty for many months under widely different conditions. The kinds under consideration require, perhaps, more heat to preserve them in beauty than any other sorts. In a low temperature or a dry atmosphere they are apt to lose that glaucous hue which is one of their chief charms. Still they retain much of their beauty for some time in a sheltered corner of a conservatory ; and many kinds, such as Danielsii, atroviridis, and stolonifera, retain their beauty for months in conservatories. The latter, in fact, is hardy, and will stand anywhere, and it is one of the best for pyramidal growth. The chief point to be attended to in bringing such plants from a tropical to a temperate clime, from the forcing-house or stove to the conservatory, is to make the transition gradual. Let them pass through the intermediate stages of vineries. Peach- houses, &c., and allow some time — a month, perhaps — on the journey. In this way the plants will not feel the change ; and when they finally arrive in a cool temperature the entire treat- ment must be modified. The object is no longer the produc- tion or extension, but simply the preservation and exhibition of perfect life. The stimulating regimen must, therefore, give place to one of great %vatchfulness, restful care, and delightful enjoyment. The anxieties of the producer will be exchanged for the pleasure of possession, and few plants can confer more than pyramidal Selaginellas grown in the manner that I have attempted to describe.— D. T. Fisn, F.R.H.S. APKICOT CULTURE. {Continued from par/e 75.) As regards training, no better mode can be adopted than fan-training, as vacancies occasioned by the dying oft of the branches can be filled up, which is not the ease when hori- zontal training is practised. A maiden plant should be headed down to within 9 inches of the ground during mild weather in February, or early in autumn, but not later than November. In consequence of this cutting-down shoots will be developed from the buds below the cut. Three of the best for vigour and position are to be retained, and the others should have the points taken off at the second or third leaf, at the next leaf at every stopping throughout the season, and in October they are to be cut back to within an inch of their base. The three shoots retained without stopping are to receive every en- couragement, the central one being trained upright, and the side ones to the right and left of it. In nailing them (and it should be done loosely to allow for the growth of the branches), the weakest should be trained more erect than its more vigorous neighbour ; but if both are equally strong, then they should be trained at an angle of 4.5°, bringing them down to a" horizontal position about the end of September. To encourage the side branches or shoots the leader or central shoot may, if as strong as the side shoots, be stopped in the last week in May, or first week in June, or when it has grown 9 inches, at which height it may be stopped. This will encourage the side shoots, which cannot be too strong. Shoots will result from stopping the central shoot. These may be stopped at the third leaf, for if a quantity of foliage be left on the central thoot, it will, if so inclined, outstrip the side shoots in thickness, and this it must not be allowed to do. The stopping of the leader in June will, in most cases, be sufficient to give equal or greater vigour to the side shoots, and in that case stopping the laterals need not be resorted to. The side shoots resulting from the stopping may in that case be trained in, one on each side of the leader, it being presumed that three shoots have resulted from the stopping, as in the case of the heading of the maiden plant, and there will con- sequently be a leader and two side branches, the result of the summer heading, and two strong side shoots, the result of the heading back of the maiden plant. No knife should be need upon these branches in autumn, except the leader, which should be cut back to 9 inches above the divergence of the uppermost side shoot. The central shoot not having been stopped, should be shortened to 9 inches, by a clean cut with a sharp knife, and the side shoots reduced two-thirds their length, for it will not do to head back the leader at the winter pruning, and not the side shoots, for cutting back the shoots in winter is very different in its results from stopping them in summer. The first causes an increase of growth, the latter a lessening of the vigour of the tree, or that part denuded of fohage ; the sap thereby diverted into other channels must necessarily be weaker than were the foliage permitted to increase, and the sap be expended or concentrated upon one shoot or branch. The side shoots (or branches, as we must now term them), having made a good growth in the first year, or that of their origin, will in the second push a number of strong shoots, and the leader will no doubt be likewise pushing strong shoots. The side branches should not be allowed to extend by more than two branches each, and one of these should spring from the extremity of the branch and be trained in as a continuation of the branch from which it takes its rise ; and the second shoot should originate at from 12 to 15 inches from the junction of the branch on which it is situated and the stem, and it should be trained out straight along the side of the branch. All other shoots should have their points taken out at the third leaf, and be kept closely pinched in to one leaf throughout the season, except that a shoot is to be left at every 12 inches and laid in alongside the principal branch. Any strong foreright shoots should be entirely removed, as they only tend to keep the sun and air from the other shoots. This much for the side shoots or branches in the second year. The leader is to have the shoots it gives rise to reduced to three — one as a leader, and two as side shoots ; and the side shoots are to be trained at such an angle that when 3 feet in length there will be 15 inches! between them and the lowest branch, and the leader is to be treated in a similar manner to the leader of the preceding season. In autumn the strong shoots may be reduced one-third their length, and the weak two-thirds. The branches should be trained so that there may be 15 inches distance between them at their greatest divergence, and they should all diverge equally from the stem or brauch from which they take their rise, and when they extend so as to be 15 inches apart each branch should be forked by training in another shoot, and be trained alongside it until it has extended so as to be 15 inches distant from the branch next below it, when it should be again sub- divided ; and this is not to be the case with one branch in particular, but should prevail with all. The principal branches will therefore be evenly disposed, with sufficient space between them for the training-in of young wood. The leader will, in the course of the third or fourth year, have its office rendered unnecessary by the side branches being produced at an angle that will necessitate their being trained at a less distance than 15 inches, and it is then to be trained and subdivided the same as a side branch. As the Apiicot produces its fruit upon spurs and on the wood of the preceding year, and the spurs are plentiful on he wood of two or three years' growth, shoots ought to be trained in between all the principal branches, but not too thickly, 12 inches being a good distance to leave them upon the prin- cipal branches. These shoots should be trained in rather close to the branch from which they take their rise, and if the growth of the shoot exceeds 12 inches it may be shortened to that length, hut if less, it is well to leave it with its point entire, unless it is very weak, when it should be cut in closely, and a shoot be originated near the base, which will in most cases prove sufficiently vigorous. These shoots may bear in the year following their production ; but if not, room should be left, by training them rather close to the principal branch, for encou- raging a shoot from its base. This is to supersede that of the preceding year should it produce fruit, and if this be the case the oldest, or that which has borne fruit, should be cut out in autumn, and the other trained in its place ; but the shoot first produced not bearing, and having formed a number of fruit-buds or spurs, both it and the shoot of the current year ought to remain, aud no successional shoot will in the follow- ing season be required. When fruit is produced the oldest ol Aagast 8, 1B67. ] JOURNAL OF HOETIOULTUBE AND COTTAGE QAEDENEE. 96 the shoota should be cut away in autumn, and the youngest trained in its place. It will be necessary to train-in a young shoot from its base in the succeeding year, and that producing fruit is to be cut away, and the young shoot trained in its place, or both may be left another year, in which case no buc- oesaional shoot will need to be originated until the season suc- ceeding the removal of the old one. We have by this system branches several years old, and shoots originating from them at 12 inches apart, and laid in between them. These shoots are to be shortened at the winter pruning to 12 inches, more if weak, less if strong, and in the second summer from the base of each a shoot is to be laid-in and trained alongside, and the shoot two years old, having pro- duced fruit, is to be cut out, the young shoot pruned and nailed in its place, and a shoot originated from its base in the follow- ing season ; but if the old shoot does not produce fruit it is not to be cut out in autumn, but to bo retained for another year along with the young shoot, and in that case it will not be necessary to originate a young shoot from the base in the following season, but only in the season succeeding the re- moval of the producing shoot. There may be some difficulty in producing a succession shoot from the base of the preceding year's shoot, which may sometimes be overcome by training in from the main branch an eligibly situated shoot, and when this can be done it is very desiiablo to do so, as such shoots are more free in growth, and the successional shoots are more readily obtaine 1 from their bate. In addition to the shoots above mentioned, there will arise along the main branches a number of others. All those spring- ing from the front of the branches should be rubbed off closely in the disbudding, which should be done early, so that no knife will be required. The best time to do this disbudding is when the shoots are sufficiently large to be laid hold of by the finger and thumb. Beyond this disbudding of the foreright shoots which result in nothing but useless breastwood, no other dis- budding is required for the Apricot. Disbudding should bo done early as already recommended, otherwise the bark is apt to be torn if the shoots are left until they become woody, and in that case they should be removed with a knife, and to make sure of the wounds healing, it is well in all cases to cut away aU foreright shoots with a sharp knife, as the wounds heal more readily, and the liability to gum is lessened. AU other shoots not required for laying-in and for the extension of the tree should have their points taken out at the second, or at most third leaf, and be stopped again at the next leaf, and re- peatedly throughout the season. These will form spurs, or be plentifully sprinkled with fruit-buds by autumn, and upon them fruit may be produced in the following year. They should not be allowed to extend too much, but should be kept close to the wall, and any that are long should at the winter pruning be shortened to 2 or 3 inches. Besides the shoots already described there will be more or less of shoots that do not grow longer than an inch or two, and produce a number of leaves. These are natural spurs, which ought not to be shortened or interfered with, except where they are very close together, when they may be thinned. From the natural spurs no long shoots will arise, or very rarely ; but if there be, such shoots are to be pinched back to two leaves, as neither from these nor the young shoots that are stopped to induce spurs or fruit buds should long shoots be encouraged. They must be removed ere they have done mischief by shading the one and two-year-old bearing wood and the spurs. Winter pruning is best performed early in February, but if the summer pruning has been properly attended to little winter pruning will be necessary. — G. Abbey. (To ti« continued.) ALTERNANTnERAS— VIOLA CORNUTA. Will Mr. Bennett be good enough to give us a little more information as to the Alternantheras and Toleianthera versi- color ? Did they grow to his satisfaction when planted out '.' Are they easily kept over winter, and do they retain their colour in a cool greenhouse, or do they require a stove ? They are so very pretty, that, if not delicate, they must become invaluable for both in-door and outdoor decoration. There is another Alternanthera advertised as paronychioides. Can any one report upon it ? I am growing Mr. Wills's variety of Viola comuta, and I have not had an example of its dying off. Has any one noticed the habit of this plant when it is grown from seed or divided, and when it is struck from a cutting ? In the former case, it has an upright growth of from 0 to 10 inches, and in the latter it spreads the same distance on the ground, and is not more than 3 inches high. The same thing is to be observed in Lobelia speciosa. I am of opinion, however, that seedlings of Lobelia speciosa kept over the winter bloom better than cat- tings taken in spring, but this order of things is reversed with regard to the Viola, the cuttings being preferable. — Calcajua. THE DOUBLE ROCKET. Some warped analysts of human nature affirm that the best and most benevolent among us feel, deep down in our heart of hearts, a sort of grim satisfaction at the misfortunes of our dearest friends ; that with one set of feelings we condole with and sincerely commiserate them, while with another, or with a peculiar arrangement of the eame, we inwardly chuckle oyer their adversities. Now, without for one moment confessing to anything like this degree of depravity, I did indeed feel no inconsider.ible amount of pleasure when visiting a gardener friend some time ago, and the cause of my so doing I will briefly explain. A few years ago I received from him a number of plants of the Double Rocket, with directions how to grow and propagate them. The plants were thankfully received, while the advice was as thank- lessly rejected. This was in the end of autumn, and the plants were kept in a cold frame during the winter, and in the fol- lowing spring planted out in a piece of well-manured ground at the east end of a Peach-house. Here they received as much, if not more, attention than their rank and position in floral society entitled them to, and they grew amazingly, throwinga wonderful flower-stems for young plants ; but just when I was beginning, with that self-complacency so peculiar to gardeners, to congratulate myself on how I should out-Rocket my neigh- bour, death came ; and never did worm-bit Gourd more speedily wither and die. Fully one-half of the plants seemed to be attacked simultaneously, the rest dropping off one by one, until only five or six out of the original three dozen remained. I had long been aware that they had a strong propensity for going suddenly off in this manner, but never before saw them do so in such a wholesale fashion. My friend said it was very provoking, but had his advice been attended to such a thing would not have happened. Judge, then, how the fiendish part of my composition was thrilled within me with delight when, on going into his garden in June last, I found the most of his Rockets quietly withdrawing themselves from this world of grubs and maggots, and a boy planting Asters betweea them, so as to cover what would other- wise evidently have been in a short time a total blank. Since my misfortune happeued I have been paying some little attention to the culture, habits, and enemies of this rather interesting flower, and have lost this year only three out of about fifty plants. The Double Rocket (Hesperis matronalis), is an old plant, having been introduced into this country about the end of the sixteenth century, and in the decoration of English gardens of these good old times it was largely used ; but now neglected, despised, and utterly out of fashion, it is comparatively seldom met with, although many lavish their attention upon plants not half so beautiful. Easy of cultivation, and capable of adapting itself to almost any soil, it is yet a difiicult plant to keep, owing to its liability to be attacked by the larva of _a certain fly known to entomologists by the name of Anthomyia brassiciE, and unfortunately too familiar to most of us as the Cabbage grub. The parent of this pest deposits her eggs throughout the summer in the crown or collar of the plant, and these when hatched work their way into the interior, where they remain all winter, the plant meanwhile showing no symp- toms outwardly of anything being amiss until spring, when, the tissues of the young shoots being all but destroyed, the leaves begin to flag and become yellow, and death ensues. To prevent this state of things it is necessary to lift the old plants about the beginning of September, by which time they will be pretty well grown, and the grub-producing fly may reasonably be supposed to have given up egg laying for the season. Carefully separate the young shoots, retaining as many roots to each as possible, and rejecting those which have none. Examine the base of each very narrowly for maggots, which, if found, must be picked out with the point of a knife. A rather close inspection, however, is needed to detect them, some being no larger than a pin-head ; but as, if present at 96 JOUKNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ Aoffust 8, 1967. all, they are generally located near the junction of the old crown, few of them need escape. Another enemy to the Rocket, although not so dangerous, is the grey-streaked moth (Tinea porectella), the grub of which sews itself up in and eats the leaves at the points of the young shoots, but is easily extirpated by picking out with a pointed stick. As before mentioned, the Rocket is most easily propagated by the division of the young shoots in autumn ; but cuttings of the flower-stems also strike very freely when cut into lengths of three joints each and inserted in a shady border under a hand-glass ; and the best time to do this is just when they are going out of flower, before they become too hard and ripe. Interesting plants all of them, and with no mean pretensions to beauty, the Hesperises have yet been singularly neglected by the florist and hybridist, to whom they present a highly promising field for experiment ; yet, so far as I am aware, there is no reason why we should not have them with as rich a variety of colours as the Ten-week Stock, wbich they already greatly surpass in size of spike, and even with all their grub onemies, in easiness of culture. — Ayrshire Gardener. PLANTS IN FLOWER IN JULY- DISEASE. -POTATO ACKL\M HALL, MIDDLESBROUOH-ON-TEES. The Potatoes here are severely attacked by the disease. It began about the 20th of July. There was thunder in the neigh- bourhood, and the atmosphere was very close for three or four days, with hot gleams of sunshine. I expected the attack, and watched the tops ; the spots began to appear first on the leaves, then on the stems, and in three days one of the finest squares of Lapstone Kidney, Fortyfold, and IVIyatt's Prolific Potatoes I ever saw was blackened and nearly divested of leaves. The tubers are very much diseased. The disease is spreading much in this neighbourhood, and I am afraid the crops will suffer very severely. July 3. Phlomis RusaelUfina Geranium disaectum Heracleum sphondylium V gicunteum II 7. Aubrietia Campbelli varie- gata Lysimachia verticillata Sedum rupestie t) 9. Sedum acre sexangulare album Campanula ffrandiflora Specularia bybrida Tbalictrum majua Achillea rosea plarmica tomentosa „ 11. Solidngo cambrica virgaurea Stachys germanica Acroolinium roseum •I 15. Aconitura vert*ieoIor Campanula iiitida cicrulon nitida plena Allium moUe Salvia bicolor Eutoca viscida Cladanthus proliferua Pentstemon Scouleri Spiriea tridcntata „ 16. Galium verum Lathyrua pratensia Spirsea laevigata Chiococca raceraosft Pyrethrum parthenium „ 18. aSnathera biennis Drummondi macrocnrpa Oxalis f^pecioaa TaKetes pumila Mathiola annua Stachys Inodora Lilium Thunberffiauum — M. H. July IS. Fnchaia coccinea Cerasua lauroeerasns Latbyrus grandiflorua latifolius „ 20. Sllcne iutlata nutans pendula Senecio adonidifolius Clematis intejnifolia „ 22. Funkia Siebol'di Eryngium amethystinum Bom-gati Hypeiicum quadrangulum ■ Lysimachia nummularia nemorum Lilium canflidum Verittruiu nigrum Kalmia augustifolia „ 24. Cineraria maritima Campanula rotundifolia rotuudifolia alba Epilubium roaeum Lythruin aalicaria Liatria pilosa Agatba;a ccelestis „ 28. Verbaacum nigrum Onopordi)n acanthium Carduus Marianua Sedum dasypbyllum Linum Lewisii Ononis arvensis Tragnpogon pratensia Origanum vulgare Hypericum calycinum r>orago officin.alis Campanula urticifolia Lavandula spica Li gQ strum vulgare ovalifoUum Vella annua Tradescanlia virginica Andromeda aerratifolla Cichorium intybua Sawdust as a Manure.— The finest crops of Cucumbers I ever saw were grown in sawdust. The bottom of a wet sheep-yard was covered 2 feet deep with Oak, Elm, and Ash sawdust. After having lain there two years it was cleaned out, and em- ployed for heating. The Cucumbers were planted in this with no other soil, and the result was the largest crop I ever saw. Sawdust from a stable when cleared out ought to be put into a wet hole, and should lie there two years before being used. — G. Taker, Seed-Grozver, Rivenhall^ Witham, Essex, Lanceley Red Seedling 20 Beckett Yellow Seedling . . 17 Lanceley Green Seedling 19 Sbone White Seedling 18 Wynne Twins Antagonist 89 NORTHWICH GOOSEBERRY SHOW. This wns held at the Angel Inn, Northwich, Jaly 27th. The foUow- g is a list of the varieties and weights : — dwta, gTs 1» 7 19 11 18 0 12 18 15 4 1 IS 18 10 0 2'2 12 6 6 Wynne Premier Prize Bale Steward's Prize Lanceley ditto Beckett ditto Shone ditto Ball ditto Forster ditto Plant ditto Jenison Careless Beauty 26 London 24 Leveller 22 aiatcbless 19 Antagonist 21 Dnke of Sutherland 20 Catherina 18 Telegraph 17 Beckett Red Shone Red Wynne Red Lanceley Red Shone Red Lanceley Red Wynne Red Wynne Red 19 London 23 Lord Liverpool .... 23 Seedhng Macaroni . 22 Clavton 22 Speedwell 22 Fhitonia 22 Beauty 21 Registrar 21 Lanceley Yellow Leader 24 Wynne Yellow Mount Pleasant ... 23 Lanceley Yellow Leveller 23 Forster Yellow Catherina 22 Lanceley Yellow Cramp 20 Wynne Yellow High Sheriff 20 Lanceley . Hale Lanceley . . . Wynne Lanceley . . . ditto ditto Beckett . . . ditto ditto Wynne . . . ditto ditto Lanceley. Yellow Pet 19 Yellow Peru 19 Green Plunder 2S Green Thumper 21 Green Shiner 20 Green Stockwell 19 Green Matchless 19 Green Seedling 19 Green Bravo 18 Green Rough Green 18 White Antagonist 26 White EUzabeth 25 White Hero of the Nile . . 23 White Overseer 22 Wynne White Snowdrop 21 Lanceley.... White Peto 20 Forster .... White Freedom 19 Lanceley White Lady Leicester 19 Thomas Dobell, Seedsman, Secretary, 0 4 16 10 0 15 2 6 0 2 16 7 19 IS 7 12 12 0 0 11 IS 22 2 18 17 ESTIMATE OF ROSES— ACIDS IN SOIL NO CAUSE OF VARIEGATION. Notwithstanding all that bas been written in favour of Marccbal Niel Rose, I still consider it far inferior in some very essential points to many older varieties. I bave not yet suc- ceeded in blooming it on the Briar, tbe first year from tbe bud, in anything like the profusion one would expect from the ac- count given of it by some enthusiastic novelty-seekers. The individual blooms are good when well grown, and of good colour ; but unless a considerable number of plants are grown it is useless expecting any flowers. It is good for a show Rose in cut blooms when a considerable stock is kept ; but for any one who can grow but two or three plants of a variety, it ia the worst introduction made of late years that I know. Some writers recommend amateurs to visit the great Rose shows, to see what varieties to purchase. No advice could be more erroneous. To those who intend exhibiting Roses, and wish to know the best varieties for that purpose, the advice is good ; but for those who simply grow a number of plants for floral etTect, the case is widely different, some of the exhibition varieties being almost useless when grown for the flowers, and Marechal Niel is one of the worst. Who ever saw a bed of up- wards of thirty plants of Gloire de Dijon, Triomphe de Rennes, or Cil'Une Forestier, with abundance of good, strong wood and healthy foliage, with less than a dozen flowers on tbe whole lot, buds and all counted? I should feel greatly obliged if any correspondent can name a place within thirty miles of London on either of tbe main lines of railway, where a stock of Mar6- chal Niel is growing, in the open ground, with as many blooms fully expanded, of good shape and colour, as there are plants. Compare this with either of the varieties mentioned above. In the bud state Mariichal Niel cannot approach Madame Fal- Aogust 8, 1867. ] JOURNAL OP HOBTIODLTOHB AND COTTAGE OABDENEB. 97 cot. Is not the Mari'^chal much more nearly allied to the Noisettes than tu the Teas '.' With me Lord Herbert will not open a flower fit to look at ; if the Bun shines it scorches in the bud, and it the weather is damp and dull it rots olT; but a most beautiful bloom of this variety, grown without protection, was sent to one of the large shows. The variety called Princess of Wales is of a splendid colour when it first opens, but is rather too thin, lied Rover is useless. As high-coloured Roses, I recommend Charles Lefebvre, Duo de Wellington, EugC'ue Appert (should be worked on dwarf Blocks), Fisher Holmes, Lord Clyde, Lord Macaulay, and iladame Victor Verdier. Of rose-coloured and rosy crimson— - Anna de Diesbach, Beauty of Wultham, Colonel de Rougemont, Comtesse de Chabrillant, .John Hopper, Jules Margottin, Ma- dame ThCrOso Levet, and Victor Verdier. Of very dark velvety sorts, Empereur de Maroc and Prince Camillo de Rohan with- stand bright sun better than any. Madame Vidot, a very beau- tiful blush tinged with rose, is one of the very best shaped Boses grown ; it should bo worked as a dwarf, lladame Alfred OB Rougemont, as an almost pure white, is very excellent either for pot-culture or the open ground. There is little difference in the pure white Perpetuals. Imperatrice Eugunie and Mdlle. Bonnaire both flower well, but are weak growers. Madame Freeman is a free-flowering white, but the blooms are too heavy for the wood. Xavier Olibo is not much. Rushton Radclyffe is third-rate. lu the Hybrid Bourbon class Jules Cesar and Rov. H. Dombrain are excellent. — F. Flitton. P.S. — Since writing you on the variegation of leaves (\'ol. XIL, page 385), I have mixed various acids with some soil and potted singly in three pots very small plants of Brassica, at the same time planting in ordinary soil in another pot one plant. The acids appear to have no effect on the foliage, but, singularly enough, the plant in the ordinary soil has become variegated. JUDGING GllAPES. The discussion as to judging Grapes being once more revived, I have been induced to ask myself the following question — Is it necessary to alter the present system of judging Grapes at hor- ticultural exhibitions to that of tasting? I think not, for the present system works well, and with very few exceptions gives ^cat satisfaction to exhibitors and employers ; it is also con- venient, and nine times out of ten the decisions of the judges are correct. I maintain my opinion, that a bunch of Grapes of first-rate colour, be the variety what it may, has much more to recom- mend it than one of second or third-rate colour. It looks first-rate on the table; its flesh is firm and melting ; its juice is rich and abundant, according to the variety, and it is in the highest state of perfection and flavour to which it is possible to bring the kind, showing at the same time with what skill and judgment it has been grown, and how uniformly the roots have acted in harmony with the branches and atmospheric treatment. Not so with an inferior-coloured bunch, its flesh is not so solid, it does not look well on the table, its juice is more abundant perhaps, but not so rich, and altogether it indicates a deficiency in culture in respect to the Vino being over-cropped, deficient in root-action, having bad soil and drainage, or being affected by some such cause. I have invariably noticed in my late vinery that the best coloured Grapes always keep longest and best, thereby confirming the advice once given by Mr. R. Fish, who says that those who want their late Grapes to keep must have them thoroughly coloured by autumn. These are important circumstances in favour of colour in Grapes. _ There is another method by which I have been convinced that flavour accompanies colour — that is, by allowing a perfectly coloured bunch to hang until it begins to lose its colour, and I find it also loses flavour in proportion, but not to such an extent as an inferior-coloured one, which will soon become worthless, simply through not being brought to that high colour and finish which I consider a pretty sure guide to good flavour. I am well aware of the superiority in flavour which some va- rieties possess over other.s, but then the schedules of the London Societies are so arranged as to prevent as much as possible an inferior variety from stepping in before better ones, except in such cases as mentioned by Mr. Fowler, between the Dutch and Victoria Hamburghs, which I think are quite exceptions, and not of such frequent occurrence at our London shows as to warrant our present system of judging Grapes being changed to that of tasting them, which system would necessitate other fruits being tasted, and, I fear, would not only increase the labours of the judges, but would be objectionable to employers, and cause dissatisfaction among exhibitors. Nevertheless, while paying due regard to colour, I would also do so to flavour where it was possible. And it is in the case of many local societies where I would call for this alteration ; many such societies divide Grapes into two classes only (Black and White), without naming the sort to be shown. Here ono often sees many varieties in each class, and, perhaps, Buckland Sweet- water taking the award in preference to Muscat of Alexandria, or Black Prince in preference to Muscat Hamburgh, or Black Hamburgh, when, without tasting, it is well known which has the best flavour, although, perhaps, the colour is only second- rate. To such societies I would suggest that they should name the variety to bo shown, and follow in the track of the London societies where possible ; then if the judges take colour as a principal guide, I venture to say their decisions will not be far wrong. — Thosias Record, Gardener to Colonel Loyd, Uawk- hurst, WiiiLi; the subject of judging Grapes is under consideration, I would beg to ask. What should bo the flavour of Black Ham- burghs (Muscats, Frontignans, and others in these classes by their peculiar flavour decide themselves) ? In most cases pro- prietors who partake of a good dessert daily are of one opinion in this matter ; yet we find judges at horticultural exhibitions differ more on this point than any other connected with Grape- judging. Some give preference to sweetness alone, though, perhaps, insensible to any of the real Grape flavour being present. It is very common at provincial shows for judges to be guided by the eye alone, never tasting the fruit at all, and giving pre- ference to large bunches. I have also known flavour, accord- ing to certain palates, rule the decision, though the fruit in appearance was unfit for any gentleman's table. One instance of this I give as an example. At a horticultural show, held a few years ago at an enterprising town east from London, I ob- served a dish of greenish-brown Hamburghs awarded the first prize, flavour being the only point considered by the judges necessary to decide (the schedule said the best dish of black Grapes, no number of bunches being given). On the same ex- hibition-table there were numerous dishes of excellent Grapes, to all appearance perfect. The other exhibitors, as might be expected, were dissatisfied with the judging. The managers o£ the Society could not account for it ; the judges were inquired at, and the reply given was that the Grapes were like sugar, and sweeter than any others on the table. The judges were two in number, one of them an old man of great experience (?) in these matters, having judged Grapes more than twenty years, and never believed himself to be more correct in any case than that one. The exhibitor (who was anxious to establish the fact that his Grapes were best), allowed his fruit to be tasted by all present, most of whom corroborated the old, judge's statement, that they were •' like sugar," but also added, " water, and something else." They were such as would not be eaten by any one who could have the choice of insipid Gooseberries instead. On the other side of the question it is not uncommon to see on exhibition-tables magnificent Grapes, both as regards colour and size of berry and bunch, but when tasted it is found that they would require several weeks to bring them to their proper condition. We have Grapes which were a month ago as black as Sloes, and to all appearance " finished," but which are only fit for table now. Fortunately, I have only had a few badly- coloured Grapes ; these I had to give away, as their appearance would not be tolerated on my employer's table, however perfect their flavour might be, high colour and large berries being of great importance, and flavour indispensable. The size of bunches is not called in question when there are plenty of them. — M. Temple, Balbirnie, ilarkinch. I UkW. often heard it remarked that brown or red-coloured Hamburgh Grapes are superior in flavour to black Hamburghs, the varieties being the same, and a gentleman whom I served in the capacity of under gardener, was never quite satisfied with the Black Hamburgh Grapes, if they finished off with a black colour. Nevertheless, even at that time I was very sceptical on this point. The difference in the flavour of the varieties of Hamburgh Grapes has, I have no doubt, a certain influence ; but so also have the different states of ripeness. A grower for market living in this neighbourhood (Uford), sends his Ham- 98 JOURNAL OF HOETICDLTUBE AND OOTTAGH GAEDENER. [ Angast 8, ISST. bnrghs to market as soon as they are quite black, although they may at the same time not be quite ripe. Those bunches which do not colour well must remain until they are quite ripe, consequently they are better-flavoured than the black Grapes from the same house ; but this would not bo the case if they were all cut at the same time. Now, it is the same with ex- hibitors ; as soon as the berries are black the bunches are fit to cut for exhibition, while they would be better of being allowed to hang for ten days or a fortnight longer, if they had to appear on the dinner-table. Here, in a house of Hamburghs that were lipe in the last week of May, there are hanging Grapes of several different shades of colour, and those nearest approach- ing to black are the best-flavoured, and the flesh is also firmer; ■while in an adjoining house there are Hamburghs just ripening off, and some of the bunches are already quite black, but are not yet fit to send to table ; and on comparing the berries with the brown ones in the earliest house, they are not yet fit to be matched with them as regards flavour. I think if comparisons were made in this way, the prize for flavour would at least generally be given to those Grapes possessing the highest colour. I perceive that the Royal Ascot Grape receives a high character both in your Journal, and from some of your con- temporaries. I could not judge of its merits when I saw it ex- hibited, as the bunches were crowded together in a basket. One can judge much better of the merits or demerits of a variety, new or old, if the bunches are laid out singly on boards. The Trentham Black Grape here is a stronger grower than the Black Hamburgh, but the berries do not set so well. Would that have any effect on the setting of the berries of another sort inarched on it? — J. Douglas. I AGKEE with Mr. Thomson in his remarks on judging Grapes. I consider that all ought to be tasted by judges before these decide upon their awards. Mr. Thomson would give three points to flavour, and I should say flavour ought to go a great way in the judging of all kinds of fruit. I think Mr. Dixon's observations about the colouring of Grapes are very true, especially as respects the inferiority in colour when manure water is used. I have found this to be the case myself. I have grown large bunches for the last seven years, and have used manure water from the farmyard, and they have generally been of a bad colour, but as for flavour they could not be surpassed. I have gained many first prizes at several horticultural exhibitions when others have had smaller bunches, but jet black, and when my employer has had the badly coloured Grapes on his table they have been preferred to some from the same house not so large in bunch, but all that could be desired in respect to colour. Gentlemen have told me these were not so sweet but better-looking. What has the eye to do with taste ? For instance : How often do we see at horti- cultural shows a large Melon which, though apparently a first- class fruit, when cut tastes more like a Turnip, or much worse ? I believe that over- cropping Vines prevents the Grapes colouring well. I do not see how Mr. Thomson's ten points can be im- proved. I should say flavour ought to be the most important point. As regards Mr. Alliston's remarks, I cannot perceive how judges can decide without tasting the fruit, and I do not think employers would object to two or three berries being cut off for such a purpose, as it could be done without disfiguriug the bunches. All societies should state in their schedules what Grapes should be shown. Hamburghs ought to form a class by themselves, and that would do away with Mr. Alliston's diffi- culty.— W. Hat.t.rtt, Cossington, Bridgwater. Being a Black Hamburgh of the deepest dye, polished with the best Day & Martin my kind master can procure, and finding by the opinions of some correspondents to your valu- able Journal my supremacy is in danger of a severe encounter with a formidable army, a much larger force as to numbers than mine is, nevertheless, I do hope to rouse up the few blue blacks to stand up for their rights and not kt invaders wrest them from us without a severe struggle. I think there should be men chosen for deciding our merits that should be able to do so without mutilating us in a show tent. As to a Mill Hill taking the laurels from me, I will never countenance a society that selects judges who are not able to tell by the eye, with- ont tasting, what variety of Grape is brought against me. Much has been said and written lespectiug me. I have been from time immemorial extolled and admired, and have always done my duty with good treatment. Just at this time, and when j looking for fresh honours from so much noise about table decorations, to have my bloom spoilt in this way is more thao I can endure. Let reds say what they may, I consider my fast colour and perfect bloom gives me the preference, and I am ready at any time with my true dress on to show battle against all the wishy-washy reds brought against me. I should be very proud to have my place amongst all the nobles of our land. I am found there occasionally, and think if my habitation with them were more general, I should not be assailed as I am at the present time. — Black Hambuhgh wiib A GOOD THICK ElOOM. A GIGAKTIC TREE. In travelling from La Victoria, a small town in the province of Aragua, towards Puerto-Cabello, in Venezuela, the road leads, in part, along the northern shore of the Lake of Valencia, situated in a longitudinal valley nearly 1500 feet above the level of the sea. This valley is of unsurpassed fertility, and Humboldt, the great traveller, calls it one of the most charm- ing realms he has ever seen in all his travels. In the middle of the road above mentioned, three miles west of Turmero, stands the famous Zamang, an enormous tree, belonging to the sub-order Cfesalpinese. It is not so much on account of the height or the dimensions of the trunk for which this tree is celebrated ; but it is the size, and especially the horizontal diameter of its head, that attracts our attention. Its head is somewhat of the shape of an opened umbrella, and covers very nearly an acre of ground. In 1857 I measured the head in its greatest diameter from L.S.E. to W.N.W. most carefully, and found it to be 206 feet 11 inches. Fifty years preceding it was found by Humboldt to measure in its greatest diameter 19'2 feet, French measure, which is equal to about 204 feet 6 inches English. Hence we see that this extraor- dinary tree has, within fifty-seven years, increased the hori- zontal diameter of its head only by 2* feet, from which we may infer that it is of a good old age. The natives assert, more- over, that as far back as the discovery of the country by the Spaniards, three and a half centuries ago, the Zamang was, even at that early day. reputed for its enormous size. At the time I saw it, it was but thinly covered with leaves, and seemed to lack vigour of growth. The natives hold it in high vene- ration, and it was against the law to break even the smallest twig . Besides their own enormous weight the branches sustain the additional weight of an astonishing mass of succulent heavy epiphytes and parasites, such as Bromeliads, Orchids, Cacti, Mistletoes, and fleshy Piperacea. — A. Fenhler (in American Gardener's Monthly). ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. AcQCSi 6th. Fruit Committee. — Mr. Cox, gardener to W. Wells, Esq., Ked* leaf, sent a fine dieh of Bigarreau de Mezel, wliicli received tbo first prize for the best dish of the newer varieties of Cherries. Mr. Karley, gardener to F. Pryor, Esq., Bigswell, sent in competition for Grcen- Seslied Melons Dr. Hogg, which, being of very fine flavour, received the first prize. Mr. Grieve, Cnlford, sent Queen Emma, which was over-ripe, and was, in fact, in a state of decay. From Mr. Rivers came frnit of tlio Late Black Biganean Cherry, very large and very firm in the flesh ; the stone rather large. It received a first-class certificate. He also sent fruit of a seedling from Early York Peach, with round glands on the leaves : the flavour was vei*j' delicious, and the flesh tender. It is named Rivera's Early York. It likewise re- ceived a first-class certificate. Mr. J. Beach, gardener to C. J. Her- ries, Esq., Sevenoaks, received a special ceiiificate for an excellent dish of Morello Cherries. Mr. Wilkie, gardener to Mr. McHenry, Addison Road, Kensington, exhibited Lady Downe's and Black AUc.ante Grapes ; and from Mr. Standish came fruit of bis Royal Ascot Grape in fine condition. Th» decision of the Sub-committee awarding a first-class ceitificate to this Grape was confirmed. Mr. Henderson, of Thoresby, exhibited Thoresby Queen Pine, a large handsome fruit, which, however, was found to bo very deficient in flavour ; and Mr. Forsyth, gardener to Baron Roths- child, Gunuersbury, sent a handsome fruit of Smooth-leaved Cayenne. Mr. J. Beach, gardener to C. J. Herries, Esq., Sevenoaks, also sent three lUahes of handsome Gooseberries ; Mr. Turner, of Slough, a disb of Black Naples Currants, the berries of which were of largo size ; and Mr. W. Nichol, gardener to T. H. Powell, Esq., Drinkstono Park, Bury St. Edmunds, fruit of Passiflora quadrangularis and edulis, perfectly ripe ; the former was certainly the preferable. Mr. Poynter, of Taunton, sent two varieties of Peas — one, named Pearce's Gar- dener's Delight, which proved to be Ne Plus Ultra ; and the other Aagast 8, IMT. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAJIDENER. 99 appeared to be Tall Green Mammoth ; and the Committee recommended that they be sent to ("biswick and proved. l'"rom Mr. J. \Vil80u, gar- dener to Sir Kalph Howard, Fulham, came two large Cucumbere of the variety called Lord Harris. Genkral Meeting. — Ilev. Joshna Dix in the chair. The bnaineas was confined to thn election of tun new Fellows and the announce- mont of tho Committee awards. THE SUGAR CANK. The Sugar Cane is one of a genus of many species of tall Grasses. Like most cultivated plants, it consists of several permanent varieties, differing in size, in tho colour of the epidermis, and in the proportion of saccharine matter they contain. Like most of the cereals, the Sugar Cane has not been traced to its wild state. In its cultivated state it has been found in many independent places, often remote from each other, and bearing independent names. Its geographical limits are nearly the same as those of Cotton — that is, extending from the equator to about the 30tU degree of latitude. Like Cotton, its culture has been pushed up to the 40th degree but even with less success, for the cane takes a year to arrive at maturity, and is therefore liable to be cut off by severe frosts. In what country the Sugar Cane was first cultivated it is out of our power to discover; but, as far as we know, it has been immemorially cultivated in the tropical and subtropical parts of Hindustan, in the nindu-Chinese countries, in the tropical and subtropical parts of China and Japan, in the Malay and Philippine Archipelagos, and in the tropical islands of the Pacitic. There is no evidence of its having been cultivated in any country west of the Indus. It was unknown as a wild plant in Australia and New Zealand, and is unquestionably an exotic in America. The Greeks and Romans knew nothing of sugar but as an article of trade. They were uncertain about the cotmtry which produced it, and ignorant of the plant which yielded it. The Arabs, on the contrary, brought the plant itself from India, with the Indian name of its produce, cultivated it in Syria, in Egypt, in Greece, in North Africa, in Spain, in Sicily, and in Southern Italy, manufacturing sugar from it in all these jlices. At what time the Arabs introduced the culture of tho cane and the manufacture of sugar into Syria and Egypt is unknown, but it is ascertained that sugar was imported into Venice from the countries enumerated at the end of the tenth century. The Crusaders found the cane cultivated in Syria as early as the beginning of the twelfth century. In the year 1120, or seventy- two years before the discovery of America, the Portuguese carried the Sugar Cane to Madeira. In the fifteenth century the Spaniards carried Ihe cane and manufacture of sugar to the Canary Islands, from whence they were conveyed to tropical America and its islands. In 1503, or about eleven years after its discovery, the culture and manufacture were fully established in Hispaniola. Sugar was, however, an article of consumption in Western Europe long before the discovery of America. England was supplied from the emporia of Venice and Antwerp, and in the time of Shakspeare the name of the article was so familiar as already to have its secondary or figurative meaning, as in the expression, " sugared words." — (Mr. Graufurd on the Migration of Plunts.) NEW PEAS. Mr. H. A. Stephens, of Ealing, has reported so favourably on Taber's Early Perfection Pea, that it is scarcely necessary to add anything to what he has so well stated. It certainly produces more haulm than either Dillistone's, Ringleader, or Dickson's First .and Best, probably on account of the superior strength of constitution and hardiness which it undoubtedly possesses. Now this is an important point, and it deserves recognition from the market gardener who grows a quantity of etu-ly Peas under field culture, both for the yield and for the straw. Tho latter is of considerable value to the market gar- dener, and 1 have no hesitation in saying that while Taber's Perfection Pea will produce a crop as early as any variety of a similar character, it also yields a larger quantity of straw, perhaps to the enhanced value of some £2 or £3 per acre. Taber's No. 68 must not be too rudely dismissed as identical with Dickson's Favourite. With me, on stiff strong land, it grows from 12 to 18 inches high — dwarfer than Dickson's Fa- vourite : the pods are larger, it crops plentifully, and it is of • rich flavour when served for table. .Last year Messrs. Stuart & Mein, of Kelso, sent me a large, white, wrinkled Marrow Pea, containing some seeds sligbtlj olive, which they called The Prince. I was much pleased with it last year, but wished to try it against Mr. Turner's Premier, a variety very similar in character. In height (about 2 J feet), and in habit they are very similar, but The Prince is the earlier by a few days. Both are a little later, perhaps, than Veitcli's Perfection, but more robust and hardy in the habit. The Piinco has a smaller pod than Premier, but it is literally crowded with fine Peas ; in fact, some of the pods burst open, there not being room enough for the Peas. Doth are very fine varieties, and for a main crop one or the other should be grown. They bear profusely, literally from top to bottom. — RiCHAitD Dean, Ealing. PARIS UNIVERSAL EXHIBITION. nEroRT as fruits and veoktaisles, dried or preserved. BY ROBERT HOGG, IJ..D., F.L.S. Tms class (71), embraces all .sncb frnits and vegetables as are in their natural condition, or are dried or presened otherwise than with sugar. Those who are interested in the stndy of these subjects will find throughout the various departments of the Exhibition ample oppor- tunities of gratifying their taste and of extendinR their information ; but it is much to be regretted that in too many cases the collections of foreign countries are not so useful and instrnctive as they might other- wise have been if the objects had been more generally named, and pains bad been taken to furnish such information as would ha^ enal)Iod visitors to distinguish between the various objects exhibited. In the Portuguese and Italian departments, for example, there are immense collections of Haricots, many of which are not generally known ; but each variety is simply labelled " Haricots," and no means are available for ascertaining the names by which to distinguish one from another. This is also particularly the case in the Algerian de- partment, where there are collections of Oranges and dried Figs, not any of which are distinguished by names by which they might be identified. Of the Fruits in their natural condition the collection which is the most attractive and interesting will be found in the Greek department. It consists of fifty-three distinct varieties of Oranges, many of which are of great size and beauty, while others are peculiar either from their form or colour. The cultivation of Oranges having of late years be- come a prominent feature iu English horticulture, and the facility with which they may be ripened in the cheap glass houses now so general in the country, a description of the leading varieties in this collection will prove hijjhly useful, as there are few if any of them that already exist in onr gardens. The different Irinds of Oranges are divided into, 1, Sweet Oranges, or those of which the St. Michael's may be taken as the type ; 2, Bitter Oranges, called by the French Bigaradier, and of which the Seville Orange is an illustration ; 3, Lemons ; 4, Citrons ; 5. Bergnmottes or Limes ; ti. Shaddocks or Pampelmons ; and 7, Forbidden Fruit. Among the Sweet Oranges there are the St. Michael's, the Blood Orauge of Malta, and the Elliptic or Egg-shaped Orange, all of which are familiar varieties. But there is a variety which surpasses them all, and is called China Orange, or jirotokaUinn tr.i lallamatan, a large handsome fruit, 3 J inches in diameter, of a deep orange colour in the skin, which is smooth, like that of the St. Michael's. In flavour this is the finest of all. Then there are the Genoa, a variety similar to the St. Michael's, but with a coarser surface, and the Sweet Orange Candia, both which are very excellent varieties. There is also a variety with a singular bossed surface, from which circumstance it is called gibbosom. The small flat variety which we call in the frnitercra' shops in London the Tangierine, is here called the Mandorine or Manr/arinion. There is n great variety of the Bigaradiers, or Bitter Oranges, many of which are singularly curious and ornamental. Of these the most striking are one called Krrtihn nerma. in Chios ; Phakoyra, in Candy; and /-* /tropv:o, in Peloponnesus. It is from 4 to 6 inches in diameter, of a rich deep orauge colour, and has a very rough, warted surface. The other is called umbilicata, and is also of a large size, being from 3* to 4 inches in diameter, of the flat shape of the Man- derine, and with the stalk aud the apex deeply indented. A ve:y beautiful variety of this class is a medium-sized fruit, finely striped, some being of a pale lemon colour, with deep orange longitudinal bands ; and others of a deep orange ground, with pale lemon-coloured stripes. This is called '* Hermaphrodite do Genois." There is a curious variety, called corniculata, or Homed Orange, from horns growing out all round tho upper part of tho fruit. These boms are the points of tho carpels, or *' the quarters," of the fruit which have become detached aud grown out, and. departing from the normal form, assume this singular appearance. There is a large fruit which, though it belongs to tlie class of Bitter Oranges, bos a sweet flesh, and is called Gli/hmeran::ia and ..Vtru/t^iVi tcs h>s ; but one of the most re- markable is a very largo Pear-shaped variety, (> to 8 inches long, with a rough warted surface and uneven outline. It is called Bigaradier a gros fruit. Of Lemons there arc not so many varieties ; and those most worthy 100 JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. ( Angnst e, 1867. of notice are the Greek Lemon, Slcaramanl'as les haroifstou, and an immense variety 4^ to 0 inches long ; the " Denx Mammelons," also a large oval variety, with two great nipples, one at each end. The Lemonier-bigarade is a hybrid between a Lemon and a Bitter Orange, »ome being nearly round, with an orange colour, while others are oval, and of a pale lemon colour. There ia a small egg-shaped variety, which has red flesh and variegated leaves, and this is called Lemoni TccTchinon. The Naples Lcmou is a very small variety, about the size of a pigeon's egg, and is principally need for comfitures. Then there is a Bweet Lemon, which is about the size of an ordinary Lemon, but ■with a sweet flesh, and very agi-eeable. The Citron de Leonide is a large, rough, warted variety, and is the only one of that kind exhibited. The Kergamottes or Limes are more numerous. They are of the colour of a pale lemon, and rounder than that fruit usually is. The most remarkable in this class are two kinds of Sweet Lime — one called Zacharolemenon, which is a small, round, and ratlier oblate fruit, lemon- coloured, and with a large nipple at the end like a Lemon ; and the other Gli/lolejurnon, which ia quite round, and of a deeper and more orange colour, and with not so large a nipple. The common Bergamotte is that which furnishes the perfume known by iiiat name, and which forms one of the principal ingredients in eau de Cologne and other compounds of that class. There is also the aromatic Lime of Chio, a small fruit of the size and shape of the Manderine Orange, and has the same aromatic odour which that variety has, but is distinguished from it by being of a pale lemon colour and having an acid flesh. There are several specimens of the Shaddock and the Forbidden Fruit, the latter being dis- tinguished from the former in being pear-shaped, the former being yonnd. Oranges occur also in the Algerian and Italian departments ; but, as they are uot distingnished either by names or numbers, no jeference can be made to them. Some of the specimens are very good, and among them may be observed a large Fingered Citron, the development of which is on the same principle as the Horned Orange, already noticed in the Greek department. The Dates in the Algerian department will form a good subject of Btudy, paiiicularly a collection of fourteen varieties in boxes, all care- fully named, and which come from the pepiuicres of Bistra. These vary in size, form, and colour, the last character varying from a pale irownish cream colour to an almost black. The variety usually met ■with in the shops of Britain attached to the rachis, or stalk, in strings, 3s called " Beglet noir de Souf." These are generally covered with a eaccharine glaze, as is also another and a much larger variety, also common in the grocers' shops, and not attached to the stalks, called *Stima de Biskia." From the Algerian Government garden of accli- matisation there are no less than fifty-five varieties; and from the **pepinieres de Biskra " there is another collection of fifty-four varie- ties. These, for the most part, are small, di-y, and farinaceous, many of them not larger than an Olive ; and it is these that form the staple of the food of the Arab population. All these varieties, it may be well to know, are varieties of Phoenix dactylifera, which is as fertile ia producing varieties of fruit as our Apple and Pear are. In the Egyptian department there are also many varieties of Dates, among which will be observed two varieties which form the large dry-skinned Dates of our shops. These are called " Dattes de Dougolah" and *'Datte8 Hamry do Belbeis et Salanieh." There is also a variety which has no stone, and is called " sans noyau ;" and, if imported into commerce, would doubtless prove acceptable from that circumstance. Dried Figs are an important feature in the Algerian, the Italian, ihe Portuguese, and tbe Turkish departments. Here, again, it is ^nch to be regietted that no names or numbers are attached to the different varieties, so as to afford some index as to the sorts that are aisually employed for drying ; and the persons in charge of these departments are perfectly ignorant on tbe subject. It will, therefore, Jbe permissible only to ohsei-ve the various forma in which they are made up. Some of these are sufiiciently curious- — as, for example, those impaled on wooden skewers, like larks for the spit. Some are pressed into shallow frames made of Arundo donax ; others are squeezed in masses, like thick sections of a Stilton cheese ; while others are made to resemble squares of Windsor soap or German sausages. There is a mode of making up Figs exhibited in bottles, which consists in cutting two fruits lonpitudinally as far as the stalk, then spreading them out and applying the two inner surfaces to each other; in this form the fruit is dried, and in drying the two snriaces adhere, and they are then mounted on skewers or strung on a cord. The same fancies in the way of packing may bo observed in the other collections ; but in no case are there any exhibitions of those large, handsome Figs which are to be obtained in the shops of tbe United kingdom. Almonds are weU repreeented in the Italian, Algerian, and Poriu- gnese departments. The Jordan Almonds may there be seen under the names of "Sultana" and " Delia Dama ;" while the other sweet and bitter-kernellcd varieties will be found under their various names. The other kinds of dried or natural fruits that are exhibited are dried Apples, Kaiains, Mulberries, Pistachios, and pignons, the latter being the kernel of the seed of the Stone Pine (Pinus pinea). In tnoet of these countries the Jujube is also shown. This is sold in Covent Garden Market under the name of " Japonicas," and with what reason it is ^impoBBible to tell, it being the fruit of the Zizyphus vnlgaris, a tree extensively grown in the south of Europe, where its fruit is dried, and serves aa a winter dessert. It is from this fmit that the confection called " jujubes "' receives its name, and which should consist of gum arabic and sugar dissolved in the decoction of this fruit and then evaporated to its proper consistence ; but, as made in this counti-j-, the fruit forms no part of the ingredient. In the Algerian department may be seen specimens of the Lotos of tbe ancient Lotophagi, and which is the fruit of Zizj-phus lotus ; they are about the size of a Cherry, and of a purplish colour. In the interior of Africa these are pounded in a mortar and made into cakes, which are eaten by the natives. PresnTea limits. — In the Algerian collection are good specimens of the fruit of Carica papaya, or Papaw. This, when young, is used for sauce ; and water impregnated with the juice acquires the pro- perty of rendering all sorts of meat steeped in it tender. The flesh of old fowls or other animals becomes tender when fed on the leaves and fruit, and joints of meat are prepared for cooking by being hung in the upper branches of the tree. There are also examples <« Sechium edule, or Choko, which is now considerably gi-own in Algeria as a substitute for the Potato. The only other fruits that are pre- served are Manderine Oranges, Peaches, and Loqnats, or Japanese Medlars. In the Dutch department there are excellent examples of Apricots, Peaches, Plums, Cherries, and Mulberries. Similar collec- tions may be seen in the Bavarian depariment, and a very extensive collection is sent by the United States of America, consisting of Pine Apples, Peaches, Cherries, Gooseberries, red and yellow Tomatoes, Plums, Grapes, Pears, Siberian Crab, Lawton Raspberries, Barberries, Whortleberries, Quince, Currants, and Sweet Corn. These are all preserved in spirit. Russia exhibits dried Apples, Pears, Prunes, and Melons cut in slices. VIOLA CORNUTA AND LUTEA AS BEDDING PLANTS. Mr. Wills asks for information from me concerning Viola cornuta, and if the favourable opinion I entertained of it last year is still maintained. I have great pleasure in stating that after having cultivated it throughout last season and up to the present time, I am more delighted with it now than when I last wrote respecting its merits. With us it is perfectly hardy, and, which is of the greatest importance at the present day, this invaluable plant forms one of the most lovely and effective beds for early spring-flowering I ever beheld, commencing to flower in April, and continuing to do so in the greatest profu- sion up to this time. Temperature and the weather do not injuriously affect its beauty to the same extent as other early spring flowers ; and to show Mr. Wills the high estimation in which his favourite plant is held at Denhies, I have had planted nearly one thousand plants of it for the edgings of a series of ribbon-beds, which extend in one continuous line from the south end of the conservatory. These plants were reproduced from cuttings in January last, and were planted out in the end of May. They now form a charming edging 1 foot wide and in full flower. — J. Drewett. I AM glad Mr. J. Wills has spoken so favourably of that beau- tiful bedding plant, Viola lutea. It deserves all that he has said in praise of it. I have a small circular bed of it and Carter^s dwarf lilac Lobelia Beauty of llavensbourne planted alternately, and the two colours contrast very well indeed. The flowers of V. lutea are longer and broader in the petals than either of the two varieties of V. cornuta — viz., Mauve Queen and Purple Queen, and the colour is a bright canary yellow. It is a vigorous and yet dwarf and close grower, and blooms and seeds pro- fusely. I obtained my plants of V. lutea from my brother, Mr. W. Dean, Bradford Nursery, Shipley, Yorkshire, and they are, I imagine, identical with Mr. Tyerman's variety. It is a perfect gem for the summer flower garden. I saw at Kew, early in the spring, a variety of Viola lutea considerably smaller in the size of the flower than that which I am growing, while the foliage was not nearly so robust. The weather was very cold, and the plants were by no means young. Probably this will account for the apparent difference both in size of flower and strength of foliage ; for my own plants were fresh from the cutting-bed when I received them very early in the year. 1 can bear testimony to the differences to be seen between the two varieties of V. cornuta as stated by Mr. Wills. I can the more readily substantiate his statements, as I obtained the plants of Purple Queen from a friend who had them direct from Osberton, while the other variety came in a similar way from Mr. Wills. In growth, in constitution, in the jagged edges of the leaves, in the size of the flowers, and the breadth of Angnst 8, 1867. 1 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEK. 101 the petals, I trace enbetantially the dilTerences as pnt by Mr. Wills. I have not, however, lost a single plant of Mr. Bennett's Tariety — in fact, they are all doing well. — Eichaiid Dean, Kalini!. DUTY-FREE TOBACCO. I AM afraid the Government duty-free tobacco will fail to prove so groat a boon to the gardener as it was expected to be. The quantity of sulphur added renders its combustion in the ordinary manner in which tobacco is used so destructive to vegetation, that I expect few will attempt its use in that way ; or, ii 80, they probably will not repeat the experiment. The presence of sulphur along with the bruised or ground tobacco deprives the latter of some of its virtues, the opinion of Hop-growers who have in years gone by used many hundred pounds worth of both these substances separately, being that although sulphur counteracts to a certain extent the spread of mildew, it rather favours the production of the Hop aphis. Many growers, indeed, go so far as to say that the aphis will absolutely fatten on it. Be this as it may, certain it is that the Government prepared compound of tobacco, sulphur, and assafoetida, is not a safe article to fumigate glass structures with. In the Hop gardens its use along with soft soap as a decoction has been subjected to extensive trials and with vary- ing results, which it would be interesting to note hereafter. My purpose at present, however, is to advert to a suggestion recently made in this .Tournal — that cayenne pepper should be substituted for brimstone, as it would be impossible for any one to smoke such a mixture. This is no doubt very true, but can cayenne pepper be had in suflicient quautity and at a suffi- ciently cheap rate to meet the requirements of the case ? And farther, is not the combustion of cayenne pepper exceedingly hurtful to all who have anything to do with it, excepting the green fly, which it does not seem to injure ? Twelve years ago, or more, the use of Capsicums mixed with tobacco was recommended in gardening periodicals, and many trials were made without there being in any case, that I am aware of, results sufficient to compensate for its irritating effects on the throats of the men who were engaged in the sup- posed slaughter of enemies, which next morning were reposing in camp unhurt, or nearly so, by the previous night's attack. Now, as I suppose cayenne pepper and Capsicum pods to be nearly the same in their effects, both, it may be concluded, should bo employed with caution ; not that I apprehend any evil effects as regards vegetation, but unless they can be proved to be more destructive when used as a fumigating material than has hitherto been the case, we ought to look out for some- thing else. I must confess to having been not a little puzzled to find so little harm done to the green fly about the period alluded to wlien Capsicums had been burnt. I have, therefore, Jbut little hoje of much good arising from a repetition of the experiment, although I shall be interested in the result. The present season in the county of Kent, and I believe in all the Hop-growing districts of the kingdom, has been one of the most remarkable ever known for the multitude of aphides which have infested the Hop. The early growth of the plant was vigorous, aud in most cases the bine reached the top of the poles before any serious attack by vermin T?as made on it ; but by-and-by the spread of this pest, aided by the cold, ungenial weather, caused consternation amongst the growers, and com- pelled them to adopt measures to combat the evil. Waggon- loads of soft soap and tobacco in different conditions have been naed ; generally the tobacco and soft soap were boiled together, the liquid reduced by the addition of more water, and the plants syringed. In one ground as many as one hundred men were employed for some time in the attempt to remedy the evil in this way. Close observation revealed the fact, that although most of the insects were destroyed, a new brood made its appearance iu thrte or four days, and the operation had to be repeated in a week or less, the persevering insect meanwhile following up the new growth to the very tips. Doubtless much of the evil is due to the ungenial summer we have had up to this time ; but enough has been proved to show that a good crop of Hops cannot be ensured by any amount of assiduity on the part of the cultivator when the attack is so determined as it has been this season. Not a few of the old school of culti- vators who have mostly left their plantations to take their chance, console themselves with the reflection that they are not much if any worse than their neighbours, and that a natural enemy to the aphis, which in ordinary years follows in its wake and dears o& what is remaining of this pest, has not been destroyed in their grounds, which it certainly has been in those where dressings of tobacco water, Ac, have been pcr- severingly applied. This enemy of the green fly, known by the name of fly golding, is always hailed as a friend, and its destruction is guarded against by those who benefit by its operations. Even when it invades dwelling rooms, which it does in winter, to the annoyance of good housekeepers, its destruction is forbidden by the master of the house. Burning Capsicums will most likely he a costly operation to those who engage in it, and I have but little faith in the utility of the Capsicum as an addition to tobacco farther than pre- venting the latter being used by smokers ; but I hope that something else may be suggested, as sulphur in the proportion of 25 per cent., which wo are told is the Government precau- tion, must be fatal to both vegetable and animal life when burnt in a confined place like a glass structure. — J. Eobson. VISITS TO GARDENS PUP.LIC AND TRR'ATE. MB. BICHAKD SMITH'S NURSERIES, WORCESTER. Ever since, some two or three years ago, Mr. Keane, in writing about these famous nurseries, said in reference to the Hoses, " How ' D., Deal,' would revel amidst the beauties he would there behold ! " or words to that effect, I have greatly desired to visit this ancient city. The other day, duty caUing me to Cheltenham, I made use of the opportunity of running over to Worcester, and in no wise regretted the journey taken, though it was on St. Swithin's day, when the saint verily chose to give us a " taste of his quality," for it was in a thorough downpour of rain that I started from the railway station at Worcester for St. John's, where I was told the nurseries are situ- ated, a walk of two miles. Soon after I got there, however, the weather cleared up ; and as everything was fresh and green after the rain, it made it the more agreeable, the Boses being the only sufferers, and they were considerably draggled by the heavy rain, but not nearly so much as I had anticipated when I set out. I had intended to have gone round by Hereford and seen Mr. Cranston's nursery, but the rain and the many objects of interest at Worcester effectually prevented my doing so. The nurseries of St. John's comprise somewhere about one hundred acres, situated between the Malvern and Bransford roads, the soil being mainly of a light loamy description, ad- mirably adapted for shrubs, but not so good for Hoses. The great difficulty in all such soils is provided for by a large series of underground pipes and flexible hose, which, both inside and outside, are constantly in use. The very first glance that I gave at the nursery convinced mo that we had here some one who took pride in his establishment, and who was a man of order and neatness. Weeds were really rarities. As, however, the houses are situated at the entrance of the nurseiT, and as there was sufficient in them to interest me. I shall devote this paper to an account of what I saw there. Aud here I must frankly own that the sight of Mr. Smith's orchard-houses, and the taste I had of the fruit grown in them, have made me a convert to their usefulness. I have long maintained that they were a fallacy, and indeed I am not yet quite sure that the ori- ginal orchard-house, pur et simple, without any heating appara- tus, is yet to be considered a success — I, at least, have never seen one that was so. Mr. Smith has two houses — one, a magnificent structure about 200 feet in length by 27 feet in width, and another about half that length. In the former there was a variety of fruit of all kinds ; in the latter Peaches and Nectarines formed the exclusive crop. This house was heated, or rather could be heated, by the hot-water pipes, but not until the water had passed through all the other houses, so that its heat was, com- paratively speaking, small ; still it must have been pretty weU used to have now, and to have had for some time, fully ripe Peaches and Nectarines ; for in the cool orchard-houses which I have seen the fruit was only ripe a very little while before the wall fruit came in. The trees were all in pots, and on my saying that their life was a brief one, Mr. Smith said. No, that is a great mistake ; that Lord Somers's gardener ha i told him only a few days before my visit that he had forced the same Vines for five or six years in pote ; that the average produce had, up to last year, been 10 lbs. a-Vine, but that last year he had taken 14 lbs., and without, he believed, any detriment to the Vine. But to return to the orchard-house. A row of Cherry trees had been placed on each side of the walk. These had fruited, and the fruit had been gathered about Easter. Straw- 102 JOUIiNAL OF UORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAKDENER. [ Aagust 8, 18S7. berries had been placed on shelves along the sides of the house, and now it was filled from end to end with Peaches and Necta- rines ; of these already 100 dozen had been gathered, and there were in all about 350 dozen of good saleable fruit, the highest number on any tree being, as far as I could see, about thirty-two or thirty-three. Now, this fruit was of good size ; the flavour not, perhaps, so good as when grown in a regular Peach-house, but certainly superior to that of wall fruit. These trees are potted once a-year and top-dressed once. Great attention is paid to the watering, to the neglect of which Mr. Smith attributed a great many of the failures in orchard-house-culture. The pots were mostly 9 and 10 inches, a few a little larger, so that there did not seem to be much mystery in the mode el cultivation. The fruits grown,atleast those which were ripe and eatable, were Early Savoy, very similar to Grosse Miguonne, somewhat more flattened in shape, and a little paler ; Grosse Mignonne, a variety too well known to need any commendation, the flesh was rich and highly flavoured ; Early York, with greenish Avhite flesh, a very juicy and melting Peach ; Bourdine, an excellent Jcach, with very rich and sugary flesh, and of a very deep red colour near the stone ; BeUegarde, another well-known Peach, ■with pale yellow flesh, of a rich and vinous flavour ; Chancellor, this I did not consider good, probably the fruit was not in good condition ; Early Albert, this is I believe one of Mr. Eivers's Peaches— the fruit, as I tasted it, lacked flavour; Barrington, a fine and highly flavoured Peach, light in colour, with yellow- ish flesh. Of Nectarines there were Hunt's Tawny, with pale orange skin, deep red on the sunny side, orange-coloured flesh, rich and highly flavoured ; Eivers's Orange, a seedling from Pitmaston Orange, which it very closely resembles ; Hardwicke, raised near Bury St. Edmunds, at Hnrdwieke House, a most delicious Nectarine, melting and highly flavoured, one of the best ; Downton, raised by Mr. Knight from Violette Hative, a well-flavoured variety with pale green flesh, first-rate sort ; Violette Hative, a well-known variety of good quality, fruit here excellent ; White Nectarine, skin almost white, flesh the same, rich and juicy ; Pitmaston Orange, raised by Mr. Williams, a great friend of Mr. Knight's. The house where Mr. Williams lived adjoins Mr. Smith's grounds, so that this variety is of peculiar interest here. It is one of the very best Nectarines ; the tree is hardy and a prolific bearer. Such were the principal binds in fruit, and as many of these are not ripe out of doors until September, the advantage of having them in-doors is evident, besides the certainty of the crop. In the large house there was a great number to come in later ; but here I tasted the Moorpark Apricot with a depth of flavour one is not accustomed to find in the fruit out of doors. Heie, last year, fruit was gathered at midsummer, and continued to be gathered as late as November. The ventilation in front is managed by a sliding apparatus something like a razor-strop, and the ventilators can be opened and shut with the greatest ease, 50 feet at a time. Besides these hou.ses there were others filled with Vines in pots, about as fine and healthy a fruiting set of canes as I have seen anywhere ; houses, too, full of Fig trees, very healthy and stocky plants, which will no doubt be greedily snapped up by-and-by, for the severe frost of last winter has been most injurious to the Fig in many parts, and perhaps those who are fond of it will gladly adopt in-door instead of out-of-door culture as more certain and satisfactory. Then there were conserva- tories and greenhouses and a stove, all filled with healthy stock of the various kinds of plants most in request. Here, too, the order and neatness for which the nursery is distinguished also prevailed. Thus, the plants in the greenhouses were arranged very much as we should do a ribbon-border. The front row was composed of Iresine Herbstii, which Mr. Smith thinks does best on clay soils ; then there was a row of Mrs. Pollock Pelargonium, then one of Coleus Verschnffeltii, then a row of variegated Pelargoniums, and the remaining upper shelves were filled with a general collection of the best bedding Pelar- goniums. Not only does this add greatly to the appearance of the house at a time when houses are all in confusion, gene- rally speaking, but it would give many persons a very good idea as to the combination necessary for making a grand effect in their gardens. lu all my peregrinations through these houses -1 J '^°^ ^^^ '^ single unhealthy plant ; there was no fly, mildew, rust, or any of the thousand ills that plants are heir to, but everything most healthy, and in a fit condition to be sent into any garden in the kingdom. I hope next week to make some remarks upon the out-door department ; but I cannot forbear adding that nothing could sxceed the kindness and courtesy with which 1 was received. and I have certainly spent fewer pleasanter days of late than that in which I rambled through Mr. Smith's nurseries. — D., Deal. WORK FOR THE WEEK. KITCHEN OAEDEN. Tnis is the period at which to lay the foundation of a sure supply of vegetables and salads for the ensuing winter, and time lost now in this respect cannot possibly be regained. Sup- posing that all the spring and midwinter Broccolis have been planted some time, and that Turnips for October and November are also in, still it remains to insure a continuous succession of Catdi/iower and autumn Broccoli, also a full supply of salads. Cape Broccolis, although apt to start, are amongst the most useful for the certain supply of the house if the family is resident in the country throughout October and up to Christ- mas. Where such is the case, the last planting, a good breadth, should be immediately made. A rich border should also be prepared for Cauliflowers ; these, planted immediately, will supply the table until Christmas, provided they are secure from frost. Endive, this, also, must be planted out with a liberal hand. Lettuces, sow Brown Cos, the Black-seeded Green Cos, and Brown Dutch Cabbage Lettuce for standing the winter. Onions, take up the pickling sorts, and lay down the tops of the main crop with a soft broom. Some of the White Spanish may be sown. Let a clearance be made forthwith of all decay- ing crops or those unprofitable, and supply their places imme- diately with Coleworts and other winter crops. raniT cirden. Gather early Pears and Apples, their fitness for gathering requires particular attention. If they are taken a few days too soon they will be insipid and wattry, for they do not become sugary by lying in the fruit-room, as is the case with later varieties ; but, on the other hand, these early kinds ought not to hang a day beyond the precise time they prove best. Attend to trees budded and grafted this year, and see that they are not injured by the matting used in tying. Dress oft the tips of the stocks behind the gralts. If this be done now the wounds will be nearly, or in some instances completely, healed over be- fore winter. Wall trees will require to be kept in order as pre- viously directed. This moist season has encouraged numerous outbreakings of lateral shoots. Where the wall is already covered with foliage these recent growths are worse than useless, they shade the more efficient portions, whilst they draw sap from the tree, but return little ; for, as Mr. Knight, of Downton, observed, the elaboration of the very young foliage is appropriated to its own development and the growth of the pushing shoot. FLOWEE G.tKDEN. Eoses budded last month should have the bandages loosened or removed if the buds have taken well, and the shoots should be shortened back to prevent wind from breaking them off near the buds. Continue layering Carnations, &c. Early-struck Pink- pipings should now be planted out in flower-borders, or beds, in the reserve garden for transplanting in autumn or spring. Sow Intermediate Stocks in the open ground, to be potted off when fit, for early blooming next year. Sow, also. Poppy Ane- mone seed, the least sprinkling of earth over the seed is suffi- cient. Laurels and other strong-growing shrubs, injuring choicer kinds by overgrowing them, should be cut back to allow the air to circulate, in order to harden the wood before winter. Those who can find time may pick off the seed-pods from Ehododendrons. This will add much to the strength of the blossom in the next year. The Azaleas, of course, will benefit by a similar proceeding. GEEENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. No time should now be lost in putting all houses, pits, nth, and after potting place them in a cold frame. You may, instead, prick them off 2 or 3 inches apart in pans. This ought to have been done twelve months ago. Covering a Sloping Bank (CoMmm).—The bank may be planted with common Laurels, which, if pegged down, will have a very good eflTect ; or you may, providing there is a tolerable depth of soil, sow now during moist weather a mixture of Avena flavescens, 4 lbs. per acre ; Cynosurus cristatus, G lbs. ; Festuca duriuscula, (i lbs. ; Festucu ovina, 4 lbs. ; i es- tuca rubra, 4 lbs. ; festuca tenuilolia, 4 lbs. ; Poa nemorahs, 2 lbs. ; Tn- folium repeus and minus, of each 4 lbs. ; Lotus corniculatus minor, 2 lbs., and 24 lbs. of Lolium percnne. The surface should be made qmta level or even, and very fine. .\Iter sowing, the ground should be patted with the back of a spade, if rolling is impracticable. Privet Roots Occupying a ISoudek (.•(. B.).— You cannot grow any- thing within a few feet of the Privet hedge, nor do wo know what wiU enable you to do so. You may remove the hedge and plant one of Uolly, which may be kept very low and close, and its roots are not so trouble- some as those of the Privet. PE0PAG4TING LlTHOSPERMUM FRtJTICOSDM (T. H. X).).— Cuttings of the half-ripened wood, or the points of the shoots of the current year, having their bases rather firm, trimmed of their lower leaves, and the base of the shoot cut with a sharp knife below a joint, should be inserted half or two-thirds their length in a compost of sandy peat one-third and two-thirds silver sand, the surface of the soil in the cutting-pot being covered with an inch of the last. The pot or pan containing the cuttings should be placed in a cold frame or pit. and kept close, moist, and shaded from the sun until the cuttings are rooted. The sand hhould not be kept very wet or the cuttings will damp off. The cuttings will strike macU sooner if placed in a mild bottom heat. Scarlet Pelargoniums not Flowering— Mrs. Pollock Pelahoo- NIUJI Turning Green (J Despairing Gardener).— There are few flower gardens, except in poor, sandy, open soils, where Scarlet Pelargonium* have done very well this season. lu a damp atmosphere and in cold soils, with such cold rains, there has been less bloom than usua , so much so, that gardeners speak of depending chiefly on ornamental-Ioliaged plants. We can give no other advice as respects the Pelargoniums than to hmit crowth, if by nothing else than rcmoviug a number of the larger leaves. We have done so, and the effect in relieving and giving more strength to the flower-buds has been good. In most cases of Mrs. Pollock returning to the green state, it may be easily traced to rich nourishment and ex- cess of moisture. We would cut off every greeu part as it appeared, and this ^vill lessen growth and throw more strength into the coloured part. Wo have only seen one plant as yet throwing up a green zonal leal and the shoot was removed at once. If the plant came all that way there would be little chance of the tricolor marking returning. Vines in a Greenhouse {Rector. Kcnt).—\Se presume that the Vinos in your greenhouse are intended to interfere as little as possible with the plants, and that therefore the temperature wiU not often be more than that required for the greenhouse. In that cise we would advise your planting the Black Humburfh and the Koyal Muscadine in pre-ference to the Chasselas Musqu,- ; but it the plant of the latter is a favounte transfer it to a large pot, and keep it in the house, and you may expect it to bear i the second season. If resolved to add the two % lues the sooner they are planted the better, as they would make fresh roots before ""^'er. If the tour-feet border is verv full of roots it would be as well to defer planting until the fruit was cut. but plant a- early in autumn as that was done. The best way of planting would be to take out a space a yard wide as far from the present plants as possible ff l?«,1""!.^n,h t 2 feet wi?h established plants, and fill the space, at least to the depth of 2 feet, with fresh soil, and in that pack the roots of the new Vines, from b to 9 mches from the surface, and protect from frost and heavT rains during the winter. We are presuming that you alio* the four- eet border to remam as it is. Such a border for so narrow a house w.U grow good Grapes, provided you ent ce the roots near the surface with rich dressmgs every ?ear or even mulchings all the summer. Such a border even now would be the better of a hundred weight of s operpho>.phate of lime, to be follow^ with some good dung; and as the border though deep, is weU drained, we would be disposed to try such a mode tor a f a^"",'"^,'"''- "• ^O" ever, you are sure that the bulk of the roots are 3 or 4 feet deep, and re- solve on raising the roots and increasing the border to at le; st double its width, Then we would defer planting until ''"'"""•, --^'^tn h/» fromThe fully, plant in fre.h material not more than from 6 to 9 inches from the surface, and mulch and protect in winter. MUSHROOMS IN A CELLAR ;£.iJ.).-We 'r""!* Dot wish to have a pi^a more suitable for the purpose than your cellar, .^-'.-der ordinary OTCum^ stances six weeks after spawning is lime enough for the Muf^""^ {» show. We have known them do so in halt that time as yours seem to have done, at least in four weeks; ^-f t''" ^^''^'^''^'y """Ji"° '"^^ so long when they are pushed on so fast at first— in fact, the spavm iff made to push through the soU at once, instead ■" '»>"" f » 8°od ho^^b, running through the bed. Your having in six weeks eight or ten Mnsn- ™oms ^the size of a five-shiUing piece, shows 'here ■» nothing m^h wrong. That the others do not grow on may, as you mler, be tromOiy. ness.^and more especially as in 'he^xijoining cellar with an "Pen door- wav between there is a fire kept burning. This fire would De ol greai r^sislanceta th" winter months, but we would rather be w-">og Pelargoniums [E. B. H.).— The best way is to dry them be- tween blotting paper. Do not press them too heavily, and change them frequently. Elton Strawberry {An Old Subscriber, Dublin) — Strawberries suffer very much from pacldng and carriage. Those received were in a state of decomposition, but are certainly not the Elton. It is conical not round, and is briskly acid ; leafstalks hairy, leaflets roundish, and concave. Wedding Bouquets (M. L. D.).— These are frequently made of an enormous size, but we would not have them more than 8 inches in diameter, and if we consulted merely our own taste we should prefer them 6 inches across. In the bride's bouquet there should be little bnt white flowers, but n few Forget-me-nots or Lobelias may be introduced with advantage. White should also prevail in the bridesmaids' bouquets, but flowers of other cnlours may be more freely employed. By all means introduce sprays of Adiantums or other Ferns. Yellow-leaved PELARGONitM (W. H. B.. Beckcnham). — You should submit your variety to the Floral Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society. If you mean the article which appeared in page 38, you will, on again referring to it, find that flowers, not leaves, were spoken of. Name of Insect (17. Y- M). — Your insect is the Sirex gigas (female) the larva of which does considerable damage to Larches by boring ronnd holes in the wood. The long tail-like appendage is used not as a sting, but for boring into the wood in order to deposit the eggs. — W. Names of Plants (Verifos).— Trifolium procumbens. (TV. T. S.). — Chlora perfoliata. (James). — 1, Pimelea glauca; 3, Erica jasminiflora; 4, Erica aristata ; 5. Erica Aitonia ; 6, Erica costata, var. ( Tweedside).- — Linaria vulgaris {H. M.). — Cassia occidentalis. (J. Boyd).— The Fern being without fructification cannot be determined. {A Constant Header). — 1, Phalaris arundinacea colorata ; 2, Vcrbascum thapsus : 3, Aspleninm laserpitiifolium ; 4, Abutilon striatum; 5, Hypericum cnlycinum. (P.O.)- — 1, Pteris scaberulii ; 2, Asplenium cicutarium. {W. Hallett). — Ferns: 1, Polypodium pustulatum ; 2, Adiantum capillus- Veneris; 3, Blechnum occidcntale ; 4, Cystopteris fragilis ; 5, Polystichum augulare. Selagi- nellas : 1, Selaginella cuesia ; 2, S. Kiaussiana ; 3, S. pubescens ; 4 and S» 5. Martensii ; 6, S. cuspidata. METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS in the Suburbs of London for the Week ending August 6th. Wed. . Thnts. Fri. .. Sat. .. Son... Mon... TneB. . Mean BASOU£TEB. THBRJIOMP.TEH ■WlDd. Rain In inohes. Air. Earth. Max. Min. Mai. Hin. 1 n. dp. 2 ft. dp. 29.973 29.945 72 43 61 69 N.E. .00 29.982 29.934 62 49 62 60 N.E. .00 29 992 29.962 57 86 62 60 N.E. .00 86 020 30.019 73 48 60 69 N. .00 29.992 29.936 76 45 61 58 S.W. .00 29.995 29.897 78 41 62 69 8.W. .83 29.936 29.717 66 44 61 60 S. .89 29.984 29.915 68.43 43.71 61.28 69.26 .. 1 0.71 GSNEBAL EkUARES. Fine, slight haze ; fine throughout. Dry wind ; overcast and cold; overcast at night. Overcast; cold; very fine at night. Overcast ; fine ; cloudy and warm. Very fine; fine; cloudy; fine. Very fine ; fine ; densely overcast; rain. Rain ; constant rain; fine. POULTRY, BEE, and HOUSEHOLD CHRONICLE POULTRY PRODUCE. I SEND yon my poultry account for the present year from January to Juue. I keep my fowls in two small pens, and let them out on a grass plot for about an hour every day. 1 have at present twenty-two hens and two cocks ; of the latter one is Spanish and the other a Golden-spansled Hamburgh. The hens are— Spanish, 7 ; Golileu-spangled Hamburghs, 3 ; Game, 1 ; Cochin-China, 1 ; Cross-bred, 10. Three of tho Spanish liens I obtained in July and one in Juue. I sold three White Coohin-Cliina hens on April 6th. The monthly production of eggs was : — Egos. January 76 May February 133 June March 238 April 210 189 167 Total lOOS £ s. d. Receipts 4 4 4 Expenses 8 1 6 -COCKEEEL. Proflt j£l 2 10 Ii'SwicH PouLTBT Show. — This is entitled to the special sup- port of all poultry exhibitors. The prize list is very liberal ^ there are eight silver cups. The Great Eastern Eailway rnXi Angoat 8, 1867. ] JOURNAL OF nOETICULTURB AND COTTAGK OABDENEB. 107 oonvej' back free from charge all specimens if remaining the property of the exhibitor. Other railway companies will, if requested, convey the specimens at parcel rate, if not over live hondrod miles ; and the pens, called " Ipswich Improved," arc BO oxcoUeut that the Kujal Agricultural Society hired them for their recent Exhibition at Bury St. Edmunds. DEWSBURY POULTRY SHOW. TiTE Committeo of the DowHbury Poultry Kxhibition deserve tho highest praine for tho excellcuee of their arrungomrnts and tho zuauuor m whirh they have euduavourod to meot tho wishes of both oxhibitora aud visitors. At tho Show ou tho "Jud inst. tho poultry poUH wt.ro urraDi^ed without excepliou iu a siuf^lo tier, under tho pro- toctiou of a tout. 7S vards louf? by nearly 'lU yards in width. Thia acconiniodution afforded every desirable couveiiienco for both tho birdH thomsolvoa aud a lar^e and fashionable company, tho weather proviiif^' uf a most favourablo charaetor. Although as a natural consequence of the moulting seaaon, thero were many birds in deep zuoult, tho generality proved iu far better foather than most per- flons would have uutieipated. We regretted to see a ftiw pons sent soileriiig severely from roup, but very i)roperly they were instantly romovod by order of tho Managers of the Show. It is au absolute injustice to owners of birds in perfect health for any exhibitor to knowingly forward to au cxhibitiou poultry in such a condition, for however much this matter may iu tinu-s back have been duuieJ, thoro cannot in the present day bo a dnubt that roup is by far tho most contagious disease with whirh poultry can be uft'ecteJ. Thia com- plaint, too, is usually so ajiparent, that owners can scarcely fail to be aware of it on even a very cursory inspection, nor aio they justified, in carelessly spreading so serious an infection, even under tho plea of hoping to win a prize, or having such fowls *' claimed' by tho un- initiated. Tho Cochivs were mostly good, and many of the chickens were especially promising. The Spanish fowls were not less praiseworthy, but several pens had been by fur too frequently exhibited ; in fact, had, been "liiggled" from show to show until they appeared to lack con- stitution altogether. This is mistaken policy, as invariably they are thus also materially injured for tho lollowijig breeding season. The Grey lioi-kiwj chickens wore mostly oxcelieut ; tho adult class was, however, a failure. The best pen in this class (admitted to be most «icelleut), was thrown out completely by misadventure. Tho cock, though perfectly well it is said when packed, was so paralysed as not to be able to stand for more than a few seconds at a time, and shook like % person affected, with a severe ague. It might possibly have arisen from fright or excitement ou tho railway, but althougii this class waa left by the Arbitrator till all tho other prizes were awarded, not the slightest improvement was apparent. \Ve would advi.qo perfect quiet ou a retired grass rnu, away from all other fowls as the only probable restorative, and as the bird is evidently of great value, it is worth the trial. Tho Uamr fowls were excellent, but many were out of feather. Poliinifs likewise were most excellent, the Blacks being unexception- able. In I/amlnirt/hs, a pen of Black chickens was well wortliy of especial mention. Both Bhick and White Bantmiui were well shown, aud a few pens of very good Game Bantams were iu competition. Tho J'ii/cv/ui were so unusually good, throughout as to cause much interest ; in fact, many birds were brought by their owners from even beyond Ijoudou, aud, as a result, a largo amount of " betting" iu con- aidorablo sums prevailed. Mueli as wo admire tho strongest feeliugs of emulation among exhibitors, our opinion is adverse to betting, as -tho invariable result is a keener disappointment to the unsuccessful, combined with exultation on the part of winners that provokes a sever- ance of social regard. For these aud other cogent reasons it is best altogether avoided. CocuiN-CiuNA.— First, C. W. Briorley, Middleton. Second, H. Bcldon, Goitstoek. Commended, C. Sidgwiek, Keiphley ; W. A. Taylor, Man- chester. C7iic^-i'n.^.— First, W. A. Taylor. Second, C. Sidgwiek. Hij;Uly Commended. H. Beldon ; H. W. lllingworth, Idlo, Leeds, Commended, MiHK Kitson, Milnthorpo, WaketieUl. Si'ANisH. — First, Messrs. Hurch & Boulter, Shcflield. Second, J. Thresli, Bradfoid. C/iicfc^Ha.— birst, M. I-urraud, UaUou. Second, H. Beldou. Commended, Messrs. Burch & Boulter. I>onKiNti.s.— C^nVA-CH*.— First, E. Lcccb, Boehdalo. Second, J. Stott, Healey, kochdale. Commended, H. Beldou ; H. Pickles, juu., Skipton. Bkaiima rooTUAS.— First, H. Lacy, Hehden Bridge Second, H. Kcldon. Commended, E. Leech. C'ltrfrctur. — First, H. Lacy. Second, 11. Beldon. Highly Commended, M. r^cott. Idle, Leeds. Uam£ (black Kedt.— First, C. W. Briorley. Second, J. D. N'ewsome. Batley. C/acfcrnA. — First, J. Fell, AdwuUou. Second, J. Firth, Hahf ax, IltKhly Commended, J. I>. Newsoiue, Batley. Gamk (llrown Hod i. -First, C. W. Brierloy. Second, R. Pashloy, Worksop Highly C'ommended, W. 1\L Marriott, Dewsbury. Chtckrw. — First, W. M. Marriott. Second, V. Suddick, Bradford. (lA.'kiE (Duckwings, and other Greys aud Blues). — First, W. Fell. Se- cond, J. D. Newsume. Commended, T. Dyson, Halifax. Chickens. — First, J. Fell. Second, R. Pashley. Commended, \V. Fell. Gamk (Any other variety I. — First, C. W. liricrley. Second, T. Hartley, Gomersai. Commended, H. C. Mason, DrighUugiou. Chickens. — Prize, W. Wiilker. Uamiu'rghs (Gold or Silvcr-spanplodK — First, H. Bcldon. Second, T. C. & K. Newbitt, Kpworth. Highly Commended, U. Beldon; J. White; Netherton, Wakefield. Commended, U. Pickles, juu. CliicKen^.^¥iTBtt fl. Pickles, jun. Second, U. Beldon. CommondeU, T. Nichols, Wortley. HAununuus (Gold or Sllver-peuoillod).— First and Second, H. Beldon. Commended, H. Pickles, juu. C'/ucilreTu.— First, U. Boldou. Seoood, H. Pjcklus, jun. HAMaijituii8(BInck).— First, H. Bcldon. Second, C. Sidgwiek. ChiekenM, —Prize, C. Sidgwiek. PoLA>Ds (Gold or Silvor-Bpangled).— First and Second. H. Beldon. ChiekeriM -Urst, H. Beldou. Second, Miss E. Proctor, Hull. PoLASDH (Any other varietyt.— Prize, H. Beldon (White-crested BlackJ Bantams (Bliick). — First, Miss G. Itidgway. Dewsbury. Second, T. Burgess, Brighou.iO. Commended, S. S. Moesop, Long Sutton; W, A. Taylor, .Mancliesier ; J. it. Jossop, Hull. Bantams (White) —First, J. K. Jessop. Second, W. A. Tnylor. Gamu Bantams.— First, G. R. Davis, Knutstord. Second, J. D. New- some. Highly Commended, T. Dyson, Halifax ; W. ¥. Entwisle, Leeds. Anv BuKun NOT Mkntionf.d in tiik amove Classes. — First, T. Borgess. Second, Coi Stuart Wortley, Loudon iCreve Cceurs). Highly Commended, Col. Stuart Wortley (La FUche). Commended, It. Pashley (Lii Fl--che). Gamk i.Vny variety .—Cocfc.— First, C. W. Brierley. Second, J. Hudg* son. Commended. Bev. A. G. Brooke, Kuytou XI. Towns. ii;;c7M.— First, H. Pickles, jun. Second, T. Blakeman, TettenhaU, Wolverhampton. Highly Commended, R. Jacobs, Humberstone. Hajiburghs 'Silver-spangled), — First, H. Pickles. Second, A. Houghton, Asfordby. Chirkem^. —Frize, H. Pickles. Bantams (Gold-laced).— Prize, H. Draycott, Humberstone. Bantams (Clean-legged).— First, H. Draycott. Second, H. E. Emberlin. Bantams (Black clean-legged). — First and Second, H Draycott. Game Bantams (Black-breasted and other Reds).— First, W. J. Mellor. Second and Commended. H. Warner. Ducks (Avlesburv).— -Prize. H. E. Emberlin. Ducks (Rouen).— First. J. Wright, Sysonby. Second, W. T. Everard. Turkeys.— First and Second, J. Johnson, Braunstone. Sweepstake for the Best Game Cock.— Prize, W. T. Everard. PIGEONS. Carriers.— First. F. F. Foster. Second, G. Sturgess, Leicester. TuRBiTS. -First. G. Sturgess. Second, F. F. Foster. Commended, H. Headley. Birmingham ; H. Draycott. Pouters.— First, F. F. Foster. Second, H. Draycott. Highly Com- mended, F. F. Foster. Runts.- First, H. Headley, Bu-mingham. Second, F. F. Foster. Highly Commended, G. Sturgess. Jacobins.- First, G. Sturgess. Second, H. Headley. Commended. G. Sturgess. Fantails.— First, H. Draycott. Second, F. F. Foster. Highly Com- mended. F. F. Foster; H. E. Eraberlin. Magpies.— First H. Draycott. Second, H. Headley. Commended, H. Draycott. Any other Variety.- First. F. F. Foster (Fairies^. Second. H. Dray- cott (Black Swallows). Highly Commended, G. Sturgess (Ratinettee, Blue Carriers) ; J. J. Sharpe. Kettering (Red Short-faced Mottles.) Rabbits.— HeavicKt ircip/if.—First and Second, H. Draycott. Greatest Length of Ears. — First and Second, H. Draycott. The Judge was Edward Hewitt, Esq., of Eden Cottage, Sparhbroob, Birmingham. CLEVELAND POULTRY SHOW. The Poultry Show in connection with the Cleveland A;zricultural Society was held at Kedcar on the Ist inst. In some departments the Society's Show was not equal to those of past years. The exhibition of poultry, however, gave no token of decay ; the entries m most of the classes were numerous, the quality of the birds generally good, and next to the " jnm])ing" performances of the hunters, which is always themoet popular exhibition on these occasions, the ponltry attracted by far the greatest crowd. For their accommodation a large marquee had been erected, the pens were conveniently arranged round the sides and down the centre, carefully protected from contingent showers or the scorching rays of the son. In this respect the arrangements at Redcar presented a favourable contrast to those of the late show at Stockton- on-Tees and of Driffield, mentioned in the " Journal " of last week. Surely it would he well if the parties who have the management of those Societies would pay a little more attention to this matter, for it can scarcely be expected that the owners of valuable poultry will send their birds to shows where they will be exposed to whatever kind of weather this changeful climate of ours may have in store. Sjianish stood at the head of the schedule, but these aristocrats of the poultry -yard did not. on this occasion, sustain their prestige : there were only two pens, and these were not of great merit. Dorliiifjs came next, and were also deficient both in quantity and quality ; indeed, Spanish and DorkingH were the weak point of the Show. Cochins were very good, especially the White and Partridge. There were three pens of adult JiraJnnns of fair average quality, although some of the birds were suffering from moult ; also a pen of Brahma chickens in which the cockerel had enormous vulture hocks, and one of the pullets had clean legs. In Game there was great competition, and some very good black- breasted birds : in this class there were not less than ten entries. Bam' Aneut 8, 1867. 1 JOUUNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB. 109 burghs also were in preat force aa to nnmbers, bnt there were not many really good birds amonght them, and white deaf ears were coniipicaous by their absence. In the Any other variety class there wore Houdans, Polish {(loldi-u and Silver-spanglfd, and White-crested Black), Cri-ve Ceenrs, and Cuckoo Dorkings. The Uoadans which obtained the lirst prize had certainly the recommendation of size, otherwise they were sot particularly pood, the Crcve Cojars were very Une birds. Docks were not quite tirst-class. Oeene, however, were very good, as also were the Tarkuys. Spinish.— First, 0. A. Young, DrifBeld. Second, O. & II. Vontress, Danby. DoBKlNOB.— First, J. White, Wnrlaby, Northallerton.! Second, T. C. Taylor, MiddlesborouRb. CocHlN'CiilNA (Buff or Cinnamon).— First, O. A. Young. Second, Rev. J. G. Miltier, Bellorby, near Leyburn. Cochin-China (White).— First, G. Calvert, Darlington. Second, R. Eaaby, Ormesby, Middlesborour^'b. Cochin-China (Partridge or Grouse!.— Prize, G. Calvert. Bkahua Pootha (Any colour). — First, F. Powell, Knare-iborougb. Se- cond, T. C Tsylor. Commended, J. H. Bennett, Hedcrir. Game (Blnck'-breasterl or other Reds). — First, W. Gatenby, Hemlintrton, Stockton. Second, P. Sturdy, Carlton, N'ortballertou. Commended, O. A. Young. Game. — roc*:.— First, W. Bearpsrk, Ainderby Steeple, Northallerton. Second, -T. Kicbiirdsou, Middlesborongb. Gauk Bantaus.— First, J. Gnmdon, Kedcar. Second, F. Powell. BAUBuauns (Ooldeu-pencilled). — First, G. & H. Veutress. Second, W. Bearpnrk. HAUBunoHS (•^ilver-pencilled). — First, Rev. J. G. Mihier. Second, G. Craggs, Great Ayton. HAUBUhuus (Golden-spangled). — First, O. A. Y'oung. Second, G. & H. Ventress. Haudurohs (Silver-spangled).- First, O. A. Young. Second, R, Jack- son. Any Vauietv not Named above — First, Rev. J. G. Milner. Second, G. Wren (Binck Poland). Commended, a. & H. Ventress (White-crested Black Polish.) Ducks i Aylesbury). — First, Miss Smith. Second, O. A. Y'oung. Docks (Rouen).— Second, O. A. Vouug. Any Vakietv not Named above. — Prize, Rev. J. G. Milner. Gkkrk. — Qoallnifa. — First and Second, Mrs. ButTham, liedcar. Com- mended, O. A. Young. Geese.— Go«liTi(;j». — First, Mrs. RulTham. Second, O. A. Yount?. ToBKEYs —First, Mrs. BuflThsm. Second, C. Trotter, jun., Stockton. PcntlU. — >irst. J. Storry. Second, O. A. Young. Rahhits (Any colour). — First, O. A. Young. Second, J Richardson, Middlesbnrougb. Fancy Breed. — Prize, W. Bainbridge, Newport, Middles- boroufr-h iHimalsya). Extra I'oultrv.— Commended, T.Long, Guiaborough (Fancy Pigeons) .1. Richardson (Rabbits.) The .lodges were Mr. Churlea Dearlove, Bedale, and Mr. Samuel Bum, of Whitby. SHEFFIELD EABBIT AND CANAEY SHOW. Tins was held en July '2'2vi and 23rd, at the Inkerman Tavern Alma Street, Sheffield. Some of the best specimens of long-eared Habbits ever exhibited were shown. The exhibition of dviaries was Tcry good for the season. The Buff Belgian class was very well repre- sented, and the other classes were of rather an inferior qnalitv. The Exhibition was numerously attended, and gave the greatest satisfaction. T^e following prizi s were awarded :— RABBITS. Length oe Ears.- First, J. Taylor. Buck, ago five months and fourteen days, ears 3; J tnches long, 5^ inches w-de. Second, J. Maugham, Doe, age four mentbs and eight diiys, ears 21 J inches long, .'ii inches wide. CoLot'u— Prize, W. WingHeid. Black and white Buck, -' long, 5 inches wide. , ears 20| inches Yellow and White. — First, J. Mangham. Ears 20J inches long, 5^ inches wide. Second, . I. Leigh. Ears ISJ inches long, 43 inches wide. Grey, White.— First, W. Wt. glleld. Ears 2n} inches long, 5 inches wide. Second, W. Tl.oy. Ears lyj inches long, 42 inches wide. ToKTOlSEsBlLL.- First, J. Leigh. Ears 20J inches long, 4J inches wide. St-rend. J. Hewitt. Ears 17| inches lunp, 4^ inches wide. Sele.— Rrst, J. Tsylor. Y'ellow Doe, ears 21 J inches long, 6J inches wide. Sicond, J. Hewitt. Grey Doe, ears 17 long. 4J inches wide. WEIOHT.-First and Second, J. Owen. Black Doe, 13 lbs. U ozs. Black and white Buck, 12 lbs. 13 ozs. CANARIES. Yellow Beloians— Prize, J. Thomas. BOFF Beloians.- First, O. Alton. Second, J. Alton. Third, R. Cross- land. Fourth, J. Leigh. Fifth, J. Upton. Vakif.oated.— First, J. Thomas. Second, J. Alton. Norwich. — First and Second, J. Thomas. LiZfliiDs — First and Second, J. Alton. Third, M. Oxley, .loNQl'ES. — Prize, C. Brown. Mule —Prize, J. Leigh. Manchester and Livekpool Centenary Exhibition. — A Committee meetiug of the Manchester and Liverpool Agricul- tural Society, was held July 2'2iid, at which special prizes were direoteci to be awarded for Spangled Hamburghs, which had been omitted from the schedule uf prizes. This decision was directed to be advertised, and the time for these entries was extended to the 5 th of August. This, perhaps, will satisfy " Y. B. A. Z."— Cockerel. SAWDUST AS AN ABSORBENT AND MANURE. One would imagine the farmers in " II. N.'s " neighbourhood (see page G3j, to be a remnant of those gentlemen of ante- diluvian notions who, unfortunately for themselves and in many cases for others, will look with a supercilious eye on all modern improvements, and are continually referring to and mourning after the customs and practices of the " good old days." New styles of agricultural machinery, or systems of farming at variance with their own, meet with their most de- cided disapproval ; and if a man's success depends upon the opinions of his neighbours, there is little chance for him who, in opposition to all those fixed notions, will commence and carry out his own ideas with all the improvements of the present age rather than follow the rules laid down by his forefathers, aud to depart from which would be to such persons beyond the bounds of possibility. If the opinions aud prophecies pro- pounded hy these worthy gentlemen come but a quarter true ruin is near at hand, and the downfall of our enterprising young farmer will be a warning to all who !i i// try " now schemes," and only what could be expected of a man who thinks he knows better than his elders, and wiU not walk in the way his fathers trod. But these things cannot always be talked down. The un- timely end so enthusiastically predicted is still a vision of the future, but every day becoming leas distinct. The crops which under the improved systems of manuring, tilling, sowing, weeding, reaping, etc., are yielding three or sixfold the former produce of the ground, are being gathered in in prime condition in half the time and with half the labom-; and, as "nothing succeeds like success," we may hope next season to see many converts who will be as much for as they were against the improved systems aud appliances of the present day. With one exception, my fowl-houses have for flooring ground simply taken from the garden after a few days of dry weather, turned over once a-week, and renewed with fresh earth to the depth of 18 inches twice or thrice a-year ; this buries all animal matter, keeps the place sweet and clean, and is a valuable source of enjoyment and exercise to birds in a confined state. As a stimulus to their exertions I give them earth over which I have thrown quicklime before spring- planting ; this is slacked hy dew and rain, and after being well incorporated with the earth, is of inestimable value to the fowl-houses, the birds never tiring of scritching and pecking for the shell-forming material. I am, through this plan, never annoyed with soft- shelled eggs, nor the untidiness of oyster shells or lumps of old mortar about the yard. The house which is not after this plan is an outhouse with brick flooring. My first winter of poultry-keeping I had great difficulty in keeping this place dry, losing two or three birds in the season ; but by spreading sawdust to the depth of a couple of inches all moisture is absorbed, and the fowls kept warm and clean. As soon as it becomes damp, which is, of course, dependent on the state of the weather and the number of fowls, it is collected and spread amongst jjlants of the cab- bage tribe, and forthwith they expand and brighten up con- siderably, and I do not think my garden is infested with wire- worms to a greater extent than it would he with other kinds o{ manure. An amateur farmer in the neighbourhood keeps his pigs literally rolling in sawdust. They are as clean as any lady's lapdog, always in splendid condition, and always fit to be seen without holding a perfumed handkerchief to the nose. He finds the manure exceedingly valuable for heavy lands, the sawdust rendering the earth porous and light. Many of the stables in the island are also kept supplied with this material in preference to straw. — A. Le Chbminant, Foulon Yale, Guernsey. SWARM DESERTING ITS HIVE. Allow me to ask your opinion on the following occurrence : — On the 21st of July I took and secured a fine swarm of bees, placed them under a straw hive, and they kept there apparently all right till the 2'Jth, just eight days, and then quitted the hive and disappeared altogether ; but during their stay in the hive they formed about 6 inches by 4 of a comb very perfectly. Having kept bees for some years a similar circumstance hai not before occurred to me. Account fi)r it I cannot, and there- fore I ask you to enlighten me. — J. Ssiiin, Begbrooh House, Frencluiy, near Bristol. [You do not say if it were a first or a second svarm wluch 110 JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ Augnst 8, 1887. deserted its hive after abiding there eight days. If it were the latter it must have had a young queen, and even first swarms are sometimes headed by juvenile princesses. We believe, therefore, that such was the case in this instance, and that the queen perished by some accident during, or more probably by mistaking her hive on her return from, one of her wedding flights, and that this caused the bees to desert the habitation in which they had no longer anv chance of establishing them- selves as a permanent colony. If your hives are near together this occurrence would seem to indicate that they should be more widely separated. ] MILK-COOLER AND BUTTER-PRESERVER. An ordinary refrigerator takes up room, is costly, and should be kept in a cool place. It is evident that one which occupies less space and can be placed in the dining room or in a pantry, wonld save many steps and much work. The engraving is a section of a water-cooler and a refrige- rator which is ornamental in its exterior and perfect in its operation. Externally it re- sembles the ordinary water- cooler, being made in a cylin- drical form, of tin or galvanised iron, and of any required size, from that of a water-cooler to a capacity sufficient for the wants of an hotel. Between the outer case and the inner is interposed some non-conduct- ing material, which will keep the coolness in and the warmth out. In the centre is a cylinder (a) for the reception of the ice. ;3 This has a lid separate from Ip^'SKS' that of the refrigerator, and — Sti^, near the bottom has a filter near the bottom has a filter " under which is a water recep- tacle (6) for holding the product of the melted ice, which can be drawn off pure ice water by the lower cock, for drinking purposes. Surrounding the central ice-chamber are movable cans (c c) for milk, and receptacles (dd} for butter, meats, &c. Itisam»Z(«m in paryo, convenient, useful and beautiful. It is the subject of three patents, and for further information, address John R. Elder, Indianapolis, Indiana. The advantages of this milk and butter preserver and water- eooler are such as to commend it to all housekeepers and dairy- men,— [American Journal.) QUEENS OF THE CURRENT YEAR LEADING OFF SWARMS. BEES APPROPRIATING IMPRESSED WAX. At one of the meetings of the German bee-keepers at Pots- dam, as related in your Journal of May, 14th, 1863, Baron von Berlepsch states that he had never known a queen of the cur- rent year to lead off a swarm (I presume a prime swarm), I think the following may disprove the above : — On July 11th I noticed in one hive a bee commotion, both at the entrance and in the super. At night all seemed quiet, and the following miuning work was resumed, and no dead queen was found thrown out, though looked for. On the 25th of July, fourteen ilays after, a swarm issued (a dead queen, full size, being thrown out of the stock in the afternoon) ; the bees hegan to work at the sides of the hive, and carried in no pollen. On the 28th, I saw a queen issue forth, but she returned in a minute statu quo. On the 29th I was absent, but fancy she must have had a successful flight, for the bees were carrying in poUen on the 30lh. Looking to the fact of the bee commo- tion, and of the issue of a swarm fourteen days afterwards, I think I may safely exclude a lost swarm. Have any of your readers found the bees to appropriate the impressed strips of wax instead of converting them ? I have noticed two such cases this year, doubtless owing to the bad honey season. In one case all the strips seemed quickly to disappear, but smiill pieces of comb only being formed ; in the other I have watched the bees gradually nibbling thj strips away, the bees hanging from the strips towards the main body of workers ; of course I cannot state that the wax is not thrown out, but I hardly believe this to be the case. I quite agree with the'statement of "An Isle ofWioht Bib- ' KEEPER " that the honeydew is the main source of the honey- harvest. — J. C. [We have ourselves witnessed a similar instance in which the old queen was sacrificed, and the first or prime swarm was therefore led off by a young one. Although not usual, we are inclined to fancy that this exchange of queens takes place more often than is generally supposed, and can therefore scarcely believe that no case of the kind had ever come under the ob- servation of the great German " bee-father." We have little doubt, however, that what the Baron really meant was that he had never known a queen of the current year send off what is usually known as a "maiden" swarm. Such an instance, however, did occur in our own neighbourhood a few years back, and was related to us by the bee-keeper, who declared (and in this we most implicitly believed him), that he had never before had a " maiden " swarm from a second, or, as he called it, a " pin " swarm. We have often found strips of impressed wax either wholly or partially gnawed off by the bees, instead of being converted into comb.] OUR LETTER BOX. Bttry PotTLTRV Show. — The Buff Gochin-Chinas of Mr. H. P. Leech, of Wooliiit, near Bury, were highly commended at this Show, though hlB name did not appear in our prize list. HouDAN AND Ckkve Ccecr Fowls (Ladii-harn). — Our advertising columns will give yon the addresses of numerous good amateurs who have surplus stock of the kinds you inquire about, but we do not know any of the French dealers. Fowls Dying Suddenly (Weston). — We are at a loss to account for the mortality, unless the Ducks and hens are too fat and die in conse- queuce of being egg-bound. All the non-sitters are subject to sudden death and divers diseases consequent on the production of thf^ many eggs they lay, but such cases are by no means general, and besides, the Ducks would not be similarly vi.sited. Feed them moderately. Use whole corn, and ground oats slaked witli water. Avoid stimulants, and give them lettuces that have run to seed, or at least to stalk. Ducks and fowls should never roost together. Examine the next that dies. We believe you will find that egga have been crushed in the passage. The hen has strained to her utmost, but internal fat has rendered laying im- possible. Keeping Pottltrv Profitably {Rustic). — We believe the greatest profit is to be made from eggs, especially in the neighbourhood of large towns, where they sell well during the winter. It is now so well known which are the most prolific breeds, and also the ages at which pullets begin to lay, that the production of eggs by healthy, and well and judiciously-fed birds can be made a cei-tainty. It will then only remain for you to insure a sale to make the profit yon have read of. You will, however, need a proper locality, a good run, a dry light soil, and if possible the facilities for growing the food necessary for them. You are one of a very nume- rous clnss asking for poultry informatiiu in regard to the remuneration to be derived from it. It is like everything else. If you were to start by puttingdown on paper all the possible expenses attending such a ventnre you would never undertake it, but if you are careful and can give personal superintendence, we have no doubt you can make it pay. Pigeons Cankered tW. B.). — Mr-. Brent, our best writer on Pigeons speaks of this disease in full in the following words : — " The only disenso that has troubled me to any extent has been canker — a cheesy-looking lump or lumps of pus, of very disgusting odour, which forms in or about the mouth, and which I consider highly contagious. I have sometimes bought a bird with it; at other times it has appeared without any appa- rent cause. I beUeve it arises, in the first ease, from a bad state of the blood, and bre.lk3 out in any part wounded by fighting, or otherwise. It is also said to arise from their drinking frr.m a tin vessel, or from dirty water. It is very fatal to young birds. When old birds are attacked, I remove the matter with a tliin piece of wood, cut like a little soatula, and rub the place thoroughly with caustic. This must be done eflectunlly at once, or it will only form again, spread more, and become more difficult to eradicate. I believe confinement and want of condiments to be a com- mon cause of this disease." Inccbator — StJPERS (Inquirer). — We know nothing about the incubator you mention, and the book is no authority. Wood or straw supers are better than those of glass in many respects ; but they cannot be produced on table like those of glass. Rabbits. — " It seems to me that in breeding long-eared Rabbits, so great a length of ear as 21 or 22 inches, is not very easily obtained. I have purchased first-class Rabbits of several strains, and bred young ones, and yet cannot obtain such great ieugths as those spoken of in the " Rabbit Book" published by you. I should be glad of a little information respecting tliem. Permit me to ask a few questions. If a Rabbit will not grow after five months old, what length ou^ht a Rabbit to be at three months old? and at what rate ought it to grow each week up to five months to have ears 21 or 22 inches long?— W. R." [We shall be obliged by some of oiu' readers sending us information in reply to these queries.! POULTRY MARKET.— Adgust 7. B d. 8. d Large Fowls 2 6 to 8 0 Smaller do 1 9 2 0 Chickens 1 6 1 9 Geese 4 6 5 G Ducklings 2 0 2 8 Pigeona ,,. 0 8 0 9 d B. d 0 too 0 0 0 0 Pheasants 0 Partridges 0 Grouse 0 0 0 0 Guinea Fowls 0 0 0 0 Rabbits 14 16 Wiiddo OB 0 9 AugUbt 15, 18l57. J JOUBNAL OF HOBTIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEK. Ill WEEKLY CALENDAR. Dny Day of O! Honlh Week. 15 Tn 11°. K 17 S IH scs IH M •11) To ■n W AUGUST 15-21. 1807. Tlkoston and Shipley Horticultural Show. Newport UorticuUurnl Sliow. 9 Sunday aftgh Thinitv. Iiind (icuernl Mcotinps. Uoyal nnrticultunil Snciot v, Fruit, Floral , Tiiinworth Horticultural Show. AveraKc Temperature Ka)D in last 10 years. Sm San Moon Dear Looilon. Risea. Seta. Ri3C8. Day. Nwht. Mean. Days. m. h. m. h. IB. h. 73.U 601) 61.5 10 46«f4 21 an 18af7 73.2 51.2 62.2 19 48 4 20 7 45 7 78.0 50.1 61.5 22 49 4 18 7 10 8 7a.2 50.8 62.0 15 51 4 Ifi 7 35 8 7S.0 ni.i 62.0 18 53 4 14 7 1 9 72.6 50.5 61.5 19 54 4 12 7 29 9 72.4 4D.-1 60 9 11 OS 4 10 7 1 10 Moon Sets. h. 4ta( 4 45 5 51 59 8 17 10 3S 11 Moon'fl Age. DavB, o 16 17 18 in 20 21 Clock Day before of San. I Year. 4 30 4 8 8 56 8 43 8 30 227 228 229 2.30 231 2fl2 23S Prom obeervatfons taken near London durint; the last forty years, the average day temporatnre of the week is 72.9^ ; and its niRhi temperature 50.4°. The greatest heat was 93", on the 18th, 1842 ; and the lowest cold 32^ on the 2lBt, 1850. The greatest (all of ndn was 1.12 inch. swi:et-scf,xtrd fi.gwkrs. HAT the attempts which were made at some of the recent shows to popularise tliese, by ofTcring special prizes for them as a class, should have been attended by such a small amount of success is not much to bo wondered at ; for the passion for flowers capable of atfractin^ and pleasing the eye has of late years ridden roughshod over all the claims of the minor sense, casting into the sliade and nearly dri%-iiig out of cultivation many iine old plants which, unfortunately for them, have little else thnn (heir fragrance to recommend them. I5ut there are still many left, especially ladies, who have not yet bent the knee to the idol of sliow, and who still Imld the somewhat anti- quated opinion that a flower garden destitute- of fragrance is not a flower garden at all ; and it is very amusing to see how some people, not intimately aciiuainted with flowers, instinctively poke their noses into every flower tliey meet, taking it for granted that cverj- one should have a scent, and that those which have not arc undeserving of the name. There is, however, no necessit}' for the two classes — scented and scentless— coming into collision, as the require- ments of both can easily be satisfied without injury to either. As a rule, though subject to many exceptions, our sweetest plants and flowers are tlie least showy ; their mission, tlien, in the flower garden evidently is to " blush unseen," to rusticatei n any ont-of-the-wa}- place where the conditions essential to plant-life can be obtained, there to disseminate their sweetness without obtruding their homely forms too much upon the super-cultivated eye. What I mean is, not that they should lie jilantcd at the back of the shrubbery borders and in similar places, but that beds in situations of secondary importance should here and there be set apart for them, so as not to mar or interfere with the beds or groups designed for show alone. In those may be gro\\^^ such plants as Carnations, I'inks, Double Piockets, Stocks, including the Night- scented. Mignonette, Clioirantbus Marshalli, Alyssum, Candytuft, (TSnotberas, Liliums, ami hosts of others known to every- body, man}' of them winsome things to look at in their own brief season, but most of them all but banished from the flower garden proper, and now used principally for increasing the confusion of herbaceous borders. Of fragi'ant-flowering slu-ubs there is an endless variety. The common .Jasmine that winds its spray around so many cottage homes, and its tender associations round so many hearts, can never cease to be a favourite with all. For training on the pillars or latticework of verandahs, arches, Ho. »38.— Vol. XIII., Kkw Seriib. or covered walks, but particularly for walls or ruins, it is well adapted. With it may be used many of tlie Cle- matises, especially C. flammula and its varieties, all well- known plants, rich alike in gracefulness and delightful fragrance. The Swcetbriar will always make its presence felt, and in shrubberies or unkept grounds can hardly ever be used to excess. For centui'ies poets have rhymed its praises, but by gardeners it seems to be so lightl}- apfirec.iated, that about many gardens not even a single plant of it is to be found. Daphne cneonim is a delightful little flowering shrub of exquisite scent, and, from its low neat habit, well adapted for small circular beds. It can be propagated by layers with the greatest ease and certainty, and docs well in any soil that will grow PJiododendrons. D. odora is only half-hardy, and cannot be ti-usted out of doors in winter ; D. mezereum and laureola are both hardy, and highly scented. The Balm of Gilead (Dracoccphalum canariense). and the Sweet Verbena (Aloysia^. being balf-liardy, require to be treated as bedding plants, but well repay all the trouble which that may entail, thougli the latter will stand any ordinary winter against a south wall if well protected. We saw some time ago in these pages something from the graceful pen of " Wii.tsiiiuk IIixtor " about " Lilac- tide," as he designates the short sweet period when that delightful shrub is in bloom. Here we have no Lilac-tide, but we have other times when fragi-ance and beauty aboimd throughout our woods and glens, when the wild Hose and Honeysuckle scramble, entwined, from rock to branch, and scatter abroad their incense in grateful acknowledgment of the love tliat endowed them witli such delightful odours. Then we have a purple-tide, wliich no art can imitate, when mountains and moors are all ablaze with blooming Heather, the Sweet Gale contributing its feeble quota from the marshy grounds where the Heath refuses to grow, when both uniting their sweetness they load each passing breeze with a perfume so delicate that no breath from any home-born blossom can vie with it : yet I do envy " Wir.TsniRK RKcroit " his Lilac-tide, for it is a brief but gloriously perfumed season, and all the sweeter for its brevity. The purple and white small-leaved Persian Lilacs should have a place in every flower garden ; as stan- dards they are very handsome, and are easily fonned by grafting on the common Lilac or on the Ash. Tliey may be propagated by layers, suckers, and by grafting on the IVivet. Like music, sweet smells possess in no small degi-ee the power of associating themselves in our memories with particular places, persons, or circumstances, so tliat when- ever we find ourselves witliin the charmed circle of certain perfumed flowers, the reproductions of these are by some mysterious process, and in a dim and shado^^y way, im- mediately brought before us : they are also sometimes so identified with certain spots in our gardens or elsewhere, that if for a season they are wanting we feel uneasy and j disappointed every time we pass. That gratifications so No. 98S,— ToL. XSXmi., Old Sebizs. 112 JOUBNAIi OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ August 15, 1887. pure and so easily obtained should ever be wanting is, to say the least of it, to be regretted. — AyiisniEE Gaedeneb. ABOUT THE LANDS END.— No. 1. Some five and a half centuries since — namely, in the reign of Edward II., the Knights of the Shire for Cornwall passed seven days on the road in travelling to the Parliament in London, and were equally long in journeying home again, so they claimed from their constituents the expenses of fourteen days, at the rate of half-a-crown per day. No wonder, travelling at that tardy pace, that it was enacted that there should be no bushes or dikes within 200 feet of the highway side, nor that if any underwood was left nearer than that distance, the owner of that underwood was held responsible for felonies committed in its vicinity. Even as late as the early part of the last century ■we read, " The Fbj coach from London to Exeter slept at a good house at Morcombe Lake, east of Charmoutb, the fifth night from town. The coach proceeded the next morning to Axminster, where it breakfasted, and there a woman barber shaved the coach." Broccoli and early Potatoes could not then have been grown at Penzance for the supply of the London market as they are now, when they can be in the Cornish garden and in Covent Garden within twelve hours. To learn among other things how these vegetables are managed, and reversing the places of departure and arrival, I reached Penzance, and as perversity would have it, a wet day succeeded that of my arrival. Now, if there be a time when a wet day away from homo is superlatively detestable to me, it is when it occurs the first day after I have arrived at a strange seaside town. I have had no opportunity to purchase guidebooks, nor to take the measure of the place and its people ; but in this instance, as in most other obnoxious occurrences, I had a compensaticn, for I found out a folio some century old, the theme of which is the an- tiquities of Cornwall, and some of its revelations I think will be as novel to the readers of " our .Tournal," as they were to me. The Cornish language is now numbered with the dead, for the last on record who could discourse in it, " Dolly Pentreath," was buried so long since as 1778, in the churchyard of St. Paul, about three miles from Penzance, but the old volume before me retains many words of the language, and I will jot down a few. These Cornish men must have been connoisseurs in kissing, for I met with four distinct names for a kiss. Impoc, that must have meant an ardent one; Pocetiil, surely one less hearty ; nmatie, one tender and gentle ; and aff', which sounds as if it describes one which would gladly have been avoided. Again, was there not sly satire in calling a man, ijoas ; and a goose, gnu: ? More in unison with the sobriety of these pages, let me note the Cornish names of some of our garden produce, and of the animals your contributors delight to honour. Some of these nanies evince a close relationship to other languages. I will write them don-n alphabetically : — Guin-bren, the vine. jEran, plums. Aidlen, a fir tree. Avell, an apple. Breily, a rose Brisyeh, ii cabbage. Gaboon, a capon. Coulm, a pigeon. Chelioc, or Kuliai*, a cock. Eroinen, a turnip. Fig-bren, a fig tree. Gajah, a daisy. Jar-gini. a turkey hen. Kuliflg-gini, a turkey cock. Mel, honey. Moral - iala, a strawberry. Moyrbren, ft mulberry tree. Per, a pear. Spezaden, a gooseberry. Splusen, a pippin. Teill, a raspberry. Era is the Cornish for labour, and we may trace it appro- priately in er, a field ; cro, a ridge ; and erbenm, gardens ; but a large part of the market gardeners near Penzance totally ignore such a derivation, and practically demonstrate that they consider idleness and gardening synonymous. My first stroll was to Tolcarn, an elevation about a mile from Penzance, for Asplenium lanceolatum is said to be found there. I failed in my search for it, but in the rich alluvial soil of the ravine, I had no difliculty in finding examples of the worst possible gar- dening and orcharding — every department slovenly conducted, and everything overwhelmed with weeds. This miserable mismanagement is the more remarkable, because on the opposite side of Mount's Bay there are very superior examples of gardening in all its branches. Before proceeding to details, some of which would otherwise be rather startling, let me state that the soil is a light loam, about 2 feet deep, thoroughly well drained by sloping to the south, and resting on greenstone. The climate is very mild and equable, hills of greenstone formation sheltering, in a semicircle, from all winds except those from the south and south-west, on which points are the sea. A consequence of these favourable circum- stances is, that the summers are cooler, and the three other seasons far milder than in any other district of England. I will only jot down in juxtaposition comparisons with London. 'rZ°^ "•'■""■- Spri.o. Snr,...er. Autumn. Zftk.mX. 1^"^' rain, fns, Penzance 62.P .. 44.6^ .. 49.6= .. CO.n' .. 53.8° .. 61.5° .. 43.0° .. 44 Lcindon ,50.4° .. 39.b° .. 48.6° .. 63.2° .. 60.2' .. 64.4° .. 37.8° .. 24 Knowing all this, and therefore, prepared to observe plants grown in the open air throughout the year, that near London can never flourish, unless protected by glass, yet I have mar- velled at what I have seen at Gulval. In the rectory hers resides the Rev. W. W. Wingfield, with whom some twenty years since, one of the Editors of "our Journal " co-operated to foster tho rising taste for domestic fowls. " The Poultry Book " was the result of that co-ope- ration, and which would have been differently arranged had not the original intention been to confine its contents to the management of the then newly-introduced Cochin-Cbinas. However, its illustrations are still unsurpassed. They have been incorporated in a new edition, its details employed, and the authors consistently abused by the new editor, at least so I was informed by Mr. Wingfield. For nine-aud- twenty years he has been rector of this parish, and during that time has created the grounds which now beautify the rectory. When he first was inducted, it can scarcely be realised that a mere field fronted the house, for it is now embosomed in sheltering, vigorous plantations, and the lawn embroidered with flower-beds. My notes must be desultory. The prime and prevading impression is the intense health- fulness, and, indeed, excessive growthfulness (if there be such a word), of every tree, shrub, and herbaceous plant. The Roses, without mulching, are undisfigured by either green fly or spotted leaves, testifying to Rose-growers in drier localities, if such testimony be still needed, that an increase of moisture, both to the roots and foliage are the shields from those plagues. Evergreens Mr. Wingfield has wisely made to predominate in his plantations, not only because ornamental throughout the year, but because they afford shelter from the powerful south- westerly gales, and because they flourish here marvellously. Ber- beris Darwinii, usually seen as a pigmy bush, is here 8 feet high, as many in diameter, and exuberantly vigorous. Camellias are as healthful as they are in .Japan. A Pinus insiguis, only 18 inches high when planted in 1852, has now a trunk (J feet in circumference at its base, 60 feet in height, and with branches issuing round down to the turf's surface. A Dracena indivisa, only ten years old, endured last winter's intense cold, which even at Gulval, descended to 18', or fourteen degrees of frost, and is really like a dwarf Palm, being 14 feet high, and its stem more than a foot in circumference at 5 feet from the ground. Another specimen not quite so large, was slightly injured by the frost, and this check to its growth has caused it to emit suckers all round the base of its stem. The Cedrus deodara Mr. Wingfield has discarded, for when it attained to a stature of 20 feet it came within the influence of the powerful winds from seaward, and had the tops destroyed. This deserves the attention of a gentleman on the Welsh coast, who some months since inquired in "our Journal" what Conifers would succeed in his locality. Boronias and Myrsine undulata endured last winter's severity uninjured in the open borders, and Cassia corymbosa, though killed down to the soil's surface, is now sending up most vigorous shoots. On remarking that I had seen some very large Agaves in a villa garden near Tolcarn, Mr. Wingfield observed in reply, that he had observed them in full bloom in the Scilly Islands, their flower-stems measuring 36 feet in height. It has also flowered at Mousehole, about two miles west of Penzance. The climate is not suited to the fruitful growth of some trees, and Mr. Wingfield specified the Walnut and Filbert. He said he was not aware of any in the neighbourhood, for they were found never to ripen their young wood so as to attain a bearing condition. Neither does the Vine succeed for a similar reason. Mr. Wingfield has tried it under a frame in imitation of the ground vinery, but unsuccessfully. The Vine was over- luxuriant, but bore no Grapes. It is possible that shallow planting, and in a poorer soil, might reduce the luxuriance ; yet even then it is very doubtful whether the young wood woiJd ripen in this uniformly mild and moist climate. From this, A URUSt IS, 1867. J JOURNAL OF HOUTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 113 too, Peaches and Nectarines are deficient in flavour, and the Apricot and Green Ga^e are rarely fruitful. Many rare native plants are found in this district, and I mention this for the purpose of warninf; botanists not to accept as truth the statements published that some of those plants are to bo found only in very restricted localities. For instance, I was told that Asplenium lanceolatum was only to bo ol)tained at the foot of Tolcnrn, whereas I saw it growing in the fissures between blocks of greenstone supporting the sides of a lane near Giilval. The Cornish Heath, too. Erica viiRfins, said only to be found near the Land's End, I am informed is abundant in other localities. — G. VINES AND VINE BORDERS— NATURAL TEMPERATURES. I HAVE delayed answering the letter of " G. H.," which appeared under the above heading (May 23rd), because I wished to obtain from Mr. Wills and Mr. Thomson the information I asked them for, and also because I wanted to receive the photographs of my Vines from the photographer before giving the true account of my first year's experience in forcing the Vine, which Mr. ■Wills desired I would do. It would, however, be much more satisfactory to me to know that Mr. Wills intends to carry out his expensive system of border-making. If he means what he ■writes, will he accept a challenge to a three-years race on our respective Vine hobbies ? I have been anxious to see how Mr. Thomson would make his statement about a temperate climate being most suitable to the Vine, agree with the tropical heats he recommends to the amateur Vine-grower. I cannot accept the fact of his treatise having reached the sixth edition as sufficient proof of the soundness of the information it contains. I want something more than this ; and when I, as one of those for whom Mr. Thomson professes to have written hia treatise, ask him to prove the necessity for the temperatures he recommends, I think he is bound to reply. I have read with much attention the letters upon the Gar- stou Vineyard and Mr. Meredith's large bunches of Grapes, which Mr. Wills says reminded him of the Grapes of Eschcol. It is, I think, reasonable to believe that the soil and climate of the valley of Eshcol were peculiarly favourable to the growth of the Vine. The soil of the hill country of Jad:i'a is generally in- ferior to the loamy soils lying upon our own chalk hills. Tlie soil of Eshcol is an ordinary loam lying upon limestone, the upper surface of which is of a loose marly or shingly nature. Situated between Hebron and Bethlehem the valley has an elevation of about 2, sun feet above the sea. Van de Velde, writing from near Hebron, says, '• The cold is so great that I sit as close as I can to the fire to warm mj' stiffened fingers and fit them for writing. Just fancy our encountering so severe a climate here at the end of March." Jlarch is the first spring month, and the Vines would be starting into growth. In .\pril the later rains fall in abundance, and continue till the end of May. In Jane the heat of the day is considenible, but the nights are cold, and the dews so copious tliat the trees drip as with rain. July and August, the second and third months after the rains, are warm and dry, but the temperature is that of southern Europe, and not of the tropics. The vintage is in September, and about the end of the month the former rains make their appearance. The fact that the Vine in the valley of Eshcol begins its growth in March and ripens its fruit in September is sufficient proof that the climate is not such as Mr. Thomson recommends to amateurs. And it I fail to find his tempera- tures in the hill country of Judica, which may fairly be con- sidered as the home of the Vine, shall I meet with better success in Madeira 7 Do the Canaries produce rich clusters, mingled with the glittering green and gold of the Orange trees, and the broad waving leaves of the Bananas, growing upon the low, sultry ground of the coast, or upon the breezy slopes of Oratava ? " G. II." says I have made some important omissions in what I have written about natural temperatures ; but he does not tell me what these omissions are. Ho merely tells me that mean temperatures in the shade are only calculated to mislead in making comparisons between one year and another, and, therefore, we must follow the same rule in making a comparison between the French climate at the 45th degree of north latitude and the temperature we should maintain in our vineries. I am well aware that mean annual temperatures ore of little value to gardeners ; but these can have no surer guides than the mean temperatnres of the seasons, the distri- bution of the annual rainfall, the latitude and longitude, and the elevation above the sea level. If " G. H." will read my letter again he will see that I did not ask Mr. Thomson the question, "That if he begins with 100° in the sun for Vines, how he will go on if he is to advise temperatures for semi-tropical and tropical plants?" Mr. Thomson does not place his thermometer between the foliage of his Vines and the glass ; and when a vinery is closed in the afternoon it is no longer receiving the direct rays of the sun ; even the slanting rays still thrown upon the glass are, to a certain extent, prevented by the sash-bars from falling on the Vines. The moist heat of 100°, which Mr. Thomson likes to enclose in his vinery, is certainly solar heat, the same as that registered by a thermometer on the north side of a tree in my garden ; but they are shade heats also. Mr. Thomson should be allowed to defend his book himself. It has hitherto been received 'oy gardeners, amateurs, writers, and reviewers as a good practical treatise on the Vine. I received it as a conscien- tious and fairly-written account of his own experience. I have proved his temperatures to be fancy temperatures, unnecessary and unsafe to the amateur, and not supported by reference to the temperatures of any Vine-growing country in the world. I .am also prepared to prove, by reference to Nature's treatment of the Vine, that Mr. Thomson is as wrong in other matters as he is in temperatures. " G. H." has made a poor attempt at the thermic scale of cultivation for the plants I mentioned. The Date Palm will grow north of the Jlediterranean. It does not require a heat of not less than 100° in the shade by day, and the temperatures of localities in Algeria give as good an idea of the climate of that country as the temperature I gave of the Isle of Wight does of the climate of England. There is, however, one part of the temperate zone where, during the summer months, a constant tropical heat may he found. The valley of the Jordan, in the vicinity of the Dead Sea, has a temperature of 70° to 100° ; and here the Date Palm ripens its fruit from ten to twenty days earlier than it does in northern Africa. The plains of Moab and Jericho, on the east and west of the Jordan, have never been celebrated for their vinej-ards ; but high up in the neighbouring hills, at an eleva- tion of 3,800 feet, Eshcol still produces its Grapes in bunches of 10 and 12 lbs. weight. I have but little to say about my own Vines. The photograph of the roof of one of my houses and the two small bunches I have sent to the Editors of the Journal will be more satisfactory than anything I could write. I may, however, mention that my houses have been freely opened to my neighbours, and many gentlemen and gardeners have seen my Grapes in all stages of their growth. The Vines were started in December, and were breaking well on the 22nd of January. On the loth of April the wood began to get brown at the base, and on the 22nd of May I cut my first ripe Grapes. Some of the bunches had berries 3^ inches in circumference. Tlie smallest number of bunches on any one Vine was twelve, the largest number twenty-nine. The rods are 8 feet in lengthy and cover in the three houses 1.700 square feet of glass, and the total number of bunches borne by my ninety-five Vines was 1986. — H. S. CALCEOLARIA FAILURE. The failure of one of the best varieties of the shrubby class of yellows this season in so many places where it had stood before, leaves an impression that this plant can be no longer depended upon for giving that display of its particular colonr in which it has hitherto been unrivalled. Its failure in a great many places has been so general for some years that it has been given up, and something else substituted for it. Now, as it would appear that the aawsoniauu varietjata, of which there are numerous similar forms ; Mr. Richards, cardener to Lord Tjondesborouph, Cattlcya pallida, a variety of C. Wagneri ; Mr. G. l-'ry. seedlinj» Fachsia. Blue Boy, a dwarf, compact, free- flowering plant, ben ring semi-double flowers, useful for decorative pur- poses ; a laliel of commendation was awarded. Mr. Fry sRut also two Beedliuf; Zonal Polarponiums, Souvenir do Jlaximillian and Pillar of Gold ; Mr. WallieriuK, Lewisham. Zonal Tricolor Empress Ka;/cnie and Beauty of Lewisham ; Mr. Robert Poynter, seedlinp Fuchsia Koyalty. with pale yellow foliage ; Messrs. E. G. Henderson, Fuchsia Golden Leaf, a perfect i^em for decorative purposes, the intense golden colour of the foliage very effective — first-class certificate; Tricolor Zonal Pelargonium Lady Muncaster, veiy good, requested to be seen again in younger plants ; Howarth Ashton, a seedling Tricolor of great merit, dark zone, with shaded crimson — first-class certificate ; Fair Kmily net equal to Italia Unita ; Tricolor Zonal Orange Grm ; Silver Beauty, a bio.id whit^'-cdgcd variety ; Zonal Pelargonium Keticnlatnm, the leaves much reminding us of Lonieera aureo-reticulata ; probably this plant muy bo the origin of some euiioas variegations — label of commendation; seedling Fuchsia Alba coccinea, unlike any other Fuchsia yit cx.hibitt;d, the tube of the flowtr crimson, sepals white. corolla dark shaded crimson ; a useful decorative plant — second-class certificate ; Yerl)ena Harlequin, striped white and dark crimson, not effective for bedding ; Ophiopogon jaburau fol. var.. which received a first-elasa certificate in IHG'i ; also Ophiopogon s]>icatns. a purple- flowering species ; Methouica or Gloriosa variety ; Lobelia Indigo Blue and Lobelia wpeciosa spectabilis, not in condition to judge of their merits, being too recently potted; Dianthus Napoleon III., one of the prettiest fjrms of D. hybndus, deep rich crimson flowers, most orna- mental-— first-class certificate. Messrs. -lackuian, Wokiug, exhibited a collection of their splendid Cloinutis, thill' new seedlings of which received a first-class certificate, which they richly merited ; Lady Bovill with broad gi-eyish blue petals ; Mrs. Bateman, a finely-formed mauve or light lavender ; Mr. T. Moore, deep purple, a very large starry flower with a conspicuous white eye, much resembling a Passiflora. These single flowers were much admired ; but no description can convey any idea of the truir mag- nificent specimens now in full perfection at the nursery at Woking. No person could regret any little trouble which might arise in visiting tliesr nurseries, now in their glory, and so conspicuous for the varieties of Clematis. Mr. Green, gardener to W. W. Saunders, Esq., brought a very pretty Capo I'elargouium (perhaps not a Pelargouium. but one of the family), with zonal foliage ; the specimen was very dwarf and was raised from seed ; this will probably be very useful lor decorative pur- noses, especially for edging — second-class certificate. A special certi- ocnto W!vs iilso awarded Mr. Green for a collection of interesting plants. From Mr. William Paul came seedling Zonal Pelargonium Snow- drop, not equal to other white-edged varieties, snch as Princess Alex- andra, (fee. ; Prince Silver Wing, a pale Tricolor Zonal. Mr. R. Dean, Ealing, sent dwarf bedding Lobelia Blue Tom Thumb, a neat •rect-growiug plant, nacful for decorative purposes, and which received a aecoud-class certificate. Messrs. Downie, Laird & Laiug hotl a teedling Zonal Pelargonium belonging to the Bronze and Gold section, •ailed Countess of Kellie, one of the very best of this section, with a remarkably bright zone ; it was awarded a first-class certificate. Zonal Kentish Hero, one of the same tribe, was likewise shown by Messrs. Downio Sc Co. Mr. Williams. HoUoway, was awarded thn-o first-class e«^rtificates for distinct and good seedling varieties of Athy- riom FiUx-f(T^mina ; the names were accidentally wrongly placed, and will be eoiTected ; a golden Gymnogramma was also shown by Mr. Williams. Mr. Farley, gardener to F. Pryor. Esq., Digswell, exhi- bited a remaikttble specimt-n of the Climbing Fern jjygodium japoui- •um, 6 or 7 feet high ; a special certificate wus awarded it. Jlr. C. J. Perry, Castle Bromwioh, sent a large collection of vary fine Verbenas, twelve seedlings, not yet pent out. The following were awarded first-class certificates : — Mias Tumor, J. C. Ward, Thomas Harris, Hercules, and Francis Harris. The others were all good flowers, more or less distinct from others in cultivation ; a special certificate was awarded for this beautiful collection. Mr. Bland, Richmond, sent several seedling Fnchsius; one very promising variety, called Lass of Richmond Hill, had bright coral sepals, a white corolla, aud was very neat in outline ; the Committee requested this to bo sent again. Pehirgonium t^ueen of liosos, verv nmch like Beaute de Su- resnes and others, were also shown by Mr. Bland. Mr. George Smith, Ilornsey, exhibited two very fine hybrid Nosegay Zonal Pelargoniums, producing unusually large aud fine trusses — Eclat, a rosy carmine, and Grand Duke, an orange scarlet, both seedlings, received first-claas certificates. Messrs. Low, of Clapton, sent Warzewi-iczella aromalica, with violet-stained whitish flowers, and received for it a second-class certihcate ; and Messrs. Leo, Hammersmith, a small plant of Rhns glabra laciniata, a perfectly hardy shrub, with very ornamental foliage. For this a tirst-elass certificate was awarded. Mr. Eckford, Coleshill, exhibited seedling Verbenas Pluto, Gcorgo Stevenson, Lady Mary Wilde, Hermit, Mrs. Bouverio, and Criterion; also a fine cut specimen of Saecolabinm Blumei majus. G. F. Wilson, Esq., brought a vei^ j^p^Lcnuid collection of eut Liliums, among them some fine examples of L. auratum and l&nceolatom, also L. tigrinum F'ortuni. Onu specimen seemed not to be recognised by any one present; it was thoaght to be of the Thnnbergii type, deep orange with a yellow band, spotted with black, forming a very handsome cluster of flowers, the name is to be ascertained ; a first-class certifi- cate was awarded it, and a special certificate was given for this inter- esting aud beautiful collection. Jlr. Anderson, gardener to T. Daw- sou, E^q., Meadow Bank, near Glasgow, exhibited splendid cut speci- mens of Orchids, among them Odoutoglossum Aiexaudrie, Oncidiam leucophyllum, Saccolobium Bluniei Dayii, Cattleya crispa, and Epi- dendrum species ; a special ctrtificate was awarded the collection. Mr. Shaw, of Manchester, exhibited specimens of the same varieties of Athyrium FiUx-fm-mina as those shown by Mr. WiUiams, and to him also first-class certificates were awarded. PRESERVING VERBENAS AND REDDING RLANTS FROM RABBITS. I BEG to inform your contributor *' R. F.," that I have this season effectually preserved my Verbenas, Lobelias, d'c., from bares and rabbits, by sprinkling them overhead twice a-week with cow's wash. My man dips an old whitening brush into the liquid, then shakes it gently over the plants, so as to let it fall in small drops, as largo quantities will burn I do not know what intervals may be allowed between the applications. I have had it done twice weekly to make sure. The trouble is small, and the success has been complete. There is no smell left to offend any one. — G., Glasgow. STANHOPEA TIGRINA AND OCULATA. Of the many varied forms in which the family of Orchids present their bloom to our view, there are certainly none which to 'the most careless observer show a greater departure from the usual features of ordinary flowering plants, than the larger- flowering species of the genus Stanhopea ; and the most care- less and indifferent to fJl Flora's bcautie:, are, nevertheless, constrained to look at aud admire the singular shape, great beauty, and peculiar position of the flowers of this t^enus, for in general the flowers appear where the roots of another plant might be looked for, and in shape they might be mis- taken for some huge insect or shell fish of peculiar form, while in substance they fully carry out the latter idea. Never- theless, Stanhopeas are but seldom met with as forming leading objects in a collection of Orchids at a horticultural show — the reason, doubtless, is, the plants do not remain so long in flower as some of the Oncidiums, Cattleyas, and othet genera ; but in point of beauty, of colouring, size of blooms, and number of them, as well as the rich appearance the swell- ing buds present, there is certainly nothing in the ordinary class of Orchids met with at shows that equals a well-bloomed plant of Stanhopea trigrina, when snch plant has been allowed to attain a fair size, without that pulling to pieces which is so often carried on to multiply specimens. Two plants of this being in bloom hero (Linton Park), at present, I have been induced to give some particulars of them, not that they differ from the usual type, but to call fur a more extended culture of this certainly one of the finest of all the Orchid family. There are, I believe, more varieties than one of Stanhopea tigrina. The one we have has a rich dark ground with lemon- IIG JOUBNAL OF HOKTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB. [ Angnst 15, 1867. coloured spots, varying in size from that of a threepenny- piece to small dots, but usually they are of uniform size, about midway between the sizes stated. The spikes supporting the bloom are not so closely packed with flowers as is the case ■with S. oculata, of which, also, there is a pretty good speci- men in flower at the same time. On the contrary, S. tigrina rarely has more than four blooms to a spike, and often not so many. One of the plants now in bloom has eighteen flower- spikes, each with flowers expanded or in buds that will be open in a day or two. There are two or three more spikes coming, but they will be later. The number of flowers fully expanded and in perfection is fourteen, with two past their best, and thirty- eight in bud ready to burst directly. The expanded flowers that are near together cover a considerable part of the bottom of the hanging-basket in which the plant is grown, each in- dividual bloom measuring from (i to 7 inches between the tips of the wing-petals, the upper petal being proportionably large. The second plant is not so large, but there are thirteen fully- expanded blooms upon it, with fifteen more in advanced bud, and several spikes to come that will probably continue the blooming period for some time. The plant of S. oculata that is in bloom has thirty-five fully-expanded flowers out at this time, with eight more to come. The spikes contain from two to seven or eight blooms each. They are not so large individually as the other, and widely diiYerent in every respect, but both are deserving more attention than they often receive, as the thick fleshy substance of the flowers resembles shell or waxwork, and it requires no great stretch of the imagination to conjm-e up a resemblance to objects both singular and dangerous. I may add that the scent is also very strong, some say sweet, but as this is a matter of taste, and, perhaps, being fastidious in that respect myself, I give no opinion. One thing, however, may be said in favour of this Orchid and its flowers, the latter require no long sticks or wirework-traiuing to bring them into position for being seen, for the flower-spikes are short and the back of the flower rests very often on the bottom or sides of the basket. Our jilants being grown in wire-baskets or rustic wooden ones, the spikes generally protrude at the sides, but sometimes at the bottom, and in all cases hang downwards. The fohage of the plant is also good, and removal from place to place is attended with less of those preparatory arrangements than are requisite for most Orchids. Certainly it cannot be set down on the ground like a flower-pot, bat in a suspended position few plants can possibly look more handsome, and at the same time more remarkable. — J. BoBSOX. TABER'S EARLY PERFECTION PEA. I OESF.r.TE in the pages of your Journal two strong recom- mendations of this excellent early Pea. With respect to my own experience of it, I may state that when I received an offer from Mr. Taber last season, with the remarks contained in his circular, I was attracted by the description given, seeing that the properties which it was represented to have were just what were wanted. Having tested it, I have found it quite equal to what was represented. It appears to be as early as any variety Isnown, with the advantage of being much stronger in the haulm, more produc- tive, and much longer-podded than the early Peas of late introduction. It is several days earlier than Sangster's No. 1, shorter in growth, but very stout and vigorous. It appears to be quite distinct from any other Pea which we have yet had, and I consider it will be a boon to early-Pea growers. 1 observe the Prince Pea is also spoken highly of by one of your corre- spondents. This also I have tested, and find it an excellent late Pea. — SiErnEs Brown, Sudbunj, Sm/'olk. [If Taber's Early Perfection is with you several days earlier than Sangster's No. 1, your Sangster's cannot be true.] NIEREMBERGIAS. In seasons like the present, when we hear so much of plants failing and disappointing the expectation of the planter, it becomes us to look around and see which has 'succeeded, and where so, inquiries might be prosecuted to ascertain if a still further improvement cannot be made in the class of plants that have done well this somewhat unfavourable season. Amongst those which have done well I again wish to call attention to one I have on several occasions recommended to more extensive cultivation — Nierembergia angustifolia, as it has made more progress than most plants which I have, and at all times pre- sents a greater mass of bloom than anything else in its way ; but, unfortunately, we have only one colour in this plant, and I want to know if the new species introduced by Messrs. Veitch be likely to present us with other hues, that may be extended hereafter when assiduous cultivation is brought to bear upon it and the older specimen. A good blue or a good scarlet Nierembergia would be a gem, and 1 hope we may have such eventually. A good yellow would also be very agreeable, as neat-growing plants of dwarf habit with yellow bloom are by no means plentiful. Gazania splendens is too shy in bloom- ing to become a general favourite. However, now we have a second species of Nierembergia, I hope to hear good things of it, and even it its appearance be not so inviting as could be wished, I nevertheless hope to see its progeny or that of our present species appear in another garb, with the same good habit and free-blooming properties of our present highly orna- mental plant. — J. E. WOBURN COTTAGE GARDEN SOCIETY'S EXHIBITION. The moralist and the philanthropist are now recognising the fact more fully than heretofore, that the love of change is in- herent to humanity. Hence the very change of employment is often so delightful as to become to us actually rest in labour. The industrious agricultural or gardening labourer may work actively in his garden in an evening, stimulated by the con- viction that he is labouring for himself and those who are so dear to him ; but he can hardly realise the agreeable zest which in addition is felt by the mechanic and the artisan, from the very change in the kind of employment. It is greatly owing to this fact that the best-kept gardens and the best managed florists' flowers are found under the care of the artisan and manufacturing classes. This mere change of occupation, however, will not alone meet the natural yearning for variety. The field, and the shop, and factory, even when relieved by the ever-varying attractions of the garden, will in course of time, all, more or less, be im- pressed with a tame monotony. The heart begins to yearn not only for change of employment, but for that change of scene which involves a cessation from our usual labours. " All work and uo play, makes Jack a dull boy." The proverb is quite right, but it often dues more, it often makes Jack a bad boy as well as a dull one. The craving for change often stimulates to conduct that shades with sorrow the course of a life that other- wise might have been bright and joyous. Great moral out- breaks might have been prevented if more healthy and in- nocent outlets had been provided to satisfy alike the exuberant spirits of youth and this natural craving for change. Our gieat social gatherings, our trysts, our fairs, our town statutes, and our village wakes aud feasts, might have all been very useful institutions in their day, though degenerating too often in our times to such scenes of rough vulgarity, ribaldry, and debauchery, as to grieve the hearts of the right-minded and true-hearted. The change was the great attraction, loolsed forward eagerly to for mouths, and then under the stimulus of the excitements so lavishly afforded, things were done and money foolishly spent that told most injuriously on many frequenters for long periods afterwards. With this natural craving for change, and now and then freedom from usual toil, in addition to that which the glorious Sabbath ever brings — the poor man's day, the day of the seven, in which the working man may be in reality the gentleman — with this craving, as it were a part of our being, it would be the height of folly to deny all means for its gratification, just as it will be great wisdom to find an outlet for this natural yearning in scenes and circumstances that will improve, elevate, and refine our natures, and insensibly make us better, whilst doing something to make us more intelhgent. Woburn. like most country towns, has its annual fair, with the usual accompaniment of stalls, shows, dancing-booths, and drinking-rooms ; and I am inclined to suppose that one of the chief aims of the Committee of the Cottage Gardeners' Society, was to change the mere common aspects of the fair into a grard annual holiday, by means of a horticultural and floral show and a rural fete, in which the arrangements, and the amuse- ments, aud the kind of refreshments, excluding all intoxicating liquors, should be entirely under their control ; and so well did all seem to succeed, so far as I could see in my short visit, that I should much regret to learn that amid such success, even financially considered, there should from any cause be a dis. ADgllst 15, 1867. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 117 continuance of such fftes, just as I would rejoice to know that some liiiitK that Huch U-tea would bo discontinued proceeded ouly from Konio moiljid prophets wf evil. I atti'iiili'il (or the second time this Woburn fi"-te on the lUst of last iiiimtli, Htul in answer to several iiupiiries as to .sucreH.^, aims, modes of oi)eration, extent of inliiience, co-operation of .MO many parishes, liiuh aims of the Committee in gratifying the relinnd tastes of the wealthy as well as meeting the sym- pathies of the more humble, I would respectfully refer all in- forested to the salient points of the Show as given in No. 2H0. for August 7th, l.S(il!, and would refer now merely to a few thoughts suggested by the Show of this year, and without any attempt at arrangement. The Show, thanks to the fine weather and the excellence of the arrangements, was a great success even financially con- sidered, anil that is saying a great deal, when in addition to iifiO to i;70 given as prizes, three musical bands were engaged to gratify the visitors, a militia band in the fine pleasure-grounds of the Abbey in the forenoon, the band of the Coldstream Guards in the afternoon at the Show grounds, and another band in the evening until close on nine o'clock to meet the wishes of those who found an outlet to their exuberant spirits in dancing innocently on the green sod in the presence of friends and neighbours. I may here mention, in passing, a simple fact for the benefit of all concerned, that notwithstantling tiie buoyant spiiits and hilarity prevailing, no sooner did the music of the evening cease at the specified time, than the great assemblage that crowded the field at once left in the most orderly mauner; in fact, I heard several gentlemen say they could not have acted more quietly and orderly if leaving a church or a cathedral. I may also state that the numbers collected in the Park as specta- tors of the cricket-match, left at once at the appointed time. But to return to the important matter of finance. Many, and these the not most timid, were a little sensitive owing to a little change in the arrangements. With great liberality the noble proprietors of Woburn Abbey have generously opened the mansion and grounds to visitors one day in the week. The opening of the I'lensure-grouuds, Park, and Evergreens on this fete day was a separate and distinctive favour, and last year was reserved for those who had a ticket of admission to the Cottage (larJen Show. This year, for reasons of which | I am ignorant, though I might guetis that one of them would be tho nnwillir.gues-! that entrance to these fine grouuils should bo at all associated with a regular money payment, even though that should bo for the benefit of the Cottage Garden Society, the (Jardeus were open as last year, but free as on a comm.'ii open day, and under the usual regulations ; and in such circumstances it was feared that the finances of the Society would suffer. Here, however, as it <»ften happens, liberality brings n rich reward. I was assured that many visited the Abbey Gardens on that holiday who could not have gone on an open week d.-iy, and took as many of the younger branches of the family with them as they could not have afforded to pay for at the exhibition ground. The great jiroportion, however, of the visitors of the Abbey Gardens found their way ullimalely to the flower Show ; so that whilst the visitors to tho Alibey were considerably above four thousand, not less than five thou- sand visitors were admitted to the show-field on payment. This is just an additional fact to prove that even on tho low con- sideration of a money point of view, a liberal policy is generally the most remuuerative. As I have hinted at the good behaviour manifest in the •how-field, so here I m.ay say that if the great numbers that visited tlie .-Vbbey Gardens had been "lords and ladies born," they could not have conducted themselves better, or manifested greater admiration for the beauty of the flowers and the grand results of the artist's skill, a sure proof — with only trifling exceptions — that if you treat the great masses of working people with trust and confidence, they so feel their sense of honour appealed to, that they will return that trust with in- tegrity and gratitude. I had the pleasure of leisurely travers- ing aJl these grounds in the cool of the evening along with Mr. McKay, the able Superintendent, and regretted exceedingly to find even one solitary empty soda-water bottle. Not an- other vestige of the visit of the thousands could be found, unless that here and there the walks had been so beautifully swept by the long dresses of tho ladies, that tho finest brooms and the best workmen could not have equalled the operation. Tho Show was a success, because a great improvement on previous exhibitions in the quality of tho horticultural pro- dnoe exhibited. The advantage of such societies is not only tho fostering of greater indnstry, but the growing of better produc- tions, and the showing them in tho best condition. As a general rule, the people near Woburn are still behind in the growth of flowers and the showing them oil to the best advantage. If I see another thow, I shall expect to find cut flowers and plants in juUs very much improved; in fact, I shall expect as much improvement in this respect as has already most mani- festly taken jilaco in fruit and vegetables. The quality cf tho hardy fruit left little to be desired, and instead of the shapeless, unequal-sized produce we used to see, there were myriads of hunches of Carrots, Turnips, and tureens of Potatoes, each specimen as if it had been cast in a mould. One great ad- vantage of a careful decision in such matters is, that tho cot- tager tees clearly what peculiar excellencies lie must aim to secure. Several of the collections of fruit in the various classes were very tastefully arranged — a matter well worthy of en- couragement, as in such cases judges in general look more to the kinds of fruit and the quality of each than the taste dis- played in arranging it. Fine Grapes, especially Muscats, goldeu ripe, were exhibited by Mr. Turner, gardener to the Rev. G. G. Harter. Though the great feature of a cottager's show was still para- mount, there were more articles exhibited by amateurs and gentlemen's gardeners, more nurserymen also gave their assist- ance to fill the tables, and Ferns ami linefoliaged plants were contributed from tho gardens of Sir Philip Duncombe, all tending to the completeness of the Show, and furnishing ex- amples of neat, compact culture and growth to our cottager rivals. A juize was offered for a rare plant of any kind, and it was taken by n beautiful little yellow variegated plant of tho Bittersweet (Solanum dulcamara), belonging to R. Stevens, Esq , Apsley, which from its mode of growth seemed as if it would come in well as a hardy edging to flower-beds. Tho plants shown by my friend, Mr. Manning, were well got up, and elegrintly named on large cards. No prize was offered to nurserymen, but still there were four present— Mr. Sheppard, Bedford ; Mr. .fohn Woods, HocklilTe ; Mr. Tirebuck, Luton ; (ii)d Mr. Jabez Chater. from Cambridge. Mr. Sheppard exhibited a fine collection of Roses ; Mr. Woods, a good collection of small, flowering, miscellaneous plants, among which were some very neat, very dwarf Lobelias, very useful for miniature edgings, whether white or blue ; also, the pretty small white-anJ-crimson-stripcd Petunia I noticed so favourably last year, and which seems to maintain its character and habit'; also a good collection of flowers of Hollyhocks, Picotees, and Carnations. Sir. Tirebuck exhibited Carnations, and his fiiie-folingi-d and different-coloured Scarlet Pelargo- niums, in the shape of neat-grown plants, such as they have been de«cnbed in this Journal, among which in the full- petalled kiuds stood conspicuous Emily Moreland, and among the Nosegays the neat lilac rose-coloured Felix. Mr. Chater exhibited some large Gooseberiies, and a fine Cherry, beautiful boxes of Roses, gla".ed cases of leaves of fine- foliaged seedling Pelargoniums, cut flowers of grcenhou-e and hardy plants, and among other subjects fine flowers of the Holly- hock", and varieties of the Zonal Pelargonium, mostly new. As likely to be generally interesting, I will allude more par- ticularly to these. Andfii-stof the Hollyhocks— a class of flowers, the great improvements in which will ever be associated with the name of Mr, William Chater, of Saffron W'alden. With respect to seedlings, I must give some prominence to one of the year, Robert Fish, a fine, compact, well-formed flower, of a lovely crimson salmon colour, tinted with an orange shade, with good smooth guard petals— a very promising kind. An- other promising seedling had a salmon amber tint, but was un- named. I subjoin the names of twenty-four fine flowers shown on cards, the most of which have been raised at times by Mr. J. J. Chater, and the others by Mr. W. Chater :— Autumn Queen, bright rose ; Princess of Wales, crimson, light shaded; Yellow Prince; Arthur B. Chater, blush and tinted: Ne Plus Ultra, lilac purple; Lord Warden, tuby crim- son ; Plurimus Dulcis, blush, purple base ; Iris, white, purple base ; Shades of Evening, grey and purple red ; Agenora, purple ; Yice-Chancellor, crimson salmon ; Acme, peach ; George Paul, brilliant crimson : Aurantiaca, shaded orange ; Decision, bufT, tinted with rose ; Constellation, crimson; Glory of Walden, glowing crimson scarlet ; Richard Cobden. salmon scarlet ; Princess, deep purple ; Cygnet, pure white ; Midnight, dark maroon ; (jueen of Buffs ; seedling, rich salmon and amber ; seedling, fine apple-blossom colour. I forbear to mention the noble spikes shown, in which the flowers were equally fine, and showed what may be done by 118 JOURNAL OF HOKTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ August 15, 1867. attention, shortening the spike, and when necessary thinning out the bloom-buds, and thus furnishing good lessons to all Hollyhock growers who wish to show. For my own fancy I like to see this majestic plant rear its head untouched and unstopped. Amongst the scarlet section of Pelargoniums shown, I will merely mention a few seedlings of the present and the last year : — Christine Surpasse, very like Christine in colour, leaf, and habit, but without any white in the flower, and less pro- pensity to seed freely ; Vulcan, a bright scarlet of 1866, superior to Cybister ; Marion, also of 1860, pale rosy pink, clear colour, considered an improvement on Mrs. W. Paul ; Masterpiece, also of 1866, a bold large salmon scarlet flower; Alexander McKay, a seedling of 1867, bright vermilion, with a strong tint of Yellow Nosegay, with zonal foliage, and large truss of middle - sized Nosegay flowers ; Forget-me-not, the grand sparkling gem of the lot, combining all the best properties of Christine, Caroline Lindsay, and Wiltshire Lass, being of a bright rose colour, clear and shining, with a distinct white blotch at the base of the top petals, dark-zoned foliage, aud good habit. I shall be much deceived if this beautiful variety does not come abundantly into request fur pots, vases, borders, and, above all, to lend its charm to the chaste bouquet. AVhen I used to see more of country shows than I do now, I used to be impressed with the simple fact, that to a great degree they flourished and declined juit in proportion as they were patronised or not patronised by nurserymen. There may be two reasons for this — first, the great paying public will not long pay unless it has quantity as well as quality for its money ; and, secondly, the keen amateur, who cares for nothing that is not new, and of the most improved shape and colour, will not trouble himself to go where there is no chance of seeing such subjects in a nurseryman's collection. The groups, stands, and boxes of the nurseryman are, therefore, attractive features at all such exhibitions. Why, then, do nurserymen not visit, or having done so at first, discontinue to bring their plants, etc., to such gatherings ? Is it not well to be out with something like the truth, and say, Just because nurserymen are obliged to look at such matters not merely in the light of honours, but in the way of business, as associated with £ s.