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THE

X

COTTAGE GAEDENER,

AND

COUNTRY aENTLEMA^N.

A CHEONICLE OF THE HOMESTEAD, POULTRY- YARD. APIARY, & DOVECOTE.

CONDUCTED BY

GEORGE W. JOHNSON, E.R.H.S., akd ROBERT HOGG, LL.D.

THE FRUIT AND KITCHEN GAKDENS, by Mr. J. Rohson,
Gardener to Viscount Ilolmesdnle, M.P., Linton Park; and ■
Mr. J. Donglfls, Tlie Gardens, Loxford HaU, Essex.

THE FLOWER GARDEN, Iiy Mr. G. Abliey ; Mr. T. Record, Gardener,
Vinters, Maidstone; and Mr. E. LuckhurBt, Old Lands, Busted,
Sussex.

STOVE, GREENrOUSE, and WINDOW GARDEN, by Mr. R. Fish,
Gardener, Putteridge Bury, near Luton.

FLORISTS' FLOWERS AND FLORICULTUIiE, by tbe Rey. 11. H.
Donibrain.

GARDENING CALENDAR, by Mr. William Keane.

POULTRY-KEEPING, by Mr. J. Eaily ; E. Hewitt, Esq. ; and
L. Wright, Esq.

PIGEONS, AVIARY BIRDS, &c., by " Wiltshire Rector ;" W. A.
Blakston,Esq., and others.

BEE-KEEPING, by "B. itW.;" and Mr. S. Ecvan Fox.

HOUSEHOLD ARTS, by the Authores-g of "My Flowers," and
others.

LIBRARY
NEW YORK
BOTANICAL

QARDEN.

VOI^UME XXIA''., NEU^ S E R, I E S.

VOL. XLTX., OLD SEKIES.

, LONDON:

PUBLISHED FOR THE PROPRIETORS, 171, FLEET STREET.

1873.

XJ

LONDON :

PRINTEP AT THE JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE OFFICE,

171, FLEET STREET.

July 17, 1878. ] JOUBKAL OP HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

TO OUR READERS.

Wb publish the following without either commeut or correction v —

" Me. Editors, —
" I 've long wanted to tell a bit of my mind, but days was so short and candles doesn't give the
light they used to ; but now's different, and I sits down to say how things is changed. Even gardeners
is. They used, when Ben was a-courting me, to be loving chaps — quite friendly like ; but now even
their big club at Kensingtun is all tumbling apieces— and why ? I'll just tell 'e, and do you tell 'em
— it's cause they doesn't mind your motto, 'For Gardening and Gardeners.' Why, the club was
made for them only. But now one of the big-club men says, ' I'm for Cole ;' and another says, ' I'm
for Kensintuu, my girls croquet there ;' but no one says nothing for old Chiswick, the club's old best
home. Bah ! Them lords and them as has nusmaids at Kensingtun do as good as blue-aprons to pay
club-money, but blue-aprons should have the management more. You told us all as was said when
they was a-quarrelling — and how they did talk, surely ! — but they was talkers and not doers. Jist
as my Ben used to say when he was alive —

" ' Men o£ words and not of deeds
la like gardens full of weeds.'

And weeds we all knows smothers the crops. Jist do you and a good blue-apron or two put your hoes
among 'em. Blue-aprons can do without them big-club men, but the big-club men can't do without
the blue-aprons.

" And you your own born selves, Mr. Editors, you doesn't behave as when my Ben wasn't dead.
Cottage Gardeners you was then, and he showed you how to grow big Cabbages; but now you've
a finer name, and put in a precious lot of what we doesn't want. I could cop the thing into the fire
sometimes, I'se so riled, specially that about cooking Ginny pigs. Then what's become of 'old Bob,'
as you called him ? but I know who you meut, and my Ben said he was ' the best of Fish.' It wo'n't
do for you Editors to show the cold shoulder to old friends. AVhy, fashions changes in gardens as
they docs in bonnets ; and if you hasn't an old gardner to ask to help ye, how will the old flowers
fare as is a-coming up agen ? Why, one of them chaps as wins prizes with crackjaw-named plants
didn't know t' other day a Turkey Nuuculus that 's in m,y garden. He com'd a-courting to my Mary
Anne, and she has ou Sundays what she calls a Dolly Varden hat — why, it's the old gipsy hat of my
courting days ! And that minds me that he what wrote about that Dolly Varden spluttered as if there
was no one of my name living, and Ben was very riled about it ; but I said he 's only one of them
writing chaps as lives by telling lies. If you, Mr. Editors, will come to Tiptree on our race-day — the
very next 25th of July as is — I'll show you gentlemen that there is

" Betsy Haeris."

[We have no need to accept the iuvitatiou, and have told our friendly plain-spoken corre-
spondent that we agree with her in most that she has written — have assured her that we do not
cast off our old friends — that Mr, Fish is unwell, but is still one of our helpmates — that we
tell all that is new about Cabbages as well as about Orchids and other things of the homestead ;
and we will add for the information of our readers, that " cop " in Essex is synonymous with
throw, and that there "riled" means angry.]

July 17, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEK.

1 ]N D E X,

Aberdeen Poultry Show, B6
Acacias an<l their culture, 206
Acanthus arachnitis, 393
AGcrington Poultry Show, 421
ArleUiide Botanic tiarclen, report on,

35G
Ailiantum. farleyenee, repottins, 140 ;

forraosum, 186
Atiricaltural returns, 243
Air-ailmittinjr, 125
Akebia quinata propagation, 817
Alexandra Palace, 413 ; Flower Show,

43S
AlUimanda. flowers defective, 303 ;

training, 189
A'<n:acias Insins leaves, 210
Aloes in a cellar, 169
Alsnmitra sarcophylla, 2[3
Aletrumeria seedlings, 4U
AlysBum saxatile compactum not

flowering, 441
Amaranthus salicifolias, 897 ; culture,

441
Amaryllis fonnosissima, planting, 17
American bliu^ht bird, 121
American trees and shinibs, neglected,
341 ; and Japanese plants similar,
55,72
Ancylogyne grandiflora flowerless, 808
Andryala mogadorensis, 99
Anjrtiloa Clowesii and uniflora bu-

pi^rba,145
Aninuil food fnr fowls, 216
Annuals, for bonier, 494; late-Hower-
ing, in?; sowing half-hardy, 247;
)or Rose circle?, 249; half-hardy,
from seed, 293
iVntennaria tomenlnsa propagation,

493
Ant^. 458 ; trappiiig. 343 ; on wall, 399
Aphides, destroying, 40
Aphis, black, 517

Apples, dwarf bushes, 4G3: espa-
hors, 127 ; pruning, 127 ; gi-afted with
Pears, 28; lists of, 40 ; pruning py-
ramid, 211: scale on. 461 : summer
culture. 380; indications, 438; Tower
of Glamis, 50
Apricot, branches dying, 344 ; sheds,

206
Aquatics, heat of water for stove, C3
Aralia japonica culture, 230
Araucaria Bidmlli, 242
iVibour, climbers for, 361 ; evergi-een,

210
Ai-eea pumila, 227
Arisarum vulgare, 227
Arnott's stove, 127 ; versus hot water,

79
Arpophynum,''cardinale, 166 ; gigan-

teum, 166 ; epicatum, 227
Aj'ticliokes, planting, 75 : culture of

(ilobe, 75, 228 ; Jerusalem, 75, 229
Astiaragus, 399; yalt for, 460; making
beds, 476 ; renewing bods, 494: im-
pro^'ing beds, 518; culture, 379,410,
517: cutting, 361; dyjng-oul, 441;
hastening, 476: planting. a49; shoots
grub-eaten, 494 ; all white shoots,
461; Connovcrs, 127
Asplialt walks. 419
Asnlenium myriophynum,435
Asters, culture, 249; sowing out of

doors, 380
Anouba, flowers, feitilising, 308;
leaves bl'owned, 361; male, 230;
seeds not growing, 84
u"'i.-,t-Jli>wering jilants. 210
Auricuhiy, 12i'.. 350 ; l)loom in 1872, 141 ;
culture, S67; to the front, 241: mil-
dewed, 279; at South Kensington.
9K7: in Lancashii'e, 413; selection,
2aS, 440
AviLiry. birds losing feathers, 274;
portable, 40

Azaleas, culture, 247, 3>7 ; after flower-
ing, 476; leaves browned, 270 ; pro-
pagating, 149 ; removing leaves, 441 ;
repotting, 441 : soil for, 127, 166, 170

Azores, fowls in, 363

Baildon Ornithological Society's

Show, 46, 67
Balcony decorations, 9
Balsam culture, 375
Bantams, cock, 236 ; trait of cock, 130 ;
Cochin. 132 ; eggs not forthcoming,
4r3; points in Game, 70: in gar-
dens, 110; Japanese, 309; Pekin and
China. 444
Bardney Manor. 76
Bark for bottom heat, 476
Barkeria, Skinneri, 144; spectahilis,

and elegans, 159
Barrow Poultry Show, 1P8
Barton Poultry Show, 22
Biitemania Burtii, 7
Bath and "West of England Associa-
tion, 295 ; Poultry Show, 461, 477
Bed(Ung-out season, 39G
Bedding plants, blue, 879: culture,
343 ; hardening. 268 ; potting, 24R ;
seed Bowing, 380; planting, 428;
wateiing, 476
Bedlington Poultry Show, 20,478
Bees— ants in hive, 480; apiarian ap-
pliances, 496; apiarian memoranda,
422; books on, 273; bottle-feeding,
23 ; building in glasses, 463 ; combs,
crooked, 522; combs fixing, 423 ;
deserting hives, 312: domiciles and
manaKemeut, 58, 109, 194. 215, 253;
driving, 423 ; drones slaughtered in
June. 522; dwindling, 404: dysen-
tery in Ligurians. 462 ; ekes remov-
ing, 498; felon. 365: hives, 216, 423;
another, 383; the best, 47, 109, 195.
215; and the brimstone-pit, 253;
, controversy, 131. :235; large, 329;
317; irrsus small, 383; lartjcst in
the world, 21: overturned, 154;
placing, 312; sizes of, 496: Stew-
arton, 23. 69 ; straw for, 48 ; Taylor's.
424. 444 : Woodbury, 404 ; tea chests
for. 444; and honey, 92: honey
harvest, 195 ; honey taking in
winter, 109; Lignrian. 254; in Lon-
don. 444 ; management, 194; moving
to a Greenhouse, 154; nadiring, 253,
273, 3r.5. 403, 444 : ntites. 480 ; notes
for beginners, 273: pasturage, 384;
Pettitt's apiary. 461; prizes for, 92;
purchasing, .522 ; starving colony,
saving, 235 ; Stewarton system, 09 ;
spi-ine feeding, 365, 403: stocks, in-
creasing, 153 ; large number of, 330 ;
moving, 480 ; swarming, 196 ; swarms
artificial, 522 ; swarms uniting, 195,
215; supering, SIO; taking off glass
supers, 480; transferring, 312; trap,
423. 444; waspa attacking, 480; wax
and honey, 423; winter ventilation,
423
Beet, for borders, S''8; dark-leaved
for winter garden, 186; ornamental,
83
Beetles, to destroy, 329
Begonias, failing, 149; herbacea, 471 ;

from seed. 188
Belfast Poultry Show, 521
Beltjian hnrticulture. 122. 303. 357
Eelgiiin King at horticultural p'aces,

395
Belladonna Lilies not flowering, 380
Bellis. aucubafolia, 308; rotumlifolia

carulescens. 2^3
Bignonia Pandorje not thriving, 460
Birch, common, IbC; for mixed border,
289

Birdlime, 19B

Bird diary. 432

Birds V. buds, 62, 218, 249; nests, ruids

on, 473
Birmingham Columbarian Society's

Show, 66, 9D; Philoperisteron Show,

Black beetles, 24

Bleclmum corcovadenae two-headed,

Bhckling Hall, 166

Blue-flowered plants, 105

Boiler for several houses, 844

Bones, dissolving, 17

Border flowers, 198, 241, 280, 336. 354,

372.427,451,470,488
Borrowed birds, exhibiting, 233
Botanical Locality Record Club, 359
Botanic (Royal) Society's Shows, 259,

333, 399, 467
" Botany, General System of," 341, 451
Bottle-brneh plant cultui-e, 400
Bougainvillcea, glabra culture, 150;

spectabilis culture, 442
Bouvardia, cuttings, 379 ; Vreelandii,

7
Bowenia spectabilin ftem., 7
Bowling and croquet green, 442
Brace for fowls, 24
Brachyotum confertmn. 203
Bradford Ornithological show, 109
Bradford Pigeon Show. 129. 192. 213
Brahmas, 70, 273, 329, 345. 362, 382, 420 ;
cock dying, 154 ; characteristics, 191 ;
Dark, 477 ; Light, at Crystal Palace,
18: pullets ill. 24; in pens. 40; for
conhned space, 110; mouth ulce-
rated, 216; cock's spurs. 236; Dark
and Liglit hen tumouved, 254; their
merits, 309 ; sneezing, 312 ; eggs,
414; colour of eggs, 318, 403; two-
vears-old, 366; nests, 384; meiits,
400. 401; ulcer in. 403; Liffht, plu-
mage, 424: cockerel unhealthy. 44 1
Bramble, double rose-leaved. 411
Breeders' names, deceptive use of, 109
Breeds of fowls neglected, 363
Bristol Poultry Sho w, 42
Broccoli. Cooling's, 308; from Corn-
wall, 102; dying. 518
Bromeliaceie at Liege. 224
Brosimum galactodendron, 322
Bruifmansia compost, 231
Brussels Sprouts. 231
Buckwheat for fowls, 312
Buffalo Berry, 278, 334, 429; sowiQg.

482
Bulbs, notes on some, 83
Bull's prizes offered for new plants, 38
Bumble feet, 384
Burton-on-Trent Poultry Show, 5il

Cabbages, cultdre, 246 : liouid
manure fob, 460 ; small. 248

Calceolarias, bedding, 35 ; culture,
179; herbaceous, 179; leaves injured,
491 ; plants, rearing. 372. 379

Caledonian (Royal) Horticultural So-
ciety's Show, 305

CalochortuB venustus culture, 4''.7

Camberwell Beauty butterfly, 466

Cambridge Poultry Show, 24, 48

Camnlha tub, fungus on, 4 i

Camellias, culture, 217; after flower-
jnfr,476; buds falling, 150; gi-afling,
149 : repotting. 127; seedlings flower-
ing, 269 ; for vinery wulls. 269 ; under
Vines, 40, 380; out of doors in New
Zealand, 59; from cuttings, 105;
Princess Mary, 471

Canaries, colour influenced by food,
291, 310 ; wasting nest, pairing, 312 ;
at the Crystal Palace, 214; painted.
231; insects on, 274; dressing for

CASAniRs— Continued.
exhibition, 132, 175 ; Goldfinch
mules, 154; nux-vomica for, 154;
feeding hen, 176; food for young.
404; with Bullfinch, 404; restless
hena, 404 ; pairing, 404 ; young in
aviary, 443
Canker, 42ft
Canna culture, 2S8
Cannes, gardening at, 97
Caracas chair of Botany, 223
Carica aurantiaca, 488
Carnations, culture, 517; culture of
Tree, 494; grub-eaten, 493; select,
126
Cari)et flower-bed planting, 379
Carpocapsa pomonana, 32
Carriage rotads and drives, 218, 324
Cats, teachableness, 310 ; trespassing,

476 ; Cyprus and Tabby, 48
Cauliflowers, dying, 518; forcing, 267
Cedar transplanted. 106
Celei-y, culture, 208, 268; decaying,

127 ; pricking-out, 149 ; sowing, 307
Cements, useful, 292, 311, 347
Centaurea, candidissima sowing, 127;

ragusina from seed^ 248
Cepnalotus folliculans culture, 4'0
Chalk fur fowls, 153
Chama;dorea Tepejilote, 323
Chamrerops, Fortunei, 81, 184, 202 ;

humilis, 81 ; Martiana, 101
Charcoal fumes, 40
Chater. Mr. J. J.,262
Cheltenham Canary Show, 23, 46, 91,

92
Cherry, its derivation, 412; tree gum-
med, 380; black fly on, 440; trees,
pruning, 40 ; repotting, 17
Chickens, adopted, 36a, 3S3 ; birth,
aiding, 382, 420 ; Black. 381, 384, 4^0 ;
dwindling, 424 ; dying, 479, in hatch-
ing, 366; failures, 274; leg-weak,
274; detecting sex, 366; treatment,
811
Christmas, decorations, 9; eve tem-
peratures, 62
Chrysanthemums, buds not opening,
127 ; after flowering, 105 ; culture, 4C',
459
Cinchonas, variations, 415
Cinerarias, after blooraioff, 491; cul-
ture, 248; at Royal Horticultural
Society's Show, 803
CisBus discolor leaves spotted, f99
Clay soil, improving. 494
Clematises, out of doors, 420; in pots
out of doors, 441; in greenhouse,
808 : Jackmanni propagation. 344
Clerodendrons, 481; BaUourii leafless,

10
Climate's influence over stature, 425
Climbers, for greenhouse, 248; stove

and greenhouse, 481
Coal flora, 38

Cochins, breast, 444; for confined
space, 110; (jrceting, 211; hen's vent
swollen, 498; twisted flight, 274;
Black. 82S, 362, 461, 477; Buff, 176;
Partridge, 414 ; White, 110
Cock hen-pecked, 176,286,274; ailing,

274; comb injured, 236
Cockatoo craving for meat, 235
Cockerel dying on rail, 92
Cockscombs, retarding, 493
Cocon-nut fibre for propagating, 79
Cndlin ninth. 33

Cii'Ioy^yne cristata and corrngata. 264
Colchester and Bradford Pigeon

Shows, 212
Colchester Poultry Sho-s-, 191
Coleua wintering, 476
Colours, effect of on plants, 415
Columbarian Society, New York,
382

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 17, 1873.

Comba, red, 884

Companionship of varieties affecting
offspring, 129

Composts, preparing, 308

Coneervatory, arrant'cment, 335 ;
border compost, 23a; furnishing,
454: path, edpinR, 380; lieatiny a
small, 249; plants injured, 143;
vinery, Ac, H4 ; gay in winter, 460

Convolvulua mauritanicus propagat-
ing, 518

Coops, 292

Copings, of glasB, 95 ; glazed, 143

Cordon training, 188

Cork and South of Ireland Poultry
Show, 45

Cornwall Poultry Show, 443

Coronilla glanca culture, 107

Corynocarpus Ifevigata, 41G

Corynostylis Hybantbua albiflora,
507

Cotton an ornamental plant, 100

Cotyledon mamilluris, 2C3

Couch-grass, destroying, 105

Covent Garden Market, 24. 48, 70, 92,
110, 132, 154, 176. 196, 216, 236, 254, 274,
292, 312, 330, 848, 866, 384, 404, 424, 440,
462. 480. 498, 522

Cow tree, 822

Creosoting woodwork, 262

Crocus, culture, 420; Sieberi, 393

Crooked breasts, fowl's, 498

Cropping, 268

Crowfoofr, extirpating, 149

Croydon and Oxford catalogue mis-
takes, 18

Crystal Palace, Bird Show, 174 ;
Flower Show, 408

Cucumbers, bottom heat for, 440; re-
moving blossoms, 441 ; ants iu
frames, 442; culture, 400, 493; dis-
eased, 460; failures, 385; in green-
house, 188; house, 210; insects in
house, 248; leaves spotted, 476; in
pots, 127; over hot water, 127; roots,
insect about, 289 ; seeds, 307 ;
thrips on, 344

Cultural notes, 165

Culverkeys, 248, 270, 286, 350 ; identified,
319

Cups, for points, 212; at poultry,
shows, 85

Curculigos, variegated, 36 ; recurvata
variegata, 37

Currants, cuttings, 105 ; shoots
withering, 518 ; syringing, 84

Cuttings, cocoa-nut fibre for, 476;
in greenhouse, 169

Cyclamens, after flowering, 518, 450;
culture, 71, 170, 209, 210; fertilising.
217; flowerg, 217; Mr. Little's, 263;
persicum failing, 149 ; specimens,
■^18; white, 189

Cydoniajaponica fruit, 188

Cvpripedium insignc and venustum,
264

Daffodil, the, 304
Dahlias, for beds. 288 ; culture, 170
Daisies, double. 460; on lawn, 249
Dandelion, instead of Hops, 86ti, 423;

for salads, SZ7
Dangstein, 33
Daphnes for greenhouse, 419; injured,

420
Datura Tatula and ferox culture, 17
Deaf-ears, 384

Defoliation phenomena. 920
Dendrobiums, 322 ; chrysocrepis, 7 ;

Hookerianura, 99; old growth, 308;

nobile, 264
Deutzia gracilis, and culture, 372, 379 ;

sowing, 270
Devizes Poultry and Pigeon Show, 129
Dibblea, 314

Dielytra spectabilis,440; culture, 336
Dionica muscipula culture, 400
DiospyroB, 207
Dipton Poultry Show, S47
Distresa. a case of. 486
Dogs, home for lost, &i\, 491
Dorking Poultry Show, 107
Dorkings— cock's comb, 70, wounded,

251; diseased, 498; their excellence,

382 ; pullets drooping, 522 ; pullets

dving, 176; unhealthy, 24; filver

Grey. 421 ; judging Silver-Grey, 18,

ISO; White, for 8buwiug,329
Dover Poultry Show, 290
Downie &. Co.'s show of plants, 260
Dracienas, australis, 163 ; indivisa and

lineata.8; red-spidered, 44i
Dragon Flies, 4U
Drainage of land, 51 ; depth of drains,

63
Draining boggy soils, 98, 166
Drake, diseabcd, 196; feeding, 92;

Rouen's bill, 92
Dublin Poultry Show, 346, 4O0
Ducklings, fattening, 424; hen with,

236
Ducks, eggs, fertility, 254, 402 ; keeping,

480
Dumpies, 330
Dundee Poultry Show, 18

Earth's temperature, 396
Ecbeverias, metaltica leggy, 288; pro-
pagating, 494 ; soil, 440
Edgings, hardy plants for, 331, 351
Edinbui'gh Botanical Gardens, 5

Egg-plant fi-uit, 189

Egg-eating fowls, 153, 175, 345. 400;
producing fowls. 110, 893 ; 424 ; and
their management, 48

Eggs— consumption and importation
of, 87, 829; shell-less. 132, 234, 522,
329 : fertilised, 811 ; indications of
fortihty, 274; preserving, 24; pre-
venting shell-less. 70; imported. 87;
preventing hatchinp,92; earthy-fla-
voured, 92 ; selling by weight. 864 ;
yolkle83,S66; not true, 444; soft, 196;
pullet's deformed, 13; unproductive,
462; double-chicked, 477,522; hens
drnpxiing, 479: addled. 479; more
chicks than, 480; testing incubat-
ing, 522

Eglantine, 288

Egyptian vegetation and gardening,
224

EUeanthus xanthocoraus, 203

Elm. 3C8 : plant under, 361 ; Wych, 494

Elshani Poultry Show, 20

Endive blanching, 247, 287

Entomological Society's meetings, 102,
204,306.410,516

Epidendrum vitellinum and memo-
rale. 264

Epipbvllum culture, 380

Epworth Poultry Show, 401

Eranthemum pulchellum culture, 94

Erica codonodes for winter flowering,
124 ; hyemalis culture, 189

Eriobotrva japonica culture,150

Ervthrina Crista-galli, 327

Fiscalloniamacrantha and culture. 510

Eucharis amazonica, culture, 64, 337 ;
bulbs rotted, 440

Euphorbia jacquiniEEfolia culture,
177

Evening musings, 163, 183, 266, 385, 445

EverlastiuK flowers, 396

Exhibited fowls, claiming, 19S

Fakesham PouLTRy Show, 151

Farm, fowls for, 153

Feathers, promoting growth. 366; re-
movine stumps. 292; split, 176

Ferns, for case. 420; in case- 441;
for hanging baskets. 170; compost
f©r, 270 ; and Fern culture, 155 ; for
the dinner-table, 435: house for
heating, 380; shrivelled. 460

" Ferns and Lveopods," 435

Fig, blossom, 149; culture, 399; prun-
ing. 361

Filbert, trees, caterpillars on, 170 ;
planting and training, 62

Fittonia culture, 189

Floral charity, 487

Flower bods, preparing. 440

Flowers, and fevers, 339 ; buying to
exhibit, 263 ; changing colour of, 511 ;
growing for sale, 419

Flue, changing. 150 ; faulty, 440 ; heat-
inc beds. &c., 63

Food, wholesome, 176

ForciTiET, by natural heat, 245; pre-
cautions, 15

Fountain Plant, 397

Fowls— crooked breasted. 111: neG-
lected breeds, 345 : for confined
apace. 110; liver diseased, 274; for
exhibition, 132, 176: feather-eaters
and elpphantiased, 336 ; feeding. 182 ;
home-keeping, 154 ; keeping for table,
480; moulting, 132: parentace. 132;
past and present, 327.381; egg-pro-
duction, 110 : tarred plaster floor for,
4'<; unwell, 311

Francisoea propagation, 210

Frevcinetia Banksii, 323

Frost, rnvering from, 147 ; sevei'e, 410,
415.436

" Fruit culture under glass," 243

Fruit— dressing borders, 248; crops
of 1872, 27. 76; culture. 425: packing,
339; room arrangement, 270; trees,
barren. 281, blossoming, 379, culture
of bush and pvrainidal, 275, on
heavy soil, 317. for light soil, 476.
in pots. 249, potted, 268, pruning
time. 211. pyramidal. 447, pyramid
and bush, 817, fruiting of seedUng,
selection, 170

Fuchsias, culture. 248; for market,
476; for September, 419; variegated.
380 : turning green, 380 ; Lu&tre for
pillars, 299

Fuel. 237; cheap, 227. 279; economy,
1G4: wood for. 279,288

Fumigating, 418 ; a greenhouse aviary,
399

Funeral flowers in New York, 371

Fungi, parasitic, 457

Game cocks, codraqe, 235; defiance,
231; diseased, 175; dubbing, 196; of
the fighting and showing periods,
271

Gander, distinguishing. 348

Gapes, 360, 404; cause, &c., 495; in
chickens, 330

Garden arrangements, 63

Gardener, regular and professed, 39?

Gardeners' Benevolent Institution
anniversary, 378

Ga'dening for ladies, 395

Gardening in the West, 471. 483, 613

Gas, boiler for conaer\-atory, 102;
tar on trees, 518

Geese, for profit, 70 ; Embden or Bre-
men, 329

Gentiana verna culture, 440

Geraniums—for bedding, HI: scarlet
for bedding. 126; leaves spotted, 150;
cuttines, 169; potting, 169 ; hybridis-
ing, 170; leaves browned, 230; for
pots, 211; new. 300; notes on, 465;
losing leaves, 476; propagating, 494;
several on one stem, 63 ; wintering
and managing bedding. Sit shoots
drawn, 380; Mrs. Pollock, 494 ; Jean
Sisley, 288

German paste, 154

Gennantown Horticultural Society,
President's address, 376

Ghent, International Horticultural
Show at, 281. 378

Gilliflowers, 169; Mrs. Ives' book on,
142

Ginger flowering, 2C9

Gipsy motli, 457

Gladiolus, 279 ; culture and showing,
508 ; in pots, 170 ; pronunciation, 241,
260 ; and wii'eworms, 465

" Gladiolus, the." 221

Glass, case, 120; coloured, influence
of, 457 : houses, plants for back and
roof, 255 : roofs, 202; weight of, 149

Glaseow Poultry Show, 443

Glastonbury Thorn, 40

Glazed house, uses of, 189

Glazing, double, 211

Gleichenia speluncfe culture, 270

Glendinning fund, 518

Gloriosas and their culture, 489

Gnats, 318

Godwin's Peach house and vineries,
452

Gooseberry, caterpillars, 477 : cuttings,
105; shoots shortening, 518; trees,
syringing, 84

Goose s'itting twice, 424

Gordius aquations. 519

Grammanthes gentianoidea and cul-
ture, 488

Grapes— Black not colouring, 127 ;
diseased, 476; keeping, 849; late,
893; preserving, 420; rusted, 399;
shanked, 410; spotted, 343, 441;
higher temperature for late, 120;
thinning, 518; Golden Champion, 467,
515; Gros Cohnan, 97, 211; Lady
Downe's not ripening, 303; wasps
and the Madrestield. 473; Muscats
in late house, 380 ; Mrs. Pince v.
Lady Downe's, 410. See Vines.

Greenhouse, altering, 170; and hall
heating, 16 ; converting to vinery,
16 ; omamental-foliaged plants, 63,
327 ; pipinc for, 63 ; plants for, 83. 249,
308,374,476: and vinery, 83 ; heating
small, 81; heating, 344, 494; remov-
ing, 419; beating rcmoveable, 444;
spring-flowering plants, 440; shad-
ing for, 308; temperatures, 230; ven-
tilation, 494

Greyia Sutherlandi, 471

Guinea-fowls laying away, 312

Guinea pigs, 252; for food, 865

Habrothamnus, culture, 189;fa3-
cicolatds culture. 28)

Hamale's, M. F. de Cannart d', man-
sion, 873

Hamburgh, cock's legs weak, 24 ; fowls
for layiutr, 444 ; in limited space, 254;
points of Spangled, 132 ; Golden-
pencilled, 196

Hampers, reform of. 400

Hampton Court Gardens, Superin-
tendent, 20T

" Handbook of Hardy Trees," &c., 204

Hanging baskets, plants for, 170

Hanley Poultry Show, 174, 191, 212,
251, 271 ; third prize for fancy Ducks,
231

Hants and Berks Poultry Show, 251,
519

Hardy flowers, notes on, 377

Hatching, artificially. 273, 480; fail-
ures, 366 ; irregular, 309, 829, 348

Hawk moihs, 261

Heating, 148, 237: by hot water, 103,
249 : from scullery boiler, 63

Heaths, scented, 344

Hebrides, seeds for, 841

Heckmondwike Poultry Show, 20

Hedges, cutting-down, 210

Hemp V. moths, 473

Hens— for one cock, 312 ; distinguish-
ing from pullets, 254: egg-eaiing
preventing, 365 ; indefatigable, 864;
intestines protruding, 176; laying
uniiiatcd, 424: not laying. 196;
layinc away, 312; movmg sitting,
3S4; old and j'oung,236; not sitting,
424; trtspaasing, 4u3

Herbaceous plants, summer-flower-
ing, 106

Herbury, Ihe, 276

Huxhani Poultry Show, 45, 64

Hippeastrum raaculatum culture, 1S9

Hoes and boemg, 368

Hollingworth Lake Poultry Show. 478

Hollyhocks, quick-blooming, 230 ;
select, 83

Hollv lea ves variegated, 248

Honeysuckle, fruiting Japanese, 26

Hooker. Dr.. to be P.R.S., 187

Horse Chestnut seedline, 361

Horseradish planting, 75

Horses, protecting trees from, 295

Horticultural (Roval) Society— Annual
General Meeting, 102, 184, 156 ; Bath
Show, 835, 410, 428, 467,471,473,483,
500; plan, &c., of ground and tent.
387; Committee Meetings and
Shows, 3, 52, 140, 201. 239, 278, 316,
370, 409, 486, 449 ; cultural notes on
plants exhibited at, 217; Council,
113,161,200, 242, 334; crisis, 2(J0; in-
capability of, 277; examination of
gardeners, 78; Horal Committee
trials, 395 : future of, 181 ; Report of
Council, 134, of Chiswick Board of
Direction. 138; Special Meetings,
256,279,295; statement of accounts,
139

Hotbed making and managing, 78

Hothouse shelving, 800

Houdans' combs and plumage, 24;
egffs' colour, 236

Houses, wood ]'. iron, 248

Hoya camosa, repotting, 250

Hnmeas dying, 327

Hyacinths— in border. 419; for exhi-
bition, 3 Jl ; failing, 127 ; after flower-
ing, 149, in glasses, 827; forced
blooming again, 808; flowers the
second season, 240; roots decayed,
16; at South Kensington, 263; sup-
ports, 277

Hybridity, imperfect, 185

Hypoxis longifolia, 393

IBERISES, QIBRALTARICA, 393, 407 J
HARDY. 483

Indian timber and fancy woods, 5ll
Indigenous plants soil-inaicators,

437
Insects, beautiful and useful, 205,261,
317, 411, 4G6; destruction of, 457;
some predatory, 31. 115
Iporoiea HorsfalliK, 73
Iresine Herbstii flowering, 827
Iris fffitidissima varienata, 432 ; ibericft
Perryana. 203 ; reticulata culture,
440 ; suBiana and reticulata not flow-
ering, 289
Irritabihty of plants, 513
Italian Rye-grass, sowing, 380
Ivv, planting, 494; variegated, culture,

210
Ixia culture, 189

Japan, letters from, 469. 485. 509
Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural

Snow, 606
Judas tree, 476
Judges of poultry shows, 127

Kales at Cuiswick, report on, 73

Kalosanthes browned, 17

Karaka tree and nuts, 416

Kendal Poultry Show. 64

Kent Poultry show, 65

Kew, Gardens, Dr. Hooker's Report,
46S. 487: Museum, 124

Kidney Beans, failing, 494; forcing,
40

Kioto (Japan) Exhibition, 469

Kirkcaldy Pnultry Show, 65

Kirkcudbrightahire Poultry Show. 21

Kitchen— boiler, 105, heating from,
105, 169; garden, cropping, 25, ex-
tent needed, 267, management, 71,
sowinffs, 307; vegetables, eleciion,
95, forcing, 168, supply, 209

Labels, and tallies, 184 ; exui-

BITION, 231

Laburnum flowers two colours, 460

Lady-birda, 319

Liehas, 323; Jonghiana,471

Lagerstrcemias and theii culture, 920

Lamps, heating by, 211

LapaKcria, failing, 476; propagation,
61, 506

LarLX Krempferi, 285

Laurustinus, transplanting, 301

Lawn, Clover for, 283; coarse grass
on, 440; dressing, S27 ; improving,
269 ; improving croquet, 64 ; seeUH
for, 289

Lnwson Seed Cempany, 88

Laying, promoting, 176

Leaves, skeletonihintr, 110, 518

Leeds Horticultural Show, 483

Legs, weakness of in fowls, 479 ; fowls
pecking, 48i)

Leicester Poultry Show, 23

Leucadendron areenteura, 183

Lewes Poultry Show, 22, 40, 69 ; judg-
ing. 86

Liebig, Baron J. Von, 310, 393

Lilies, Japan, culture, 308

Lilium, auratum i\ flies, 841 ; concidor,
7 ; lancifolium planting, 17 ; parthe-
neion, 277 ; trigiinum Lishmanni,
92

Lime-kiln, heating by. 376

Limewash. stone-coloured, 63

Linaria heterophylla, 471

Linden's Ghent Nursery, 122, 357

Liparis dispar, 457

Lisbon Botanical Garden, 115

Liviatonas, 85: chinensis. 36

Lobelia, belhdifoUa sowing, 270; pu-
mila grandiflorp, 113, 202; speciosa
culture, 248

July 17, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HOETICDLTUBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

Lontlesboronch's, Lord, garden at

Ooombe, 11)7
Lurantlms eiiropffius at Glasnevin, 118
Lowestoft Poultry Show, 107
Lucerne sowing. 380
Lugga^'e delined, 110
Lycaate Skimieri and Harrisonice, 186

Malays, 151, 172; at Bristol Show,
85

Maldon Poultry Show. 496

Mauchester Poultry Show, 19

Mandrake. 2G9

Manettia bicolor. 73

Manley Hall plant sale, 223, S56

Market Rardeiiprs, prizes for. 407

Market gardens' chargeability to tithe,
S9G

Markets, 24, 48, 70, 92, lin, 132, 154, 176,
196, 216, 2Sfi. 254. 274, 292, 312, 830, 348,
a66. 884, 404, 424, 440, 462,460, 498, 522

Masdevfllliaa, 358, 415

Maxillaria venusta and luteo-alba, 222

Meadow land overmown, 149

Medical botany lecturoH, 341

Mediuilla mannifica culture, 150,285;
flowerleBs, 808

MeluuB— for second crop, 441 ; and Cu-
cumber ■ house management, 493;
culture. 105 ; diseased, 460 : dying o£f,
439 ; flowers, impregnating, 476 ;
in greenhouse, 210; lining bed, 149;
treatment on ridges, 149

Merenaera Altchisoni, 99

Mesembryanthemum cordifolium sow-
ing, 127

Messenger's works burned, 7

Mice, 314

Microscopic Society at Horticultural
Show, 76

Mignonette, box, 189 ; culture, 294 ;
failing, 519

Mildness of the season, 28, 88

Millom and Bronghton Poultry Show,
46

"Miniature Fruit Garden," 878

Mitchell, of Piltdown Nurseries, 454

Moisture, condensed in gteenhoases,
161

Moles, in garden, 475; Belgian trap,
890

Monstera deliciosa and culture, 59

Moss on fruit treea, 289, 803

Mulberry propagation, 442

Mushrooms, bed, dung for, 419 ; in Cu-
cumber house, 106 ; in greenhouse,
127,169; for pickling 110

Mutisia llicif olia, 99

Myosotis disBitiflora, culture, 899; at
Christmas, 420; for forcing, 301;
seeding, 8tj8

Naues, bome old, 99, 142
Nantwich Poultry Show, 154
Nectarine blosBoms falling, 308
Kenthead Poultry Show, 87
Newcastle-on-Tyne Pigeon Show, 67,

89,92
New South Wales Horticultural Show,

SOI
New Zealand forests, 386
Nice, flora of, 3
Nidularium spectabile, 227
Northampton Poultry Show, 129, 281
North British Columharian Show, S8
Noatrils, fowl's, disordered, 498
Nurserymen's greenhouses, rating, 40

OiZBf British, 144, 283; prdnino

NEWLY-PLANTED, 16

Odontoglossums, 447 ; tripudians, 328 ;

vexillarium. 394.471
Onions, weeding bed, 419; best, 84;

thick-necked. 380 ; tree. 211
Oranges, for dessert, 94 ; culture, 94;

and Lemons imported, 78 ; tree, 380 ;

tree scale, 439
Orchard-house, doings, 398; heating.

170; management, 418, 439, 475;

notes on, i!38. 247, 250; plan, 63;

routine, 493, 517 ; trees, painting,

834,353; and vinery. 170
Orchids, for amateurs, 116, 143, 166,

186. 222, 264, 322, 358, 415, 419, 447, 699 ;

at Ferniehurst, 28 ; house lor, 270 ;

sales, 187, 207, 223, 359. 487 ; winter

blooming. 82
Ormskirk Show, 88
Otley Poultry Show, 402
Oxalis, crenata, 105; cernua culture,

198; sweetmeat, 70
Ox-eye Daisy in meadows, 460
Oxygen from rootlets, 392
Oyster shells for fowls 128

Faosino plants for export, 491

Pffionies. herbaceous and culture, 18S ;
protecting Tree, 106

Paint, white, 366

Painting trees, 322

Paisley Ornithological Society's Show,
44

Palings, varnishing, 248

Pampas Grass, culture, 289; from
seed, 84

Pancratium maritimum planting, 17

Fanaies, fertilisation, 512 ; lists of,
432; new, 96; soil for, 19i winter-
ing, 494

Parraquets, egg-eating. 92; manage-
montof Austi'alian, 422; sex detect-
ing, 812

Parrot, cntarrhed, 132 ; disordered,
884: feeding, 424; Helf-plucking, 92

Passiflora, for greenhouwe, 288; prin-
cepa, 72

Passion-flower, cuttingdown, 230 ; pot-
ting, 308

Paul's, Mr. W., Roses, 341

Peaches— aphis, 210, 361; blossoms
falling, 308; double-blossomed, 308;
blossoms, setting. 169; thinning
blossoms, 211; border concreting,
17; border making, 441; early, 379;
house and vinery, 440; leaves blis-
tered, 42t; leaves dropping, 899 ; not
setting, 229. 230 ; trees apparently
diseased. 84. scale on, 105, pruning
in cool house. 149; in pots. 270;
weevils on, 401; Early Ascot, 99;
Princess of Wales. 471

Peafowl's eggs, hatching, 176

p. ars-cankered, 189; not setting,
844; shrivelling, 16; pruning py-
ramid, 106; repotting, 17; summer
culture, 380 ; training, 17 ; unfruitful,
84, 361 ; Duchease d'AngouU-me, 26;
Red Doyenne on wall, 380

Peas— for August, 269 ; eaten by slugs
and sparrow3.361 ; liquidmanure for,
861; range of rows, 519; selection of,
217; sticking. 418. early, 860; for
succession, 475. 492; varieties of,
269; Emerald Gem, 96; Japan, 102 ;
Magnum Bonum, 84

Peat fuel, 262, 270

Pelargoniums— Bicolor and Tricolor
for bedding, 249 ; not flowering, 440 ;
and Geranium diPtinction, 127 ; and
Geraniums, 518 ; June-flowering, 189 ;
leaves, diseased, 380, spotted, 476;
for miirket, 476 ; pruning. 519 ; select,
343, show. 519; for September, 419;
for showing and decoration, 426;
white-leaved. 440; White Clipper,
397; Zonal, 519

Pentstemon speciosum and culture,
451

Perennials, hardy, 490; from seed,
293

Perilla nanklnensia. dwarfing, 288

Peristeronic (National) Society's
Show, 90,110, 153

Perry, ISIr. C. J., 837

Persimmon, 207

Pewits in a garden, 248

Pbajus Blumei, var. Beraaysii, 393

Pheasants.with Bantams and Pigeons,
176 ; and Game fowl crosses, 884 ;
food for young, 444

Pbilodendron rubens,227

Phlox Drummondi, raising, 83 ; sow-
ing, 231

Phylloxera vastatrix, 31,207

Picea Nordmanniana unhealthy, 460

Pjcotees, Mrs. Hornby and Mrs. Ford-
ham, 227 ; new, 371 ; select, 126

Pigeons- Antwerps, homing, 70, Long-
faced. 236. points, 292; Barb's eye-
cere red, 182: Birmingham Society,
284; old books on, 424; breeds to
keep, 916: having, 216; canker in
Mottled Tumblers. 330; Carriers,
236, in Belgium, lf8, eyes watering,
48, and Short-faced tournament, \9'i ;
challenge, 291 ; diseased, 236 ; brown-
barred Dragoons. 498; at Dublin
Show. 272. 289. 864, 365; in Egypt,
234 ; intruding, 810 ; Jacobins, sex of,
49S, swollen, 254; Judges, 479; King
of Oude'a flying, 213; Kite Tumbler,
176; marking young, 424; mating
for colour, 312 ; neglect of high-
class. 89; nesting not laying, 404;
Pari'ot-beaked, 366 ; point cups, 402 ;
Pouters, 291. at Bradford and North-
ampton, 252 ; Tumblers, highest-
flying. 292, Mottled, 210,234,252,272,
291 ; at shows, limiting value of,
234, 272, 289, 479, 480 ; sore-footed,
498

Pine Apples— culture, 13, 459 ; history
and culture in England, 56 ; imports,
153; prematurely flowering. 33; re-
potting. 898; suckers, potting, 477;
Black Prince. 315 ; Prince Albert, 162,
850; Prince Albert or Alfred, 218;
Black Prince and King Alfred, 451 ;
Green-fleshed. 288

Pinks, charcoal for, 230

Pipes, expansion, running over, 63 ;
paint for hot-water, 16. 83 : hot-water,
211; packing hot-water, 249

Piping for hot water required, 127

Pit, forcing, 270

Planks for gardens, 97

Plant protfictors, 515

Planting, 62, 313; oniamental, 405, 433,
464, 499

Platycerium grande from spores, 210

Plumbago, capensls, dying, 880, stop-
ping, 327 ; coccinea superba culture.

Plums, falling, 441 ; pruning, 40; scale

on, 461
Poinaettias, after flowering, 230 ; pul-

oherrima cuttings, 327
Pollen, protecting, 473 ; effect of

strange on fruit, 510
Polyanthus culture, 202
"Pomona," 485

Poplar Heeding, 269

Portsmouth Poultry Show, 173 ; Orni-
thological Show. 193

Potash in plants, 415

Potatoes— disease, pamphlets on, 855 ;
diseased, 16, 60. 825, 506, 519 ; another
disease. 313, 331; earthing-up, 460;
in frames, 512 ; new foreign, 305;
imported, 78, 187 ; keeping, 16 ; plant-
ing, 284, ©n meadow land, 64; prize
essays on, 106 ; for succession, 492 ;
philosophy of culture, 819, 331 ;
wintered in the soil, 284 ; Paterson's
Victoria, 99,113

Pots, soil shrinking. 288

Potting soil, grubs in, 518

Poultry — instructive classes, 400;
cruelty punished. 251 ; standard
characteristics. 191; crooked-breast-
ed. 110; exhibiting single birds, 421 ;
exhibition, 171 ; exhibitors at shows,
362; feeding. 216, 271; in field, 70;
fleas in house, 462; food, 403; do
they hurt grass, 444 ; portable house,
40; imports, 365; judges. 172, judges
and reports, 250 ; keeping. 154, ex-
tensively, 403, in small space, 70;
management, 176; package reform,
461; past and present, 442; in 1872,
17, 85, 128. 171 ; plucking, 40, 158 ;
profits, 19>, 233; rearing, 274; run,
254, 312 ; show reforms, 271, 809, 328,
361, 382, 420; shows and showing,
344

Primrose, Abyssinian, 822; German
name, 808 ; Violet Gem, 893, 399

Primulas, culture, 441 ; denticulata
and erosa Fortunei, 269 ; after flower-
ing, 230 ; japonica, 894 ; propagation,
440; seed germination, 894; japo-
nica seedlings, 289; Sieboldi var,
lilacina, 456

Propagating cases, 269

Protecting, 300; pits and frames,
188

Pruning, 61 ; Plums, &c., 16

Pullets disordered, 154

Rabbits— BARKING trees, 170 ; doe
cannibal, 70 ; dung-eating, 404 ;
French and Flemish, 348; fur com-
ing off, 424 ; sale of, 479; at North-
ampton, 252 ; Ostend and Patago-
nian, 273; South London Show, 163

Railway charges, 129

" Rain. Distribution of," 473

Rainfall, 31, 33, 35, 79 ; in 1872, 55, 56,
12S

Ramie Grass, 119

Ranunculus culture, 189

Raspberries, autumn, not fruiting,
24*) ; insect in canes, 381 ; suckers,
379 ; training, 61

Rating nurserymen's glazed stmo-
tures, 183

Eats, catching, 848; in fowl house,
254; securing bulbs from. 270

Rattling in cock's threat. 329

Rhamnus Frangula. 149. 179

Rhododendrons, after flowering, 327 ;
choice greenhouse, 180, 199, 220;
greenhouse, 419; hardy, list and ar-
rangement, 95 ; leaves browned. 361 ;
pi-uning, 494 ; soil for, 170 ; Waterer's
and Lane's, 468; wmter-flowering,
77

Rhubarb, culture, 229 ; planting, 75

Rhynchanthera graudiflora, 99

Ribes albidum. 354

Ring Doves, 196

Rock plants from seed, 476

Rood Ashton, 513

Rooks, scaring, 441

Roosting, age of, 462

Root house, 39

Roses— bark-eaten, 519 : box for show-
ing, 288 : budding on Cabbage Rose,
494 ; buds failing, 440 ; at Calcot, 427 ;
climbing dwarf, 518; in cold frame,
460 ; culture, 425 ; dark, 16 ; diseased,
7; edges, 53; election, 8, 28, 34, 52,
162; forcing, 218; fungi, orange and
black, 269 ; grafting, 149 ; insects on,
442; layering, 27o ; raising from
layers, 114 ; leaves brown-spotted,
475; Manetti stocks for, 230; manu-
ring, 442 ; mildewed, 327 : sulphate
of iron for, 343 ; new, 315 ; at South
Kensington. 387, 350; in the north,
142; old and new, 375; out of doors,
399 ; W. Paul's Show, 371 : for pillars.
127; planting rosery, 169; pot cul-
ture, 405, 476; propagating, 518;
pruning, 63, 84; pyramid, 230; red
climbing. 210; at Royal Horticul-
tural Society's Show, 300; selection,
112,202,442,482; for September, 419;
shoots fasciated, 441; soil for, 84;
bad soil for. 465; at South Kensing-
ton, 876, 390; spots on leaves, 170;
syringing, 420; Tea, 189; Tea and
Hybrid Perpctuals competing, 288 ;
not thriving, 361 ; for towns, 219, 209 ;
Bessie Johnson, 887 ; Ctline Fores-
tier, 74 ; Charles Lawson, 8; Gloire
de Dijon, 26, .'^3, 73, 74; La France,
7, 78, 198, 200; Marcchal Niel, 26,
508, culture, 315, in greenhouse, 420 ;
Marit' Baumann, 165, 183 ; Mrs.
Rivers, 227; Oriflamme,83

Roup, camphor for, 444

Roupy fowls, 176

Rye-grass, sowing, 477

St. Helena aEEDLiNoa, 399

Salading, ^vinter, 287

Salt for kitchen garden, 188

Salvia diehroa, 7

Sand, bro\vn v. white, 105

Scarifier, garden, 338

Sciadopitys verticillata, 285

Scurf on combs. 498

Seacoast, trees for, 40

Sea-kale, blanching. 188 ; decayed, 63 ;
culture. 229; planting, 75

Sea sand for fowls, 236

Seaton Burn Poultry Show, 251

Scdum dasyphyllum vnr. glanduli-
ferum, 323

Seedlings, raising tender, 209

Seed-sowing in greenhouse, 169

Seeds, preserving from mice, &c., 407 ;
retaining vitality, 210, 396; sowiug
small, 228

Selandria a^tliiops, 484

Selkirk Poultry Show, 87

Sempervivums, soil, 44'J

September-flowering plants, 248

Sewage, clarified and unclarifled, 224

Shading, 287

Shallots decaying, 248

Shelters for plants, 213

Shepherdia argentea, 278, 334 ; and
Ruscus, why barren, 873

Shrubs, large, 16; planting, 49

Silkies' characteristics, 154

Single birds, exhibiting, 519

" Six of Spades," 10. 54

Sleeping rooms, plants in, 509

Slimy grub or slug-worm, 484

Slugs, destroying, 170

Smcirinthus TihiE and Populi, 261

Smilax in America, 124

Smith's, Lady, centenary, 398

Snow, as a protection, 162 ; bulk of
water, 396; sheltering, 233

Snowdrops failing, 270

Soot as a manure, 242

Sophronitis grandiflora, 509

Southampton Poultry Show, 86

Southernwood, 269

Sowing, 813

Spanish, cock's face, 48, dressing, 48 ;
excessive, 110, scabbed, 444, swollen,
866 ; hen losing feathers, 329 ; partly
featherless, 216 ; pullets with Dork-
ing cock, 48; and Minorca fowls,
408

Sphinx Convolvuli, 261

Spring flowerers, sowing, 494

Spruce Fir and its failui-e, 406

Staking trees, 83

Stephanotis floribunda fmit, 62

Stocks, culture, 249 ; in early summer,
189 ; Ten-week, damping-off, 476

Stokeholes. 104; flooded, 440

Stone hole ornamenting, 288

Stone pathways, cleaning, 148

Stove and greenhouse, 289

Stoves, Arnott's, 53 ; heating by, 104 ;
without chimney, 127

Strattieldsaye, 225, 244

Strawberry — blighted, 518; culture,
288; forcing, 161, 229. plants for, 95,
10^, 140; picking, 487; plants in
vinery, 230; sticking, 517; storing,
50; a late wanted, 102 ; John Powell,
143

Stygmaphyllon ciliatmn, 481

Sunflowers for fuel, 162

Table decorations, 50, 75, 96, 1C5, 113,

487
Table glasses, flowers for, 250
Tacsonias, 481 ; Van-Volxemi, 476
Tally, Gorrie ground-fast, 140
Teachers of culture, 393
Temperatures, low night in hothouses,

223
Tenant's claim for improvements, 249
Tenthredo adumbrata {.Tthiops), 464
Terrace foiTning, 114
Thinning border flowers, 474
Thome Poultry Show, 52j
Th^rngrove, 79
Thorns, propagating on, 380
ThripB Adonidum, 116
Thyrsacanthus rutilans and cultui'e,

413
Tithe rentcharge on market gardens,

815
Todea superba culture, 460
Torcnia asiatica and culture, 211
Torrey. Dr., 3,3
Tortoise's habits, 48
Transplanting, 813 ; trees at night,

396
Trees, age of, 486; composition for

painting, 63 ; overshadowing a

neighbour's land, 149 ; plants for

stumps, 64 : protecting from horaes,

249; removing lar^e, 89,429; shrubs

under, 17 ; spring flowers under, 361

wind-bont. 473
Trenched ground not fertile, 169
Trichopilia suavis, 509
Trimming, 291. 810
Tropaiolum, tubers shootless, 230;

speciosum, 470
Tropical vegetation, 38
Tuberose culture, 270
Tulip, sweet-scented, 470
Tumours, in fowls, 175; on hens, 286
Turfing in winter, 126
Turkeys, cocks. 408; feeding young,

480; laying away, 812

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ July 17, 1873.

ULVER8TON CaSAUT SHOW, 181

Utriculnria montana culture, 3S3
Uvaria Kirbii, 7

Valveb, throttle, 211

Vanessa .Antiopa. 466

VaDosaa' butterflies. 411

Vegt'tablea, early, 4ri9

Veitcli Memorial, 223; prizes, 2G3, 3 3;
fruit prizes, 87

Veniilatinp, 343

Verbenas, for beds, 288 ; culture. 292

Vieona Exhibition, 162, 322, 892, 415

Villa garden arrangement, 843

Vinery, constructinc. 385; erecting.
If G ; Kreenhouae, 389; uses of late,
17 : planting back wall, 170; venti-
lating, 460; wiring, 166

Vines— air-roots on, 249; borders,
drainage for inanurinjr. 270. making,
8S.">, 411. r>lH, and culture, 4t5; break-
ing irregularly, 380 ; buds eaten,
aitO ; for cool conservatory. 230 ;
disease, 72, 165, 880; drcsfling. 189;
fertilising blossoms, 5 7 ; with
llowers. 289; forcing. 178. 418. in
p.its after. 16; failing. 170, 361;
crafting. 76, 150 ; taking inti> green-
house, 2Cil; Hamburgh unfruitful.

493; in pots, 263. in house, S43;
leaves, decayed. 289, diseased. 380 ;
inaching, 16; malformed, 270; before
planting. 399 ; pincbing laterals, 494 ;
planting, 106 ; potted not breaking,
170; pruning, 106, 249; red-apidered,
84 : Koyal Vineyard, 5 j7 ; shoots
dead, 441; starting. 210. 211; Syrian,
880; tliinnintr leaves, 269; training,
83 ; treatment, 150, of young, 289,358 ;
i unfruitful, 231; unhealthy, 460; un-
productive, 519; watering, 344, 899;
weevils on, 461. See Grajyra.
! Viola comuta culture, 399
i Violas, hybrid, for bedding, 96

Violets, culture of Russian, 210; Vic-
toria regin9,212,265

Vowels, the value of one. 131

Vriesia brachystachys, 99

Vulture hocks, 191

Wages, effect of increased. 415
Walks, concrete and aspbalt, 269
Wallflowers, propagating, 460
Walls, for fruit trees, 327 ; painting to

nrevent insects 211
Walsall Poultrv Show, i63
Washing, a fowl, 3G3; plants, &c., 89
Watercress, 14

Waterers' Rhododendrons, 873

Water for greenhouse plants, 289

Watering pot, French, 446

Watermg, contrivances, 429; with
sprinc water, 270

Watford Poultry Show, 41

Waverley Poultry Show, 173

Weather, S53

Weeds, destroying, 827

Week, work for. 14 38, 60. 82. UB, 124,
147, 167, 1H7, 208, 228. 246, 267, 286. ilOG,
326, 342, 359, 378, 397, 417, 438. 45S. 474,
491,516; doings of last, 15.32,61,82.
104. 125, 147, 1G8, 188, 208. 228, 246, 167,
287. 307, 342, 360, 379, 398, 418, 439, 459,
475,492,517

Wells, decorating, 457

Wheat, Mummy, 344; poisoned, 381

Whitbv Poultry Show, 21

White flowers, 446

Whitehaven Poultry Show, lOG

Whitewashing, greenhouse roof, 270;
tinting, 343

WildfowJ, pinioning, 131

Willow cultings for Australia. 344

Wimbledon Horticultural Society, 3o9

Windows, plants for north, 81

Wines, British, 150

Wing-feathers twisted, 110

Winter Crcas, 419

Winter-flowering plants, 72, 110

Wire fencing. 5G; training to, 494

Wireworms, 230

Wiring, for walls, galvanised, 75
walla. 53

Wishaw Ornithological Society, 43

Witley Court, 11

Wolverhampton Poultry Show, ISO

Woodlice and weeds, 4.87 ; in Mush-
room beds. E19

Wood-ripening, 119

Wood, strentrtli of. 39G

Wormcasts un lawns, 119

Worms, hair-like, 519

XlPHtON HISTEIO, ;

Yams, 62

Year, the old to the new. 1
Yorkshire Gala, 512 ; Bird Show. 521
Yuccas, culture, 164; fruiting ii
Europe, 179

Zamiocclcas BOIVINIT, SCS
Zigzag gas boiler, IC'.)
Zingiber Parishii. 203
Zos'.orop3 lateralis, 121

WOODCUTS.

PAGE

Apiary appliances •'. 497

Apricot slieds 2u6

Araucaria imbricata at Piltdown 454

Asplcnium myriophyllum 485

Avinry, Crook's Octagon 41

Barkeria elegans 159

„ Skinneri 144

Bath, Victoria Park entrance 472

„ ground plan of Royal Horticultural So-
ciety's show ground, and section of grand

tent 388, ^89

Bee-hive, new 883

„ trap 423

Bevel for slupea 114

BlickliiigHall 1((7

Boilir, zigzag conservatory 102

Calochortus venustus 427

Cambenvell Beauty 466

Carica aurantiaca 488

Carpueapsa pomonana 32

Chamierops arborescens 101

„ humilis Hi

Coccinella septempunctata 319

Conservatory, Lloyd's 45.1

, . stage 835

Convolvulus Sphinx 261

Coping, glazed 143

„ Parham's glass 95

Cnrynoatylis Hybanthusalbiflora 5(17

Ciitton, Cuba Vme KO

Cnrculigo recurvata variegata 37

Dcndrobium nobile palhdiflorum 264

„ speciosuni 323

Deutzia gracilis 872

Dibble, double :(14

pot : 314

Potato 814

Dielytra specfabilis 336

Dinner-table flower stand 435

DracR'na au&tralia .. .., )C3

„ indiviaa 8

PAGE

DracTua lineata 8

Draining, modes of 98

Jiragon-fly larva and imago 412

Escallonia macvantha 510

Gapes and the remedy 330

Gnat's eyes, tongue, and antennie; 318

„ emerging S18

Gordius aquaticus 519

Grafting, bottle 77

Grammanthes gcntianoides 489

Guernsey prong 369

Habrothainnus fasciculatus 280

HawkMotbB 260, 261

Hen coops 292

Uoe, adjustable 868

„ crane-necked 368

„ drag 369

„ draw S6S

„ draw-and-thi-ust 369

„ drill....: SG9

„ Guei-nsey 869

„ Prussian double-edged 8G9

„ scuffle 369

Hyacintli support 27'7

Level, Bpiiit 114

Liebig 894

Livistona chinenais 86

Lycaste Skinneri 186

Masdevallia tuvarensis 415

„ Vcitchiana 358

Maxillaria venusta 222

Mignonette box 1H9

Malineij, M. de Cannart d'Hamalc's grande

serre, lake, and Magnolia 374

Mitchell. Mr 4H

Mole-trap. Belgian 39ll

Nepii cinerea 412

Now South Wales Horticultural Society's Ex-
hibition B03

NotonK-ta glnuca 412

Oak, tbe Pansimnger l45

PAGE

Oak, gueen Elizabeth's ..; 284

OdontogloBSum Alexandra 418

vexillarium 395

Oxalis cemua 198

Pentstemon speciosum 452

Pine Apple, presentation of first English to 140

Charles II 53

Plant case, ornamental 120

„ tally, Gorrie's 140

Planting, ornamental 434

Poultry House. Crook's Portable 41

Protector, wall-tree and plant 515

Rat trap 84S

Ribes aibidum 354

Rood Ashton 514

Scarifier, garden 888

Smorinthus Populi 261

TiliiB 260, 261

Sphinx Convolvuli 2C1

,. Currant 51S

Stra tfieldsaye 220

,. Cedars 245

Tenthredo adumbrata 484, 485

Thorngrove SJ

Thrips Adonidum 1 16

Thyrsacautlius rutilans 414

Toreuiu aaiatica , 241 ■

Trees, protecting from horses 295

„ removing large »91

Trichopilia suavis 6 2

Tropfeolum specioaum 470

Vanessa Antiopa 4GG

Vine excrescence and prub 165

Vinirii-^, large 4r>X

Vi.ilct. Vic tuiia Regina 265

VuItiin-lt.Mk 191

Wiitcriiig pota and engines 430,431, iA'i

Wire suspension winder 56

., twisted cable fencing r>6

Willey Court 12

Zost crops lateralis 120

Feljraary 6, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OF HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

Ill

WEEKLY CALENDAR.

Day

Day 1

ot ot 1

Month

Week.

B

Th

7

P

S

S

9

SCN

10

M

11

TO

12

W

From ol

Sl.a'. Theg

FEBEUAEY 6—12, 1878.

Dr. Prioatlcy diod, 1804.
Twilight ends 6.11 P.M.
Half Quarter day.
Septuagesuia.

[Meeting, 3 p.m.

Koyal Hoi-ticultural Society, Annual General

Koyal Horticultural Society, Fruit, Floral, and

[General Meeting.

Average Tempera- Rain in
ture near London. 13 yeara.

Day.

46.5
46.9
45.0
45..S
44.9
44.5
44.9

Night., Mean.
32.6 39."

83.0
82.0
31.6
30.1
29.8
29.6

89.9
38.8
38.4
37.5
87.2
87.2

Daya.
21
24
22
17
10
19
16

Sun
Hiues.

h.
32al7

Snn
Seta.

m. b.
57af4

Moon
Rises.

m. h.
27 11
atter.

Moon
Sets.

■^K'- ' sun. Year,

Daya,
9
10
11
12
13
14
O

m. B.

14 22

14 25

14 28

14 29

14 30

14 30

14 29

L18RAR

Day(>JEW YOl

OTANIC
3^ luAKDEI

38
39
40
41

42
43

From ohserrations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week i.'i 45.2' ; and its night temperature
.2'. The greatest heat was 65°, on the 10th, 1831 ; and the lowest cold 3° below zero, on the 11th, 1845. The gieatest faU of rain was 0.52 inch.

GEEANIUMS FOR BEDDING-OUT.— No. 1.

MUST apologise for liaving been so long in
sending you notes on bedding Geraniums,
wliich I promised some time ago, but I have
been very much occupied, and last season
was so unfavourable for the trial of Gera-
niums that I have not much that is new
to add.

I will begin my remarks with the darker
kinds of ciimsons.

The best of the old kinds with me were
again Walthani Seedling and Bayard, both of which will
be so well known now as to need no description. "Wal-
thani Seedling has now stood the test of a great many
seasons, and though the truss is not so large, nor the
head so bright as in Bayard, yet the stiffness of its ilower-
stalk and its dwarf even growth will always insure it a
place in.'all gardens. Bayard has a finer truss, but it is
apt to straggle, and in a wet season the hea\'y heads of
flower are often beaten down. Douglas Pearson, another
of the same strain, proved better able to withstand the
weather than Bayard ; it has a fine truss, dwarf and com-
pact growth, and short ilower-stalk. Duke of Devonshne
(Pearson), which in 1871 made one of the finest beds I
ever saw, was not so successful this year, owing to the
wet ; it has, however, one of the finest trusses imaginable.
Moor of Venice (Downie, Laml, & Laing), is much of the
same type of colour as tlie last — deep crimson ; it has a
very fine truss, but did not bloom very freely.

Bonfire (W. Paul) and Vesta (W. Paul), bright scarlet
crimson, I class together as being very nearly equal in
point of merit. Vesta I believe to be a seedling from
Waltham Seedling, but a brighter colour, and rather
larger truss. Bonfire has a smaller truss, but a larger
flower. Both are exceedingly good, and Bonfire seems
to stand wet weather better than most Geraniums. The
nest one I name. Star of Fu-e (Downie, Laird, & Laing),
is one of Mr. Laing's most promising seedlings, brighter
in colour than either of the last, one of the brightest and
most tilling colours yet introduced into the garden — a
bright scarlet without any shade of yellow, and there-
fore, perhaps, more properly classed among the crimson
scarlets. Its only faultis that the flower-stalk is too long.
It is a good grower, though not coarse, and is admirable
for fan-sized beds or for middle rows in a ribbon border.
It flowered freely with me last year (1872), in spite of the
season.

This includes aU the good crimsons and crimson scarlets
that I bedded-out ; those of which I had only a few for
trial I will mention later on.

Of crimsons, I have discarded Crimson King, which,
though of remarkably fine colour, gi'ows too coarse in
leaf, and will not flower sufficiently with me ; and Glory
of Waltham, which I have seen very good elsewhere, but
which has not fine-enough trusses here.

I nest come to the section of scarlets, which includes
those that have a tendency to yellow in the scarlet, like
the type of the old Tom Thumb, Little David, &e. With

No. 619.— Vm,. XXIV., New Sbeiei.

me the best is Sobieski. What its parentage is I do not
know ; I obtained it from Mr. Pearson, who had it sent
to him from a friend as a match for Bayard in another
eolotu-. I fancy it is a seedhng from Sutton's Perfection,
which was itself an improved type of Tom Thumb, but
it is far superior to the old Tom Thumb — a good truss,
pure colour, and fi'ee bloomer. After giving Vesuvius
another trial, I have finally determined to discard it. I
am aware I seem to be in a minority about it, as every-
one is inclined to praise it. It is, no doubt, a free bloomer,
of strong hardy constitution, and is good for those who
pay no attention to then- Geraniums diu-ing the winter
months ; but the trusses are poor, always small, with
very few flowers out at a time, and it has a common look
about. I am obliged to own I have seen it at times
looking very well, but it has never pleased me for long
together, and no one who has been round my garden
these last two years ever asked me for cuttings from it,
and this is rather a crucial test. Glow is another one
which I do not intend to grow again, though I consider
it superior to the latter, and a very good pot plant. The
leaf, however, is coarse, and unless the season is very
favourable it is hardly worth gi-owing. Lady G. Gros-
venor is stiU a favourite with me ; though the flower-stalk
is rather too long and weak, stiU the colour is undeniably
bright and good, and the truss fine, and there is hardly
any bed so good when at its best. Cybister I have dis-
carded as being nearly ahke in point of colom- to the last,
and not so good a habit. The nest I shall name is Charley
Casbon, which quite realised last year aU I expected
from it. It is a very dwarf gi-ower and free-flowerer, and
must bo planted rather nearer than most Geraniums. It
is a good match for Violet Hdl in point of habit of growth,
though the flower-stalk, if anything, is rather too short,
but this is a fault on the right side. I am much mistaken,
however, if this do not become a great favourite with
those who like a dwarf compact bed. The nest two I
name are Godfrey and Grand Duke, which are more
light red, perhaps, than scarlet ; they are much the same
in point of colour. Godfrey has too long a footstalk,
though a good bloomer. Grand Duke is one of the best
Nosegays, very fine truss, with large individual flowers,
after the style of Le Grand and Eclat, but a better
bedder.

The nest section will be the cerise with a violet tinge, as
Violet Hill, Amy Hogg, Dr. Hogg, Ai-thiu- Pearson,_and
Lady Kirkland. I still adhere to my old friend Violet
Hill, and I have not found it suffer from weather as some
have done ; it requires, however, good treatment, and will
not stand rough usage. No bed ilowered so continuously
or so freely again with me last year, though some of the
plants had been gi'own in a stove in the spring to in-
crease my stock and to get some young plants (spring-
struck) for edging a border. The next best to Violet Hill,
though of much stronger growth, is Arthur Pearson, an
improvement on Amy Hogg, with a larger truss and
firmer footstalk. Dr. Hogg and Darius (W. Paul), I class
together ; both are beautiful in point of tint, especially in
autumn. Dr. Hogg is apt to drop its petals too much in
No. 1271.— Vol. XLI^. Old Serjei.

112

JOUKNAL OP HOKTICDLTURE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEK.

t Febrnai7 6, 1873

hot' sunny weather. Both are free-Ubomers. Dr. Hogg has
rather more of aTiolet tinge, ami Djirius has, perhaps, the larger
truss with the better footstalk. Lady Kirkland is also a fine-
blooming variety, with a large truss ; the footstalk, however, is
too weak for wet weather. It has, however, the desideratum of
not seeding so freely as many of this colour do.

I will next take tiie pinks, of which there are many shades
of colour from deep pink to light rose. The best and brightest
pink was Pink Queen (Dowuie, Laird, it Laing), another very
promisin- seedling of Mr. Laing's, free-blooming in spite of
the weather, with a very fine truss on a stiff though rather too
long a stalk. It is of very healthy growth, and robust without
being coarse ; it is fine for large beds, and may be made suitable
for small beds with proper care. Though a seedling of Mr.
Pearson's, Miss Eose Peach, which I shall refer to when I come
to Mr. Pearson's seedlings, will take its place for small beds.
Maid of Kent has again merited the encomiums Mr. Luck-
hurst passed upon it ; a bright pink, not so deep a colour as
the last, not so large a head, but more compact, and a free
bloomer, which stands the weather well. The third I select —
Eose Eendatler, a light rose pink, large truss, stiff habit, with
freedom of blooming, is known to all ; it is best from old cut-
back plants. Countess of Eosslyn has done well with me, but
will be rather too delicate a habit for many. It is light rose,
somewhat similar in colour to Eose Eendatler, but more dwarf
in habit.

I discard the following: — Blue Bell, Dante, Pink Perfection,
and Ne Plus Ultra. Blue Bell is a very poor colour for distant
effect, and does not bloom freely enough with me.

There are one or two other old favourites I have not named,
as Indian Yellow and Eebecca, which are difficult to classify in
point of colour, but which are always useful for variety's sake
in a garden.

Whites are still a desideratum ; all equally turn pink, and
nearly all are so much the same as Madame Vaueher that
there there is hardly any practical difference between them,
though The Bride, if it flowered more freely, seems less inclined
to change colour in the sun. I care, however, less about
whites, as the colour is supplied in the white-leaved section.

Amongst others that I have not named is one — Charles
Dickens — which I had great hopes of the year before last,
which has grievously disappointed me last season, and from
what I have seen of it both in pots and beds I am afraid it wiU
never bloom freely on young growth. Avocat Gambetta, a
Preuch seedling, a red crimson, did very well, and I advise
those who have it to give it an extended trial. Phrebus and
Sunlight (Laing), did not stand the wet, no more did the
Eev. J. Wolley (Pearson) ; these seem to require a dry, warm
season.

I will defer my notes on trial sorts to a second communica-
tion.— C. P. Peach.

STOEING STRAWBERRY PLANTS FOR FORCING.

As Mr. Eecord invites discussion on this subject, I will
describe the system of culture adopted here, and add a few
remarks on what I have seen at other places. In the first
place, we are all agreed on one point — namely, that everybody's
great aim is success, and gardeners, like doctors, differ ; one
believes in this system, and another adheres as closely to that.
Still, is it not wonderful that two men directly opposed in
opinion produce equally good results ?

I will now state the way in which I prepared nearly two
thousand plants for forcing during the past autumn. I will
not occupy space with any lengthened details as to soil,
potting, Ac. The young runners were layered in the usual
way early in June, and as soon as they were sufficiently rooted
they were at once transferred into C-inch pots. Black Prince
into 5-inch pots. I do not believe in large pots for early
forcing. When the plants had become established after their
shift, they were placed on a south border on a good hard
bottom of coal ashes ; they were liberally supplied with water
when required, but owing to the almost incessant rains of the
autumn I had artificial staging erected in cool Peach houses,
and thither they were taken to finish the ripening process, in
batches as room could bo afforded ; and lastly, they were taken
to shallow earth pits, to be protected from frost and rain for
the winter, their roots neither wet nor dry. With us it is
considered an error to allow the roots to become paralysed
through excessive dryness ; and the opposite extreme, with
roots confined in a small pot and at rest, must be equally in.
jurious. I agree with Mr. Eecord in almost all he says, but

would strongly recommend protection by glass in an autumn
like the past, either taking the plants to the glass or the glass
to the plants. Climate is worthy of study in Strawberry-
forcing, as in all other things, and what we want to imitate is
a fine autumn for ripening wood. During the past autumn we
did not enjoy this advantage, and we must endeavour to
imitate Nature in her more favourable days. May wo not
learn a lesson about storing from the plantations outside ? The
plants rest on a cool moist bottom, with a little protection to
the crowns ; but I think that in the climate of this place it
would be a great error to expose Strawberry plants in pots to
the rainfall of the past autumn or the present winter. The
plants are here kept as oool as possible, only protected against
frost and rain.

I am much interested in Strawberry-forcing, and would like
to see the subject handled in aU its details by Mr. Eecord or
other equally eminent gardeners. I believe that there are
more failures in forcing the Strawberry than in that of any
other fruit ; but at the same time I can state on undoubted
authority that excellent crops of forced Strawberries have
been produced from the gardens whence I write when the plants
were prepared on the old system of drying-ofl and winter-
stacking. I have seen six hundred Strawberries forced at one
place, and not a single dish of fruit as a return for all the
trouble ; it was early, and the season anything but favourable.
I can well remember when, after three months' hunger and
thirst, they were once more brought to the light ; after a good
soaking or two of water they were placed in a low damp pit
previously prepared for their reception, and a rather high tem-
perature was maintained. When the plants were in flower
they were never once exposed to the sun, and my own con-
viction is that the cause of failure was a too moist atmosphere.
Had a little air been judiciously given, and the fingers run
along the flowers to disseminate the pollen, a fair crop might
have been the result. The pit being low and shaded, and little
or no air given, the flowers when expanded must have been con-
tinually drizzled with condensed moisture : hence the failure
in setting. Another cause of failure may be very fairly attri-
buted to the sudden change from obscure imprisonment, cold,
and darkness, to the East Indian climate of an early vinery
without any previous preparation. My own plan is to start as
many plants as possible in the early Peach house, where very
little fire heat is used ; eveiy blink of sun is taken advantage
of. In the absence of a proper Strawberry house great caution
should be used in forcing the Strawberry until the fruit is set.
When all danger is past, of course thinning the fruit, attention
in watering, and a rather cool dry atmosphere to finish ripen-
ing, are essential points. But where large quantities are to
be forced, I hope to see the day when employers will perceive
that it is to their own advantage to erect proper houses for the
early culture of so favourite a fruit. — The Gabdhnbr, Roby
Hall, Livfrjiool.

SELECTION OF ROSES.

My opinion of Gloire de Dijon and La France is exactly the
same as Mr. Cant'.«, published in this Journal (page 73). La
France is a capital grower, very hardy, and with fine foliage ;
but here (Dorset) it does not bloom freely. It presents a
slovenly appearance, and is a bad foul-weather Eose. I have
had for four years a capital plant of it, but not more than one
bloom per annum has been good. It is probably too cold and
bleak for it here.

An Mr. Eyre asks the opinion of growers with respect to the
growth of Marie Baumann — a very beautiful Bose — I give
my experience of it. It is neither " vigorous " nor " robust."
It is a very bad grower. I had twenty-one plants several years
ago, not one of the plants has grown well. I threw away
seven of them last autumn, and put two plants in a pot in my
vinery, in hopes of striking it on its own roots. The others
are bad plants. By the side of them Gloire de Dijon, Charles
Lefebvre, and Due de Cazes throw shoots from 4 to C feet in
length. I saw a whole line of this Eose at the Dorset nurse-
ries two years ago ; the growth of the whole line was wretched.

The lists of the "electors" do them credit. Instead of
Marie Baumann I recommend Marie Eady, a good grower, of
erect habit, and first-rate. Instead of Madame Augusta Ver-
dier read Madame Eugenie Verdier, fresh rose colour or rosy
carmine. I had it at Eushton some years ago.

There are six Eoses that might be selected as the best for
all purposes : Charles Lefebvre, Gloire de Dijon, Celine Fores-
tier, Triomphe de Eennes, Souvenir de la Malmaisou, and

February G, 1873. ]

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

113

Sombreiiil. I had fifty full-sized blooms of " old snob " out
on one tree early in the spring, thirty of the blooms looked as
if the edges of the petals had been dipped in blood. It was
reaUy a fine sight. The best bloom in the year of the Inter-
national Exhibition at Kensington (1866) was Mr. Moflatt'a
globular specimen of " old snob." — W. F. R.U)CLyyFS.

TABLE DECORATIONS.

I AM very glad " D.," of Deal, has again taken up the cudgels
^^ersus holes in tables for dinner decorations ; and though I
know he is quite able to hold his own, yet, perhaps, he will
mot mind my backing him up. The admirers of the system
■say that tablecloths can be ii-oned and folded so as not to show
■the joint. I confess I have never yet seen it so managed ; and
.even at Birmingham, with the dim light of the gas, the folds
in the tablecloths were most apparent.

The fault of most decorations, as a rule, is they are over-
done with foUage, especially Ferns and Palms. Fronds of the
Ferns are constantly merely laid on the table, or stuck into
dishes or under plates, when an hour or so of the heat of gas
or of the ordinary heat of the room in summer would wither
them up. The art of table decoration seems to me — to make
"the most you can of a few flowers, to be careful about the
harmony of colouring, to make each individual flower show its
•own beauty ; I mean, not to let one flower crowd another, so
as to injure its neighbour. I do not object myself to high-
scented flowers so long as they are not too overpowering, as a
Lilium auratum or some Hyacinths ; for though with the present
system of diners a la Eusse we are not so much victims to the
smell of highly-sauced dishes, still flowers helji much to dissi-
pate or overcome the smell of dinner. One canon of good
'taste ought never to be broken, and that is, that the floral
•decorations should not prevent the guests seeing each other,
and the table should never look as if it were intended to carry
the decorations, rather than the flowers being accessories to
•the fruit and dessert. Multitudes of Ferns and Palms will not
make up for a paucity of fruit, and sometimes beautiful Or-
•chids and choice stove flowers only help to point out the
meagreness of the dessert.

Although I know some wiU still continue to advocate letting
pots into the tables, and introducing miniature fountains and
gold fish, and other incongruities, still I am pretty certain
* that the common sense of the British public will not take it
Kp, and I have never heard of its being done yet, except at
public dinners, where deal boards are not, perhaps, so much
out of place, and at exhibitions for the sake of novelty. As a
rule, plants in pots are only makeshifts, and to save the trouble
of making-up suitable vases and glasses of cut flowers, which
are, in point of fact, the only legitimate decorations in a floral
point of view admissible on a dining-room table or on the
drawing-room. An especially beautiful Orchid or well-trained
and well-bloomed plant is, no doubt, a pleasing variety, but
there is no artistic taste displayed in the arrangement ; the
merit is due to the grower, not to the arranger. — C. P. P.

BOTAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S COUNCIL.
I AM very glad to see that one who signs himself " A Vebt
Old F.R.H.S.," has written a protest against the nominees of
the Council to fill the places of the retiring members. No one
can have the least doubt that Major Trevor Clarke is a most
fit person to be on the CouneU, and, if the other names pro-
posed had been as good, no one would have hesitated to have
supported them. I do not wish to enter into the individual
merits of the two noble Lords who are asked to lend their
names to the Royal Horticultural Society ; we are certainly
indebted to Lord Londesborough, or to his gardener, Mr. Den-
ning, for the beautiful Orchids which from time to time are
sent to grace the exhibitions of the Society. But it is high
time that something be done to have practical horticulture re-
presented on the Board. At all the provincial meetings of the
Society, all but a few members of the CouncU have been con-
spicuous by their absence. No care is taken to interest the
working bees of the gardening world, and I have heard both
just and deep complaints of the apparent indifference of the
Society to the welfare of the gardening community. I hope,
therefore, all who think with " A Very Old P.R.H.S.," that
practical horticulture ought to be represented on the Board,
will return their voting papers, erasing the names of Lord
Londesborough and Lord A. Churchill, and putting into their
placee the names of the Rev. S. R. Hole and Mr. B. S. Williams,

who may very deservedly be selected to represent gardening
interests. If no one else of higher standing in the horticul-
tural world can be found to propose them, it is my intention
to do so ; and I hope all who have the interest of horticulture
at heart will step forward to break down the present rule, by
which the Council dictate to the rest of the Fellows who are to
be appointed to sit at the same board with them to represent
the whole Society. I need not enter upon any account of the
merits of the candidates to be proposed. The Rev. S. R.
Hole has been too long known by the horticultural world as an
able florist, a genial and accomplished writer, and a true
friend of gardeners, to need any recommendation from me ;
and as no society of men has done so much for horticulture as
the leading nurserymen of London, so one who represents
their interests ought to have a seat on the Council. If the
Fellows of the Society who cannot be present will take the
trouble to record their votes for these two candidates, together
with Major Trevor Clarke, we may at last have some chance of
practical horticulture having a voice in the Royal Horticul-
tural Society. — C. P. Piach.

The mode of election of the Council of the Boyal Horticul-
tural Society reminds me very much of the old select vestries,
who elected and re-elected themselves. For some years past
the same persons seem to go out one year and go in the next,
the changes being rung on a very small peal indeed. How
often has Mr. Bateman, for instance, been off and on during
the last ten years, just as if there was no other person sufii-
ciently quaUfied for the office, and his presence was so neces-
sary to the well-being of the Society. It is high time that the
Fellows began to look a little more sharply into the constitu-
tion and management of the Society. Things have been a
little too pleasant for the last few years, and the FeUows have
been lulled into a state of false security. I hope that at next
meeting there will be a little more interest manifested, and a
little fresh blood infused— blood that wUl be vivifying as well
as noble, and not noble unless vivifying. If I did not live so
far from the seat of the Society's operations I would raise my
voice, at the next annual meeting, against a system which has
become prevalent of late of packing the Councils — I can call it
by no other name — by gentlemen being nominated for the
office who take no part in the Society's affairs, and who seem
to regard themselves only as objects of ornament and not of
DBefulnesB.— Anothbb Old Fellow.

PATERSON'S VICTORIA POTATO.

I CAS quite corroborate the testimony of "D., Deal," as to
the merits of this Potato. I grew it the last season side by
side with Dalmahoys, Red-skinned Flourballs, Lapstones, and
Rintoul's Early White Don; and certainly for crop, freedom
from disease, and evenness of size, the Victoria far surpassed
the others, followed, however, closely by the Red-skinned. The
quality was superb : I think I never saw Potatoes boU more
white and mealy, nor tasted them better flavoured. Although
the Red-skinned Flourball has many good qualities, I do not
like it for eating, as it always boils close and firm, with a
rather earthy flavour on this soil. The order in which I place
the above Potatoes is, Victoria decidedly first in all points ;
Dalmahoy and Early White Don nearly equal second; Red-
skinned Flourball fourth ; and Lapstone decidedly last. —
D. P., Middlesex.

LOBELIA PUMILA GRANDIFLORA.

Where tested, what impression has this Uttle beauty formed
on the minds and flower gardens of your readers ? Lobelias
not being in demand with me, I have been unable to give it a
trial. I certainly will take an early opportunity of doing so,
as I was very much taken with its appearance on visiting Mr.
Turner's Royal Nurseries, Slough, during the summer of 1871 ;
there its charming appearance surpassed that of all other
LobeUas. Returning to Scotland, I have never since been
gratified with a glimpse of my captivator. From its aspect
as seen there I fancy it would be most suitable to introduce
for variation amongst carpeting subjects. Though I believe,
with the partisans of fashion it is now quite illegitimate to
combine flower and foUage plants, yet this, with its very dwarf
compact habit and profusion of exquisite little bright blue
blooms, would harmonise well in conjunction with the Alter-
nantheras. Golden Feather PjT-ethrum, &c. Apart from this,
its compact growth would to a great extent exempt it from

114

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Febrnaiy 6, 1873.

damage through rain, and therefore prove a valuable substi-
tute for such as Lobelia speciosa, Treutham Blue, Quicksilver,
and others, which, with few exceptions, soon become straggling
in growth and faded in bloom, especially in such a wet season
as the past. — J. M. C.

EAISING EOSE TEEES FEOJI LAYEES.

A FAVOURITE Rose of mine is Gloire de Dijon. We have no
other Rose that blooms so freely except Wm. La Mark [Noisette
Lamarque ?] . Last year these two Roses bloomed from the
1st of May until Christmas, and I never wish to look on finer
blooms. Our land is rich and loamy, which is in their favour ;
and I grow them from layers like Carnations, as I find they
and the rest of the best Roses succeed in this way a great deal
better than they do on the Briar.

This system I can recommend with confidence to all lovers
of Roses'for two or three reasons. They can be kept as low as
Geraniums, or they can be trained up to a standard to any
height by cutting the under shoots. They wiU hve much
longer, blossom more profusely, and there is no trouble with
the suckers from the wild Briar as there is with the other
standards. — William Gaik, Dibden Lodijc, Southampton.

FOEMIKG A TEEEACE.

The formation of a terrace is, in its principal details, a work
of line and rule — that is to say, it is a geometrical operation,
and is, or should be, carried out strictly in accordance with the
rules of geometry. A knowledge of this fact tends very much
to simplify the work, especially in its earliest stages. Laying
down right lines so as to impart proportions suitable to the
position and in keeping with the most prominent features near
the site, whether they be natural or artificial, is perhaps the most
important fundamental law affecting this work. The effect of a
noble building standing upon a well-made terrace is stately
and chaste. The two form one grand harmonious whole, from
which no part may be taken without affecting the remainder,
for there is nothing irregular or out of place, but each part
bears a relative value to the others. It is very important that
there should be no incongruity in the situation of a terrace as
regards its natural surroundings. Along the face of the steepest
dechvity or gentle slope it is equally in its right place, but it
is not so when situated upon flat or low-lying ground, where it
loses all its dignity, and becomes in reality what the dictionaries
say it is, " a small mound or raised walk."

it is hardly possible to lay down arbitrary laws or rules for
such work, there being in almost every instance local circum-
stances and features which must be dealt with solely on their
own merits. In this paper, therefore, I shall not attempt to
enter mnch into minute details, but strive rather to set forth
clearly such generahties as are most likely to occur in every
case.

A terrace may be defined as a ledge or horizontal surface
projecting from the side of a hill or slope. Having selected
the site, attention is immediately given to obtaining soil where-
with the work may be best carried out. This is a primary con-
sideration of much importance, for the simple reason that the
cost of the work depends in a great measure upon its nearness
to the site, and the facility or otherwise with which it may be
obtained. There are two ways by which soil is usually to be
had — the one by taking it from the slope along the back of the
terrace, and casting ;t forward till the front is extended to the
required width, and the other by utilising the soil excavated
for the cellars and foundations of a newly-built mansion. In
the latter instance the material is usually so dead and in-
fertile, that it can only be used to form a solid foundation for
a layer of better soil in which the roots of turf, shrubs, and
plants will flourish. To avoid any vexatious settling of the
soil after the final dressing of the work, it should be pressed
together as closely as possible, for which reason I very much
prefer horses and'carts to wheelbarrows, taking care to make
the loaded carts pass as near as is safe to the outer edge of the
terrace, where the greatest depth of soil is, and where, therefore,
there is most risk of a subsequent settlement. From 9 to
12 inches of rich soil are requisite for the surface-dressing.
In advising this I am aware that a rich soil for the turf of or-
namental grounds is often objected to, on the score of its
tendency to promote rapid and rank growth. The proper use
of a mowing machine will correct all this, and I would rather
have to mow three times a-week than see the large patches of
parched turf that so often disfigure the best-kept lawns in
Etumncr,

The whole of the slopes should be of a uniform angle of 30°|
and the soil must of course be dressed to this angle before the
turf is laid. The most expeditious way of doing this is to let
the work spring from the upper or inner edge of the terrace,
iov if that is first made square and true, the bevel can be
apphed with equal certainty along its entire length. Fig. Lis

Fig. 1.

a sketch of a very useful bevel ; it has a spirit leviel'
let into the upper side of the top bar. The figures
denote the degrees, and by removing the peg at A
Ihe instrument can readily be set to the reqnireci
angle by moving the top bar up or down. Fip. 2 is
another useful instrument, in every way superior to
the old plumb level ; the spirit level is let into the
top under the handle. iSy it " dead " levels or
trifling gradients can be taken with the greatest
facility. The graduating pegs a and b have no pins,
but are made to fit tight, so that a sUght blow is
required to force them up or down.

If the terrace is a wide one it should not be pre-
cisely level, but should have an almost imperceptible
outward gradient of about a quarter of an inch in a
foot to carry off rain water quickly. In small ter-
races the proportion of width to length may be as
1 to 2, but in largo works a greater width may safely be ven-
tured upon. It is always more satisfactory to make the level
surface too wide rather than too narrow. Nothing can appear
worse than a building of even moderate pretensions standing
upon a very narrow terrace, whereby all sense of dignity and
repose is lost.

Fig- 2.

A certain air of formality'always prevails about a terrace.
This, however, may be so modified as not to be offensive.
Chaste simplicity is not an incompatible feature in such a
scene, but is desirable; and to effect which, flower-beds of simple
outline and graceful form, a few Conifers, and vases or groups
of statuary dispersed and yet arranged in definite order so as
to maintain a rightful balance, are all that is necessary.
Clipped hedges, very comphcated geometrical designs, or a
superabundance of costly architectural embellishment, are to be
voided, the aim being to avoid tameness or insipidity on the

rebraaiy 6, 187;

JOUKiJAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

ir.5

one hand, and undue pretension or vulgarity on the otber.-
Edwakd Lcckhcijst.

LISBON BOTANICAL GAEDEN.

Aboct a mile and a half or two miles from the heart of the
city of Lisbon, on high ground, is the Botanical Garden. The
garden consists of two terraces, one above the other. The
lower terrace contains nothing remarkable except a group of
Date Palms (Phoenix dactyUfera) , one of which is about 45 feet
high, which are now in various stages of flower and fruit. On
the upper terrace are two glass houses, but in bad repair, and
apparently not containing anything remarkable. But growing
in the open air is a splendid specimen of the Dragon Tree
■(Dracaena Draco) , with a perfectly circular head of foliage, which
must be 36 yards at least in circumference, whilst the stem is
about 16 feet in circumference. The tree was covered with the
dried remains of its fruit. Aloe arborescens is plentiful in the
garden, and indeed all over Lisbon, and is now in flower.
Also growing in the open air are Musa paradisiaca, Ficus
elastica. Euphorbia neriifolia. There is a nice series of plants
classified according to their natural orders, the Aloes and Cac-
tuses being weU represented ; but the whole garden has been
allowed to fall into neglect, and presents a dreary appearance,
being overrun by weeds, and most of the beds are nearly
choked. It is intended to abandon the garden as a botanical
one, and remove as many plants as possible to the garden
attached to the new Polytechnic School, but it is to be hoped
that the Draciena will not be neglected. The flora generally
which one meets with in Lisbon is most remarkable ; Aus-
tralian and Brazihan Acacias abound in all the gardens, and
thrive and become large trees. There is quite a rage for
Eucalypti, which are said to grow as much as 14 feet in height
here in a single year. They are to be seen everywhere, and
3ome species are at present in blossom. At Embia, in the
neighbourhood. Tree Ferns grow in the open air ; and in the
grounds of the king's palace, besides Chamaerops and Phcenix
dactyUfera, which are common in gardens about the town,
-Jnbffia spectabilis and the SeycheUe double Cocoa-nut Palm,
Xodoicea. — H. N. Moselet. — (Xature.)

SOME PKEDATOET INSECTS OP OUR
GAEDENS.— No. 40.

I VEXTCr.E to commence this article with a bit of criticism.
A rather celebrated Americm divine makes the following re-
mark, at which I open my eyes as I read : " Gardeners know
that fumigations of tobacco are inadequate devices for getting
rid of aphides that cluster on plants. The truest remedy for
these things is to make the plant outgrow them. Give it
nourishment, so that it shaU grow faster than they can take
possession of it, and its growth will deliver it from all insect
invasion." Then follows a moral lesson appended to the illus-
tration, which lesson is true enough, though I question the
horticultural assertion, which seems to be one of those hasty
generalisations which very able men are sometimes betrayed
into. However it may be in certain instances, it is a mistake
to suppose that, as a rule, weak and unhealthy plants are the
Tesort of destructive or injurious insects. The particular
group named (aphides) are often found on vigorous plants and
shrubs, and " fumigations," &c., are not so bad as remedies
after all.

Fern-culture is a branch of the science of gardening carried
■on with great effect, and regarded with much interest in the
present day, being pursued both out of doors and under cover.
Even the common Brake Fern (Pteris aquihna), so familiar to
the stroUer upon heath or common, is sometimes used with
effect, mingled with others of the tribe, to give a picturesque
aspect to the rockery or artificial hill. This species is the
resort of certain caterpillars of the Lepidopterous order, and
these, I have no doubt, would most of them devour the leaves
of nearly-allied species. I think it was in 1866 that the cater-
pillar of the Broom Moth (Hadena Pisi) swarmed upon the
Brake growing about London, and the dealers in insects were
plagued with persons who brought them bags full of these
creatures, and expected payment for them as curiosities. For,
though taking its name from the Broom, in Britain the species
seems to prefer this Fern as its food plant. The caterpillar
is undeniably handsome, being striped as follows : — First, a
ibroadish oUve-green stripe down the back, which is freckled
vnth black points, then on each side of this a narrower stripe
of yellow ; beyond this comes another stripe of olive green,

also marked ■with black, and then another narrow stripe half
white half yellow ; the legs, claspers, and head are pale green.
These are generally to be found feeding in August, and upon
the first alai-m they quit the twigs and fall to the earth.
When I first discovered these I took them to be the caterpillars
of the Aster Shark (Cucullia Asteris), a much scarcer species,
to which they have some resemblance, but my swans turned
out to be geese ! The moth is on the wing in .June, and it
belongs to that division of the Hadense which have no dark
streak from the base of the forewings, nor a pale blotch on the
costa. From H. oleracea, which it closely resembles, H. Pisi
is distinguished hy ha'viug a transverse waved yellow line
parallel with the hind margin of the forewings, and spreading
into a blotch at the angle ; in some examples this line is
lighter in colour ; this generally accompanies a deeper shade
of brown, ordinary specimens having the gi'ound colour reddish
brown.

Another pretty little moth which has been found on several
species of Fern, and which in gardens occasionally feeds on a
variety of low-growing plants, is that designated the Smjill
Angle-Shades (Euplexia lucipara). In the perfect insect the
abdomen is conspicuously crested ; the forewings toothed at
their edges, of a greyish rosy hue, crossed by a deep brown,
almost black baud, in which the renal spot shines conspicu-
ously. This moth is less variable than are many others of the
NoctUi'E section. The caterpUlar occurs throughout the sum-
mer, but more towards its close ; I have rarely found it feed-
ing in the daytime. In appearance it is very velvety, ■with a
shght hump on the twelfth segment, the head small and shin-
ing ; the colour is some shade of green, sprinkled over -with
a few white points ; on the back are darker markings, which
are said sometimes to form a series of lines V-shaped, but
which for the most part are indistinct. The adult caterpillar
enters the earth to become a pupa, this state lasting through
the winter and spring. Like the preceding moth (H. Pisi),
this species is much commoner some seasons than it is in
others.

With the imago of another species attached to the Brake I
am well acquainted. The caterpUlar I have not observed ; it
seems to be distributed throughout England. This moth is
the Brown Silver-line (Panagra petraria), taking its EugUsh
name from characteristic hues which cross the pale brown of
the forewings ; the hiudwings are greyish white, with apecuUar
glossiness. The caterpiUars of this species are " loopers,"
having only four claspers ; they are stated to be of an oUve
green above, which shades off into white towards the spiracles;
across the white portion runs a series of chocolate Unes, whUe
from head to tail are other and darker Unes. The moths sit
with expanded wings upon the fronds of the Brake in May
and June ; I have also seen them take considerable flights in
the daytime', contrary to the usual habit of moths. The
caterpillars are reported to occur in May ; if so, it must be at
the commencement of the mouth, and they would injure the
young fronds were they numerous.

On some exotic Ferns Acari have been found rather nume-
rously ; on their economy, however, I do not enter, since they
do not, in my opinion, rank amongst insects. Let it be ob-
sorved here that Ferns gro^n-n in cases, exotic or otherwise, do,
as a consequence, escape the attacks of many enemies, though
they are Uable to diseases, the germs of which are more readily
introduced than the eggs of insects. The larva of a smaU fly
of the Dipterous order has occasionally injured the fronds of
some one or two of the more succulent species, but its economy
has not as yet been worked out. Mr. Newman has communi-
cated through the pages of the " Entomologist " some curious
facts observed by himself regarding the history of a Saw-fly
larva, which infests the leafstalks of the Lady Ferns. While
feeding it forms lateral apertures in the stalk, and the result
of these is an exudation of a mass of white froth, perhaps
designed by Nature to defend the insect from some foe, as it
does not seem to be connected with the Ufe of the larva, as in
the case of the Cuckoo-spit (Tettigonia spumaria). Mr. New-
man has not informed us whether he has reared this species to
maturity ; of the habits and appearance of the larva, he says,
" Having removed the froth, which is excessively sticky, ad-
hering to the finger as tenaciously as a saccharine preparation
like marmalade, I found the stipes discoloui'ed, and of a dark
brown colour instead of a vivid green. On opening the stalks
I found in each a single Saw-fly larva. On being ejected, one
of these threw itself on its back, turned over and over, and
wriggled on the paper with much vigour and activity. The
appearance of the larva is strictly maggot-like, the colour

116

journaIj op hoeticultuee and cottage gaedenee.

[ February 6, 1873.

transparent ■white, with a reddish brown median shade, which
is probably due to the presence of food in the intestinal canal.
It has six legs, but no claspera. The mass of enow-white froth
exuding from the stalk of the Fern is frequently IJ inch in
length."

I suppose we have most of us heard the story about the
baker's man who took a cruel delight in smashing every " black-
beetle " he came across, but who paid a fearful penalty for his
malignity, since one night, when he was asleep on the sacks,
lying with his mouth open (which nobody should do under
any circumstances), one of these insects took advantage of the
opportunity to enter, and — choked him ! I noticed the other
day a record of a ease somewhat analogous, which may serve
as a caution to horticulturists. An individual, who was greatly
annoyed by the presence of the " thrips " in a house, set to
work diligently to pound-up a quantity of the leaves of the
Cherry Laurel in order to destroy them. Before long the odour
took so great an effect upon him, that it was as much as he
could do to crawl out into the open air ; and though the fumes
knied the insect, they also stripped the leaves from a number
of plants. The best mode of attacking this troublesome
visitor in the stove or conservatory is by means of sulphur,
which ijiay be applied in several ways ; many prefer using the
sulphurator. When it is burnt in a house it must, of course,
be at a time when there are no leaves upon the plants or trees
to be exposed to its influence. A mixture of sulphur and soap
serves to " settle" many individuals if applied to the branches
of the Vine and Peach, and walls may also be painted with it.
Even copious syringing with water is of some iitiUty. In the
open air those plants infested with thrips should be dosed with
a mixture of sulphur and water, applied in the usual way.

These insects, from their minute size, often escape observa-
tion, and it is hence that in some instances they do much
damage, and they seem to be partial to the company of the
equally dishked "red spider." Throughout all their stages of
larva, pupa, and imago, the species of thrips aie equaUy^active,
though it is to be presumed most destructive as larvs ; the
images in some species have the power not only of running
but of leaping. Some
species are wingless in
their perfect state, others
have four narrow wings,
which lie down the back,
and are fringed with
hairs. The eyes are con-
spicuous, and in addition
to the compound eyes
there are usually three
simple eyes, or ocelli,
placed in the crown of
the head. If wc take up
one of these and turn it
over upon its back we
are then able to see, by
means of a low magnify-
ing power, the instru-
ment by which it does

BO much execution. The principal organ of the month is a
short conical rostrum, which is shd down towards the base of
the forelegs when not in active service. The legs have no
claws, but they are furnished with a small vesicle or bladder
at_ the extremity. Thrips Adouidum is, probably, of exotic
origin, since it more particularly attacks tropical plants, ad-
hering to the under side of the leaves, which it pierces. This
insect also secretes a black and glutinous fluid, which falls upon
the leaves; and though each drop is exceedingly small, by the
effects of a number of them the pores are closed and the leaves
wither oft'. We may find in spring both larvns and pupir, and
also perfect insects not long emerged from the pupa, and pre-
paring to continue the species. The larva is white or dirty
yellow, while the imago is of a dull black, its wings being
edged with white. The nearly allied species, T. ochraceus, is
narrower in the body, and more of an ochreous tint. This is
partial to the fruit of the Plum as well as to the leaves, and
most active, Uke the preceding, just at the time when it is not
so easy to operate upon it as in the autumn or winter. Both
seem to delight in a liigh temperature, especially if it is dry
also.

The limits of space require that this paper should not be
farther extended, although it be the closing one of a series, in
which no attempt has been made to present a complete account
of the various iuseot enemies with which the gardener has to

Thrips Adonidum.

contend, yet in which, nevertheless, it wUl be found a very
considerable number of species have been commented upon,
and few of any importance passed over. Partings are always
more or less painful ; even between a contributor to a periodical
and his unknown reader a bond forms, which can hardly be-
severed without some regret on both sides should the former
have attempted to do his duty. In this case, however, there
is little to be said in the matter, since the writer hopes to meet
the reader again shortly, and present him with matter as
useful, and, perhaps, more attractive. UntU then, Vale I—
J. 11. S. C.

A CENTUKY OF ORCHIDS FOB AMATEUR
GEOWEES.-No. 1.

This order of plants has always been greatly admired,, but
they are no longer the exclusive luxury of the wealthy amateur,
for the immense quantities which have been brought home to
this country during the past ten years have been the means of
reducing their prices to such an extent, that anyone who can
afford to buy a Geranium or a Fuchsia can for almost the same
money purchase an Orchid. This fact has been the means of
enabhng amateurs with limited incomes, who had previously
been compelled to admire and worship these gems of the vege-
table world from afar, to enlist themselves in the ranks of
Orchid lovers and Orchid buyers, and where twenty years agp
ten collections of these plants could be found, treble the number
now exist, each having very creditable selections. Another re-
sult has also been brought about by the more general diffusion
of Orchids, and consequently a greater knowledge of their
wants and requirements, and that is the almost-disappearance
of the bigoted and arrogant Orchid cultivator, who in the early
days of the introduction of these plants considered any gar-
dener or any garden entirely beneath his notice if there wers
no Orchids ; indeed an intimate acquaintance of mine some
twenty years ago, who had become so lifted up with pride after
having had a collection of Orchidaceous plants under his-
charge for twelve months, assured me in sober earnest upon
one occasion, that he " was quite disappointed with a certain
nobleman's garden, for there was no plants in it." Now the fact
was, that of stove and greenhouse specimens there existed a
good collection, but as he saw no Orchids the place was not
worthy of his notice, and I am afraid some such feeling has
led to the neglect of many good old plants which have now
become so scarce in our collections. The extended cultivation
of Orchids has exploded the fallacious idea that they are diffi-
cult to cultivate, the truth really being that, providing a little
common sense be brought to bear upon the subject, they may
be reckoned amongst the most easily grown plants which we
have in cultivation. I trust none of my readers imagine this
is written in any spirit of depreciation, because exactly the
contrary is the fact ; for having been amongst these plants some
five and twenty years I have learned to love them all, from the
mere botanical thing of the professed Orchid-grower to the
large and brilhaut- flowered Cattleyas. Neither would I have
my brother gardeners imagine that I wish to undervalue their
services — far from it. I am fully persuaded that those gardeners
who live entirely in the atmosphere of the Orchid house, as
they do where large collections are grown, are not only worthy
of their hire, but are not sufficiently remunerated for the rheu-
matic aches and pains which are sure to foUow a long devotion
to them exclusively.

The object of these brief notes is to extend the cultivation
of Orchidaceous plants amongst amateur horticulturists, by,
in the first place, showing that they are not difficult to grow,
that no special house is necessary for their accommodation,
and that if treated in a rational manner no ill effects are to be
dreaded to the constitution of the cultivator. The cool treat-
ment of Orchids is now fairly recognised, and I can speak of
the beneficial results of such treatment with every confidence,
having grown them on this principle long before its adoption
by either Mr. Batemau or Mr. Veitch ; indeed the last-named
gentleman, after coming several times to see the plants under
my treatment, declared it was the great secret, and at once set
about adopting it. The great success that eminent firm has had
is well known ; nevertheless, there is little credit due to anyone
for the discovery of the cool system, as it came about by accident.
In the first place, inability to keep the house up to the recog-
nised standard led to a wonderful improvement in the health
of the plants. This silent hint was taken, and we never tried to
force the fires afterwards ; and when through close observation
we had become satisfiedj that our system was correct, it was

February 6, 1873. 1

JOUBNAL OF SOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAEDENES:

117

very rarely indeed that air was excluded thronghout the whole
season, but it was warrogd by its passage over the pipes before
entering the house. On this subject I wish to say a few words
to amateurs who generally err on the side of exclusion of au'.
Now, as I before remarked, if a little common sense is exer-
cised in the cultivation of these plants, the amateur wiU recol-
lect that the majority of them grow naturally high up on the
branches of forest trees exposed to all the winds that blow ;
how, then, is it necessary that under cultivation no air, or at
most very Uttle in a usual way, is allowed them ?

Another idea I wish to dispel from the minds of beginners
in Orchid culture, is the impression that a separate house is
absolutely necessary : such is not the case. In a state of nature
Orchids are associated with an immense variety of plants, and
consequently it cannot be essential to their well-being to isolate
them from their brethren belonging to other orders ; indeed, I
am fully persuaded that when shut-up by themselves, the cori-
aceous texture of their leaves does not allow of their absorp-
tion or preservation of a proper or sufficiently good atmosphere,
and therefore that by mixing other plants with them the aii-
is much improved, and consequently the Orchids reap the
advantage. I am not speaking or writing theoretically but :
practically, and I know from experience that they thrive ad-
mirably with other plants. Take, for instance, Odontoglossums,
MasdevalUas, Lycastes, and many others — how admirably they
succeed, and how beautifully they grow and flower in the com-
pany of a collection of New Zealand and Australian Ferns !
It has been frequently said and written that the genera above
named, and many others from the New Grenada mountains
and forests, will succeed weU in an ordinary greenhouse. Now
I object to such a term being used, because it is apt to mislead
the amateur and lead to faQure ; a first faUuro often leads to
disgust, and the plants are discarded and voted a bore. This
is because most amateurs understand by the phrase of an
ordinary greenhouse the structure in winch they grow their
Pelargoniums, Fuchsias, Verbenas, and such like plants, and,
indeed, such an interpretation of the term is perfectly justifi-
able ; but I maintain that no Orchids can be made to thrive
under the same conditions as those plants require, and that
the dry atmosphere and open front sashes would soon parch
the life out of any epiphytal Orchid subjected to such treat-
ment— even those who have tried the experiment of growing
them in the open air in Europe, have provided them with a far
moister atmosphere than that of an ordinary greenhouse.
But interesting and beautiful as the tenestrial Orchidaceous
plants from temperate climes are In our open-air ferneries, I
am not a believer in the idea of tropical epiphytal species ever
becoming sufficiently showy to warrant the risk and trouble of
cultivation in the open air in this country, although it has
been proved by the Messrs. Backhouse, & Son, of York, that
some species will withstand several degrees of frost with im-
punity, and in all probability there are many other kinds
equally hai'dy. This, however, I consider only as an interest-
ing fact, and really of no practical importance, for it is one
thing to see plants making the best of a bad situation, and
another to see them growing vigorously and luxuriantly in a
congenial one. A more striking and famihar example can
hardly be adduced than that of the common Hart's-tongue
Fern. This plant is frequently found gi'owing upon walls and
old ruins, but in such situations it seldom exceeds a few inches
in height, and generally presents a brown and parched appear-
ance durmg summer ; but who would be bold enough to assert
that it bears any comparison to the luxuriant and finely deve-
loped fronds which are formed when the plant grows in some
moist and shady dell? Such also, I maintain, is the case
with the culture of epiphytal Orchids in the open air. They
may live and grow, but they will always be miserable objects
compared to those grown within-doors, even without the aid
of artificial heat.

Those Orchidaceous plants which have come to be denomi-
nated cool Orchids are mostly natives of the high mountain
ranges and table lands of Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, and New
Grenada, where there is a cool, moist and genial cUmate, per-
haps seldom rising so high in temperature as we experience
in England, and certainly never subject to the great extremes
and sudden changes of a climate lilie ours, for this in many
instances, and not the great cold, is really the cause of many
plants from elevated regions of tropical countries failing with
us in the open air. The forests of these mountains, we are
told by those who have visited them, abound in Orchidaceous
plants, comprising not only those species and varieties which
have akeady been established in our collections, but numerous

fine kinds which are as yet new to science. This assertion is
well borne out, and its truth verified, by the introductions which
are continually reaching us from those districts. In conse-
quence of the difficulty which in former years attended their
transit through the hot regions having been overcome in a
gi-eat measure, large consignments have come to hand in good
order, which has caused prices to be so greatly reduced that
Orchids can now be purchased at as low a rate as any other
stove plant, and as they require so little fire heat they have
become accessible even to those with very limited incomes.
The fashion having run so much upon New Grenadau and
Peruvian Orchids has, however, had the effect in a great mea-
sm-e of diminishing the cultivation of their East Indian re-
latives, which I cannot help regretting, because reaDy such
plants as Acrides, Vandas, Cymbidinms, Saccolabiunis, and
many others are extremely ornamental when weU grown, even
without flowers ; and I cannot but think that many growers
have discarded these plants without giving it a thought that
Asia as well as America abounds in lofty mountain ranges, and
that quantities of these plants arc to be found in the humid
forests and ravines of those regions also, which would thrive
under much cooler treatment than is usually considered neces-
sary for their well-being in this country, '^'hat, however,
must be the condition of plants that grow in the damp forests
upon the spurs of the Himalayas ? Some of my friends residing
there say we are in the district of Yanda ca'rulea, Y. Oath-
carti, Pleiones, Saccolabiums, Aerides, and many other fine
things, and yet during six months of the year it is cold enough
to render a fire in the house quite comfortable ; and I have
myself proved by experience that the great majority of East
Indian Orchids in cultivation will thrive and flower much
better with a night temperature in winter of .58' and 60° than
when subjected to a higher regime. I, of course, make an ex-
ception to such plants as most of the Phala?uopsids and some
others from the low grounds in the islands of the Indian
Archipelago and Burmah ; but the number of fine species,
especially Dendrobiums, Aerides, Saccolabiums, Ccelogynes,
Vandas, &c., which come from the hill districts of those
islands, from Assam, the Neilgherries, and the Him.ilayar>.
forests, may, without doubt, be grown far better than wc usually
see them, and at a much lower temperature than is considered
necessary by most cultivators.

It is my purpose in these brief remarks to enumerate cool
Orchids only, but not to confine the list to western species, for
I wish particularly to impress the fact upon the mind of ama-
teur Orchid-growers, that because they are told certain species
are natives of the eastern hemisphere it does not necessarily
follow that they must grow in the steaming jungle or upon the
parching plains. I shall, however, describe only good showy or
ornamental kinds, not taking into consideration the newest or
most expensive sorts. With respect to the remaining East
Indian kinds not included in this article, which do reqiiire
more heat than is recommended here, I am quite sure from
experience that they may be grown well far below the tempe-
rature deemed requisite by many growers ; mdeed I know of
nothing which tends to disgust an employer so much, or which
is so ruinous to the constitution of these plants, as the gigantic
Turkish baths or stew-pans which many gardeners make of
their Orchid houses, and which, I am fully persuaded, has led
to the discontinuance of their cultui-e, especially where the
fair sex have been concerned.

Cool Orchid houses should be kept much lower in tempera-
ture at night than during the day, and the atmosphere must
be well charged with moisture ; and when the edges of the
leaves are found in the morning loaded with crystal-lil;e drops
of water, the amateur may be sm-e the condition of tho house
is exactly suited to the requii-ements of the plants. I con-
sider it one of the most charming sights to a plant-grower,
independent of the satisfactory feeling it produces upon the
mind, to see plants thus loaded with dewdrops. The first
section of these plants which I shall bring before my readers
are essentially cool Orchids, and I recommend then' cultivation
in company with New Zealand and Australian Ferns, or, in-
deed, any Ferns from cool latitudes ; for instance, the Madeira
and Canary Island species would thrive well with them, saving
a few exceptions, so also would the mountain species from
South America and Northera India. The temperature and
atmosphere suited to the Orchids would bo just that in which
the Ferns would also thrive, and at the same time would not
be injurious cr fatiguing to the most delicate constitution.
Tastes, however, differ considerably ; and whilst some of my
readers, like myself, may be enthusiastic admirers of Ferns,

118

JOUBNAIi OV HOBTICULTOKR AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

I Febraary 6, 1873.

others may prefer ornamental ami variegated-leaved plants,
Palms, etc. Be that as it may, both may indulge their tastes,
or a compromise may he made, and some of both grown with
an eqiial chance of success. There are, however, but very few
flowering plants that form satisfactory companions to Ferns
and cool Orchids.

The second section which I recommend my readers are
plants that should not be subjected to a lower temperature in
winter than about 48'— at least such has been my experience
with them. These may have some ornamental-foliaged plants
.and warm-country Ferns mixed with them ; they improve the
atmosphere, and produce a pleasing effect in the general arrange-
ment of the house. Indeed, amateurs who may be the fortunate
possessors of a vinery will find those species and varieties in-
cluded in this section thrive extremely well in such a structure ;
the leaves of the Vines will afford a sufficient and agreeable
shade from the sun's ravs dm-ing summer, and when they fall
iiway in autumn, ample light wUl be obtamed for the Orchids
during the duU winter months.

It will also be necessary to say a few words respeotmg soil
and potting. As a general rule, it may bo accepted as a fact
that a mixture of rough fibrous peat and good living sphagnum
moss in about equal parts wiU be found to suit them well ; add
to this a few pieces of charcoal and a little sharp sand, and
when mixed it will be ready for use. In potting, see that the
pots are quite clean and dry before using them ; and if new
pots are to be employed, let them he in water for twenty-four
hours before they are required, in order to get them saturated
with water, otherwise they will materially injure any young
roots which may come immediately in contact with them.
The pots should be tilled about two-thirds up with drainage
material, which should be perfectly clean potsherds and a few
large pieces of charcoal, and upon this the soil may be placed.
The plant should be raised upon a small coue-Uke mound of
soil a Uttle distance above the level of the rim, and the base of
the plant should be upon the top of the mound. This eleva-
tion is necessary in order to allow the water to quickly pass
away from the "pseudobulbs, and thus prevent decay. Care
and judgment must be exercised, however, in this operation,
for if the cone of soU is carried up too high it becomes exces-
sively ugly; whilst, on the other hand, when properly done it
has a veiy pleasing effect, more particularly if a layer of living
and growing sphagnum moss is placed over the surface, and a
few plants of the small but beautiful Sundews planted amongst
it. I have been often asked my opinion respecting the boiling
of the sphagnum before using it for potting, the object being
to destroy any slugs or members of the small-shelled genus
Zonites which sometimes are found in tolerable abundance
amongst it when fresh gathered ; but I must and always have
had the gi-eatest objection to the practice of boiling, for I
1 5ve to see the moss growing, and at the same time I consider
the more hfe that can be maintained contiguous to the roots
of these plants, the more vigorous will be their growth ; and
I would sooner spend a week in the careful examination of a
batch of fresh-gathered moss, and pick-out the enemies with
my fingers, than plant a single Orchid in boiled sphagnum. _

The treatment of Orchidaceous plants includes nothing
difficult to either learn or practise, and anyone who really
loves his plants will soon become a sufficient adept to see if
the treatment is in accordance with the requirements of each
or any particular species or variety. In general it may be
accepted that, whilst growing, an abundant supply of water is
absolutely necessary to their well-being ; for it is upon the
humidity of the atrnosphere, and that alone, that they subsist.
After growth is finished many kinds require the water supply
to be entirely withheld, whilst others will not suffer their roots
to become dry at any season with impunity ; but as I shall
treat upon these peculiarities in detail as the various genera
and species come under notice, it is not accessary to dwell
upon the subject at gi-eater length in this place.

Another thing will be worthy the attention of amateur.-, and
that is more care than is usually bestowed upon their plants
when in bloom, for I have frequently observed that they do
not derive that amount of pleasure from their plants when in
bloom, which it is possible to obtain with a little forethought
and care. There are two reasons which bring about this state
of things. Tlie first is the practice of allowing the plants to
grow and flower in the same situation ; the consequence of this
i^, that as the temperature and atmosphere are maintained in
the same state for the sake of the majority of the plan ts, the ah-
is f .r too densely charged with moi.sturu to allow of the flowers
lasting long. Another cause which I have frequently observed

destructive is the syringe being used carelessly, and thus the
flowers ai-e wetted daily, and, in consequence, soon become
spotted, and fade away much more quickly than they would
have done if carefully preserved. The question then arises,
What must be done to enable amateurs to reap the full benefit
of their flowers ? To remedy these defects the best plan un-
doubtedly is to provide a small house in which a somewhat
lower temperature and drier atmosphere is maintained, and
where the syringe is not used ; but at the same time it should
be borne in mind that dryness in the atmosphere should not
be carried to extremes, or the evU wiU be as great, although
brought about by directly opposite causes ; therefore sufficient
moisture must be maintained in the air by pom-ing water upon
the floors and stages. This remedy, however, is not within
the reach of all amateurs, therefore the next best plan is for
the cultivator to set apart a portion of the house in which all
plants in bloom may be grouped ; this should always be the
coolest end of the house, and, to give a graceful and varied
effect, a few Ferns, Palms, and other ornamental-fohaged
plants should be mixed with them. Growing Orchids is
entirely undertaken with the idea of the production of flowers,
and consequently it behoves the cultivator to reap the ut-
most pleasure from them compatible with the health of the
plants. In conclusion I may add, that in consequence of the
thick fleshy texture of the majority of Orchid blooms, they
last an immense time when cut and placed in vases for the
decoration of the drawing-room or boudoir, and that they form
exquisite and chaste ornaments for dressing a lady's hair, es-
pecially if backed lightly with a sprig of Gleichenia or Maiden-
hair Fern. — Expebto Crede.

ESTABLISHMENT OF LORANTHUS EUKOP.EUS

AT GLASNEVIX.

Valuable, interesting, and many as have been Dr. Moore's
contributions to science, with none of them, perhaps, wUl his
name be more intimately associ.-ited than in connection with
the successful experiment the details of which he made public
in the very interesting paper on the estabUshment at Glasnevin
of the Loranthus, both on the common and Evergreen Oak,
which he read at a meeting of the Eoyal DubUn Society. It
appears from what he stated on that occasion that his efforts
to establish the Loranthus were by no means of recent date.
More than twenty years ago he got his friend Mr. Bellenden
Kerr to procure seeds of it and have them forwarded to Glas-
ueviu from Vienna. The seeds duly arrived, and we believe
in good condition. They were duly attached in various ways
to different parts of Oak and other trees, and overj' care taken
to insure success, but, after looking fresh and viell for a con-
siderable time, they ultimately dropped off.

In 1869, on occasion of the great Horticultural Congress,
Dr. Moore visited St. Petersburg, where, among the asscmblid
savan-^,he met the accomplished Professor of Botany at Vienna.
In compliance with a request then made, this gentleman in
due course forwarded to Glasnevin, not merely berries of the
Loranthus europfeus, but a fine specimen of it on a small Oiik
brauch, and laden with berries. The bunch was suspended
and otherwise secured within a barrel, and thus safely trans-
mitted to Dubhn. Having pre\-iously failed to get the seed to
germinate on the bole or other branches, though tied on the
inner bark as well as the surface, it luckily occurred to Dr.
Moore to try them on the soft young wood. He did so, attach-
ing them to the spot from which a bud had for this purpose
been removed. After some months, hopeful indications of
success were manifested, and in the course of 1870 Dr. Moore
had the gratification of seeing his efforts crowned with success,
and Lor.mthus europa^us at last numbered among the many
living pl.mt varieties to be found at Glasnevin. Its progress
in the young state is remarkably slow, and, moreover, this
species, nnUke our Mistletoe, being deciduous, the plants
established at Glasnevin, both on the common and Turkey
Oak, are as yet, more especially at this season, not very con-
spicuous objects. We congratulate Dr. Moore and th': noble
institution with which he is connected on the success of his
experiments. Interesting, no doubt, as it is, looked at from
the botanical and scientific standpoint, it is even more so
when viswed in its horticultural aspect. We are induced to
regard the success in the pi-esent instance as the forerunner of
other successes in the same direction, which will result in the
introduction and successful cultivation in our stoves .nud green-
houses of some of the gorgeius Indian Loranths, which are at
once the wondtr and admiration of scientific travellers, cloth-

Pobraary 6, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

119

ing the fosteriug tree ou whoso juices they live and batten,
with dazzlingly brilliant flowers, and a beauty noi their own.

TuE success achieved by Dr. Moore in propagating and es-
tablishing Loranthus europitus at Glasuevin will, no doubt,
attract considerable attention among horticulturists and phy-
siologists. The occasion, therefore, should not be let slip with-
out availing of it to ui'ge on those interested or engaged in the
introduction of new and beautiful plants, the desirability of
directing their attention to the Loranths of India and other
lauds. Mr. Jloore's success with the European species augurs
favourably for similar successes, where, as in his case, failure
had been confidently pronounced. As Dr. Moore related the
other evening, when in January, 1870, Dr. Fenzl, Professor of
Botany to the University of Vienna, sent him the fine berry-
laden specimen of Loranthus, from the seeds of which the
young jilants now on the Oaks at Glasuevin originated, the
professor was by no means encouraging. In fact, he stated
candidly that he thought the attempt to get the berries to
grow would be a failure, as he had never known any instance
of the plant having been propagated artificially save once.
But surely what could be done once may be done again and
again. Well, as regards extra-European Loranthi, there have
been pronouncements equally discouraging, and, as we hope
ere long, to be proved equally fallacious. The late Dr. Lind-
ley, writing some twenty years ago encouragingly with regard
to the introduction of a pseudo-parasitic Loranth Nuytsia
floribunda, the Fire Tree of the Swan River colonists, said
among other discouraging words, " There is no hope of our
ever beholding in Europe the magnificent Loranthus bioolor
of Bengal, or any of that singular tribe, which to the habits
of Viscum add the flowers and coloirrs of our finest Honey-
suckles;" and again, "True parasites are beyond our attain-
ment, and wo shall no more see Loranths in hothouses than
humming bh'ds in aviaries."

We do not know on what ground Dr. Fenzl augured want of
success ; but in the case of Dr. Lindley it was chiefly because
there was no means of having in our plant-houses trees or
shrubs of sufficieut magnitude to support and nourish these
flowering parasites. Now, we rather wonder that Dr. Lindley
should have regarded this as the obstacle, inasmuch as, from
the statements of scientific travellers and otheis familiar with
them, these Loranths by no means affect trees of large growth,
or with dense or heavy foUage. On the contrary, some of the
most gorgeous-flowering species are found on very low-grow-
ing, slender, twiggy shi-ubs. So that this dilfioulty is purely
imaginary.

The real difiiculty, if any, is, as we apprehend, in getting
over the berries in good and vegetative condition. Perhaps,
when he penned these words, Dr. Lindley also had this in
view; but Mount Cenis was not then tunnelled, nor the isth-
mus divided by a highway for ships. In onr day intercourse
with India is so facilitated that there ought to be no great
difficulty in getting berries fresh and in condition by post, or,
with better chance of success still by the ordinary quick route,
berry-laden specimens, such as and packed iu the same way as
that forwarded from Vienna to Glasuevin ; nay, with present
facilities, is it even beyond the range of possibility to bring
safely to Europe hving foster plants with the parasite growing
on them ? These foster ;ilants are not necessarily large. The
late Dr. Welwitsch in his interesting paper on the Loranthaceie
of Angola, which will be found iu the " Journal of the Horti-
cultural Society, South Kensington," just issued, says that on
one occasion he found a small bush of Gossypium microcar-
pum, only between 2 and 3 feet high, bearing on its slender
branches several stems of a pink-flowered Loranthus, nearly a
foot long ; and that ou another occasion he met several low
shrubs of Tamarix articulata, of which nearly every main
branch was adorned by dense patches of a pretty Loranthus
with splendid yellow flowers.

The same Dr. Welwitsch, so familiar with these Loranthi in
their native haunts, and equally and practically familiar with
the introduction of rare plants to Europe, did not, with Dr.
Lindley, regard the former as beyond our attainment in cultiva-
tion. On the contrary, he tells us that it was with a view " to
encourage and perhaps to facilitate their future introduction
to Europe " that he wrote the paper from which we quote, and
in which he says the introduction and culture of these inter-
esting parasites form worthy objects of attainment by skilful
and persevering horticulturists. Mr. M'Pherson, a gentleman
also conversant with these parasites in Southern India, where
he tells us they grow only too luxuriantly from the sea level

to 7500 feet and upwards, is no less sanguine as to the pro-
spects of their being successfully introduced and cultivated iu
Europe. Writing to the GariZcHi'rs' Chrunicle towards the
close of 1S71, he offers the foUowiug hints with regard to their
introduction : — " I would advise anyone attempting to intro-
duce Loranths to gather the seedUng branches and pluck off

I the leaves (as they might ferment and get mouldy), retaining
the berries iu as perfect and unbroken state as possible, so
that the glutinous matter may be preserved, and pack the
branches iu a rough box with sand, pounded bricks, or char-
coal. Li>oking to the fact that a parcel may be received
through the post or otherwise in a month or less from the

j date of packing, there ought to be Uttle difiiculty in at once
getting to work at the experimental cultivation of Loranths."
Mr. M'Pherson further suggests that the packing case should
have air-holes in it. Here, then, is a field for gardening enter-
prize and skill. Who, among our wealthy and spirited ama-
teurs, scientific aud energetic directors of botanic gardens, or
the caterers of new plants for the public, the Veitches, the Bulls,
the WUliams, Dicksons, &a., will be the first to enter on it and
work it successfully ? We have long wondered it has not been

I attempted ere now, aud never had misgivings as to ultimato
success. With regard to the trees and shrubs which they will

\ grow upon, tropical Loranths are, we beUeve, as accommodat-
ing as is then European counterpart, the Mistletoe. So when
anyone is fortunate enough to get the berries, he need scarcely
fear not having subjects at hand that will accommodate and
foster the pretty parasite. The berries may be attached just
in the same way as are those of the Mistletoe. — [Irisli Farmers'
Gazette.)

PROMOTING "WOOD-KIPENING.

As long as wood is gi-owing, it is very evident it cannot ripen.
To arrest growth, water must be withdrawn. A wet wann
autumn encourages growth and non-ripening. We have little
control over trees pl.anted in the open giound. In some
measure we can control growth aud cause ripening of the wood
— /.('., by cutting the roots ; and we have some very good
instances of this system of cultivation at the present time,
where the roots were cut in September last, and the fruit trees
are now a mass of bloom-buds. The object of this communi-
cation is to show the effects of throwing off the deluge of rain
during the last three months of the past year from forty-six
large tubs containing Peaches, Nectarines, and Apricots, and
also to explain an easy mode of doing this.

I will explain the mode first. Most of these trees were
allowed to remain in the orchard houses to ripen their fruit ;
but some were taken out in June and ripened their fruit out of
doors, and the flavour of the latter exceeded that of the trees
in the houses. All these trees were placed outside the houses
at the end of August. As soon as the wood was well formed,
two pieces of creosoted boards were placed in a slanting position
on each tub so as to throw off the rain ; the eflect of this was
to cause all the wood to become of a black-red colour, that of
the trees in pots in the house being stUl green and unripe,
though they are fast coming into bloom. Fifteen of the above
plants are now in full bloom and forming fruit. They are in
the double-glazed house, where a temperature of from 45" to
o5 has been sustained during the winter by the combustion of
roots and other rubbish. — Obseeveb.

Eamie Grass. — Considerable attention is now beiug given by
the planters in some parts of the Southern States of North
.America to the cultivation of Kamie Grass, which grows well in
Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and, in fact, almost any-
where from latitude 33' southward to the Gulf of Mexico. Iu
Louisiana some of the planters are replacing the Sugai'-cane
with Piamie, which does not require replanting, demands com-
paratively little labour in cultivation, and entails no great ex-
pense for machinery to prepare it for market. So far as
known, it has no insect enemies, its fibre is less bulky and
more easily transported than cotton, aud it is sui-e of a ready
sale at remunerative prices. At present the fibre sells in Eng-
land for 2-10 dols. per ton of 2000 lbs., or 83 cents, per pound,
llamie, or Chinese Grass (Urtica tenacissima) is a plant of
the Nettle family, which grows spontaneously in British India,
China, Java, and other eastern countries. The fibre, which
forms its commercial product, is the inner bark of the stem,
and when exposed to view by separation from the husk, pre-
sents a brilliant pearl-white lustre. The fibre is longer and
more uniform than any other, except silk ; it is stronger aud

120

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Febnmry G, 1873.

more elastic thau either Hemp or Flax ; takes colour ar, well
as a good ijuality of silk ; and, when properly prepared from
the raw material, may be spun into tine yams suitable for
mixing with wool in the manufacture of delaines, worsteds,
and other light fabrics. Without admixture it can be woven
into fabrics which, it is said, will surpass the finest linens in
beauty, strength, and durability. The Eamie fibre has also
the felting quality superior to either fur or wool.

OBNAMENTAL GLASS CASE.
The Wardiau case was so called after its inventor, N. Ward,
Esq., who, living in the city of Loudon, was enabled by the
aid of this ease to culti-
vate amidfct the dutt ml
smoke of the metropolis some
of the rarest of our green-
house and stove plants. He
published a very useful pam-
phlet upon this mode of cul-
tivating them. To prevent
the dew which is occasionaDy
deposited inside the glass, it
is only necessary to open the
case frequently, for a few
minutes, to render the tem-
perature within similar to
that outside. They ai-e not
intended to exclude the air,
and the engraving annexed
is one of the most orna-
mental.

Mr. M'Intosh thus describes
the construction: "Thesides
of the box are of mahogany,
IJinch in thickness, and the
bottom of deal, 1 J inch thick,
well framed and dovetailed
together, and strengthened
with brass bands, aud with
two cross-bars beneath. The
upper edge of the box is fur-
nished with a groove for the
reception of the glass roof,
and this groove is lined with
brass, to prevent the wood
from rotting. The roof is
composed of brass, and glazed
with the very best flattened
crown glass. The brass as-
tragals are grooved for the
reception of the glass, and
not rebated, as in ordinary
glazing. Eyed studs are cast
on the inner side of the ridge
astragal, about half an inch
in length, for the purpose of
suspending small Orchids or Ferns from the roof. The inside
of the box is Imed with zinc, and at one of the corners an
aperture is formed into which a copper tube, 2 inches long, is
inserted, and furnished with a cock for withdrawing any super-
fluous water that may at any time accumulate within the
box. One of the panes is made to take out — this provision
is necessary for the occasional arrangement and airing of the
plants, but the general arrangement is made by Ufling the top
off entirely."

HIGHER TEMPERATURE FOR LATE GRAPES

I WOULD recommend the growing all late Grapes in a higher,
temperature than they are generally grown in, and also that'
they should be started earlier than is usual, so that they may
get the benefit of the sun before its power begins to wane in
autumn, so as to bring up all the properties which constitute
high flavour, .lud which is not to be effected without plenty of
bright sun. And now that it is proved beyond a doubt that
Grapes cut and bottled will keep for a long time without any
detriment to the flavour, they can all be cut by the second
week in .January, the Vines pruned, and got ready to start by
the first week in March, so that the ripening process may
be completed before the end of August, when the sun has
still great power; and, in my opinion, the last two months'

treatment goes a long way towards the high finish of Grapes,
if all other things have been going on right through the early
part of the season. Some may object to ripening Grapes so
early that have to hang so long ; but they will keep as long,
if not longer, thau those ripened six weeks later. What has
caused the complaint this winter of Grapes not keeping well ?
The want of sun and heat to finish them properly the past
cold, wet, sunless autumn. All the fire he.it that could be
given did not make up for the rays of the sun. Our late house
was quite ripe by the beginning of September, and I have
scarcely lost a berry ; and they are as fresh and plump now
(the middle of January) as need be. All those sorts that have
been subjected to a high temperature are also high iu quality,

even Muscats, Frontignans,
etc. ; and what can be worse
than green Muscats? How
often do we see at exhibitions
early in the season Muscats
quite green, which have, per-
haps, been grown along with
Hamburghs for this special
object, but which, if the
fr.amers of many of the sche-
dules of flower shows were to
adhere to their rules, would
be discarded as unfit for ex-
hibition, far less competition ?
And rightly so! Even the
Hamburgh is not so high in
flavour when grown iu what
is termed a cool house. What
has more particularly led me
to call attention to this is,
that I have a Barbarossa and
Trebbiauo in a Muscat house,
which is generally smarted
about the rci Idle of February,
and ripens in August. The
Muscats have that fine am-
ber colour which invariably
proves that high flavour is
not wanting. Trebbiano was
this last season even higher-
coloured than usual, and the
flavour much appreciated by
some. This variety we cut
earlier than Barbarossa. The
latter was allowed to hang
until December, although, as
far as ripening is concerned,
it could have been out in Sep-
tember. AVhen sent to table,
there being a large party, one
of the gentlemen, being a
great connoisseur of Grapes,
could not make out what
Grapeitwas. When told the
treatment it had received, his answer was, " From the quality
and flavour of the fruit, I can uphold evei-y word you say."
Having sent a few to the editor of the " Gardener " from the same
Vine, hiii verdict was the same. If Lady Downe's, Alicante,
Seaclilfe Black, Madresfleld Court, and Mrs. Pince were all,
say, started in March, and treated with a Muscat-house tempe-
rature all through the season, I feel perfectly satisfied that
the flavour would be higher ; also there would not be the so
common complaiuts against their thick skins. Mrs. Pince,
treated thus, will rise higher iu estimation than it stands at
present, for it has then a decided smack of the Muscat, but
not when newly ripened. Then there is Raisin de Calabre,
often seen in late houses similar to the green Muscats spoken of.
This I have at present as fine in colour as the finest finished
Muscat, and at this season it is most useful when a quantity
of dishes are required.

There is another point that I think well worthy of considera-
tion— namely, allowing the fruit to hang so long on the Vines.
I believe it to be as injurious to them, if not more so, as early
forcing ; for a large crop hanging up to the mouth of February
and March must, to a certain extent, always be drawing nourish-
ment at a time when everything should be dormant.

The above simple statements I do not propound as new, but
haWng proved them by the superior quality of the fruit grown,
I am so convinced of the good results of this mode of treatment

Fobi-unry 0, 187S. )

JOUKNAL OF nORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAEDENER.

121

that I shall follow it up more closely iu the coming season.
A late house of Barbarossa and Gros Colman, grown nntl
treated in this way, wiU be little inferior to a house of Hani-
barghs. I have little hesitation in saying that they would be

better than the latter at the time they are requu-ed, which
would be after New Year's-day. I also feel convinced that
there are vai-ieties of Barbarossa, and one of them more free iu
fruiting than the other. — A. Hendeeson (in The Gardener).

THE "AMERICAN BLIGHT" BIRD.

AnoDT this little mischievous bii'd, probably the more lite-
rally I adhere to truth the more extraordinary will be found
the particulars I shall communicate. I will commence about
it by using the plural instead of the singular. They seem to
have no fear. Their familiarity is extraordinary. Probably
one reason may be they never hear the noise of powder and
shot in my garden. Their little manceuvres at any time would
cheat the lawyers here. From watching them occasionally,
I have discovered that they have a very great aversion to
our New Zealand hawk — will hide themselves in my bushes
directly they can see his shadow iu the air with their (luick,
penetrating, sharp, silver little eyes. They tliiuk my garden

bushes are then' freehold ; they make themselves so happy—
iu the shape of domestic happiness I mean ; for, turn my head
which way I may, nest after nest is to be seen in the bushes
on each side of my garden walks at their breeding time. There
does not seem to bo much wilduess in their natui-e ; and I
have no doubt the two hundred live bu-ds shipped in the
"Charlotte (Jladstone " in May last for England have arrived
safe and iu good health, for I can assure you they are not very
particular as to diet. They will not require much taming on
their arrival.

About their- variety of food I shall say something presently.
I hope your readers will bear with me, and read patiently what

ZoBterops lateralis.

I have to state about their destructiveness in a garden, noted
from luy own personal observation.

First of all I send you a drawing — pretty correct to nature,
I fancy, for an amateur bird-fancier like myself — and likewise
a dead skin all ready for " setting-up," if you are aciiuainted
with a taxidermist ; and lastly a tiny little nest. You will see
the nest is of a somewhat semi-hemispherical form, resembling
a little basket, with no lining in the interior. This curious
habitation, you v/ill see, is oonstructed chiefly of long hair and
fine roots. It is impossible to watch the progress of the con-
struction, and listen to their warbling as well, without admir-
ing the perseverance with which they bring together the mate-
rials that are destined for the building and the art with which
they are arranged.

Mr. Walter Buller, our New Zealand government ornitho-
logist, writes thus — " This bird is invaluable to the orchards
an-1 gardens, where it subsists almost entirely [mark ye !] on
the destructive little aphis known as American blight." This
quoted statement is quite a mistake. Giving you my experi-
ence of them, they will not eat aphides of any kind if any
other kind of food can be obtained. If they do eat any
blight, they pick just a very little off our trees iu the depth
of winter.

Now I will state my experience of their destructiveness in
my garden. As summer comes round and niy early Cherries
begin to colour, they commence wholesale havoc amongst
them, and fly from tree to tree, their doing which wo witness
with anything but pleasure, I can assure you. They can eat

nice ripe Green Gages, Apricots too, and scoop out the inside
of a ripe Jargonelle Pear very clean, leaving the skeleton
hanging on the tree. They are fond of orchard fruits. Nothing
comes amiss. They seem to have become permanent residents
on the plains of Canterbury, and our fruit gardens are their
greatest attraction. They are the best hands I know at pick-
ing a Cherry and Plum stone clean, and disfiguring a handsome
rosy-cheeked Peach. They rank as one of our commonest birds,
and are most decidedly increasing in number annually, while
our other little insect-devouring native birds are decreasing iu
number from some cause.

Again about Mr. Walter Buller. He thinks and writes that
" they are justly entitled to an occasional feed of Cherries or
to a small tithe of the ripe fruits, which they have done so
much to defend and cherish." Confound them ! say I. They
build their little tiny nests sometimes in my Elderberry bushes.
Rhododendrons, Evergreen Buckthorns, prickly double-flower-
ing Thorns, &c., which are generally pretty near the edge of
a walk. If anything in the shape of grease happens to be out-
side of our house, they are sure to pick it all up quite clean.
Fjom Mr. BuUer's opinion I beg to differ. As an extensive
grower of fruit for sale I think it too bad, when our crops are
just in and ready for market, that we should have them de-
stroyed by swarms of some hundreds of this little pest. How-
evur, let it be as it may, in a financial point of view I am
pounds sterling out of pocket through their depredations annu-
ally. There can be only one opinion as to their destructive
habits. I am quite certain of one thing — we shall be obliged

122

JOURNAL OF HOETIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ February 6, 1873.

before long to keep them in check by a wliolesale system of
Blaunhter, because they Lreecl so numerously.

The New Zealaud Jlaories have various names for this bii'd.
"Tau-hau," a stranger; " Ivahoni," snow-white eye, which
may be interpreted spectacle eye or ring eye ; " Poporhe ;"
" Iriugatau," accidental or periodical appearance. We Euro-
peans familiarly call it " Silver eye," on account of a white
ring around each eye.

I omitted, when enumerating their diet, to state that they
feed their young upon Asparagus berries tor one thing, I having
found skinless seeds in their empty nests. I may add they
are very fond of ripe Figs on the tree : they serve them the
'same as ripe Pears. Elderberry trees. Currant and Clooseberry
bushes, they clean aU the trees clear of fruit late in the season,
and I may also add they are very fond of my Passe Cohnar
Pears while hanging late on the trees in autumn to ripen.
Fiom Holly berries and Cotoueaster berries they strip the flesh
and east the seeds on the ground. They have already com-
mtnoed a raid upon my Black Heart Cherries. The Cherries
at the present date (November 21, 1872), only being partly
coloured on one side ; yet they wo'n't let them alone.

A correspondent of a Thanies paper writes — " I see that the
small So-called bhght bird is a mystery as to where it came
from and when. Allow me to settle the date of their dehfit in
New Zealand. They alighted on a mountain twenty miles
south of Mount Cook m 18CG, on the 9th of May. I was on
tli3 mountain when they alighted on the snow at an elevation
of 7000 to 8000 feet above the sea level. The poor little bmls
appeared to be driven before the wind rather than come by
any power of their own. They appeared to fall in millions,
there were so many of them ; and so helpless were they that a
person could shovel them up in cartloads. I examined a few
of tlie dead ones, and could not find a particle of food in any
of them. The wind was blowing from the south and by west,
from which point they came— no doubt from some undiscovered
island south of the Auckland Islands. One year after seeing
them in the South Island, I was surprised to find them as far
north as Raglan." — William Swale, 4ro«s/((e Botanic Garden,
CliristcJitircli, Cantcrhnrij, N.Z.

[This bird is named Znstnvpa lateralh by Gray, and Z. tcnul-
rnxti-ia by Gould in his " Handbook of the Birds of Australia."
lie gave" the specific name because this bird's bill is longer
than that of the other members of the genus. Its native
country, he states, is Norfolk Island. We have a specimen of
the bird sent to us by Mr. Swale, and it quite agrees with this
description given by Mr. Gould — " Head, aU the upper surface
and wing-coverts olive green, brightest on the head and upper
tail-coverts ; wings and tail brown, margined with oUve green ;
throat yellow, stained with red in the centre ; centre of the
abdomen and under taU-corerts pale yellow; flanks olive-
brown ; bill and legs light brown, inclining to lead colour ; eye
surrounded by a narrow zone of white feathers, bounded below
by a line of blackish brown. Total length, .5J inches ; biU, J ;
wing, 2| ; taO, 2i ; tai'si, J." Mr. Swale sent with the speci-
men of the bird one also of its nest, a perfect hollow semi-
globe of horsehair, and realising this note of Mr. Gould's —
" Among the many pleasing recollections connected with my
explorations in Austraha, none are more grateful than those
pertaining to this little group of birds, whose pretty cup-shaped
nests and spotless blue eggs remind one of those of our own
Hedge Accentor." — Eds.]

BELGIAN IIOBTICULTURE.— No. 2.

M. LINDEK'S, BRUSSELS AND GHENT.
From Antwerp to Brussels via Malines is less than an
hour and half by ordinaiy train. The country through which
the line passes is in general appearance not unlike our own.
It is well wooded and abundantly watered. The main differ-
ences are that the allotments or fields are much smaller than
ours, and the trees, instead of being free and irregular as
witb us, are planted in straiglit lines, and have apparently
been set out with mathematical accuracy. Whatever may be
said of the stern utility of the Be gians, they have clearly an
eye to ornament, as is evident by the fantastic treatment of
shrubs and hedges, and the grotesque architecture of summer-
houses and garden buildings which one sees in passing. The
land is mostly under roots and vegetables, which are consumed
ii] inlinitely greater quantities than in England ; partly account-
able by tlio variation of national taste, but more so, I cannot
help thinking, by the inability of the masses to procure an

adequate supply of animal food by their extremely limited in-
comes. In this surmise I was borne out by the experience of
a large employer of labour, who informed me that '2d. per hour
was the current rate of wages for ordinary workmen, and the
price of animal food quite as dear as in England. Under these
conditions, he asked, " How can they live Uke youinEuglaud? "
Thousands, however, of inferior workmen, I was told, did not
receive more than Ihl- per hour. But mind, they do not work
like EngUshmen; they could not if they would, theu-_ spare
weakly frames and diminutive stature being oonolusive evidence
on this point.

But I am at Brussels, and must leave work and wages for
pleasure and sight-seeing. This is a magnificent city, and my
impression was that we have nothing at all comparable to it at
home. The fine sweeping boulevards arrest attention at once.
In some places they cannot be less than CO to 80 yards wude,
and contain eight rows of trees— Planes, Chestnuts, and
Hornbeams, all in luxuriant health, and as clean as if growing
a hundred miles from the haunts of man. This cleanliness is
remarkable. All the buildings— and certainly there are many
magnificent ones— look as if painted yesterday of a uniform
very light stone colour. This pleasing freshness could only
be preserved by a total absence of smoke. There is no smoke
nuisance here, every particle of the Belgian coal being con-
sumable. Trees, shrubs, and flowers flourish in the very midst
of the city. The park opposite the Palais Eoyal might be
hkened to an oiisis in the desert. The trees are of perfect
growth, and the verdant canopy of foliage affords refreshing
shade to the teeming thousands who daily and hourly ramble
round its umbrageous walks. It is just what a city park should

be every part free, and every part shady, and so disposed that

nothing can bo injured without considerable trouble on the
part of the depredators, because it contains no fragile forms of
vegetation. It is not a hybrid between a wood and flower
garden, but is a park pure and simple, and capable of affording
the greatest enjoyment at the greatest ease to the greatest
number— prime conditions in my opinion to the success of a
people's park.

As to flowers Brussels is singularly destitute. The prevail-
ing taste for beauty centres in form and habit more than in
mere colour, I saw just one bed of Geraniums and one lino of
Calceolarias in the whole country. Petunias are more plentiful,
but on the whole flowers are very sparsely used in garden
decoration. Aloes, Yuccas, Cannas, and subtropical plants
of fine fohage and habit are the staple subjects of garden
ornamentation, with trim specimens in tubs of Oleander, Bay,
A-c, for terrace work, with Palms ad lib. Belgium is a land
of Palms. I have no doubt I saw in three estabhshments a
greater number of plants of this family than there are in-
habitants in the whole nation.

After a look round this splendid cily, by sundry signs and
motions (for we meet with few who understand English), I
found and gained entrance to the celebrated horticultural
establishment of M. Linden, a name familiar to the whole
world of gardening by the many valuable introductions attach-
ing to his indefatigable zeal and enterprise. This nursery is
in the Quai-tier Leopold, and adjoins the Zoologidxl c;ardens.
" Multum in parro " ought to bo written over the gates, for if
there is a place in the world where, in the matter of plants,
much is contained in little, it is here. Externally there is not
a semblance of show or display, but internally there is a host
of Orchids and new and rai-e plants of almost every species,
bewildering by their numbers and variety. In Orchids alone
M. Linden offers nearly 20,000 plants in 1200 species. It is
almost beyond belief that a place so small and unpretending
should be the seat of so much that is rich and rare in horti-
culture. Here is to be seen perhaps the largest and most
complete collection of Orchids in the world, and certainly the
most extensive variety of officinal and medicinal plants to be
found in any trade collection. The small enclosure is filled
with low span-roofed houses standing parallel to each other,
the only appearance of ornament being a row of gigantic
standard Rhododendrons in tubs at the end of each house.
The structures are matter-of-fact useful erections, with brick
sides and sunken pathways, calculated to keep an equable tem-
perature at a minimum outlay in fuel. Here on a centre stage
or bed, with a tank under it, and a narrow stage at the out-
side, are arranged the plants, the path running round. House
after house is packed with plants, from thousands in small
pots to fine specimens of Orchids of greater age and value,
all perfectly clean and grown at the lowest temperature con-
sistent with health. The Indian house, with its magnificent

IfoWaty 6, 1878. ]

JOURNAL OP HOETICULTUEE ANt) COTTAGE GARDENER.

123

Vandas and othei- kiuclred subjects, extorts admiration by its
extensive and well-conditioned occupants, and the officinal
collection is unfailingly interesting by the health and perfect
cleanliness prevadiug it throughout. Besides the above un-
rivalled collections, new and rare plants of almost every genus
arc located here ; many of tlieni are not yet in commerce.
Amongst the most striking were the beautiful Philoteuium
Lindeuii, Dieffenbachias lati-maculata, imperialis, and others
in immense numbers. There is a vast congregation of Ma-
rautas, including all the new forms of this varied family.
At this establishment are kept all the newest and rarest varie-
ties of Palms, and anything more elegant than these it is
hardly possible to conceive. Ptychosperma atlantica, Acantho-
rhiza Warscewiczii, and the different kinds of Kentias are
amongst the most attractive.

I wUl not, however, attempt to string together a mere list of
names, which can serve little practical purpose, but leave them
for the better delineation of " Exi'ERTO Cbede," who possesses
the judgment for piclcing out the best, and the tact of hitting
them off in the best manner. I have also another reason for
not naming many things good and grand which came under
my observation, and which I will tell another day. Bat, aftfr
all, the main feature of this place is the Orchids. For many
ytars M. Linden has laboured to make this class of plants
popular amongst ordinary lovers of flowers, and has exerted
himself to dispel the notion that some mystery attaches to
theu" cultivation, and to dissipate the idea of the " frightful
expense" which has somehow got coupled with their name.
This object should be fostered by all ; for as to cost, many do
not exceed the price of a tricolor Pelargonium, which is hereto-
day and gone to-morrow and require but little more heat to
grow and skill to cultivate successfully either. Many of the
Cypripediums, Odontoglossums, Ac, require but little artificial
heat, and how striking and lasting are their beauties ! There
are, in fact, no real difficulties in Orchid-growing which an in-
telligent gardener may not easily overcome by giving the
necessai-y study to the geography and climatal influences and
variations of their native habitats, and acting according to their
dictates which the study will certainly provoke. I must post-
pone some impressions, intended for this letter, of M. Linden's
larger estabUshment at Ghent. I therefore close abruptly, and
conclude as I began, that this little great place at Brussels
should have " 3Iultnm in parvo " written on its gates. —

J. WlilOUT.

RAINFALL AND OTHER METEOROLOGY OF 1872.
Linton Pakk, neae Maidstone.

January . . .
Febi-uai7 . . .

March

April

May

June

July

AubTist . . .
September .
October . . .
November .
December .

llain lu iucbCi-.

4.G8 ....

1.38 ....

1.93 ....

1.56

4.35 ....

4.13

2.21

1.35

2.01

4.48

5,81

6.26

Total for 1872

Total for 1871

Average of preceding
16jears, 1855 to 1870

30.10
25.12
26.54

Vo. wet
d.ays.
26

Xo. frofety
clays.
10

18

5

15 .. .

.... 11

15

4

18 . .

4

17 ....
15 ....
12

9

8

22

6

23

4

25

215

53

167

83

1G3 ....

84

The wettest year prior to 1872 was 18G.5, when the rainfall
amounted to 3.5.18 inches; in 1860 it was ."3.(it) ; and in 1858
only 10.33 inches. The number of frosty days during the past
season has also been fewer than in any year I h.^ve on record.
In 1868 there were sixty-two frosty days, while in 1851 122
were recorded. In summing-up, the features of 1872 are in a
few words excess of rain and a scarcity of frosts ; yet, ov^ing to
the very late and severe spring frosts and the early autumn
ones, there was a shorter period without these visitations than
in any former season I have on record.

.January was mild Init very wet. Rain fell on twenty-six
days, with the thermometer down to 23' on the 10th, being the
lowest point registered during 1872. February was mild also,
but not wet, although often dull. March was likewise mild
up to the middle of the month, afterwards wet and some-
times wintry. April presented greater extremes than usual,
but ended with vegetation being more forward than com-

mon at that season. May was the most disastrous month
in the year. Frosts on the 0th, 11th, 12th, and 20th, com-
pletely destroyed the prospects of the fruit in all but a
few cases, the frost on the morning of the 12th being espe-
ci.-iUy severe ; it was also a wet month. June followed suit
in its dull and cheerless character, with a few fine days to-
wards the end, and an unusual amount of thunder in that and
the following month. July — which, however, presented a
greater number of fine days, and some hot ones towards the
end — tended to correct the tardiness of vegetation during tho
two preceding months. August on the whole was fine, and so
was September, the rainfall here being certainly not so heavy
as at many places ; but, contrary to all precedent, we liad
frosts here on the 21st, 22nd, and 23rd SKfficiently sevtre to
destroy most tender plants in the flower garden, and leading
many to suppose that a sharp winter was in store for us.
The mouth, however, ended fine, and wet weather did not
fau-ly set in till the middle of October, and from that time to
the end of the year a continuance of rain was the order of tho
day, varied a little now and then by high winds and a few
slight frosts ; but these have been so few, that from the 13th of
December up to the time I write (.January 17th), we have not
had the vestige of one, 35° being the lowest point recorded
during that period, an unusual occurrence on thirty-five con-
secutive days in December and January. The season has not
been without its advantages, and we shall probably remember
these when we have one of a different kind. — J. Hobson.

OSMINGTON, WEYMOUin, DoESKT.

TTeight of top of gauge above ground 1 foot ; above sea levd
250 feet.

Inches.

Jauuai-y 6.52

February 2.87

March 3.29

April 2.31

May 2.82

June 4.07

July 3.B1

IncbeH

AuKUKt 1,61

.September 1.66

October 7.71

November 5.66

December 5.70

Total 47.53

Average for six years inclusive, 35.10. Rainy days, 109. —
C. T. HAiL.

Caklesoill near Laxoholm, Dlijifries (370 feet above sea.)

TuE rainfall for 1872 amounts to O'J.80 inches. In January
alone 10.20 inches fell, and in November 8 inches. The amount
is 12.34 inches above the average of thirty years. The fall in
1872, however, was not so great as in 1808, which gave a total
of 70.09 inches.

Higiigate Nuhseries.
Height of top of gauge above ground 1 foot ; above sea level
860 feet.

Inches-

Augnst 1.74

September 1.52

October 6.61

November 3.58

December 4,49

Total 83.80

Inches.

January 3.73

February 1.07

March 2.66

AprU 1.62

May 3.18

June 2.47

July 2,24

We have registered rainfall here for ten years, and find that
1872 was about 10 inches above the average. — J. Cuthusu.

Sandfield Pabk, near Livekfool.
Heigut above sea level 147 feet.

January . .
February . .
March . . . .

April

May

June

July

August . . . .
September
October . .
November
December. .

Total depth.
Inehep.
4.80
2.70
2.80
2.75
1.60
0.20
7.00
2.30
6.30
6,42
2,94
4,36

. 49.57

The number of
days on T.-Iuch
rain or snow fell.
19

Totals

Average of eight previous years, 28.17 inches.
Biggs, Gardenvi:

li)

22
15
18
21
14
21
23
19
20
18

2l-9
-William

121

JOUllNAli OF HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

[ February 6, 1873.

Bransion.
The following figures show the amount of rain (lat. 53° N.,
Ion. 0° 31' W., 130 feet above level of sea), which fell at Bran-
ston during the year 1872 : —

Inches.

Januai? 2.5U

February 2.77

March 1.75

April 3.87

May 1.10

June 3.21

July 1.07

locheB.

August 2.76

September 2.83

October 3.75

November 3.39

December 3.31

Total

35.40

Total fall, aud wet ilays in previous years

1871 .... 2.3.38 148

1870 .... 33.05 147

Hottest day of year July 2Gth, 91° in shade ; coldest uight
January 10th, 23".

1809

18S8

.. 23.78 1G3

.. 20.68 115

Oaboen, KiEKCDDnRiaHrsHiBK, 80 feet above sea level.

Inches.

January 1(I.U2

February

March

April

May

Juno . . f

July

11.76
3.90
1.13
3.51
5.91
4.31

August . . ,
September
October . . .
November
December

InchG.s.
. 3.37
. 5.63
. 5.13
. . 5.30
, . 8.56

Tot.al 63.50

Mean rainfall of last twelve years, 11.10 inches.

Ireland.

Autdra (Agliadee) . .
Carlowl Brown's Hill
Cloumcl (Gleuox'm) .

1H71.

Infl.

30.18

33.10

, 46.78

1S72.
Ins.
47.09
47.29
, 59.18

1S71.
Ins

1S72.
Ins.

Cork (Formoy) 35.50 . . 46.60

Dublin (Balbriggan) 31.51 .. 43.36

[The above, and many other records of the rainfall in various
parts of the British Islands, demonstrate that ia 1872 it was
greatly in excess, in some cases double, that of the average of
previous years ; but there is one portion of Cumberland where
tlie rainfall is annually so large as scarcely to admit of in-
crease. Mr. Isaac Fletcher, M.P. for Cockermouth, who has for
several years kept rain gauges at various stations among the
Ciimbsrlaud mountain.'^, has published in the Carlisle Journal
the records of each month during the year 1872. His gauge at
Seathwaite, at the head of Borrowdale, has been established for
nearly thirty years, and the returns of the past year show that
in the heart of the lake district the rainfall of 1872 has not
been exceeded in any year during that period.

Seathwaite is 122 feet above the level of the sea ; in 1872 the
amount of rain there was 18(i.2.5 inches, aud the number of
wet days 228. At the Stye, 1077 feet above the sea's level,
221.73 inches fell, and Mr. Fletcher justly remarks : — " The
amount registered on the Stye — nearly 25 inches — is marvel-
lous, aud is in excess of any previous record. In 1866, 224. .56
inches were recorded. So far as has yet been ascertained the
Stye is the wettest spot in Europe, and, except in tropical
countries, the iiuautities I have quoted represent the two
greatest annual falls of rain that have ever been recorded.
The fall in January, 1872, is, however, more wonderful still —
viz., 50.05 inches, about double the average annual fall in
Carlisle. January, 1873, bids fair to rival its predecessor."

We think the returns wo have already published are suffi-
cient to demonstrate the extraordinary amount of rainfall in
the past year ; and as its local distribution wiU be carefully
tabulated by Mr. Symons, our space in th* meanwhile will be
more profitably occupied with other subjects. — Eds.]

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

The reply to the N.ational Herbaria Memorial to Mr. Glad-
stone, signed by so many eminent botanists, is as follows : —
"Treasury Chambers, Januai-y 23rd, 1873.

" StB, — The Lords Commissioners of Her Majesty's Treasury
have had before them your letter of the 3rd inst., and the Me-
morial enclosed iu it from various gentlemen engaged in tlio
pursuit of botany or iu instruction therein, with respect to the
transfer, to the branch of the British Museum about to be con-
structed at South Kensington, of the scientific collections aud
library now existing at the Koyal Gardens at Kew.

" Their lordships desire me to request that j'ou will inform
the memorialists that Her Majesty's Government have not
formed the intention of removing the coUectisn to South Kens-
ington, aud that should anything lead them hereafter to enter-
tain the idea, they will take care that ample notice shall bo

given, and that the judgment of the persons most accomplished
in botany shall be fairly weighed in the first instance.

" I am, Sir, your obedient servant,

" William La'w.
" The Eev. M. J. Berkeley, Sibbertoft,
" Market Harborough."

Messrs. Sutton & Sons have recently very much en-
larged and beautified their premises at Beading. A full descrip-
tion, and an engraving showing the frontage in the Market
Place, are in the Builder, published on the 25th of January.

M.'.'.'Y readers will be surprised to learn the extent to

which the .■!mil.ilx is cultivated in North America. There are
in New York aud Boston probably twenty greenhouses, having
an area of 20,000 feet, used exclusively for the growing of
Smilax. Besides this, thousands are grown as window plants
by private individuals. No plant is better fitted for house cul-
ture, as it grows in any temperature, from 50° to 75°, aud does
well in comparative shade. It took three years for the New
York llorists to find out that their contemporaries in Boston
were far ahead of them iu the cultivation of Smilax and Eose
buds ; and even to-day, Boston Eose buds bring ten per cent,
more iu New Y'ork than home-grown, for no other reason than
that they come from Boston. It is probable that 10,000 dols.
have been expended the past season in the vicinity of New
York, in erecting greenhouses for the growing of these two
articles alone. — {American Horticulturist.)

We understand that the business of hot-water engineers

hitherto carried on by Mr. T. S. Tkdss, Friar Street, S.E.,
has been converted into a company called " The Patent Pipe
and Boiler Foundry Company (Limited)."

One of the prettiest winter-flowering shrubs is Erica

CODONODES, a species very rarely to be met with. We have it
now in full bloom growing iu the open air of the Weald of
Sussex, where it is perfectly hardy. We procured it from Mr.
W. Knight, of Hailsham, in whose nursery we have observed
a good stock of it.

WORK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN OAHDEN.

In aU situations, and under all circumstances, it is highly rc-
commendable to keep a cropping table and note the time of
sowing, planting, aud gathering, wuth remarks on each descrij)-
tiou of vegetable. This table would be of great value in point-
ing out the time of sowing in that particular locality, so as to
have the crops come in at the time required. A sowing nf
Marshall's ProUfic or Early Mazagau Beans should now be made
iu the open ground where the soil is sufBciently dry to work
well. Cauliflou'ers in frames and under hand-lights should
be divested of decayed leaves and litter ; give them abundance
of air iu mild weather. Sow Seymour's Superb White Celerij in
boxes for the main early crop. This is a superior variety, it
grows large aud is not so liable to run as other sorts. This is
a good time to prepare for the principal crops of Curumhcrs. In
making dung beds some brushwood or faggots should be laid
at the bottom to draiu oU superfluous water. A narrow layer o
the same material should also be built up with the bed under
each ratter, to reach from front to back; this will allow the heat
from the linings to circulate freely, aud at the same time will
be a saving of dung. As soon as the seed leaves of the young
plants are fully developed I30t off, using the soil before recom-
mended. Eemove decayed leaves and rubbish from Lrltucea
iu frames. Give plenty of air. As soon as the young plants in
boxes are an inch or two high prick them out on a warm border
next mouth, when they will be found to be nearly as early as
the autumu-sown plants. After the beds for Mushrooms have
been made a few days, the heat of them should be examined
every morning, so that it may be ascertained if the temperature
is increasing or decreasing. A thermometer may be thrust a
few inches beneath the surface of the bed, aud if after two or
three examinations it does not exceed !i(>', the bed may be
spawned. A sowing of Earlj' Frame Radislics may be made on
a sheltered warm border. Remove the covering from that por-
tion of Sca-kalc which was forced early ; cut the stem short, so
as to keep them within the compass of a pot or box. Slinllots
and Garlic should now be planted if not done iu the autumn.

FRUIT G.ABDEN.

If any transplanting of fruit trees has yet to be done this sea-
son, it should bo seen to at once; also see to getting ground
intended to be i)lautcd with young trees prepared, and spare no
pains or expense to have this properly done. Make sure of
thorough drainage, and when the subsoil is unkind this should
be removed, replacing it with some good fresh loam. Pruning
aud nailiug should be persevered iu whenever the weather is
favourable. Any tree intended to be grafted in spring may be
headed- down, but leave the branches sufficiently long to allow

February 6, 187S. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

125

an inch or two more to be taken off at the time of grafting, when
a clean cut should be made.

FLOWER GARDEN.

The directions of last week may be attended to iu the shrub-
beries ; and in the flower garden Rosea may be pruned, and
deciduous climbers regulated and tied or nailed properly. I am
not an advocate for close pruning in spring, but prefer cutting
out the old wood and replacing it by young shoots every season.
Should frost continue, it will leave the florist little to do out of
doors. TuUps ought to be out of harm's way. Pinks, if defended
in the manner recommended in a previous calendar, may bid
defiance to hares and rabbits. Ranunculus beds will be all the
better of frost. The final arrangement of the roots for planting
may now be made, keeping all flat-crowned ones for the side bed.
Auriculas, though necessarily covered, as the trusses are rising
in the hearts, ought to have air whenever practicable, withdraw-
ing or tilting the frame lights in the middle of the day, if only
for half an hour. Carnations in frames may have a current of
air passing under them during the frost, the frames being closed
at top to prevent the ingress of snow or rain. The florist may
employ his leisure time in manufacturing and repairing Dahlia
shades, making small three-cornered paper bags for Tulips and
Ranunculus roots next season, painting or otherwise marking
zinc labels for Dahlias and Roses, and attaching metallic wire to
them.

OnBlINnOUSH akd conseevatort.

As the season advances give more air to the houses. See that
suitable composts are ready under cover for potting and sowing
seeds. Some of the hardwooded plants may now be propagated
by cuttiugs, where a gentle bottom heat can be kept up. Do not
increase the temperature of the houses yet, and take care that
all the plants are clean and free from insects. The early-forced
bulbs will now be out of bloom in the conservatory, and should
be removed to some sheltered place whence frost is excluded
in order to ripen their foliage, and other plants may be intro-
duced from the forcing houses. Hibiscus, Clerodendrons, Jus-
ticias, and other half-stove plants which flower in the conserva-
tory may bo pruned, and some of them placed in a higher
temperature, but they should not be potted until they begin to
grow freely. A few Neriums and Hydrangeas may be also forced
into early growth for this house. A gentle heat would now
benefit the Chinese Azaleas for early flowering. Continue to
give as much air to the greenhouse daily as the state of the
weather will admit of, and see that- all the plants are watered
regularly : the great object is to keep these plants from growing
early.

FORCING PIT.

Continue to introduce fresh supplies of plants as the former
ones are removed to the conservatory, also other plants from
which you wish to obtain an early crop of cuttings, such as
Salvia splendens to come in early in the autumn. Common
plants that do not promise much bloom should be at once dis-
carded to make room for others ; failures of this nature always
occur more or less in early forcing.

PITS AND FRAMES.

Here, if the number of plants required for bedding-out is
considerable, there will be plenty of employment for all hands.
The whole of the autumn-propagated plants must be potted-otf
without delay, so as to get them well rooted and turned out
into temporary pits by the 1st of April, so as to set the pots
at liberty for a second lot of plants, which should now be
coming forward in the propagating frame. It is of no use to
plant Verbenas, itc, for beds at a foot or more apart, as late ex-
perience proves that, unless we plant out good masses at once,
the flower garden will present only empty borders until August
or September ; therefore, where we wanted one plant in past
years we shall in future require three or four, and consequently
a corresponding provision must be made. Hydrangeas intro-
duced into the forcing house in January will now require to
have their side shoots removed to give strength to the leader.
These shoots must be used for propagating, to provide plants
for another season. Sweet Peas, if wanted to bloom early, must
be sown in pots in heat for transplanting ; indeed, a general
assortment of the best annuals must now be sown in pots tor
the spring and early summer decoration of the flower garden.
Some of the Stocks and other annuals sown some weeks past
will require potting-off, putting three or four plants in a pot.
Divide and make root-cuttings of Bouvardia triphylla and
angustifolia, and get the plants forward and strong for planting-
out. Dahli.as of choice sorts from which many young plants
are required may now be potted and placed in heat, or they
may be laid on the tan in a forcing house, and covered withleaif
mould or rotten tan. — W. Keane.

DOINGS OP THE LAST WEEK.

kitchen garden.
The frost that has come after the continuous rains has pre-
vented much flue work being done, but there has been a good

opportunity for wheeUng over walks without injuring them.
We have been moving and turning soil, ridging, trenching, and
rough-digging, and getting materials ready for shght hotbeds
for Carrots, Radishes, Potatoes, Turnips, &c., and for sowing
early CauUflowers, Cabbages, and Lettuces. Iu old gardens,
iu preparing for all such forwarding hotbeds, two things can
generally be accomplished at one time. Thus, in wheeUug-out
rotted manure to quarters, beds, and borders, a good deal wiU
be obtained from the jCentre and bottom not nearly so much
decayed as that at the sides and tops of the beds, because less
exposed to moisture and air. The longest of that might be
joined to the general fermenting heap, and the slightly-more-
decomposed be used as a topping to keep down the steam from
the fresher, and, in some cases, not too sweet material when first
used. It costs but little trouble to cast the longest, least-
thoroughly-decomposed to one side, and make it serve a further
heating purpose.

Owing to the wet dull weather, forward crops under glass,
with all the air possible, have not grown so sturdily as usual,
not from having too much heat beneath them, but from not
having enough of sun and a drier air around them.

There need be no want of Asparagus, Sea-kale, or Rhubarb
where a mild heat of from 50^ to 55°, and even, when much
wanted, up to G0°, can be given, and there are plenty of plants
to lift and remove. The great loss in the case of Asparagus is,
that it is hardly worth while to do more with the old roots than
consign them to the rubbish heap- When we have replanted
the best of them thay rarely succeeded so well as young plants.
The others mentioned, when hardened-ofl before replanting, did
generally very well afterwards.

FRUIT DEP.UITMENT.

The press of other work which could be done even in such
weather, has kept us back here as respects out-door work with
fruit trees and shrubs in the way of pruning, tying, nailing,
cleaning, &c. ; and the sunless weather demanded that all forcing
operations should be conducted more slowly than usual, iu
order that forward blooms should not suffer, nor young shoots
be drawn up more thin and watery than usual. The admission of
more air than is customary, especially if the air is somewhaiJ
heated before reaching the plants and flowers, will do something
to correct this disagreeable tendency; but even that will not
compensate for the want of the sun's rays. We recollect soma
years ago having much trouble to get a moderate crop of Peaches
in a house. Though the trees were well supplied with bloom —
notwithstanding touching with feathers, camel-hair brushes, and
waving with flat boards in the way of a fan over the blooms,
there seemed little reciprocal influence between the parts of
fructification, and that chiefly, in our opinion, because there was
only one hour and a half of sun altogether whilst the trees were
in bloom, and that time was made-up of times when there was
only a gleam for a few moments, many gleams not lasting a
minute before the clouds covered the sky. In all such cases
comparative dryness of the enclosed air is important — not too
dry, for that would shrivel-up the anthers ; but, on the other
baud, not too moist, or in dull weather they will get clogged-up
and refuse to open, and the waxy-surfaced pistils become equally
inoperative. Even out of doors an excess of moisture at the
blooming time often does more harm than a dry frost of several
degrees below the freezing point. Hence, in all such weather a
lower temperature and a drier atmosphere under glass will be
more desirable than the reverse. Swilling stages, shelves, and
floors in such weather demands a greater consumption of fuel —
a greater rise of vapour — to give additional moisture to the at-
mosphere, apart, at least, of which will be condensed against the
glass, and, if no means be used to the contrary, it will fall like
dewdrops over the house, and often thus injure the plants be-
neath, besides tempting them to a languid weakly growth.

We recollect of a case early iu winter, where it was insisted
that a Peach house, with trees on a flat trellis in front full
in bloom in December, was kept up to 60' or G5° in frosty
weather, and the moisture being used in proportion, the drop-
pings from the condensed vai^our on the glass fell like a shower
on the blooms ; and, to prevent that, calico was stretched along
to receive it at least in the first place, and, well stretched, this
kept it so far from falling on the blooms. We would now say
that under such circumstances it would be better in every way
to let the thermometer in the house sink lU^ at least, and take
the chance of a natural stimulus in a gradual but safe rise from
sunshine.

As a general rule, especially among beginners, who like to see
plants looking at their best when they would really well pay
back for a little rest or repose, fruit houses and plant houses
are apt to be kept too hot and too moist iu dull cold weather in
winter. As an example iu the one case, we can recollect using
a long-pointed instrument aflixed to something hke a syringe,
with which to draw up the water from the hearts of Pine plants
after the young fruit had shown itself, so that the fruit should
not come deformed ; and in the other case, as respects plant
houses, we have seen scores of fine blooms of Camellias, &o.,
spotted and rendered useless for decorative purposes by the

12C

JOUENAL OF HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

[ Feimary 6, 1873.

drops falling ou them from the roof, especially if the roof was
not perfectly clean, or, if iron, was not thoroughly free from rust
and blemishes. True, much of this might be avoided by fluted
sashbars ; but though well aware of their importance in taking
condensed moisture out of the house, too many gardeners are
only too glad to get sashhars of any kind. These fluted sash-
foars are especially useful in flat-roofed houses w'here a high
temperature is maintained in winter.

A great deal may be done to counteract this evil, and yet re-
main inside the point of safety, by simply keeping the houses a
little cooler and drier. As less vapour will rise there will be all
the less to be condensed, and consequently fewer and smaller
drops to fall.

0KN.4MEKTAL DEP.UITMENT.

Turfing in Winter. — Bough as the weather was, yet there
were tine sunny days in which turfing as well as levelling could
be done, though it will ever be found a future source of trouble
to do much particular levelling with soil at all frozen in lumps,
as, though you may get a fine unfrozen surface, these lumps
will sink unequally and present you with an uneven lawn after-
wards. If such lumps, from a covering of grass, &c., can be
avoided, leveUing and also turfing may be done in such frosty
weather as we have had, if these two conditions are attended
to — ttiat the soil should not be frozen, or be thawed, before the
turf is put on ; and secondly, that the turf itself, whatever time
it may have been taken up, should be free from frost. Of
course, the sooner turf is laid after being taken up the better,
but it often happens that it must be in heaps some time before
the ground can lie made ready for it. In all such cases when
frost is anticipated, it is worth the httle trouble to cover the
heaps with a sprinkling of litter. Very little will keep out the
frosts such as we have yet had, and even in a frosty day it wiU
<;ome oiit limp and clean, and may be laid down and beaten at
once ; whilst, exposed in even such slight frosts, you might as
well attempt to lay cylinders down flat. Besides, turf taken
up and rolled in the usual way with the earth side outwards
—(why always, we can hardly say) — suffers much from frost,
as the roots of the grass are apt to be killed. When frost
is anticii^ated, and heaps must be made and litter is scarce, it
would be much better to pUe the turf without rolling, and the
«arth side downwards. Very little litter round the sides would
then be almost sufficient, as the top being grass would of itself
be a great protection. Many years ago a good many yards of
turf were left roUed-up in narrow rows, and thus exposed to
three days of unexpected sharp frost, and though laid down
in a week afterwards, and looking not so badly at first, it got
worse as the days lengthened, and in May a lot of fine seeds
ihad to be sown over it and heavily rolled- in, thus entailing extra
labour and expense.

In this frosty weather extra care will have to be taken of early
fculbs, i'c, out of doors, protecting them with a cone of cocoa-
nut fibre, dry ashes, &c. Pinks, Carnations, and Pansies out of
doors will be benefited by open twigs of evergreens stuck in
among them and removed as soon as the weather moderates, as
then such shelter would be injurious. Twigs with small leaves
answer best for this purpose, as, though the force of the frosty
winds is broken and calmed, the plants are not weakened as
they would be if covered over altogether. This is one of the
evils apt to be xjroduced by mats or other similar coverings, un-
less the weather is severe enough to arrest everything like
an attempt at gi'owth. Finer plants, as Auriculas, and potted
plants of the best Carnations, Picotees, Cloves, and Pinks, can
hardly be kept too dry. In the uncertain mild weather as
respects rains and dribbles, plenty of air should be given front
and back, but the sash tilted-up, not removed. In such frosty
weather with no sun, ijrovided the soil for the plants is dryish,
scarcely any air will be wanted. If the sun do come out,
elevate the lights at back, and keep the air on until after the
departure of the sun, and the air gets cold inside, when the
lights should be shut down, and in extreme cases a little cover-
ing given, but only in extreme cases.

Since oiu' first young days in gardening, the last time we saw
what seemed a good collection of Auriculas, we felt as if some
one had given us such a knock at the heart as to stoj) for a time
all circulation of blood and all thought. There the fine-looking
plants stood in shallow frames, the 6 and 8-inch pots plunged
in ashes that seemed more wet than dry, for three-parts the
height of the pots ; and in a clear frosty day at the end of Decem-
ber, with a bright sun and a thermometer at the north side of
the wall standing at 22° below freezing point, the jjlants stood
fully exposed to keep them hardy, though the soil in the pots
seemed as hard as brick, and the rims of the pots were crack-
ing and splintering in all directions. We heard afterwards
that the plants bloomed badly. We should have preferred but
little frost to visit them, and if in such sun the plants with air
at back and a little at front had been unduly excited, we should
have preferred to have given a little shade to mitigate the force
of the sun, rather than such a full exposure to clear, dry
parching, frosty air. Two things we are too apt to forget, but
we make a present of them to all aspirants of progress. The

neautiful and interesting alpine plants will, ere long, he dear
favourites with lovers of plants who have but little room. They
must not, however, think alone of their hardines.s, their being
natives of very elevated positions, or of high latitudes where
the cold is often intense, for that is no reason why they will
stand uninjured a similar amount of cold with us, any more
than that they would siu'vive the coddling we could give them
in a warm plant house. The best and most effectual of all
coverings, that of snow, covers them up in their natural habitats
just when the cold is intense enough to arrest all growth. Such
plants would suffer nothing from a long night of protected
darkness in continued frosty weather, provided they were kept
cold enough jusc to hve and not to grow. Though different
in their character, we have thus treated even Calceolarias and
other half-hardy plants, shutting them up for days and weeks
when there could be no benefit by exposing them in severe
weather. The conditions of safety must, however, be present — .
that frost to no great extent should reach them, and yet the
atmosphere roimd them should be so near the freezing point
that there will be no elongation or growth.

Again, do not be led away by learned statements as to the
cold and frost that plants will stand in Australasia, and even
elevated tropical regions, and believe that such plants will with-
stand an equal degree of cold in our cloudy moist atmosphere.
There, in many cases to which reference is made, the air is much
drier and the sun seldom clouded, or, if so, at certain definite
seasons, and the tendency is to give to the wood of such plants
something of the hardiness of heart of Oak — very different from
the more spongy soft growth they make in our more dull and
less sunny cUTuate.

We completed much potting and cleaning, and the general
treatment of houses and plants has been foreshadowed. W^e
had hard work in putting to rights an old boiler that gave way
just when we wanted it; and it furnished several reflections, to
which we may allude, and the more particularly as among the
first papers of these '* Doings " we had to record a similar mis-
hap at the coldest time but one of which we have any recoUec-
tion. That was comparatively a young boiler. From what we
can make' out, this one must have worked fully forty-five years.
We question if many of our new-fashioned boUers can ever boasj;
such a longevity, and on the whole it seems sound now. — E. F.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Edwin Cooling, 18, Irongate, and Mile-Ash, Duflield Eoad,
Derby. — Select Catalogue of Seeds.

F. C. Heiuemann, Erfurt. — General Catalog der Sainen und
Pflanzen-handlwng .

William Eumsey, Joyning's Nursery, Waltham Cross, London,
N. — Select List of Garden, Flower, and Farm Seeds, d-c.

W. Samson & Co., and W. & T. Samson, Kilmarnock. —
General Catalogue of Seeds, Plants, d-e.

Stuart & Mein, Eelso. — General Catalogue of Vegetable and
Flower Seeds.

Archibald Henderson, Sion Nursery, White Horse Boad, and
North End, Croydon. — Catalogue of Garden, Agricultural, and
Flower Seeds.

Edmondson Brothers, 10, Dame Street, Dublin. — Spring Cata-
logne of Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Boots, Sc.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*,' We request that no one will write privately to any of the
correspondents 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. 111, Fleet
Street, London, B.C.

N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until next
week.
Books (J. E.).— Mr. Hivers's " Orcbarcl House" la putlisbed by Messrs.

Longman & Co., Paternoster Eow. (.J Florist).— Yfe ilo not know the book

you name.

Dim.lAS OF 1872 (J. Oliver).— la " The Gardeners' Year-Book " are a list

and description of them, and of all the new flowers. You can have the hook

free by post from our office if you enclose fourteen postage stamps with your

address.

SiTrATiiiN (IT. ff.).— ■Write to Mr. Barron, Royal Horticultural Society's

Garden, Chiswick; and to Mr. Smith, Curator, Koyal Botanic Gai'dous, Kew,

telliuf,' them what you wish.
ScAHtET GERANinm FOR BEDDING (if. T. H.).—As you require depth of

colour and abundance of flowers, the best scarlet Geranium to answer your

purpose will be Waltham Seedling or Bayard. See Mr. Peach's notes on

Geraniums which appear this week.

Select Cabnations and Picotee.i (G. H. JB.).— Carnation.*— Garibaldi,

Eccentric Jack, Lady of the Lake, Mayor of Nottingham, Illuminator, and

Koseot Staplcfurd. Picotees — Lord Valentia, Miss Turner. .YdmiratiMU, Lady

Elcho, Flower of the Day, and Miss Scwell. The '• Cottage Gardeners'

Dictionary," which you can have fi-ee by post from our oflice for Is. 2d.,

f uniishesthe infonnatiou yuu lequhe.

Fubraary C, 1873. ]

JOUKNAIi OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

127

Fig (f^. 5.).— Yoa wiUfindtlieEeculver in the " Fruit Manual " as a syno-
nym of Black Provence.

Arnhtt's Stove (R.B.P.).—The stoves used by "J. W. " (page 53), are
2 feet 0 inches high and 18 iuches square. Three stoves are in use there : two
in vineries and one in his employer's entrance hall. They cost £i each. He
fears one of the size mentioned would not be sufficient to heat 5400 cubic
feet of space ; but this, in a ^eat mea-sure, depends on what is meant by
" heating," and also the material surrounding the space. In a lean-to vinery
faciu',' the south, a stove placed in the centre and close to the back wall — the
worst place in the house, so far as an equable tUffusion of heat is concerned,
but the only oue convenient — the ^'iues are started in February, and Grapes
cut about the 20th of July. This is what the stove will do, and all it will do,
so placed. The house is IS by 14 feet, 14 feet high at back, 6 in front, con-
taining 2520 cubic feet of space. If the stove had a better position, and were
only required to exclude frost, an adiUtional 1000 feot would be safe in its
keeping', and perhaps more. Much depeuds, however, on the style of house,
its aspect, whether or not contiguous trees or buildings break the force of
wintry blasts, &c. In another bouse of the same size as the above, a stove is
used merely to exclude frost. It has never failed to answer its purpose,
although placed at the back of the house and under the stage.

TwENTY-FOFR PiLLAR RoSES {.47nnf(-i(r).— Cbarles Lefobvre, Alfred Colombi
John Hopper, Emilie Hausburg, Countess of Oxford, Madame Victor Verdier,
Senateur Vaisse, Marguerite de St. Amand, Mdlle. JTario Rady, Duchcsse de
Morny, Madame Clt-mence Joigueaus, Fisher Holmes, Madame Caillat, Victor
Verdier, Boule de Neige, Baronne de Maynard, Mdlie. Eug'-nie Verdier, Dupuy-
Jamain, Gt-nt-ralJacqueminot, Duchesse de Caylus, Maurice Eernardiu, Jules
Margottin, Due de Cazes, Duke of Edinburgh. CUmherx ;— ^Gloire de Dijon,
Man-ehal Niel, Devoniensis (climbing), Celine Forestier, Triomphe dc Renues,
♦General Jacqueminot, *Fehcite Perpetuelle, *Sir J. Paxton, Acidalie, La
Biche, Jauue Desprez, Cloth of Gold. We name only twelve instead of twenty-
four, as many of the climbers are only single-bloomers, as the Boursaults, Ayr-
shire, &c. We have not mentioned the Banksian Roses ; both the yellow and
white are well worth a wall, but require a good position. Those marked with
an asterisk are the most hardy.

CrcrMBERS IN Pots (G. 3f.).— Plants in pots require more care in water-
ing than those planted out, and we should grow them in the latter way. We
have no doubt of your succeeding with them in pots; the plants will come
earlier into bearing, and will not go so much to wood as those planted out,
but they are not so durable. The Melons we should plant out in a bed forthe
same reason as we would plant out the Cucumbers— viz., they do not need i>o
much care in watering, and produce larger fruit than pot plants.

Annhals Flowering Late (^4n ^rKa(eur).— The Large-flowering Emperor
Stock sown in April will have fine flowers in autumn. The Intermediate
Stocks sown at the same time are also good. Calliopsis Burridgii, C. Drum-
jnondi, Candytufts sown early in June. Centaurea Cyanus in varieties, Ery-
simum Peroffskianum. Cbrysanthemum Dunnetii flore-pleno, Dianthus Hed-
dewigii liore-pleno and var. diadematus. Branching Larkspur var., Leptosiphon
densiflnrus aud var. aibus, Lupinus nanus. Striped French Marigold, Large-
iloweriug Mignonette, Scarlet and Striped Invincible Sweet Peas, Dwarf Double
Scabious, Senecio elegans vars., and Verbena venosa.

Conno%-er's Colossal Asparagus iIdcm).-~Your plants of this trans-
planted last spring, and which gave a good many shoots large enoutih for
cutting, may safely have the large shoots cut this spring ; but we should not
continue cutting after the middle of June, and we would only cut the large
heads to avoid weakening the plants. We should continue to give plenty of
manure of all kinds throughout the summer. It is the means of securing fine
heads for cutting the succeeding year.

Sowing Centaurea candidissiiia and Mesehbryantitemum: cordipo-
LIFM variegatl'm — SoiL FOR AzALEAS {Atinic). — The seeds of the Centaurea
should be sown in a pot or pan of light loamy soil, a third of leaf soil, and a
sixth of silver sand well mLted and made fine, especially at the surface of the
pot. Cover the seed with fine soil about the eighth of an inch deep. Place
the pots in a hotbed with a temperature of 65" to TO"", keeping the soil just
moist. "UTien the seetUings appear place them near the glass, and give no
more water than is sufficient to keep the soil moist; and when they have the
second leaves pot them off singly in the compost used for sowing the seed:
3-inch pots are large enough. Return them to the frame and shade thera
from bright sun. Their growth should be encouraged xmtil the early part of
May. when they should be hardened off. Plant out at the end of May or early
in June, by which time they will be nice plants. The Mesembrva-ntheraum
should be soflTi in tbe same way, only the soil must be more Randy, aud the
seeds should be only just covered with very fine sandy soil. To that named
for the Centaurea odd a third of old lime rubbish. When the seedlings can
be handled they may be pricked off about an inch apart in pans; and when
they meet they should be potted singly in 3-inch pots, and again placed in the
frame imtil established. The plants may be grown in a cold frame in summer,
and kept in winter in a greonhouse or pit from which frost is excluded. The
plants will not be strong enough to turn out until the second year. Indian
Azaleas succeed admirably in a compost of three parts brown fibrous sandy
peat, and one part very turfy li;^ht loam, with a fifth part of silver sand, tho
whole broken up small, and well mixed but not sifted. Drain the pots well.

Hyacinths not Growing tvell (Sussex). — We are unable to account for
the Hyacinths growing so badly, but we do not think it could arise from tbe
bulbs ha\ing been imperfectly ripened. We do not approve of placing them
from a cold frame in a stove for a time and then moving thera to a greenhouse.
From the frame they should have been introduced to a greenhouse not over
45' at night, and kept there not less than three weeks ; then, if necessary to
have a few in flower early, they might have been placed on a shelf near the
glass in the stove, but they would do better in a temperature of 40' to 45" at
night, and 50' by day from fire heat — in fact, these are the highest tempera-
tures to which the bulbs should be subjected if they are to have good compact
spikes. We think the sudden change ^om the frame to the stove is the cause
of the mischief. Cinerarias when flowering, or at any stage of their ^Towth,
should not have the pots set in saucers filled with water. Though ihey delight
in coolness and moisture at the roots, yet the water in the saucer causes the
soil to become sodden, and the plants are apt to die off, suddenly flagging, with
the soil little better than mud when the sun is at all powerful.

CHRYSANTHEMrM Bl'ds NOT OPENING (W. B.). — Tho probable cause of tho
buds not opening is, that they were infested with thripa or green fly when in
an early stage of development.

Young Apple Espaliers (ItUm). — The leader ought to be cut back now,
cutting it just under one of the horirontal wires. When the trees start into
growth, one leading shoot must be trained in a vertical position, and one on

each side laterally along the wires. If tha leading shoot ia very strong it
may be pinched at the next wire ; three shoots will break from the leader,
which may be treated as the others. The young side shoots ought to be cut
hack pretty closely in summer to induce tho formation of fruit buds.

Black Hamburgh Giupes not Colouring (J. ilfrtcfccn^tt).— Overcrop-
ping is doubtless the cause ; you also overcrowd the house with yoimg wood.
Our own method of pruning is that called by gardeners the short-spur system.
We cut back to the second eye, and when tbe young shoots are sufficiently
advanced in gi-owth we retain that with the best bunch, and rub off tbe others.
Do not aUow your Vines to grow as you saw them in Italy. You might have
a good show of bunches, but none of them would be fit to present on the
table, and the Vines would be very much injured for next yeai-'s crop. All
young wood intended to bear fruit next year should be freely exposed to tha
light.

Repotting Camellias (G. M. B.).— You may now repot those done bloom-
ing and put them in heat at once, or they may be repotted after they have
made their young wood.

Celery Decaying (S. P. S. X.).— Celery in general has not been good this
season, and has kept badly owing to so much wet. The Sandringham Dwarf
White is an excellent sort. We advise you to try Williams's Matchless Red.
In earthing-up Celery be careful that the soil do not fall into the heart of the
plant. Always eorth-up in dry weather and when the soil is dry.

In-door Hotbed — Pelaegonium and Geranium (Espinasson). — A hotbed
in or under a hothouse is so called. There is no very great difference between
what are commonly called the Geraniums used for bedding purposes and the
Pelargoniums used for in-door floweriug. Both are Pelargoniums. Pelargo-
nium is characterised by having usually seven stamens and unequal-sized
petals ; Geranium, by having ten stamens and equal-sized petals ; and Erodium
by having five fertile anthers usually. The three genera are nearly allied.
We do not know Dr. Regel's recommendation.

Hotbed Making {St, Brij? id). —There are directions in our No. 617, which
you can have for four postage stamps if sent to our office with your direction.

Heating a Hothouse.— '* I have a double span-roofed stove with a wal
up to the eaves on the north side, aud the west end joins the conservatory.
The spans rise 2 feet, and the house is 10 feet to the eaves, so it will average
11 feet high. It is 16 feet wide and 25 feet long. Tho wall at the front and
ends is 2 feet high, the rest glass. How many feet of 4-inch piping will be
required to keep up a stove temperature? — J. R."

[TTndei- the chcumstances you will want about 200 feet of 4-inch piping to
keep up a temperature avernging 65" in severe weather. If you would he
satisfied with 60-, and even 5- or 10° less in severe weather, 50 feet less of
4- inch piping might do. As the piping is to be sunk imder a grating, we would
say fully 200" feet, as it is better to have plenty of pipes than to have them
too hot.]

Cucumber Bed over Hot-water Pipe— Mushrooms in Greenhouse
Vinery (A Nine-years Subscrihrr).—TiU-m over and round the hot-water
pipe with brickbats ; bring them 1 foot above tho hot-water pipe, and over the
rubble place a layer of turf grass downwards, or, faUing such, the rougher
parts of the compost, and then the soil for the plants. Oue pipe for top heat
is too little. You ought to have at least two 4rinch pipes for a pit 10 feet
wide, and then you would only be able to plant out early in March. Under
the circumstances we should not advise planting until April. You raay have
other means of affording heat, as fenuenting materials placed within the
house, and in this case you may commence at once. You will need a tempe-
rature of 60^ to 65*^ at night and 70^ by day, with a rise from sun heat of 10°
to 15- with air. You may grow Mushrooms successfully in your greenhouse
vinery under the stage, providing you can keep the bed dry for sLx weeks after
it is spawned and earthed ; but should the bed be liable to suffer from wet,
occasioned by drip from watering the plants on the stage over the Mushroom
bed, it is likely the latter will not succeed.

Stove without Chimney {(?. I/. B.).— No such stove, whether the fuelbft
patented or unpatented, can be placed among plants without injuring thera.

Camellia (R^aiitr).— We have given the correct spelling.

Names of Plants (S. ^mftkr).- Ccelogyne cristata, Ldl. (S. D.).— A.
species of Lfelia, probably L. anceps. (George P.).— A species of Isolepis.
(At a Loss).— Your specimens are very insufficient. 1, Much crushed, is pro-
bably Lffilia anceps ; 2 and 3, Species of Maranta or some allied genus; 4, Be-
gonia sp.

POULTET, BEE, ATO PiaEON OHROinOLE.

POULTKY SHOW JUDGES.

It i3 with great satisfaction we announce that onr much-
esteemed Judge, Mr. Hewitt, has recovered from the accident
which he met with on his journey to the Crystal Palace, and
that he has resumed those duties which for so long a period he
has filled with so much advantage to the real lovers of poultry.
No one has done more to promote the interest of poultry exhi-
bitions, and we know of no one who could be spared with more
difficulty, his unimpeachable conduct having helped much to
raise and sustain the position of poultry shows, and his decisions
giving such little cause for criticism.

The judge is the most important officer in connection with a
poultry show. An influential committee may be formed, a good
Secretai-y elected, some most distinguished patrons announced,
valuable prizes offered, an attractive schedule issued, a great
entry obtained, a suitable building found, some fine specimens,
compete, and all that the most careful consideration and fore-
thought can suggest be done to promote the success of a show ;
and when completed, if the judging is confided to an incompetent
or prejudiced hand, all the former labours will be unappreciated,
and the result will be dissatisfaction and disgust. Even the
winners wUl feel that the honours they have obtained are due
to accident or injustice, aud pity tho credulity or the injustice
of those who were prevailed upon to make such a selection.

128

JOURNAIi OP HORTIGULTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB.

[ FsbrBarj C, 1873.

In calliug attention to this matter we are pleased to Bee that
the importance of this step has been well appreciated by nearly
all committees, hence the canse why Mr. Hewitt's services
have been so eagerly sought for. In addition to being one of
our best judges, Mr. Hewitt has other characteristics which
have made him particularly acceptable, and which will be care-
fully weighed in connection with all candidates for this most
important office. Mr. Henitt never exhibits ; no one hears of
his breeding, selling, or purchasing stock, or indulging in any
shape or way in the prejudices for this or that taste for fowls.
This has caused his awards to be received as perfectly free from
all suspicion.

Mr. Hewitt's absence at Birmiugham caused some round pegs
to be put in square holes ; and although the mistakes then made
caused a little mortification, his popularity was so great that
the disappointed ones consoled themselves with the fact that
Mr. Hewitt's illness was the cause, and all earnestly hoped that
they would soon see him back in the field of his labours. Since
then two mouths have elapsed, and during this period some new
to the office have been called upon to fill his position, and in
reviewing them we cannot yet recognise a wortliy substitute
for Mr. Hewitt ; and, although we by no means agree with
all the complaints and suggestions that have been made, w»
think sufficient cause of dissatisfaction has arisen to open the
question ; and as poultry shows are largely on the increase, we
think it is time to «onsider where we are to efficiently increase
ihe number of his coadjutants.

In electing men to this most important office, it may be worth
considering how appointments of a similar nature are made, and
the considerations that influence those elections. In selecting
men to fiU the high offices of state, in addition to their actual
qualifications, it is necessary they should not be partisans of
any particular cause, but should be men of ^rm and evenly
balanced minds. A lawyer when made a judge can no longer
practise as a pleader ; and the reasons are equally obvious why
a poultry judge, when devoting himself to that office, should
resign both breeding and exhibiting, for in his capacity of judge
he may be called upon to decide upon the meritt of birds which
he hai himself bred, and which have been transferred to other
hands. We have heard of such a case, the judge upon recognis-
ing them rightly resigning the class ; but exhibitors generally
are not told of a circumstance of this description, and it is not
always that a second Judge is at hand to relieve a brother from
such an unpleasant dilemma.

Further, this position of a judge of poultry may be equally
compared with the higher office to which we have referred. It
is important that he should be in a position which would deter
exhibitors from offering a bribe. Although, perhaps it will
hardly be expected that, in a cause in which honour is sup-
posed to be the gain, people will stoop to dishonour to purchase
it, facts have from time to time come before our notice which
show that some will dare any means to obtain these prizes, and
that people will stoop to any acts of deception, and adopt the
most shameless artifices to impose on a judge; while others,
not so clever in manipulation, will offer the judge a, new hat,
new suit of clothes, itc, for his favourable consideration. It is,
therefore, most desirable to select men to whom such offers
would not be a temptation, and whose position would place them
heyond the chance of being influenced by such corrupt pro-
posals.— Am Obbeuveb.

THE POULTRY OP 1872.— No. 2.
HiViNO, in my last notes upon this subject, given my own ideas
as to the progress or otherwise of the Brahraas, I come next to
the Cochins ; and I think few fanciers will be disposed to deny
that Buffs at least showed during the past season a very con-
siderable advance. I have not for years observed such a number
of birds with the grand old " lumpy " development. No doubt
this was mainly lost for years by the insane dread of the hock
(still felt by one or two judges I could name, whoso awards pre-
sent accordingly a con8x>icuous contrast to those of the arbitra-
tors most acknowledged in the fancy), which had the effect for
a time of annihilating proper leg-feather ; for — and it is worth
noting — good feather and the essential points of cushion and
fluff will, as a rule, always stand or fall together. No one dis-
likes real vulture-hock more than I do, and especially does no
one hate a plucked bird more ; but I have heard birds called
hocked which in that point were simply perfect, and the mis-
chief done by such ignorance was incalculable. However, dur-
ing 1872 we saw plenty of real Cochins ; and I for one was glad
also to see the richer, deeper shades of Buff again in favour.
How many good Buff strains were ruin«d in colour by the rage
for that very light colour almost running into Silver Bull, the
breeders best know ; and it is on many accounts a source of
gratification that the deep Lemons and rich Buffs should be once
more in fasbiou. Breeders have entered upon a sound path, and
I fully expect to see still better birds in 1873.

In Partridges the most noticeable feature is the evident ten-
dency of both breeders and judges to prefer the solid pencilling

which used to be called Grouse, to the streaky feathering which
used to be known as Partridge. The Grouse marking is bred as
light as the Partridge used to be, but still soUd and free from
streak; and I confess I think the change an improvement. It
not only pleases most eyes better, but is harder to breed than
the streaky marking, and hence may seem more worthy of th»
fancier. The hens seem to have shared the advance of Buffs in
shape ; but I do not myself think the same can be said of tJie cocks,
which, moreover, show an increasing tendency to streamers
(often forked) in the tail, want of flun, and too little width o£
saddle.

In Whites the hens appear stationary ; but the cocks have
been shown both whiter and more Cochin in shape this season
than usual. I may also note that better Blacks have made their
appearance than have been observed for a long time. There is
a real ojiening in this variety for any sldlled breeder, as even a
decent pen of Black Cochins rarely fails to secure a prize in the
Any variety class ; and a really good pen would win almost
everywhere. A few good Cuckoos have also been shown.

Dorkings I must say have, according to my judgment, per-
ceptibly retrograded. Some pens of old Grey hens have shown
the standard of excellence of two or three years back ; but I
have seen no chickens which appear likely to take their plaoa
among the winners of the year. In cockerels the falling-oti is
perhaps less marked, but is still evident. Doubtless the moat
extraordinarily M'et season has had much to do with this. Few
chickens have been perhaps so large as usual, and in Dorkings
the difference is fastened upon at once, whilst in other varieties
it is not given so much prominence. Another noteworthy point
is the growing tendency to make Grey Dorkings birds of colour.
All must have noticed that the very dark hena have had a per-
ceptible preference given them over the greyer marking which
oncd gave the name to the fowl. In Silver-Greys, on the con-
trary, the tendency seems precisely th« other way — via., to get
or encourage more size at the expense of all that used to be
considered the only proper colour. Many prizes have been given
to cockerels which were not Silver-Greys at all, but were very
large. White Dorkings appear to me to be getting yellower and
coarser in the combs, at least so far as the cocks are concerned.
As regards my own individual impressions, I cannot give any
better character of the Spanish ; though hero again I hare not
the slightest doubt the miserable weather is chiefly in fault.
Faces have been coarser, and especially the beautifnlly smooth
ear-lobe seems lost. It used to be bred without a fold, now an
unfolded deaf-ear is rare indeed. Rough faces seem the rule.
I believe much of this to be owing to the recognition of " trim-
ming" the faces in this breed. I have no ■wish to re-open a fruit-
less controversy on this point, and freely admit that it is so re-
cognised now, and admitted by all parties that any charge of
fraud would be ridiculous — even years ago I never did charge
fraud in this particular, for this very reason. All I say is, that
formerly the skill of fanciers bred birds whose faces needed no
trimming, and that the recognition of this practice, doing away
ae it did with the necessity for such really fine quality of face,
has caused it to be lost. I have seen birds in old days which
hardly needed a single hair being extracted ; but rare indeed
are such birds now, though it is curious to see how Bristol
still keeps up its old reputation for this breed, first established
by the skill and judgment of Mr. Rake, maintained by Mr. Roue,
at present retired, and best known as the able Secretary of tha
Bristol Show, and still upheld by Mr. Jones and others.

I hope to finish these — which, I would again state, are given
simply as my own personal impressions — in another short pap«r.
— L. Wkioht.

OYSTER SHELLS FOR POULTRY.
I HAVE long taken your paper, and almost always agree with
your remarks on poultry and poultry-f eediug, althougli I do some-
times differ. I use a food which you never seem to hint at, but
which causes my dozen hens to lay on the avsrage of the last
two years (and I am now keeping the number for the third
year), five eggs a-day, besides rearing on it and other things, but
it principally, almost a chick for every egg set. Now I wish to
trouble you to give the reason why you say iu a recent number,
" We should advise you to discontinue pounded oyster shells,
they are a fond invention," itc. I am no chemist ; Nature guides
me, and I pretty closely watch her. I have no doubt you have
some very good reason for giving the above advice ; and my rea-
son for questioning it is, that about three years ago the run my
hens had was much curtailed, and they did not produce the eggs
they had done, and frequently laid wind eggs. This mcAe me
look about for a remedy, and amougst other things I tried old
Ume rubbish ; but iilthough this stopped the wind eggs, stiU the
sheUs were soft — that is, I mean they had not a brittle bright
look, but you could almost rub them away with youi- finger. By
accidant one day, instead of some oyster shells being thrown
into the dustbin, they were thrown down in the yard, and when
I went out several of the heus were pecking at them, so I had
\ them pouuded-up, and I have never since been without them

February 6, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTTJRE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

129

Unless yon can point ont some very good reason, I think the
advice you have given (you must excuse me), is unfortunate.
What are the chemical properties of an oyster shell ? No doubt
you know, but most certainly the oyster shells I get contain
what my hens, and the hens of several other friends who would
not now on any account discontinue their use, want ; and as we
all look up to you as the authority in poultry matters, and I am
quite ready to admit, not without reason, we, myself and friends,
would like to know why you condemn oyster shells ? — Oysteb
Shell..

[Our answers to those who seek our advice are based upon the
details stated by our correspondents. In the case you refer to
the question was. What caused ill-flavoured eggs ? and as there
was nothing objectionable in the food given to the fowls, and
the only things that might disagree with them were the powdered
oyster shells, we advised these to be discontinued. Oyster shells,
besides carbonate of lime, contain 31 per cent, of animal matter,
and we know of poultry whose eggs tasted fishy from having
seashore refuse given daUy. In your case we think powdered
oyster sheUs had the credit of the cure which the lime rubbish
began, and would have completed if continued. Where lime
rubbish or powdered chalk could not be obtained, we should give
Gur fowls powdered oyster shells. — Eds.]

JUDGING SILVEB-GREY DORKINGS.

I ill sorry this subject has not been more freely discussed in
your Journal, and that the Judges have not given us their
views upon it. The necessity for some new standard of ex-
cellence is more apparent than ever, after the decisions at the
Maidstone Show. Tour report of that Show as regards SUver-
<jrey Dorkings, says that " This class was so indiUerent that
we shall soon have to exclude the breed altogether from our
shows in the south of England, where they seem to obtain little
favour." Now, it is very remarkable that amongst the birds
exhibited at Maidstone were the bird which took the first prize
at the Crystal Palace, and the second and third-prize pullets at
the same place, not one of which was even commended at Maid-
stone. Such judging I declare to be simply ridiculous. The
Maidstone Committee, moreover, excluded the Silver-Grey Dork-
ings altogether from competition for the cups, and then wonder
that the entries are not more numerous ! Let the committees of
poultry shows in the south of England be as liberal to exhibitors
of this beautiful class of fowls as they are to other classes, and
they will secure plenty of entries ; and let the judges issue a
standard of excellence, and exhibitors will know what to expect.
— Thomas E. Cato, Wye Vicarage.

CAN MERE COMPANIONSHIP WITH ANOTHER
VARIETY AFFECT THE OFFSPRING?

I HAVH bought some very pure-bred Light Brahmas, and have
given over keeping Dorkings, of which breed I retain two hens
for the present, on account of their well-known early sitting
propensities, in order to have some early hatchings. Would
there be any danger in letting these two hens run with the
Brahmas ? Do you think it would affect the cockerel and spoil
the strain ? I have been assured by a well-known breeder of
Light Brahmas, who kept a few Game Bantams with his other
birds, that the Brahmas threw foul-marked chicks while the
Bantams where in sight, and never did so before, nor since ha
has parted with the Bantams. Mixing was, of course, out of
the question, but he is of opinion that fowls are affected by the
sight of various objects. — Light Bbahma.

[Experience as regards this mysterious subject varies, pro-
bably owing to different characters of birds. In very many cases
no influence oan be traced, from which persons whose experience
is limited have rashly concluded that none exists. But wa
hiave known and heard of many cases in which such influence
was most clearly traceable. The probability in any given case
is decidedly against ill-results, but there is no certainty. Why
not in this particular instance try White Dorking hens ? — Eds.]

NoBTHAiiPTOn PocLTBT Show. — The Schedule of prizes is very
liberal, twenty-three silver cups being offered, and in each case
the value of the cups can be had in money if preferred. There
are twenty-three classes for poultry, and most of the birds will
be shown singly, as will be the Pigeons, in which section there
are twenty classes. There are ten classes for Rabbits, and eight
for Cats, and the entry fees on the whole are moderate. In the
case of Babbits each entry is entitled to one vote for the Judge.

Bkadtoiid Pigbok Show. — ^We have received a schedule of
this approaching Exhibition. Judging from the array of cups
and prizes it ought to be one of the most successful of the year.
The cups are given to nearly every two classes of the same
breed, with three money prizes in each class. The best pen in

the Show has its cup increased in value to five guineas, while a
ten-guinea cup is offered to the winner of the most points, and a
cup for the most points in the Antwerp and common Tumbler
classes is also given ; but this does not exclude these classes
from counting for the larger cups. The Variety class has a cup
to itself, as have also the Selling classes. The schedule is, with
the exception of one Selling class, for single birds. A separate
class is made for the new style of Trumpeters, so that the old
style of bird may once more distinguish itself.

RAILWAY CHARGES.

ExHiBiTOBS who, like myself, were wrongfully charged for the
transmission of poultry to and from the Maidstone Show, may
benefit by knowing that by lodging a complaint with the general
manager I have had the extra charge returned. Some companies
are liberal enough to return free, over their lines, all unsold
specimens. The South-Eastern Railway Company not only do
not approve of this, but in my case, and in that of another ex-
hibitor whom I know, made an addition to the ordinary charge
for the return journey. I hear from the Secretary of the Maid-
stone Show that he has received many complaints ot the South-
Eastern Railway Company's excessive charges, and I have
thought it well to call public attention to the matter, in order
that others may, if they please, obtain like redress with myself.
—J. G. B. Knight.

DEVIZES POULTRY AND PIGEON SHOW.

This Show was held on January 28th and 29th, under the
management of amateurs of long experience ; the whole of the
plans were carried out with remarkable punctuality. Than the
Devizes Corn Exchange, in which the Show took place, no build-
ing need be desired of greater capabilities for displaying to ad-
vantage the valuable specimens in competition. We may add,
the feeding and general attention bestowed on the birds was
most praiseworthy.

Dorkingi, except Silver-Grey, headed the list, and consisted
of ten very creditable entries. Mr. John Martin was first with
his well-known rosy-combed pen. Among the other pens were
some of the finest hens we have seen during the past season,
but many of the cocks were sadly out of feather. In the Dork-
ing class for Silver-Greys or Whites, Messrs. Wren & Page took
the Dorking cup with a grand pen of Silver-Greys of great merit,
and shown in high condition. In the Cochins the Buffs and
■Whites were decidedly the best shown, the Partridge-feathered
being a very Ul-conditioned class throughout. Mr. W. A. Taylor
here secured the cup with a pen of Buffs ihat require a short
rest before they will meet the public view in the robust health
they possessed a short time back. The Brahmas, though heavy
classes, were not nearly equal to anticipation; but a very finely-
conditioned pen of Light-feathered ones, exhibited by Mr. J
Rodbard, obtained the silver cup. The Spanish, with the ex-
ception of the three priae pens, were an ill-assorted class, most
of them being out of condition, and not a few decidedly un-
healthy. In Oamt fowls Mr. Samuel Matthew, of Stowmarket,
was very successful with splendid specimens, shown in the very
height of condition and feather. Mr. Stagg's coUectiou of Game
birds was also very creditable. We much regretted to see among
the Game, some otherwise first-class fowls with the ear-covers
(not ear-lobes) out completely off, leaving the orifice fuUy ex-
posed, without any protection whatever ; it proved hideous to
the eye, and in severe weather could not be otherwise than
highly prejudicial to the health of the fowls thus cruelly muti-
lated. Hamhurghs and Polandi were much better classes than
those of former years, but it was in the French and Malay fowls
more especially that marked progress was apparent. Creve-
Cceurs were abundant, and of general good quality; several pens
of La Fl^che were also exhibited. In the Variety class were
good specimens of Sultans, Black Minorcas, White Leghorns,
Scotch-Greys, and Plymouth Rock fowls. Of the Bantams, the
Sebrights, Booted Black, and Black Red Game were the be.st
varieties, but these classes were not large in numbers. Only
four pens of Aylesbury Ducks competed, but all of them were
very good. In Black East Indian, Mr. Sainsbury proved the
excellence of his breed of this notably beautiful variety by secur-
ing the silver cup, first and second prizes, and two high com-
mendations, with an entry of four pens. Among the remaining
pens of this breed, it being a strong class, were some excellent-
plumaged birds, but far beyond the standard size allowable in
this breed. A truly interesting Variety Duck class was most
attractive, and as the day was one of bright clear sunshine
throughout, the splendid colour of their plumage was seen to
great advantage. Heavy Selling classes brought together nume-
rous buyers, and many really cheap lots were entered.

The Pigeons, of which the entries this year showed a great in-
crease, were admirably placed on the top of the single tier of
poultry pens, so that they could be inspected with comfort by
everyone, most of these classes being unexceptionably good.

A specially advantageous rula of allowing he fortunate

130

JOURNAL OP HOKTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ February 6, 1873.

winners of silver cups the choice of any other article of plate of
the same value, was duly appreciated ; a choice collection of
really useful pieces of plate being displayed for the purpose on
a stand in the Exhibition. A few cages of siuging birds added
to the general attraction, and the attendance of visitors was
most satisfactory.

DoKKiNGs.— Co/oitrtvZ, except Silvcr-Grcy.—\.3. Martin, Clames, Worcester.
2, a. K. Jordan, Bridgeml, South Wiihs. 3. Miss J. Mllward, Newtou St. Loe.
uc, J. Watts, Birmingham. Any utliei- varicti/.—l aud Cup, Wren & Page,
Lowestoft, a, O. E. (Jicsawell, Early Wood, Bagshot. 3, Mrs. Havue, I'ordmg-
ton, Dorchester.

i^ucaiss.- Cinnamon or Buff.~-\, Cup. and 2, W. A. Taylor, Manchester. 3,
S. K. Harris, Casgarne, St. Day. he, Mrs. Allsop. Hindlip Hall, Worcester.
Partridge— 1 and 2, W. A. Taylor. 3, J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury. WItite.—i.,
Cup, and 2, R. S. S. Woodgate. i-emburv, Tunbridge WeUs. 3, K. W. Beachey,
Kingskerswell. he, O. E. Cresswell.

BEAHMis.-iJart.— 1 and (Jup, E. Ensor, Bristol. 2, J. Walls. S, E. Pritchard.
Tettcnhall, Wolverhampton, he, E. Enaor, Bristol; T. H. WUliama, Brecon ;
J. K. Fowler. Light— 1 and Cnp, J. U. Rodbard, Wrington, Bristol. 2, H. M.
Maj-nard, Holmewood, Isle ot Wight. 3, M. Leno, Markyate SU-eet. tic, Mrs.
T, Turner, Avon, Kingwood (2).

Spanish.—! and Cup, J. Boulton, Bristol. 2, E. S. Samway, Beaver Town,
Southampton. 3. H. sheppard. Blenavou, Mon. ftc.Mrs.AUsop; K. S. Samway.

(ji:iE,— Black-breasted ur other Red— Cocks —1 and Cup, s. Matthew, Stow-
market. 2, W. H. Stagg, Netheravon. 3, G. S. cole, Llanellv. he, H. E.
Martin, Sculthorpe ; VV. U. stagg (3). Hens.— 1 and Cup, S. Matthew. 2, W. H.
Stagg. S, E. Winwood. he. Dr. VV. K. Bullmore, Falmouth ; E. F. Woodiuau,
Cirencester, c, H. E. Martm ; R. H. Tyte, Minoinghampton.

GA^iE.—Anp other variety —Cueks.—l, J. T. Browne. 2, S. Matthew. 3, Hon.
and Kev. t. Button, Wiudiush Vicarage, Burtord. he, Dr. W. K. Bullmore. c,
i-ttaily, Calne. Uena.—l, H. Malthevv. 2, Hon. and Rev. F. Dutton. S, E.
Woodbnrn, Ulverston.

HiMBuKoHs. — ooW or Sitver-peneilled. — l and 2, H. Beldon, Goitstock,
Bingley. 3, Miss Perriu, Upper isaston, Bristol, c, H. H. Thompson, Colea-
nill; H.Moore, Weston-super-Mare. Gold or tiilvcr-sijangled.-i and Cup, T.
Walker, jun., Denton. 2 and 3, H. Btldou. he, J. Eong, Forest Hill, e, J.
Messer, Keading. Black— 1 and Cup, T. Walker, jun. 2, H. Beldon. S, T.
Bush, Bristol.

PoLANDS— 1, A. Cruttenden, Brighton. 2. J. Roylo, Manchester. S, H.
Beldon. he, Capt. F. U. Coleridge, Wargrave ; J. Himon, Warminster.

Frekch.— Ifourfaiw.— 1, J. K. rowli r. 2, H. Feast, Swansea. 3, M. H. Sturt,
Puscy. Ac, M. H. Sturt; Miss E. Wilhamt, Henllys, Berriew ; W. O. Quibell,
Newark. Any other earieti/.—l, W. H. crabtree, Leveushuluie, Manchester.
2, H. Feast. S, W. Humpbrt-ys. Liscard. (ic, A. E. Deane, Wmchester; E.
Eautour; Hon. C. Parker, Washington, Oxon; M. H. Sturt; J. K. Fowler, c.
Rev. (i. ChUton, Littleton, Guildford.

Malavs.— 1, Rev. A. G. Brooke, Shrawardine. 2 and 3, J. Hinlon. he, J. E.
Eooth, Chesterfield.

Any othee Vaeletv,— 1, S. R. Harris (Black Minorcas). 2, E. Loft, Wood-
mansey (Sultans). 3, Rev. N. J. Ridley (White Leghorns), he, R. S. S. Wood-
gite (Silkies) ; Wren li Page (Scotch-Greys) ; J. Long (Plymouth Bock), e, J,
Watts (Sultans).

Game BiHTAMs—Black-breusted and otlur Beds.-I, E. Payne, Cardiff. 2, S.
Stephens, juu., Ebley. Stroud. 3, A. Ashley. Any other variety.— I, A. Ashley.

2, G. E. Palmer, Warminster. S, G. M. Hale, Bradtord-on-Avon.
Bantams.— tio(rf or bilver-laced.—l, 2, and 3. M. Leno. he, C. H. Poole,

Bridgwater. Any other variety.— 1, E. Cambridge, Bristol. 2, Rev. W. Ser-
jeantson, Acton Burnell. 3, J. Watts, he, R. H. Ashton, Mottram ; T. Davies,
Redland, Bristol.

Ducks.— ^!/ies6iiri(,—l and 3, J. K. Fowler. 2, J. Hedges, Aylesbury, he,
Mrs. Peaeey, Iisbury. Bouen.—l and 2, J. T. Browne, St. Austell. 3, J. H.
Shore, WaUey, Frome. he, E. Ponting, Watley, Frome ; F. R. Moore ; J. U.
Hoit, St. Austell. Black East Indian.— L, Cup. and 2, G. S. Sainsbury. Devizes.

3, M. Leno. he, R. S. S. Woodgate; Mrs. Hayue. Fordiugtou ; G. S. Sainsbury
(2); S. Burn, Whitby, c, Mrs. Hayne; W. H. Stagg; J. J. Maldeu, Biggles-
wade. Anv other variety.— I, M. Leno (Carolinas). 2, W. Boutcher, Notliug
Hill (Mandarinsl. 3, W. Biuns, Pudsey (Whistlers), he, W. Binna; M. Leno.
€, \\. Boutcher (Caroliiiasl.

Selling Class.— 1, K. W. Beachey. 2, M. H. Sturt. 3, J. Hinton. lie. Rev.
N.J.Ridley; M. H. Stm-t. c, Capt. F. G. Coleridge; E. R. Gray, Frome ; M.
H. Sturt; R. H. Nicholas; T. Davis, Warminster; Miss E. Browne; J. Chis-
man, jun.; J. Watts.

PIGEONS.

Cabbiess.- Cocfcs.— 1, R. Fulton, .New Cross. 2, H. Yardley. Birmingham.
he, C. L. Gilbert, Salisbury ; W. E. Nakler ; H. M. Maynard (2). c, F. Uayiuan,
Exeter ; W. H. BeU, Bath. Hens.—l, R. Fulton. 2. U. M. .Maynard. he,C. L.
Gilbert; K. Fulton; W. E. N alder, London ; H. M. Maynard. c, H. YariUey.

PoDTEES.— C'ocfcu.— 1, Mrs. Ladd. Calne. 2, K. Fulton, (ic, G. C. Turner,
Bath ; C. L. Gilbert ; R. Fulton ; Mrs. Ladd ; W. J. stent, Warminster. Hem.
—1 and he, Mrs. Ladd. 2, R. Fulton, c, c. L. Gilbert.

TvuBLBEs.—Alinonih.—l and 2, E. Fulton. Any othfr variety.— \, A. B.
Douglas, Hounslow. 2. R. Fulton, he, P. Wise, Oxford, c, B. Ollis, Devizes.

BA1.BS.— 1, c. L. Gilbert. 2. U. M. Maj-uard. he, R. Fulton ; H. M. Maj-uard.

Fautails.— 1, H. M. Maynard. 2, F. Braund, Bideford. he. H. Yardley;
Miss J. Milward; G. S. Samsbury; J. F. Loversidge, Newark.

Dragoons.— 1, R. Fulton. 2, G. South, London, he, C. L. GUbert; E.
Fulton ; G. South, London ; W. H. Mitchell, Moseley, Birmingham.

Antweeps.- 1, R. Harvey, Chaddiugton. 2, E. F. Wilson, Brighton.

Jacobins.— 1, G. South. 2, It Fulton, he, U. M. Maynard.

Trumpeters.- 1 and 2, E. Fulton.

T0RBIT3.-1, G. South. 2, F. Krannd. he, C. A. Craler, Wallington ; R.
Fulton ; S. Salter, Egrove ; F. Hodding, Salisbury.

Nuns.- 1, Rev. A. G. Brooke. 2, J. Watts.

Owls.— 1, R. Fulton. 2. A. B. Douglas.

Kdnts.- 1, Mrs. Clark, Westminster. 2, S. Salter, he, H. Yardley.

Any othek Vaeiety.- l, J. H. Watkins. Hereford. 2, C. L. Gilbert (Maltese).

Selling Class.-I, J. Watts. 2, H. M. Maynard. flc, Mrs. Ladd ; F. Braund;
H. Yardley ; J. Watts.

Judges.— PoiiZ^jy .- Mr. R. Teebay, Pulwood, Preston ; Mr. J.
Dixon, North Park, Clayton, Bradford; aud Mr. E. Hewitt,
Sparkbrook, Birmingham. Pigeons : Mr. F. Estpiilant, Eflra
Place, Brixton.

The Bantam Cock. — One morning a gentleman who lived in
Falkirk was looking out of the window of his room, when he
saw a flock of sparrows flying about in a very strange manuer on
the other side of the street. Wishing to find out the cause, he
opened the window, when he was sorry to see that one of the
young birds had fallen from its warm nest, which had been
built under the tiles of the house. There the poor little bird lay
on the ground, unable to fly, aud the old birds unable to Uft it
up. A fine Bantam cock, which seemed to know what was
wanted, came forward, and very gently took up the poor little
bird in his beak. He then mounted upon an empty cart, from

which he flew upon the roof, and stretching his neck out over
the edge of the tiles, put his httle charge safely into its nest
again. In doing so, however, the noble bird fell upon the ground.
He seemed afraid, but not much hurt. After pluming his leathers
for a short time, he began to strut about and crow, as if quite
proud of his kinii deed. — (Stirling Observer.)

"WOLVEKHAMPTON POULTRY SHOW.

Although the entries were not so numerous as on some pre-
vious occasions, the seventh annual Exhibition of iioultry at
Wolverhampton has never been equalled in excellence. The
Agricultural Hall, in which the meetiug takes place, is well
adapted for the purpose, and if the whole of it could be devoted
to tue purposes of the poultry alone, the accommodatiou would
be ample tor the exhibition of a very extensive collection j but
as fully one-half of it has to be appropriated to a dog show held
simultaneously, the avenues have to be narrowed so much as to
obscure from view many of the lowest tier of pens. The atten-
tion paid to both the feeding and watering of the birds could
not be surpassed.

The classes of Dorkings were scarcely equal to what might
fairly have been expected, most of the best-known prize birds
of the season being now kept from competition on account of
the near approach of the breeding season. The result was, that
though the majority on view were really flue specimens, the
crack Dorkings of the past season were to be looked for iu
vain. The Cochins, more particidarly the White and Buff, were
admirable and very large classes, none but fowls of noted ex-
cellence having even a remote chance of prizetaking. Tho
names of the winners are a suflicient guarantee that the com-
petition was severe. The prizes in Buffs were chiefly taken by
Messrs. Taylor, Allsop, Tomlinson, and Henry Llo3-d, the bulk
of the birds being penned in admirable condition. Although
White Cochins were shown in perfectly good plumage, the Par-
tridge-feathered looked to disadvantage. In the class for Dark
Brahma cocks no less than fifty-two birds were shown ; eighteen
received favourable notice at the hands of the Judges. We re-
gret to say, however, iu this class pen 118, exhibited by Mr.
W. A. Taylor, of Manchester, was disqualified as being the most
grossly trimmed in the hocks that could be believed possible.
As the shafts of the hock feathers that had been pulled must
have been of great strength, aud plucked in considerable num-
bers, the suffermg of the fowl so treated could not have been
otherwise than such as would excite the sympathy of most indi-
viduals, .and the exhibitor richly merited the disgrace conse-
quent on a disquahfled card being affixed to the pen, stating the
reasons of its being passed over. Surely the time will come, if
judges unflinchingly persist iu punishing all offenders aUke,
that owners wiU think twice before risking detection and the
consequences of open exposure. Among the Dark Brahma hens
there was a considerable number of pens containing the flnest
specimens in the kingdom. Somewhat strangely, although
Dark Brahmas were so good, the Light, with the exception of a,
few of the winning pens, were the worst classes in the Show, a>
feature that certainly tended to bring out the better ones to
great advantage. The French fowls were very fine ; and as to
the Spanish, years may pass by before so good a collection may
again meet the public eye. Eveu iu the Selling classes were to
be found pen after pen so good and so even in quaUty as to task
the discrimination of the most practical breeders of Spanish
fowls, and no doubt the bulk ot them would at most pubUc
shows secure the whole of the prizes, as they did at Wolver-
hampton. It was stated they have become one of the most
popular breeds in the district, and all were shown iu perfect
show trim. Game fowls were grand, and, necessarily, very
attractive in a neighbourhood in which Game fowls are still
highly valued for other purposes than exhibition. Mr. Charles
Chaloner and Mr. Brierley exhibited their best birds. The hens
of the Brown Reds wore universally considered the best hitherto
seen at Wolverhampton. With the exception of the few prize
birds, the Game Bantam class was a failure. The entry of
Hamburghs was not large, but of high quahty. Among the
most praiseworthy of the remaining classes were the Tiirkegs
and Geese, both of which were particularly fiue. The fancy
Duck class was also remarkably well filled, aud among them
were shown some of the best White Call, or Decoy Ducks, that
have been brought before the public for many years.

The promoters of the Show may be heartily congratulated on
the success of their spirited undertaking, every avenue having
been constantly thronged with visitors, who evidently felt
interest in its success, and a desire to insure its continuance.

Dorking.— Cocfe.—l, J. White. 2, H. Lingwood. S, T. P. Carver. 4, Miss
Whittingtou. he, Countess of Dartmouth; J. Robinson; N. Russell; H.N.
Tryc ; L. Patton. c. Miss Whittington. i/t'a.—l, Countess of Dartmouth. 2, H.
Lingwood. 3, J. Watts. 4, L. Pattou. he, Mrs. H. J. Bailey; O. E. Cresswell;
e, J. White.

cochis-China.— CinnairtOrt and Buff.—Goek.—\ and 2, W. A. Taylor. 3, Mrs.
Allsopp. he, Mrs. Allsopp ; H. Lloyd, jun. ; C. H. -liatthews; J. Bloodworth ;
H.Lmgwood. Hcit—l, H. Tomlinson. 2, W. A. Taylor. 3, H.Lloyd.jun. ftcW.
P. Ryland; H. Lloyd.jun. ; T. F. Ansdell. c, H. Tomlinson.

Cochin-Chixa.— IKWIi;.— 1 and 2, E. S. S. Woodgato. 3, J. Bloodwortb. he, H.
0. WhUe.

February G, 1878. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

131

. Bamett. he, G. Roden (3).

CocHlx-CniNi.— ijrown and Parlridoe.~Cock.—l, T. Stretch. 2, W. A. Taylor.
3, STi-B. Allsopp. (it, E. Tudman : J. Koyle. H,:n,— 1 and 2, W. A. Taylor. 's.T.
dtveteh. /ic, E. TudraaD. c, J. White ; J. \V. Taylor.

Brahma. -Biiri-.-Cocfc.—l, T. F. Ansdell. 2, Newham & JIanbv. S, T. F.
Ausnell- 4, O. F. Whitelionse. h€. Rev. J. G. B. KDieht; H.Jones; F. BeLnett;
H. B. Worrell : E. Pritchard ; G. W. Whiteliouse : T. F. Ausdell ; J. S. Taintou ;
Mrs. Woodcock; Rarl of Shrewsbury t H. LiiiKwood. c, Miss M.J. H.Gock;
W. A. Bumell. Disqualified, W. A. Taylor (liocka hcinff grossly trimmed).
Hcn.-l and 2. T. F. Ansdell. 3, H. B. Morrell i. Dr. Holmea. lie, H. Jones ;
C. Layland ; H. Langman ; T. Sear, c, E. Pritchard ; Key. J. D. Peake ; H.
Feast.

BRAHMA.-Lii7ft(.-rorS.— 1, W. T. Storer. 2 and 4. T. A. Dean. S, H. M.
Maynard. c, G. WhUe; C. J.B.Mais. Hcn.-l and 2, J. E. Rodbard. 3. C.
I.ayland. 4, — Bloodworth. he, J. Bloodworth ; M. Leno. c, Mrs. H. J. Bailey.

HoCDAX.-Cocfc.— laud /ic, K.B Wood. 2, W. O. QuiboU. 3, H. Feast. Ben.
I and e. E. B. Wood. 2 and lie, W. O. Quibcll. 3, W. Dring.

Cbeve-Cosur.— CocA-.-l, Mrs. .1. Cross. 2. R. B. Wood 3. H. Feast. he.YT.
Drmg; R. B. W'.od. Hoi.— 1, W. Drinfc'. 2 and 3, K. B. Wood. )m;. W. H. Crab-
tree; Mrs. E. Williams.

,^S'-'"';^--C"':l'-~l.E. Jackson. 2, J. Hodgson. S.T.Moore, lie, J. Walker;
J. i?. bilhtoe; J. Mausell. c, J. Walker; J. Bowness. H*;h.— 1. K. Jackson,
a, J. F. Sillitoe. 3. Mrs. AUsopp. he, J. Sinnott : Mrs. .Ulsopp ; J. Thresh.

(j-AME.-Btacfc ISeiL^Coek ~l and E.xtra. C. Chaloper. 2 and 3, P. A. Beck.
■J: i^''S".''™'''y- '"^' '^- Chaloner ; S. Beigliton ; T. Mason, c, J. P. Gardiner ;
C W. Brierley.

GiME.-Broion JVfrf.-Cocfc.-l and 3. C. W. Brierley. 2, W. Adams, he, J.
Forsyth ; R. Ashley ; W. H. L. Clare ; W. Watson.

Game.— Piff or White.— i, C. W. Brierlcv. 2. H. C. & J. W. Mason. 3, W.
bowerbntts. ;;c W. Van Wart. e. R. Ashley ; W. Cutler.

QA2lE.—Aiiy other rnriety.-Coek.~-\, P. A. Beck. 2, J. P. Gardiner. S, C.
thaloner. he, C. w. Brierlev; C. Chalonor.

Game.- .^/ii, variety.— Ben— I and 4. C. W. Brierley. 2, T. Mason. 3, W. C.
Philips, he, p. Bullock; J. Forsyth (2); C. Cbaloner; G. C. Wilson, c, J. P.
Gardmer; J. Forsyth.

HAM«TRons.— GoW-siJiDw/rf.— I, J. Buckley. 2, N. Marlor. 3, T. Blakeman.
^ili'erspaimled.-X.D.'Lord. 2, N. Marlor. 3, J. Robinson, fcc, Ashton and
Booth ; D. Lord. e. H. C. while.

Hamburohs.— GoW-jj^nciiicd.— 1, J. Eobinson. 2 and 3, J. Walker, he, D.
J^ord. Aiiot-rjioiciilfiJ.—l, J. Webster. 2, J. Biwness. 3, H. C. While.

HAlrenKGHs.-Btacfc-l.T. Bush. 2, H. Marlor. 3, E. S. S. Woodgate. he, 3.
Kobmson ; J. Freeman ; T. Bush, e, S. Barratt.

Silkies.— 1 and 2, K. S. S. Woodgate. 3, A. Darby.

'4*MB Baitams.- 1 and 2, Capt. Wetherall. 3, T.
c, w. Gnfiiths,

BAKTAiis — II'/n(f or Black. Clean-legged.-l. G. J. Bell. 2, B. H. Ashton.
3, J. Bloodworth. he,Vf. A.Taylor; W. H. Shackleton: B. F. Parrott. e, M.
Leno.

. BisTiUs.— Any other varietij.—l, H. B. Smith. 2, M. Leno. 3, Rev. W. Ser-
jeantBon. he. M. Leno ; Rev. u. F. Hodgson, e, G. Anderton.

AST OTHER Varieiv.— 1. J. MangDall I Sdvcr-spanglcd Polands). 2, Eev.G. F.
Wodgson. 3, J. W. H. Thorpe (La Fleche). he. A. Darby (Black Cochin); T.
Webb (Silyer-spangled Poland); T. Dean (Poland); C. Bloodworth (Silver-
spongled Poland); Mrs. A. HoUaud (Andalusian); P. Unswotth (Poland). c,J.
E.^Prioe (Black Cochin) ; T. Webb.

bELLiNG Class.— B?-(i/i7im. Dorking, or Cochin.— Coelc.—\, W. A. Taylor (Buff
«..ochinl. 2, C. Layland (White Cochin). S.J.Robinson. 4, N. Russell (Dorking).
;l?' T. F. AnsdeU (Dark Brahma) ; H. Langman (Dark Brahma) ; G. W. Farwell
< park Brahma); E. Ryder (Dark Brahiual; E. Walton (Dark Brahma); Kev. A.
YSP Stranbcnzee (Dark Brahma); E, Woodtord (Dorking); R. W. Beachev
(Hhite Cochin): C. Morriss (White Cochin); J. W. Taylor; J. Benton (Buff
Cochin) ; A. Bamford ; H. Yardiev. c, Miss Wbittington (DorkingI : C. P. San-
ders (Dorking); C. Layland (Buff Cochin); W. A. Burned (Buff Cochin); H.
Tomlinson ( Buff Cochin).

Selling Class.— ,4ni/ variety except Brahmas, Dorkings, and Cochins.— Cock.
—I.E. Jackson (Spanish). 2, J. F. Sillitoe (Spanish), b, J. Mansell lopanish).
■'■J. Walker (Spanish). )ic, B. Coit ; J.W.Taylor; H.C. & J. W. Mason (Game);
J. Walker; G, W. Farwell. e. I. Dayies; P. Unsworth (Poland).

Selling Class.— Bra)inia. Dorking, or Coehin.—Ben.—l, H. B. Morrell (Dark
Brahma). 2, W. A. Bumell (Buff Cochin). 3. H. Tomlinson (Buff Cochinl. 4, J.
Watts (Buff Cochin). lic.B Kendrick.jun. (Dark Brahma); Newham&Manby
<Dark Brahma) ; H. B. Morrell ( Dark brahma) ; E. Pritchard (Dark Brahma) ;
C. Layland (Dark Brahma); D.Lane (Dark Brahma); N. Russell (Dorking) : T.
Groyes (Buff Cochin); R. W. Keachy (White Cochin); C. Morris (White Cochin) ;
H. Yardley. e, M. L^no (Light Brahma); C. Layland (Dark Brabma) ; F. Ben-
nett (Dark Brahma) ; D. Lane (Dark Brahma) ; Earl of Shrewsbury (Dark
Brahma).

Selling Class.— .-Ihv variety except Brahmas, Dorkings, and Cochins. — Ben.
-1, J. Walker (Spanish). 2, W.G. Holt (Spanish). 8. J. F. Sillitoe. 4. W. McMel-
lon. /ic, Miss E. Browne; J. Roe (Golden-spangled Hamburghs): W. McMellon
(Golden-apanglf-d Hamburghs): Rev. W. Serjeantson (Black Hamburghs) ; E.
SiddaJl (Black Hamburghs): MissE. Ei-owne(Spani&hl; G. Osborne (Spanish);
J. Nash (Spanish), G. Jackson (Spanish); G. W. Farwell (Creve-Cceur) : H.
Yardley.

Turkeys.— 1, F,. Keniirick. jun. 2, L. Patton. ;ic. Mrs. T. W. Webber.

Geese.— 1, J. Walker. 2, J. K. Fowler. )ic, Mrs. H. J. Bailey ; J. Walker.

DccHS.— .4)/l«sii(ri/.— 1, J. K. Fowler. 2, T. P. Caryer. he. J. Hedges. lioiten.
— 1 and 2. A. Haslam /ic. E. Kendrick, jun. ; J. N.C.Pope; G. Lawley; W.
Penny; L. Patton ; W. Evans.

Docks.- .411!/ other variety. -1, H. B. Smith (Carolina). 2. Mrs. H. J. Bailey
(White CaU). 3, J. Walker (East Indian). hc,B B. Hardy (Shellducks); H. B.
Smith; M. Leno (Mandarin and Kasarka); H. Yardley. c, Hon. Mrs. Colville
(Black East Indian),

PIGEONS.
Tumblers.- ^?moRrf. and any variety of flhort-faced.—\, J. Fielding. ]un.
2, H. Yardley. ^n)/ of /ler uariefy. —1, J. W. Edge. 2, H. Yardley. he, H. C.
While.

Carrier.— Coc).-.—l and he, W. Siddone, jun. 2, J. Thompson, e, H. Yardley.
Hen —1 and he. W. Siddons. jun. 2, E. C. Stretch.

PovTERS.— CocA:.— 1 and 2, H. Pratt, he, H. Yardley; Mrs. Ladd. Ben.—
1 and 2. Mrs. Ladd. he. T. A. Dean.

Fantails.— 1, Rev. W. Serjeantson. 2, H. Yardley. he, Rey. W. Serjeant-
son ; J. S, Loyereidge.

Antwerps.— 1. H. R. Wright. 2, C. F. Copeman. lie, H. Yardley ; J. Robbins.
TT'or/:in3 or Homi;i!T.—l, G.W. Lascellos. 2, H. P. P. Price, /ic, J. Davies; H.
P. P. Price ; J. T. Ford. c. A. Marston.

DRAOonNs— 1. H. YartUey. 2, W. H. Mitchell, fti;, J. Walts ; W.H.Mitchell:
W. Markland.
Jacobins.— 1 and 2. J. Thompson, c, H. Y'ardley.

AnvotherVariett-I. J. Fielding, jun. 2. H. Yardley. 3, W. York. 4,J. W.
Edge, he, J. W. H. Thorpe ; E. C. Stretch : H. Yardley.

Selling Class.- 1. J. Watts. 2. H. Yardley. 3. R. W. Richardson. Extra,
■W. T. Sti.rer. (ic, H. R. Wright ; J. Morris, c, J. Bates ; S. Stephens, jun.

The Juclgea of Poultry were Mr. Edward Hewitt, of Birming-
liam, and Mr. Eichard Teebay, of Preston ; the Pigeon prizes
being awarded by Mr. Tegetmeier, of Loudon, and Mr., AUsopp,
of Birmingham.

The Valde of a Vowel. — The following is said to have taken
place in a school near Salisbnry, England: "Now, then, the
first boy of the grammar class stand up." First boy stands up,

blnshmg : " Here I be, zir." Examiner—" Well, my good boy,
can you teU me what vowels are?" First boy — "Vowls, zir?
Ees, of course I can." Examiner — "Tell me, then, what are
vowels?" First boy, grinning at the simplicity of the question
— " Vowls, zir ? Why, vowls be chickens ! "

ULVEESTON CANABY SHOW-

This, tlie second annual Exhibition of Canaries and British
Cage Birds, was held in the Victoria Concert Hall, Ulverston, on
February 1st. The following is the corrected prize list, sent to
us by Mr. J. Cockerton, Hon. Sec. :—

Belgian.— i'fi/oK'.-l, T. Cronsdale. Cark, Cartmel. 2.3, and Itc.W. Bradley,
Ulyerston. B«#.—1,W. Bradley. 2, W.Jones, Ulyerston. 8, W. Kaby, Daltou.
fee, J. Moffalt. Ulyerston.

PiEBALn.— reiiow,— 1. W. Crewdson, Ulyerston. 2, J. N. Harrison, Belper,
Derby. 3, T. Croasdale. he, R. Hawman. Middlesbrough, c, J. Stevens,
Middlesbrough. BuST.—l, J. Cleminson, Darlington. 2, J. Goode, Leicester.
3, W. Crewdson. he, W. Raby.

Norwich.— iV!!oir.-l. J. Mann, Burton-on-Trent. 2. R. Whitaker, Darley,
Derliy. 3, G. Wallace, Darlington. Bii.^.- 1. R. Whitaker. 2, J. Mann. 3, H,
and D. Audley. he, J. Cleminson. c, J. N. Harrison.

Lizijoi.-aalden-spangled.-l, J. Taylor, Middlesbrough. 2, J. N. Harrison.
8, W. Watson, jun., Darlington, c, R. Ritchie, Darlington (2). Silver-spangled.
— 1, J. Taylor. 2 and he, 11. Ritchie. S, E. Hawman.

Goldfinch.— 1, J. N. Harrison. 2, J. Goode. 3, J. Stevens, he, E. Whit-
aker. c, T. Cockerion, Ulverston.

Goldfinch Mcle.— 1, J. Goode. 2 and c, R. Hawman. 3, J. Brown, jun.,
Penrith, he, J. Stevens.

Selling Clsss.-i. B. J.. Ulverston. 2, J. Pennington, Ellers, Ulyerston. S,
T. Cockerton, Ulyerston. he, J. Goode. c, T. Croasdale.

Judge.— Mr. H. Pollett, Failsworth, Manchester.

THE HIVE CONTROVEESY.

Mb. Pettigbew wishing to pit his straw skeps against move-
able bar-frame hives, I am quite wiUing to try conclusions with
him. I leave out all question as to which is the best bar-frame
hive ; but upon the broad jninciple that they are all superior to
hives in which the combs are fixed, I challenge Mr. Pettigrew
to the following trials with his straw skeps against the several
bar-frame hives I shall use.

1st. To set six swarms on or after a certain day in an enclosui-e,
and let them do their best without any aid or interference what-
ever unless they send out natural swarms, in which case they
shall either be returned to the hives from which they emerged,
or hived in hives precisely similar to them. To be judged by
the total nett weight of bees, honey, and comb on a day to be
named.

2nd. To set six full stocks on the same or a later day in the
same enclosure for breeding purposes only — i.e., the multiplica-
tion of swarms and the raising of ' queens, and to be allowed to
use every possible means at the disposal of the bee-master for
that purpose. All the swarms to be kept in hives precisely
similar to those operated upon. Spare queens to be considered
equivalent to a certain weight of honey. To be judged by the
total nett weight of bees and honey as before, but deducting the
weight of the stimulating.

3rd. To set six fuU stocks on the same or a later day in the
same euclosure for honey-gathering only; and should any of
them swarm, the swai-ms shall be returned or accounted lost.
To be judged by the quantity of honey obtained.

Each party to be at liberty to use all and every means in his
power to develope the advantages of his hives, except in Class 1,
which may not be touched under any circumstances. No feed-
ing of any kind to be allowed except in Class 2. No person
to be allowed to interfere or in any way assist the owners of the
bees unless in their presence. Strict surveillence to be imposed.
It being impossible that such trials can fairly take place except
near the owners' apiaries, I propose that the bees shall be
located in the grounds of some gentlemen wiUing to permit the
trial as near the owners' residences as convenient, and that, once
located, they shall not be removed until after the end of the
contest.

If Mr. Pettigrew accede to these conditions, or he or any
other gentleman can suggest any fairer or more feasible mode
of bringing the question to issue, I shall be very glad of early
intimation of the same, and provided my bees are not taken out
of my own management, shall be very glad to ado^jt them. —
C. N. Abbott, Bee-Master, Hamoell.

OUR LETTER BOX.

PlsroNlNO WlLDFowi. (S. G.). — There is no certainty of keeping Wildfowl
however tame, nnless it is pinioned. It is only by being constantly re-
minded that it no longer possesses the power of Jlight that it remains at
home, following the routine of a domesticated animal. No species of Wild-
fowl, not even those that are tamo-bred, can resist the temptation of joining
the winter visitors when tbsy come, and more especially when they go.
Instinct is as strong in a domesticated as in a wild Duck. Take, for instance.
Ducks hatched under a hen from eggs taken from a nest where wild birds
breed. They will remain quite quiet and satisfied till they heai- in the night
the " whew" of passing Wildfowl overhead. They understand it instinctively,
and answer it. The birds come down, and the owner has barely congratulated
himself on the accession to his numbers, when ho finds that all are gone.
The only way in which wild birds may be kept tuipiuioned, is where half a

132

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Febraary 6, 1873.

brood is operated on and the other half left foll-winped. We have then
known many of the latter remain with their mates. The operation may bs
performed at any time. It is as well, when it eau he done, to do it while they
are young — seven or eitfht weeks oW. At that time no bono is formed, and it
is necessary only to take a sharp knife, and placing it between the spur and
the wing, to cut strai^rht through. With adult birds it is a very easy opera-
tion also. If you begin at the point of the wing, you will find a small joint
hf)lding the five principal feathers; this is called the flight, and many per-
sons, believing it. have been content to cut it ofT, only to discover a bird can lly
ahuost as well without it as with it — at any rate sufficiently well to fly away.
You will therefore go down the wing till you come to the spur. You will be
careful uou wj ;ut off the spur; it protects the wound when unhealed, and it
is almost the only offengive weapon a Duck has. T':.e spur is connected with
the wing by a small web. You may cut through the web, and you will tind
this brings you to a principal joint. Take the bird in your left hand, holding
the wing, and placing it on a post or the comer of a table, put the edge of the
knife on the wing immediately above the joint, let a second peraon strike the
back of the knife sharply with a mallet or a stout stick, and the operation i«
performed. If it can be done, it ia well to put thorn in the water at once; ifc
stops the bleeding.

Cochin Bantau3 (C. B.). — Two or three years sinoe many were shown.
Large prices were made of some, and refused for others. We have tried un-
successfully for years to buy some. We oie now trying to make some.

Pullet'^ Eggs Deformed {Dark Brahma). — Wa attribute your mis-
shapen eggs to the use of buckwheat and the absence of the nocesaary ma-
terial for forming shell. If you were to examine the eggs as soon as they were
laid you would find they are semi-soft, having, instead of a hard shell, only
here and there a small knob of chalky substance, not suffloient in quantity
to orde» shape ; you would also find the outside hardened from exposure to
the air, and that it became creased and uneven during the procesa. The main
quality of buckwheat is oil. Oats and barley give flour from the kernel,
whilst the hull contains chalk. Feed on barley and ground oats, varied at
times with a little whole maize, and let some baaketa of bricklayers' rubbish
be put whore the birds can have access to it.

Shell-less Eggs (E. M. P.). — Quackery in the present day is doing much
harm to poultry. Stimulating and artificial foods are destroying constitu-
tions, and bringing in new diseases. We should like to hear of what your
wholefiorae food consists. There is something radically wrong when pnUets
laying in December get leg-weakness, or, in common language, become so
weak they are unable to walk. We have some hundrwls of pullets, but know
nothing of leg-weakness. With regard to shell-less eprga, we advise you to
read the answer to the preceding question. Your case is the worse, inasmuch as
your eggs have no shell at all. Your feeding must ho altogether wrong. Feed
as we have advised above, and add thereto some road grit. Avoid oily, stimu-
lating, and artificial foods. A wooden floor is an abomination in a poultry
house, and often produces cramp. The floor should always be earth.

Fowls Moulting, and for Exhibition {A. S. IT.).— Yon do not tell ns
the breed of the bird you wish to prepare for exhibition. As the treatment is
not alike in all cases, you must give us more information before we can
answer, lloultiug bu-ds should be kept at night in a house free from draught,
but not artificially warmed. Their food should be nourishing, but by no
means heating. We prefer ground oats to any other food fur luoulting fowls,
and in hard weather we mix it with milk. Anything heating or exciting
perishes the young feathers. One of the principal points of Spangled Ham-
burghs is in both sexes the comb, which should he firmly seated on the head,
and quite straight. It should he piked behind, and the pike should turn up,
It should have no hollow, and must neither be loose nor crooked. Both should
have blue legs with four toes, clear tails, mooned at the tips of sickles, and
straight feather. Both should have spangled breasts, and the hens striped
hackle. Both must have faultless white deaf ears of moderate size. Both
should have barred wings.

Barrow-in-Furness Poultry Show. — Mrs. Cross informs ns that she
took a second prize with Creve-Coeurs in Class 14, instead nf being "higlily
commended" in Class 15 (Black Red Game Bantams), as stated. A prize card
is often affixed to the wrong pen, but this does not entitle it to a prize. The
judge can only decide which was correct.

Parentage of Fowls ( W. B. H.).— Your chickens, bred from a Wright's
Brohma cock and a Gwydyr Brahma hen, would not be entitled to be stated
as " the strain " of either, hut a cross between the two.

Barb's Eye-cere Red (F. 1'.).— Age will probably partly accomplish that
which you desire. Condition will do the rest. No bird alters through age
more than a Barb.

Various (Flying Tu m 6 /^r).— Brent's "Pigeon Book" and Brent's "Contr
rie.^ and British Finches" contain much that has been pubUshed in our
columns. There are many communications on Flying Tumblers and Canaries
in our three last vulumes. There are no " Transactions " such as you name.

Dressing a Canary for Exhibition (Amateur Exhibitor).— Thexe are
several ways of getting over your httle difficulty; but you must first sink
your conscience, after which all will be plain sailing. If your Cinnamon bird
be a good colour, you can pnll out the two white feathers from his tail and
enter him in a Clear class. You neod not fear detection or exposure as things
go now-a-days. By putting a prohibitory price on it you will bo sure to have
the bird returned to you, and no one will suspect you. If you wish it to be
sold, you can put a low figure on it ; and to hide your delicate handiwork as
long as possible you may, in this case, simply cut the feathers close to the
stump, BO that the purchaser will not discover the little trick till the bird
moults, by which time you con be non est with his money. If you think there
is any fear of the judge taking such a liberty with the property of the British
subject as to count the tail feathers, you can either insert two Cinnamon
feathers, securing the joints with Derby cement, or you can dye the two white
feathers with Derby ointment. You may enter on this course boldly. It is
not unusual, and is very successful. It may bo as well, however, fo make
friends with the judge, for if ho be not on your side he will slate you to a
certainty. Could you not give him an interest in your bird 7 If you both
sail in the same boat he will be sure to try to screen his own complicity in
the fraad. If the worst comes to the worst, and you should be discovered,
why, you can get him to offer to affirm on oath that he knows you bought it.
It will be convenient, however, to forget the name of the person who sold it.
Never mind how much dirt sticks to you, yon will pull through! If you don't
like either of these plana, enter the bird in the "Any Variety of Cinnamon"
class, where, from your description, he has not a ghost of a chance to win-
But tryl— W. A. Blakston.

Parrot Unwell (O. N, B,).— Tom- Parrot, drinking but not eating, is
suffering from a very severe cold, and we advise you to cover over half its cage

and keep it near the fire. In addition to its ordinary seed give it some sponge
•ake lUppad in sherry, also some warm bread and milk, and rice boiled in milk
sweetened with sugar. Keep the bird's stren','th up with any nourisiiing food*
■uch as sago or tapioca pudding, and leave the rest to nature.

METEOROLOGICAIi OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Square, London.

Lat. 51" 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0° 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

DlTH.

A.H.

In thb Day,

1873.
J.in.

Barome-
ter at 82"
and Sea
Level.

HygfTome-
ter.

11

S.E.

E.

NE.

E.

N.E
N.W.
N.W.

Shade Tem-
perature.

Radiation
Temperature

a

Feb.

Dry.

Wet.

Mai.

Min.

In

sun.

On

ffrass

Wo.

Th. SO
Fri. SI
Sat. 1
Sun. 2
Mo. 3
Tu. 4

Inches.

.08D
29.955

.060
30.091
■29.518
29.590
29.898

de([.
S3.4
34.8
35.7
31.4
29.0
S3.5
35.4

deg.
2.4
32 8
34.1
30.8
2S.8
31.9
S50

dojt.

36.2
36.9
36-8
36.1
36.0
36,2
36 3

deg.
35.5
35 6
S6 5
34.0
33 1
33.9
37.6

deg.
81.1
31.9
38.8
31.4
26 5
29 0
32.0

deK.

40.8
38.7
37.1
58.1
S6.4
38.9
43.0

deg.
28.2
29.2
83.1
Si).8
26.8
26.8
31.2

In.

.020
.040
.610
.010
.030

Means

29.8S7

334

B2S

36.4

35.2

30.8

11.9

29.5

•740

29th.-
30th.

REMARKS.
■The morning eiceedingly dark, though not foggy; tht day rather

frosty, and scarce any sun.
-Not quite so cold or so dark as the previous morning, but darkened

soon after 8.30 a.m., and so continued all day.
3Ist. — A dull though dry day ; frosty in the morning, but warmer at night ; a

few flakes of snow at noon.
Feb. 1st.— Dull mornmg, sleet about 10 a.m., then beautifully fine for a short

time; sleet again in afternoon and evening, and very cold.
2nd. — Snow in the night, and snowing nearly all day, at times heavily, but

chiefly sleet like snow.
iird. — More snow in the night ; dull morning, the snow continuing on tba

ground all day without thawing; a little fresh snow fell about 9 p.m.,

wind rather high at midnij^'ht.
4th. — Snow still on the ground, but soon began to thaw, slightly at first, bub

more and more rapidly ; a little rain about 5 p.m.
Temperature low and uniform. Unu-ually deep snow (for London) between
Saturday and Monday, lying on an average 7 inches deep, and yielding 0.65 inch
as its equivalent of water; it was therefore of such a density that 10.8 iucij
would equal linch of rain. — G. J. Svmons.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET. -February 5.
We arc still without much improvement in any branch of business; prices
are nearly stationary, and the supply of hothouse and out-door produce is
sufficient. Very few English Apples or Pears are to he had, the latter con-
sisting of Beurre Ranee and No Plus Meuxits. French Pears consist of Easter
Beurre and baking sorts. The Apple trade is confined almost exclusively to
Canadian and United States varieties.

FRUIT.

Apples j sieve

Apnuuts doz.

Cherries perlb. o

ChesCnuts bushel 13

Currunta | sieve

Black do.

Figs doz.

Filberts lb.

Cobs lb.

Gooseberries quart

Grapes, hothouse lb.

Lemons ^100

Melong each

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus !»■ 100

Beans, Kidney ^ 100

Broad bushel

Beet, Red doz.

Broccoh bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums l^luO

Carrota bunch

Cauliflower doz.

Celery bundle

Coleworts.. doz. bunches
Cucumbers eiicti

picklmg doz.

Endive doz.

Fennel bunch

Garlic lb.

Herbs bunch

Horseradish bundle

Li'cks bunch

Lettuce doa

0t0 6
0 0
0 0
0 20

0 I Mulberries %^lb.

0 Necturmi-s doz.

o! Oranges ^100 4

O' Peacnes duz. 0

0 Pears, kitchen doz. 1

0 1 dessert, doz. 8

0 PineApplra lb. &

el PJums J sieve 0

0 1 Quinces doz. 0

0[ Kaspberries lb. 0

0 Strawberries t*'lb. 0

0 Walnuts bushel 15

0 I ditto *H00 2

3. d. 8.

0 otoo

0 0 0

0 10

VEGETABLES.

. d. s. d.

Oto6

0 10

0

0

0

<J

0

0

0

0

3 0

0 0
3 0

1 6
1 6
3 0
0 0

MuBhrooms pottle 1

Mustard & Cress. .punnet 0
Onions ^ buhhel 2

pickling quart 0

Parsley per doz. buucUea 2

Parsnips doz. 0

Peas quart 0

Potatoes bukbel

Kidney lo.

Round do.

Radishes., doz. bunches

Rhubarb bundle

Salsafy v bundle

Savovs doz

0to2
2 0

0 I Scorzonera.... ^bundle

0 Sea-kale basket

0 Shallots lb.

0 Spinach bushel

0 Tomatoes doz.

0 Turnips bnnch

0 Vegetable Marrows. .doz.

0 0

POULTRY MARKET.— Febrxtary 5.
There is a tendency to a rise in prices. This is always the case in colii
weather, and is somewhat influenced also by the ending of the Game season.

s. d. R. d.

Large Fowls 4 0 to 4 C>

Smaller ditto 3 f. 4 0

Chickens 2 G 3 0

Geese .. 7 0 8 n

Guinea Fowls 3 0 R 0

Ducks 2 0 2 6

B. d.

Pheasants 6

Partridges 0

Hares 0

R.ibbits 1

Wildditto 0

Pigeons 1

s. d.
0 to 0 0
0 0 0
n 0 0
4 1 .=;
9 0 in

0 13

Febraary 13, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDKNER.

133

WEEKLY

CALENDAR.

Day
of

Month

Day

Average '''cmpera-

Rain in

Snn

Sun

Moon

Moon

Clock 1 Dfy
before '"'
Sun. Year.

Week.

FEBRUABY 13—19, 1873.

turenear j^oudon.

43 years.

RibOB.

Sets.

Risea.

Sijts.

Age.

Day.

Night.

Mean.

Days.

m. h.

m. ta.

m. h.

m. h.

Days.

m. B.

13

Th

Twilight ends 6.17 p.m.

44.H

29.6

36.9

14

20af 7

9af5

11 6

12 8

16

14 27

14

V

St. Valentine's Day.

46.8

30.1)

39.3

15

IS 7

11 5

21 7

27 8

17

14 25

15

B

John Phihps died, 1708.

47.0

31.,'i

39.2

17

16 7

13 S

80 f

40 8

18

14 22

16

Sun

Sexaoesiua.

47.0

30.6

38.8

11

14 7

15 5

41 J

8

19

14 18

17

M

46.6

80.6

38.6

17

12 7

17 5

52 10

5 9

20

14 IS

18

To

45.2

Sl.l

38.2

17

10 7

19 5

morn.

19 9

21

14 8

49

19

W

Day breads 5.57 a.m.

44.9

31.0

87.9

15

8 7

20 5

6 0

36 9

22

14 2

SO

From observations taien near London durini? forty-three years, the averase day temperature of the week is 43.8' ; and its nisht temperatnre

30.7°. The greatest heat was 67', on the 16th, 18li7 ; and the lowest cold zero, on the 13th, 1855. The greatest fall of rain was 0.5U inch.

1

HEBBACEOUS P.EONIES.

ISTINCT and beautiful are P.eonies for the
decoration of borders and shrubberies, where
their large and variously-coloured blooms
have an extremely ornamental appearance
diirinf? the summer months. No other class
of herbaceous plants can vie with them for
rich and gorgeous effect during May and
June. They are admirably adapted for the
fi'ont of shi-ubberies, and are equally in place
in flower borders — in fact, no garden can
he considered complete without its herbaceous Pieonies.
Being of free growth, they are equally at home in the
open parts of woodland scenes ; no flowers that I know
are so effective in the midst of otherwise monotonous
green. Not that these plants will grow anywhere, but in
many spots now devoid of colour a few PiBonies dotted
about in available spots would lend a charm to our wood-
land scenes these do not at present possess. The avail.able
spots are those which are ojien, and free from the drip
and shade of trees — in fact, these plants should have a
Biinny position, but will thrive well if not in the dense
gloom of overhanging trees, for they must have light.
As regards soil they are not particular, only they will
not grow in a bog, and if water do not lodge they will
grow either in the strongest or the hghtest kind of soil.
In a sod that grows the Foxglove and Harebell there
they will luxuriate, dehghting in the vegetable matter to
be found in most of our woodlands abounding in suitable
places to plant them in ; and then

" There might ye see the Pa?ony spread wide." — Cowper.
Attractive as the Pseony flower is, it is often found
better, and generally quite as well, represented in our
cottage gardens as in those of gi'eater pretensions. This
is rather to be wondered at, as the race for a number of
years, and until recently, has been all for those plants
affording gorgeous brilliant display ; and how the PiBony
came to be overlooked is a matter of surprise, possessing,
as it does, a dignity which forbids a rival amongst Nature's
gayest ornaments in the early summer months. It is
one of the most attractive and gorgeous of herbaceous
plants, and, it must be added, one of the most neglected.
The Pa.'onj% in the emblematic language of flowers, is
given as the representative of bashful shame. Is it shame
that causes our placing this gorgeous noble plant in shrub-
beries and out-of-the-way corners to blush and bloom
uncared for and unseen ? Shame we should so treat a
subject with which no other can compare for effect in its
season of bloom. In our rustic gardens it may be seen
unfolding in the bright clear sunbeams its be.iuties of
the purest white, deepening to blush, rose, and up to the
glowing, intense, and brilliant crimson. In brilliancy of
colom', in largeness of bloom, combined with a form
that, for globularity, with substance of petal, it cannot
fail to please the most fastidious of florists. What ? the
PfBouy a florists' flower ! Why not ? Why should not
the Boyal Horticultural Society include it in its May or
June Shows, or both, gixnng a prize worth competing for

No. 621).— Vol. XXIV., New Series.

to be awarded to the best twelve Anemone-flowered, and
another to the best twelve globular-flowered Pa^onies'?
Are they not worth it ?

As before remarked. Peonies are at home almost every-
where, but they do best in a rich, light, loamy soil free of
stagnant water, and delight in a good depth of soil full
of fibre or decaying vegetable matter : hence leaf soil or
well-decayed manure should be liberally, deeply, and well
mixed with the soil before planting, and top-dres.sings of
one or both given every autumn. Being of large growth,
the plants should be allowed plenty of room ; 4 feet apart
should be the minimum distance, and between them in
summer may be planted Dahhas. We may thus have
early in summer and again late in the year flowers of
the two most gorgeous of herbaceous plants. The situa-
tion should be open, but it is desirable it should be shel-
tered from the north. Liquid manure may be given
after they " button," and if the weather be dry, liberal
supplies of it and water should be given, as the Pseony,
being of the Crowfoot (Ranunculacese) order, it is im-
patient of drought. If the weather be wet, the flowers,
if for exhibition, should be protected by an awning of
canvas stretched tightly on a lathwood frame having a
sharp pitch or incline. Slugs are sometimes trouble-
some ; these must be kept under by dusting about and
over the crown with quicklime in the evening or early IQ
the morning.

In planting in shrubberies a good hole should be made,
and the sod well enriched with leaf soil, manure, pieces
of turf, or vegetable refuse of any kind. Mix these well
with the soil, and raise the latter in the form of a mound
rather than of a hole, only filled so partially that it sinks
into a hollow. Plant in autumn, or spring before growth
takes place, and only just cover the buds — not more than
2 or 3 inches. Mulch over the spot with partially-decayed
leaves, short litter, or lawn mowings, and keep the grass
and weeds under, so that they do not overtop the plant in
summer, mulching round them in summer with an inch
thick of lawn mowings, and putting on a fresh mulching
two or three times in the course of a season ; they will
soon become fine clumps.

Propagation is effected by division whilst the plants
are at rest. It is, however, perhaps, best done in spring
just before they begin to grow, taking off eveiy bud
with a portion of root, and planting it in rich hght
soil.

As far as I know, only one species of the Pa?ony is
claimed by England — viz., P. corallina. What we for
the rnost part cultivate, and amongst which we have
the finest varieties, are the P. albiflora fi'om Siberia or
Northern China, P. oflicin.ilis of Switzerland and the Alps,
P. paradoxa of the Levant, and P. tenuifoha of Siberian
origin. From them have been raised the following and
other varieties, which may be classed as the Anemone-
flowered and the Globular.

ANEMONE-FLOWERED.

Anemonceflora carneo-tincfu,. — Guard petals rose, fea-
thered in the centre with bright rose : centre petals bright
blush, tipped with white. Very sweet-scented.

No. 1272.— Vol. XLIX , Old Series.

134

JOURNAL OF HORTICDLTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

[ February 13, 1873.

Carnea maxima. — Guard petals flesh ; inner petals fringed,
of a iJiimrose colour.

Augu^te Van Gecrt. — Guard petals purplish rose; centre
petals rosy piuk, interspersed with pale pink and white petals.

Alba mqicrha. — White, shaded with pale pink ; centre petals
straw-coloured. Very sweet-scented.

Amabilis plenissima. — Guard petals flesh pink, surrounded
■with white ; centre petals quilled, of a light primrose colour.
Very sweet-scented.

Madame Marrjottin. — Guard petals rosy pink, with purplish
marblings ; centre petals flesh pink, tipped with a softer shade
of the same colour. Very sweet-scented.

Prince Oiaiies. — Guard petals pale rosy purple ; centre
petals primrose. The flowers of this are small.

Puleiierrima. — Guard petals white, tinged with primrose;
centre petals almost white.

3Irs. Hartnell — Guard petals rose pink ; centre petals of the
same colour, interspersed with white petals. Rose-scented.

Jeanne d'Arc. — Guard petals pink, surrounded with white;
centre white or cream, some of the petals streaked with car-
mine. Very sweet-scented.

Eclatantc. — Guard petals rose, with a carmine tint ; centre
petals same, tipped with white. Very sweet scented.

Lilacina. — Guard petals rosy lilac, tipped with pink ; centre
petals rosy lilac, tipped with pale pink, interspersed with lilac
and white petals. Rose-scented.

GLOBULAK-FLOWEKED.

Candidissima. — Very double and globular; reflesed outer
petals white, centre pale straw.

La Stihlime. — Base of the petals tipped and margined white.

Atrosanguinea. — Purplish crimson.

Amaranthescens spharica. — Crimson lake, veined and striped
crimson. Very sweet-scented.

CenlifoJia rosea. — Delicate pink, tipped and edged with white.
Sweet-scented.

Charles Binder. — Purplish rose, some of the petals tipped
and edged light pink. Sweet-scented.

Leonie. — Flesh pink; tips of petals white ; some tipped and
margined soft rose.

Festiva maxima.— VThite, with creamy yeUow shading; a
few of the centre petals splashed and striped crimson.

Gloire de Doiiai. — Purplish crimson.

Amabilix suiterba. — Rosy piuk, interspersed with creamy-
white petals.

Prince Prosper. — Crimson lake.

The Queen. — Creamy white; base of the petals primrose,
tipped with white. — G. Abbey.

EOTAL HOBTICULTUEAL SOCIETY.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.
Fbbbuaby 11th.

The Annual General Meeting of the Eoyal Horticultural
Society was held on Tuesday in the CouncU-room, South Ken-
sington. Lord Heury G. Lennox, M.P., in the chair.

The Assistant Sechet.uiy (Mr. Eichards) read the Minutes
of last Annual Meeting, which were approved.

Messrs. Fortune and Moobe were appointed Scrutineers of
the ballot.

The Assistant Secbetaky then read the

Eepoet of the Council to the Annual Genekal Meeting"
1. The number of Fellows is now so great — viz., 3572, and the
motives which have induced them to join the Society are so
different, and in some respects contradictory, that it has been
difficult to conduct its affairs so as to satisfy all parties. Regard
for science, love for flowers and flower shows, social motives,
the couveuieuce of using the Garden at South Kensington, and
the International Exliibition privileges, have each had a sliaro
in attracting Fellows into the Society, and it is plain that some
of these objects must necessarily be antagonistic to each other.
The Council have always endeavoured to adjust them, or to hold
an even balance between them, as far as possible studying in
every case to consult the wishes of the majority, without losing
sight of the special objects for which the Society was founded
and exists ; but they have to acknowledge that this has some-
times proved beyond their power. The great difficulty which
they have latterly had to encounter has been to reconcile the
incompatible desires of those who value the International Ex-
hibitions, and of those who prefer the comparative privacy and
quiet of tlie Gardens. It is impossible to satisfy both, and the
attemi>t of the Council in former years to take a middle course
proved, as usually happens in such cases, perfectly satisfactory
to neither. Last year they followed a more decided course, and

accepting the International Exhibition as an accomplished fact,
they thought it for the interest of the Society that the two
estabhshments should work harmoniously together, and accord-
ingly entered into the arrangements with the Commissioners
with which the Fellows are famiUar, by which each Fellow
obtained free access to the Exhibition as well as to the Gardens.
This, hke the arrangement of the previous year, has proved suc-
cessful financially, and the Council beUeve that, on the whole,
it has given satisfaction to the majority, although they are
aware that a valued portion of the Fellows would have pre-
ferred to have the Garden and Society kept distinct from the
Exhibition. The Council, looking to the position of matters
and the necessity of circumstances, are satisfied that their pohcy
in this respect was wise and ought to be persisted in. * They
accordingly havs done their best to make arrangements with
Her Majesty's Commissioners for the present year, and they are
now engaged in a negotiation which they hope to bring to a
successful issue in time for this year's working.

2. The Provincial Show at Bkmingham last summer proved
an unquahfied success, notwithstanding that the weather was
as unpropitious as ever marred the splendour and success of
the Shows at Chiswick. The nett proceeds left to the credit of
the Society a suni of jt'lOJO, after handing over to the local
estabhshment a similar sum as their well-deserved share of the
amount reaUsed. It has been decided to hold next year's Show
at Bath, from which the Council receive every assurance that a
satisfactory result will be attained.

3. For the details of last year's receipts and expenditure the
Council refer to the accounts annexed, nothing hi them appear-
ing to invite special comment on the part of the Council.

4. The style in which the Gardens both at South Kensington
and Chiswick have been maintained, and the manner in which
the functions of the various Committees and the duties of the
ofiicerB of the Society have been performed, has, it is trusted,
been such as to merit the approval of the Society, as they have
that of the Council.

5. The Council append the Report from the Horticultural
Directors (see page 138) and the Professor of Botany.

The Chaibman. — In order to give an opportunity to any Fellow
to express his opinion, I will now move that the Eeport be
adopted.

Mr. W. Wilson Saundees. — Allow me to second the motion,
and to bring before the Meeting the fact that an important
document has been placed in the hands of the Chairman, which
will be read to you.

The CHAmjiAN. — I wish to state that the Council of the Society
has this morning received a most important letter from the
Commissioners of the Exhibition of 1851, which deals with all
the questions hitherto debated or discussed between those two
bodies ; and I am siu-e the Fellows will feel it was impossible
for us, having only received the letter this morning, to givo
matured advice as to receiving it as a whole or a part of any
business for the future ; but, on the contrary, we wish to tak«
the Fellows further into our confidence [bear, hear]. I will
ask the Assistant Secretary to read the letter, and I hope the
Fellows will be tender upon a documeut which shows great con-
sideration for our Society, and concerning which the Council
has not as yet had time to have the details.

The Assistant Secbetaby read the letter, as foUows : —

G, Kensington Gore, February 8th, 1873.
Sm, — Having oommunicated to the Committee of Management of Her
Majesty's Comminbioners the results of the lengthened consideration which
has been given by the Council of the Itoyal Horticultural Society to the means
of bringing about a closer union of the interests of the Commissioners and
the Society, I am now directed by the Committee of Management to submit
for the consideration of the Council the following propositions ; —

1. The Society to admit to the portions of tbe estate leased to them, and
to the Flower Shows at Kensington, all the Tjsitors to the Exhibition, except-
ing on Sundays, and the Commissioners to have th« use of the arcades for
exhibition purposes, as in 1H72, but arrangements to be made, when necessary,
to accommodate the Society's Shows in the arcades.

2. The Fellows of the Society now on the books to be entitled to one non-
transferable ticket of admission to the Exliibition and Gardens for each guinea
that they pay to the Society. Life Fellows now on the books to have corre-
sponding pri\-ileges. Debenture-holders to have one season ticket for the
Exhibition.

a. The annual subscription to the Society ond for Exhibition season tickets
to be the same, and only to be altered by mutual consent.

4. The receipts from the Exhibition and Gardens on every WedBOsday
during the Exhibition to be equally divided between the Commissioners and
the Society. On the other days of the week the receipts from the Exhibition
and Gardens to be the property of the Commissioners.

5. The Commissioners to undertake the efficient and proper maintenance of
the conservatory and gardens at Kensington, and bear the cost of repairs,
rates, and taxes of the whole of the buildings and grounds leased by the Com-
missioners to the Society.

G. The Society to pay to the Commissioners one-half of the total sum ro-
•eived by it for yearly-paying Fellows' tickets, and the Commissioners to pay
to the Society one-half of their total receipts for season tickets, so long as the .
total amount' received by the Commissioners on account of Exhibition seosou
tickets does not exceed XiOOO. Beyond this all the subscriptions received by
the Commissioners for season tickets to be the property of the Commissioners.

7. The Commissioners to pay to the Society annually the sum of £4400, of
which £2000 is to be appropriated to the formation of an accumulating re-
demption fund, for the extinction of the debentui-e debt, and the remainder

Febraary 13, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

1?5

towards the payment to the Commissioners of the rental reserved to. them
under the lease to the Society.

8. In settling the annual accounts of the Society, the Society riball not
bo charf,'ed with the one-fifteenth part of the existinj^ life compositions.

9. No more life members to be accepted during the continuance of this
agreement.

10. These arrangements to he for the whole term of the Society's lease, but
to be determinable by the Commissioners at twelve months' notice.

I have the honour to be, Sir, your obedient ser^'ant,
Henky Y. D. fecoTT, Maj.-Gen.,
Jaues Richards, Esq., Secretary.

Assist. Secretary, Royal Hort. Society.

A Fellow asked -n-hether forty-guinea members were only to
have one admission.

The' Assistant Secretaet. — ^No. Four.

Sir Alfred Slade said he believed he should be in order in
making a few remarks upon the motion that the Keport be
adopted, and also upon the important letter just read to the
Meeting. He believed the opinion he was about to express re-
presented not only his own, but that of a very large proportion
of the Fellows who resided in that neighbourhood, and of the
residents in the neighbourhood, with respect to annual exhi-
bitions. There had been a growing feeling of dissatisfaction
amongst the Fellows in that neighbourhood, seeing that their
privileges had been gradually invaded and handed over to others
[cheers], and also a growing dissatisfaction at seeing the privi-
leges they thought they would enjoy in these Gardens being
enjoyed by others [hear, hear] ; and that feeling would be in-
tensified when they found that if the present proposals were
acceded to, so far from these Gardens being an advantage to the
neighbourhood, they would become exactly the opposite [cheers] .
It would drive peoi^Ie away, aiid not only the Fellows but those
who had property in the neighboirrhood would tind it much
deteriorated [hear, hear]. Last year complaint was made that
the arcades which were intended for the use of the Fellows were
shut against them, and could not be entered without making an
express payment. They had been deprived from time to time
of different exits to the Gardens; and it had also been com-
plained of that large parties of excursionists who had come
to the Exhibition were allowed to go into the private Gardens
of the Horticultural Society without making adequate payment.
But all these causes of complaint were about to be increased
tenfold by the proposition before the Meeting [cheers]. He
should now discuss the letter of the Commissioners. He noticed
in the letter it was stated that the writer had communicated
" the restilts of the lengthened consideration which has been
given by the Council of the Eoyal Horticultural Society to the
means of bringing about a closer union of the interests of the
Commissioners and the Society." Now, he (Sir A. Slade), con-
tended that it was impossible then to discuss the letter properly
iinless they had before them the correspondence on the part of
the Royal Horticultural Society [cheers]. It was proposed to
admit to the Gardens and to all the flower shows the visitors to
the Exhibition ; but that would bring such a mob to the Gardens
that no person would go into them who wished not to be crushed
[hear, hear]. Next, the Commissioners were to have the use of
the arcades, and that was a point he should strongly object to
[hear, hear]. With regard to the financial proposals, the letter
said that the Society was to receive £1000 [There was a typo-
graphical error in the letter referred to], or half the total receipts
of the Commissioners' season tickets. Unless they were told
what that was they might really give much more than the £1000
in order to receive so much [hear, hear]. By the last clause no
power was given to the Society to terminate the arrangements.
That was a sound bargain [a laugh]. The Commissioners might
dictate to them, and at the end of the annual bargain turn them
out of the Gardens. But they would never do so. They could
never cover these Gardens, and that being so, he did not think
they could find more desirable tenants ; but the day they did
turn them out they would sign the death-warrant of these inter-
national Exhibitions altogether [hear, and cheers], because he
behoved there was a very widespread feeling amongst the trading
community against what they considered was an unfair compe-
tition [hear, hear]. If the Commissioners, in addition to op-
posing the trading interests of the community, opposed the
wishes of all the respectable inhabitants of the neighbourhood,
that day they would sign the death-warrant of the annual Exhi-
bitions at Kensington [cheers]. He should now move this
resolution or amendment — " That this Meeting looks to the
Council to protect the Fellows in the exercise of their rights
and privileges, especially in the use of all the arcades and the
conservatory as part of the Gardens ; to exclude the pubhc from
the Gardens except upon an adequate payment ; to obtain for
the Fellows the use of all the entrances and exits ; and the
Meeting is further of opinion that the Gardens should be opened
at an earlier, and closed at a later hour than at present."

Mr. PowK.tLL, upon a question of order, said that this letter
had only been received by the Council that morning : were they
to receive it as part of the Eei^ort ? because it appeared to him
that these were twoudistinct tilings.

The Chairman said Mr. PowuaU. was quite right. The Report

was an emanation from the Council, but the letter of the Com-
missioners was still under their consideration.

Sir Charles Daubeney observed that the writer of the letter
stated that which showed that correspondence had been going
forward between the two bodies. The letter had been read to
the Meeting, and he thought he was right in sajiug, that as a
part of the Report it had been read to the Meeting [no, and
hear], although the Council had not made up its mind as to the
details. StiU they saw by the first part of the letter that corre-
spondence had been going on, and therefore it was that he
looked upon this letter as the answer of Her Majesty's Com-
missioners to the propositions of the Council ; and so far, then,
he maintained they were in order in considering this very im-
portant letter, because if they did not do so he could not see
how they could have any voice in the matter. It was, he
thought, advisable to consider the letter, because they were aU
anxious that the CouncU should be in possession of the feeUngs
of a very large majority, not only upon what had happened in
that room, but upon what was now before them. He fuUy
agi-eed with Sir Alfred Slade that the Fellows had been unfairly
treated [hear, hear]. They had not subscribed originally to
the Gardens or entered into them with the idea of being so
overwhelmed with an enormous number of people. They had
an idea it was to be a place of recreation, but not for the entire
public— for aU those who came to see the Exhibition [hear,
hear]. He thought he might make some remarks as to the
conduct of some of those who were admitted last year. By one
of the rules Fellows were not allowed to smoke. He pleaded
guilty to smoking [laughter], but he had never lighted a cigar
in the Gardens — first, because it was contrary to rule ; and
secondly, because in a place like that, smoking was not only an
inconvenience, but an act of great disrespect to the ladies and
others, who would find themselves, perhaps, under the trees
with a fellow smoking, not good but abominable tobacco
[laughter]. But only last Saturday two ladies liad smoke
puffed into their faces. If he smoked, he should have a man
after him ; but how was it that the rules were not enforced, that
persons were in the Gardens smoking, eating sandwiches, and
turning the place into

A Mesiber. — A tea garden [laughter].

Sir C. Daubeney went on to say that the way in which these
people conducted themselves had become an intolerable nui-
sance, and it was the business of that Meeting to protest against
a repetition of such conduct [hear, hear]. Now, he found by
this document that the Society was to allow aU visitors to the
Exhibition admission to the Gardens. As it was, the crowd at
the flower shows was so vast that at two in the afternoon i iwas
quite impossible to pass along the Gardens. But how would it
be when all the visitors to the Exhibition were allowed to go
in ? It would result in this, that the Fellows would have to
give way to the mob, and the families of the Fellows would be de-
prived of the enjoyment of that for which they had paid [hear,
hear]. The last clause of the proposals, making the lease de-
terminable at the wish of the Commissioners, was most objection-
able. By the clause they were handing themselves over to the
Commissioners of Her Majesty's Exhibition bound hand and
foot [cheers]. They could not prevent the Commissioners
doing anything they Uked, and, as Sir Alfred Slade remarked,
there was not the sUghtest power given to the Council of the
Society to put any termination to the lease themselves. The
whole matter would be in the hands of the Commissioners. He
thought that the most objectionable clause which could be
worded. He had much pleasure in seconding Sir Alfred Slade's
amendment, and hoped to see it carried by the meeting in justice
to themselves [cheers].

Mr. S. H. Godson congratulated the mover and seconder of
the amendment, upon the able expositions they had given of the
existing state of things. What was the position of the Society
now ? At the last meeting there was a sum of £700 which was
disallowed by the Expenses Committee, and yet not a word of
explanation was given by any member of the Committee as to
how it had been charged. But how did they throw dust in the
eyes of Fellows ? By putting the item into the cajutal account,
which was neither business-Uke nor creditable [hear, hear].
Then there was no account to show what the liabiUties were,
nor was there any account to show what was due to them, so
that they might take it for granted that they were indebted
£931, and that they had to pay the Commissioners £1200. He
doubted very much whether the Council had gone into the
question of the agreement and charter. If they had, they would
have toimd that for the first five years they were to pay no rent,
and that for the next five years they were to pay a sum equi-
valent to £2145. They had gone back to the position in which
they stood in 1855, and it was of vast importance that some-
thing should be done. He pointed out that under the charter
there was a ready means provided for settling all disputes. It
was his intention to have moved a resolution to the eliect that
the Report of the Council should be referred to a Committee of
three Fellows, with power to add to their number, and that they
should ascertain the general state of the Society, and report to

136

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Febi-uaiy 13, 1873.

the next General Meeting. Ho did think that after the receipt
of the letter something to that ellect should be done. They
should recollect they were fighting the President and the Council
[time, and question]. Mr. Godson "was speaking nest of some
of the Members of Council, and

Mr. PoWNAXL rose to a point of order, and said the question
before them was that of the Report, and the letter which had
been read [hear, hear].

Mv. GoDsox said they could not now discuss both, but to
follow out the observations he was making he might say that at
the last Meeting he showed that the geutlemeu who were re-
elected at one meeting were turned out the next — just like bull-
playing — one went out and the other went in [cries of "time"].
Did Lord Londesborough ever attend a meeting ?

The Chairman. — I am very sorry to interfere with Mr. God-
son, with whom I have had several passages in this room; but
there are gentlemen here who have brought forward matters
with extreme ability, intelligeuce, and moderation, and although
we are williug to wait until five o'clock to hear Mr. Godson's
strictures upon our personal wants, it is not fair to those gentle-
men who came down at a sacrifice of their time to hear a dis-
cussion upon their moderate proposals [cries of hear, hear].
Let Mr. Godson reserve his strictures until the end of the Meet-
ing, and we will sit here and tight the battle out with him [hear,
and laughter].

Mr. Godson said that was not quite fair. He expected, as an
Englishman, fair play. He did not come there to ask a favour,
but simply stood upon his right. He would ask whether .1*100,000
was or was not in their property ? They had paid that for it,
and were the gardens to produce nothing ? By the charter the
centre arcade, and the conservatory, and the arcades ou each
side all belonged to the Society, and he would ask any gentle-
man whether, after paying i* 100,000, the Coimcil had not been
hardly dealt with, and whether the Council were not dealing
hardly with the Fellows ? That probably was the last time he
would come there, for practically the whole business was in the
hands of the Council.

Mr. Claiison submitted that the only question before the
Meeting was the adoption of the Report. It would be exceed-
ingly inconvenient to deal with the Report and the letter together.
^ The Chairman. — I quite agree with you, but I had a disinclina-
tion to stop anyone. I wished to go into the question of the
Report, and that was the reason I interfered with Mr. Godson.

Mr. Montague rose, as a country member, to support the
amendment, because as they had heard of the great inconve-
nience suffered by the town members by those visiting the Ex-
hibition making use of the gardens, he wished to say it was also
a very great inconvenience to country members when they
came to London to find the Gardens flooded by persons who
paid for admission to the Exhibition. He did not say these
persons were not as good as themselves, but he thought it was
very unfair to the Fellows, and was a reason why the amend-
ment ought to be supported. The Report itself was not a satis-
factory one. It dealt with certain categories of Fellows, and
said that many joined through the love of flower shows. Well,
he was sure these had a gi-eater interest in horticulture than
those who joined for the International Exhibition privileges.
Then they were told in the Report that the Council had great
difficulty in satisfying all parties, but they all knew it was ex-
ceedingly difficult to satisfy even two parties. Last year, during
the flower shows, they were shut off from their own arcades,
and their ladies had to go through the rain instead of through
the arcades, which were erected so that ladies and delicate
people might have shelter when proceeding to their carriages.
He should not touch upon the letter because the Council had
not had time to look into it, but he would say that under this
proposal the Council would become almost the slaves of the Com-
missioners, because the latter were to undertake the duties of
the Council, maintain the Gardens, execute the repairs, and pay
the rates and taxes. The Council had got no hold over the
Commissioners [hear, hear]. The Commissioners could do
what they liked with the Gardens, and the Society would have
no control as to the expenditure [hear, hear]. Some day they
would find themselves shut out in the cold, and would have to
go to their gardens at Chiswick. The Commissioners were to
give the Society the half of what did not exceed i'4000, and the
Society was to give the Commissioners a sum of neai'ly i;'4000.
They must not forget that these Commissioners are the Com-
missioners of the Exhibition of 1851, and therefore when it was
alleged that it was strictly for the promotion of science, he
might say he did not think horticultural science would be pro-
m,oted by handing over the Gardens and their management to
the Commissioners [hear, hear]. In conclusion he begged most
cordially to support the amendment on the proposition that
the Report be received [cheers].

Mr. Harky Veitch asked for some explanation as to a state-
ment made by the Chairman at the last meeting as to the
management of the Society as it existed in 1862.

Mr. Saundeks said he happened to have been Chairman upon
that occasion, and should like to say a few words upon the amend-

ment. It began by stating that "this Meeting looks to the
Council to protect the Fellows in their rights and privileges,
and first to maintain the iise of all the arcades and the conser-
vatory as part of the Gardens." That was exactly the point
touched iipon by Mr. Veitch. The Council strongly felt last
year that tbe arcades had been taken away from the Fellows,
and that they should not submit to anything but the return of
the arcades for themselves again ; and the mind of the Council,
he was sure, was still this, that the arcades and the conservatory
should be reserved for the use of the Fellows. As he understood
it, the proposition of the Commissioners was that the FeUowa
should have the arcades, but if the former wished to put up any
article for exhibition — it might be horticulture — they might do
so in the arcades ; and there seemed no great objection to that.
Then as to excluding the pubUc from the Gardens except upon
an adequate payment, they must all recollect that they admitted
the public at all times on the payment of Is., and sometimes
for C(Z. ; and that when there were shows, in order to prevent a
rush a high price of admission was put on. Then as to main-
taining the use of all entrances and exits throughout the j'ear,
the difficulty was that the Commissioners having given them
six-months notice to give up the north-east and north-west
entrances, they had only one entrance at present, and they must
submit. However, there was a way to make another north-west
entrance.

Sir C. Daubeney. — That is at the top of Queen's Gate !

Mr. Saunders believed it was so. As to the Gardens being
opened at an earlier and closed at a later hour, that was quite
within the reach of the Council, so long as the alteration met
the conveuience of the Fellows at large. These were the points
he wished to refer to, in order to show what the difficulties were
respecting the amendment [hear, hear].

A member trusted that the northern entrance, which, for
twelve months after the Exhibition, was used neither by the
Society nor the Commissioners, would not, after the next Exhi-
bition, be allowed to remain closed.

Dr. Lyon Playfair, M.P., both as a member of the Society
and one of the Exhibition Commissioners, felt certain that all
Fellows of the Royal Horticultural Society were desirous of
putting themselves in the position of perfectly honest people
[a laugh], by trying to carry out, in the most complete way
possible, the conditions of the lease they had entered into.
They had entered into a lease, and they had engaged to pay
i'24O0 per annum as the rent of the Gardens. They had been
in operation for about twelve years, and they had only twice
paid the rent they were bound to pay the Commissioners by the
lease. Once it was paid in 1862, and once in 1871. These were
the only two years in which the rent was paid, and in both cases
it was paid through the Exhibition [hear, hear]. "There-
fore," said the honourable and learned gentleman, " do not let
us throw overboard the Exhibition as hostile to the interests
of the Royal Horticultural Society." The consideration of the
Commissioners, as landholders, was not to put an end to their
lease ; and the Society, on their part, must fulfil their obUga-
tions, and the only way they could do so was to make the Exiu-
bition pay their obligations for them. If they looked at the
matter a little more carefully they would see the interests of
the two bodies were perfectly identical. He could assure them,
as one of the Committee of Management of the Exhibition
who had been in constant communication with the Couucil of
this Society, that never did a body of gentlemen give more at-
tention to the interests of the Fellows than the Council had.
They had met the Commissioners in a spirit of fairness, but of
the utmost jealousy as regarded the interests of the Fellows.
He did not think the Meeting understood, as it was scarcely
possible they could understand, the meaning of the letter, and
he should therefore explain it in a few words. In the first
place, part of their subscrijitious were to be paid over to the
Commissioners, and these would be always swallowed up in
preserving the Gardens in an efficient state. On their side, the
Commissioners would give the Society .t'4400, which would en-
able them to pay their rent, and also pay-off their debenture
debt; and the effect would be that at the end of the lease the
Fellows would have become honest men — have paid their rent,
and paid their debenture debt, and have £20,000 profit in the
bargain [oh! oh!]. But really they would find his statement
exact and correct. Then in return for this the Commissioners
asked the Society to give the visitors to the Exhibition access
to the Gardens ; and if all this had not been done in a spirit of
fairness ou both sides, then, indeed, both sides had been mu-
tually mistaken. The Commissioners believed the interests of
the two bodies were identical ; they believed that the interests
of the Commissioners were bound-up with those of the Horticul-
tural Society ; and that if the latter did not succeed, then one
of the supports of the Commissioners was lost. Some of their
interests might not have exactly coincided, but a most genuine
spirit of fairness had existed, and the Council had to make
arrangements mutually beneficial for both bodies. The Society
was bankrupt, or would be but for this arrangement.

A Fellow. — Xou made it banki-upt [loud cheers].

FebruaiT 13, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

m

JDr. Lyon Playfaib. — Not I, because I am only a recently-
appointed Commissioner. If they examined into the whole
case and the circumstances surrounding it, they would find there
was an identity of interests between the two bodies, aud if that
were not so, then had the negotiations failed. As to the Council,
he was sure they had guarded the interests of the Fellow.^
carefully, and he felt certain that at to-day's Meetinf; they could
not get a body of men to serve them better. He thought it
right to let the Meeting hear both sides of the (question [loud
cheers],

Mr. Habdcastle, M.P., said that as the honourable gentleman
who had just spoken had alluded to the document placed that
day in their hands, perhaps he shovild be permitted to state
what he understood would be the eSect of that document if its
proposals were carried out [hear, hear]. Everyone who knew
X)r. Playfair listened to him, when he spoke, with most anxious
and respectful attention, because everyone acquainted with him
knew he never talked nonsense [hear, hear]. He had hoped
Dr. Playfair would have said a little more about the document.
He told them they ought to have the greatest confidence in their
Council, in fact that they ought to put their heads into — he was
going to say — the mouths of the Council [laughter, oh ! and
hear]. But it did appear to him that Dr. Playfair's speech
went to this — that they were to take what they got, and thank
God for it, and not look to their own affairs in the smallest
degree [cheers]. It was impossible for anyone to analyse this
document carefully at a few minutes' notice ; but the practical
result of it would be that the Commissioners, whoever they
might be, were to pay ±'2000, which was approximately the ex-
penses of the Gardens at the present moment. Then they were
to pay not more than £'1000 over as a portion of the Exhibition
season tickets, which made £3000. Then they were to pay some-
thing, on which Dr. Playfair somewhat enlarged — a sum of
£4400. Now out of this £4400, a sum of £2000 was to go to some
sinking fund, which would be of no advantage either to the
Fellows or the Society, and that amount was to represent the
rent, which, up to the present time, they had never paid
[hear, hear]. The Commissioners were to pay us £4400, and
'the Society was to pay £2400 — the receipts in the Gardens, and
a Bum of nearly £4000, beingabout half the annual subscriptions,
And the cousetjuence would be a loss to the Society of about
.^1000 a-year. That was his view, and if he was mistaken he
should be happy to have himself set right. He should be glad
to have the Gardens kept separated from the Exhibitions, for he
looked upon these Exhibitions as the most unmixed nuisances
«ver invented [hear, no, and laughter]. Tradesmen looked
upon them iu the same light, and he believed the Exhibitions
Wrtuld drag their slow course along for a few years, and then die
of inanition [hear, and a laugh]. Without pretending to the
gift of prophecy, he looked forward to the entire loss of their
arcades, and most of all to the loss of their liberty ; and he most
strongly protested against putting himself, as one of the Fellows
of the Society, under the hands of the Commissioners. On
these grounds he protested against the receipt and adoption of
the Report [cheers].

Mr. BoHN said a great disposition existed to have a little more
strength infused into the Council. They had more of the 1851
men than of really practical men ; and as one of the old mem-
fcers of the Society he very strongly felt the object for which he
.associated himself with it had not been carried out, because,
instead of having such Gardens aa a horticultural society should
have, they had these puppet-shows, which were every day
getting worse. He now rose to move, that instead of Lord
Alfred Churchill and Major Trevor Clarke, there should be
elected as members of the Council the Bev. S. Reynolds Hole
and Mr. B. S. WiUiams [cheers].

Mr. Bateman said no person could have any objection to
either Mr. Hole or Mr. Williams, but the question was whether
Xord A. Churchill would or would not be an acquisition to the
Council. It was not against him that he was not a horticul-
turist, as he could assure the Meeting, after ten years' work at
the Council, that if they were all horticulturists they could
not get on with the work at all [laughter]. They had a speci-
anen that day of the great variety of topics non-horticultural
which pressed upon the attention of the Council. Lord
A. Churchill was historically connected with horticulture, his
brether the Duke of Marlborough and two former Dukes of
Marlborough having been connected with plants [laughter]. As
regarded Lord Londesborough, he attended once, but he had
also attended by proxy and sent up the most magnificent lot of
Orchids ever seen [laughter, and cries of question].

The Chairman said he should now, after the explanations
^ven by Dr. Playfair and his other colleagues, have remained
silent if he had not thought he should be wanting in respect to
the Meeting if he did not express his entire concurrence iu the
reports they had made. In the first place, he wished to do most
ample justice to the tone and moderate manner in which the
amendment had been brought forward. He considered the
manner in which the amendment was introduced and seconded
did credit to the general body of the Fellows of the Horticul-

tural Society [hear, hear]. It was most gratifying for the
Council to be able in the same tone to say they were, as they
always had been, anxious to steer the interests of the Fellows
through a difficult and intricate channel. Here he might say,
with reference to an allusion by a gentleman that exhibitions
were dechniug, and that the power of the Commissioners to ter-
minate the arrangements was a one-sided bargain, and that ex-
hibitions might drag on their existence for only two years^
surely there could be no great fear of the Commissioners
putting an end to the lease if they could only survive for two
years [laughter]. He was sorry to hear that some persons
calling themselves "gentlemen" had the other day smoked in
the faces of ladies. Now it was not necessary to point out that
these " gentlemen" could have had nothing to do with the Exhi-
bition, as it was closed in the month of September. He quite
agreed that the privacy of the Gardens was not what it was
before the establishment of the Exhibition ; but at the same
time it was certainly preferable that the Society should have
carried on its work and redeemed its debts without having re-
ference to the Commissioners of 1851; but it was in one of those
positions in which finance arbitrarily stepped in and. insisted
upon us accepting conditions not so pleasant as they might
have been if it were not for the pecuniary diificulties. He
would only just point out that the Gardens had heeu only
able to pay their rent for two years, and these were the
two years of the Exhibitions. 'Taking up the amendment,
his lordship said that, aa regarded the first sentence — that the
meeting looked to the Council to protect their rights and privi-
leges— he begged to toll Sir Alfred Slade that the Council were
entirely in accord with him on that point, and were most
anxious to protect the rights and privileges of the Fellows. As
to the exclusion of the pubUc, at present there was a sixpenny
day, but under a new resolution that would be done away with,
and there would be no lower admission to the Gardens than Is.
Then, as regarded the use of all the entrances, Mr. Saunders
had told them that all the entrances, except one, were not the
property of the Society, and the only chance they had of getting
other entrances was by acting cordially and on amicable terms,
and trying to exercise their influence on the friendly spirit
and courtesy of the Commissioners of 1851. As to the opening
and closing of the Gardens, ha was sure the object iu view would
have been accomplished long ago if any Fellow had made a
private representation to the Council. Then, as to Mr. Bohn's
remarks about increasing the practical element in the Council,
aud eliminating what he (the Chairman), called the " west-end"
element ; he could assure the Meeting that ho had remained in
the Council in consequence of repeated representations that he
should not desert them in the midst of their difficulties ; but he
placed his seat at the Board at the disposal of any other gentle-
man who might be selected and be more worthy of their con-
fidence [no]. In conclusion his lordship said he was ready to
resign his seat, and that would enable them to place Lord
Londesborough and Lord A. Churchill, who said he was most
anxious to take a practical part in the business, upon the Council.
Sir C. Dadbeney wished to ask whether a special meeting
would be called to acquaint the Fellows what they proposed to
do upon the letter of the Commissioners [cheers].

Professor Tennant remarked that the Zoological Society
would be bankrupt if it did not give great privileges to the
public. One-third of the income came from the ordinary
sources, one-third from the Is. admissions ; but by far the largest
third came from the sixpenny admissions.

Mr. Clutton wished to bring one view of the financial posi-
tion before the Meeting. According to the letter the Council
were to pay £4400— £2400 in the form of rent, and £2000 towards
paying oft the debenture debt. They were also to pay a further
sum of £2000, or such sum as would be represented by half their
annual admission tickets. That amounted to £G200, and then
the Commissioners took upon themselves the maintenance,
repairs, and rates and taxes of the Gardens, and that sum
amounted to about £4200. The Society expended upon horticul-
ture, including Chiswick, about £(iOI)(J, and upon these Gardens
a sum of about £400(3, and it was that £4000 which the Royal
Commissioners excluded from half the annual subscriptions,
BO that it might be assumed that they got from the aunual sub-
scriptions a sum equal to the maintenance of the gardens [hear,
hear]. It was said that, supposing the arrangements to be
carried out, the Society would be losers. He could assure the
Meeting he had paid great attention to the subject, and he had
no doubt that by means of the arrangement the Society would
be iu a better position by £1000 per annum than it was at the
present time ; and in addition to that, the Society would pay its
rent of £2400 a-year, and also place £2000 a-year towards the
redemption of the debenture debt. It should be recollected that
the Society was in full enjoyment of the Gardens, and if it had
not been for the Royal Commissioners they would not be in
possession of them now under lease, because the lease would
have lapsed by reason of the non-payment of rent, according to
a provision in the lease. Were the gentlemen present prepared
to give up these Gardens if they did not pay their rent ?

138

JOUKNAL OP HOETICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

[ Februaij 13, 1873.

Sir A. Sl.4X>e. — Yes [oh ! j .

Mr. Glutton. — WeU, it is better to get half a loaf than no
tread. You will never be able to keep up CMswick without a
loss.

Mr. BoHN.- — I -will explain that.

Mr. Godson. — I deny it.

The Eev. C. P. Peach wished to know whether the Meeting
would be pledged, by adopting the Report, to receive the letter
of the Commissioners, or whether the two things were not per-
fectly distinct? It was perfectly impossible to go through these
ten propositions and debate them properly. He should move
the adjournment of the debate in order to fix a time for taking
these ten propositions into consideration, and also for revising
the bye-laws, which had been put in decidedly contrary to the
charter of the Society. He simply wished to know whether
the acceptance of the Report tied them to accept the ten pro-
positions of the Royal Commissioners ?

The Chaiuman had tried to make it quite clear that the Meet-
ing, in voting the Report, did not tie itself to accept the letter ;
even the Council themselves were not bound by it.

Mr. PEAfH. — Then the adjournment of the Meeting can be
moved afterwards ?

The CHArBM.iN. — You can move anything you please.

Sir A. Slade remarked that in the Report it was stated, re-
specting the Exhibition, that the Council " were satisfied that
their policy was wise, and ought to be persisted in." Now, on
behalf of himself and Sir Charles Daubeney, he asked the
Meeting, in adopting the resolution, to express their opinion
that the pohcy of the Council was not wise, and ought not to be
persisted in [cheers].

Sir C. Daubeney. — I would ask you, my lord, whether there
will be an opportunity for us to consider this letter of the Com-
missioners before the propositions in it are finally agreed to ?

The Chaikman said he shoiUd consult with his colleagues on
the subject.

After a short consultation.

The Chairman said he had told the Meeting that the Counci
had not made up their minds upon the Commissioners' letter,
and had they done so they would have given the Fellows an
opportunity of saying " aye " or " no" to it. Viewing it from
*his point, the matter being of an exceptional nature, the
Council thought it desirable and reasonable to call a special
, general meeting, to enable the Fellows to see whether they

ould agi'ee with whatever conclusion the Council came to or not.
In the event of the Meeting disapproving whatever arrangement
the Council came to, the Council would resign in a body, and the
Meeting would call together another governing body in their
place. "When he said the Council acceded to this, it was very
important that the Meeting should accept the Report, considering
that the amendment which Sir A. Slade had proposed was really
and virtually agreed to by the Council in almost every one of the
particulars, except that as to restoring the permanent entrances
and exits, which were not the Council's to restore. Therefore, if
the Meeting met the Council in this way, and accepted its Re-
port, they might consider that no final agreement would be
made between the Council and the Commissioners without a
final general meeting [hear, hear]. He thought the Council
might appeal to the Meeting whether the former were not acting
in a spirit of conciliation, and were anxious to do everything they
could to meet the Fellows firmly on the subject [hear, hear].
They would not have long to wait for the result, because the
whole thing must be settled with tha Commissioners within a
week or ten days, and therefore the special general meeting
will follow very quickly.

Mr. PowNALL asked whether, that being so, it would not be
better to adjourn the Meeting until the Council had made up
their minds as to what arrangements they proposed to make
[hear, hear] ? He begged to move that the Meeting do adjourn
to that day fortnight.

The CHAniMAN. — That is quite impossible, unless you wish to
shut the door after the steed is stolen, because our answer must
De given in a week.

Mr. PowN.AiL. — Surely the Commissioners might not press the
Council under the circumstances to come to such a hasty deci-
sion without making the Fellows acquainted with it.

Dr. Lyon Playf.air. — The Commissioners must issue their
season tickets, or the whole affair wiU be a financial failure, and
about a week's delay will imperil very much the arrangements,
and beyond a week it would be imj)ossible to make any arrange-
ments.

After a short disciission the consideration of the Report was
adjourned to Tuesday next, the understanding being that the
Council would come to no agreement with the Commissioners
until the opinion of the Fellows was ascertained on the matter.

The Rev. C. P. Peach called the attention of the Meeting to
the fact that at the last Meeting, when the bye-laws were
altered, five were put in at variance with the Charter. Accord-
ing to the paper they had got, they had a perfect right not to
accept, if they wished, the names of Lord Londesborough or
Lord A. ChurchUl, who, with all due respect, did not rejiresent

practical horticulture, and who would not be of much use to the^
Council. He should propose the names of Sir A. Slade and the
Rev. Reynolds Hole in place of their lordships [cheers] , and he-
should also move that the five bye-laws contrary to the Charter
be rescinded.

The Chairman (Mr. Saunders upon the retirement from the
Meeting of Lord Lennox), said the Voting must be according to.
the bye-laws as they now stood.

]\Ir. Peach. — But they were contrary to your Charter.

The Chairman. — But they were made by the Council and_
must stand.

Mr. Peach. — You have no option under the present system.

After a desultory conversation the Chairman ruled that the
ballot must proceed in the usual way.

Mr. BoHN said if that was the case he advised the Fellows to-
vote for Mr. Williams and Mr. Hole.

Mr. Atkinson said it was not right to propose a new mao
-without previous notice.

The Rev. Reynolds Hole said he did not come there to add
to the accumulation of diihcxilties the Council were in, but hei
came with the desire of making that which appertained to his.
office — peace. He hoped he'had not forgotten the lesson he had
learned in one of the best of lesson-books — to be reverend to-
and obey his superiors, and therefore he thought this aristocratic
element was very desirable. But why should it be exclusive
of others? [hear, hear]. Why should there not be more elas-
ticity and comprehensiveness in the Council ? although he should
not draw a comparison between it and that Council of Ten pre-
sided over by Appius Claudius, the Tribune [laughter] . But
really the Council of the Horticultural Society did not represent
the Fellows of the Society or the gardeners [loud cheers]. It
was like a municipahty composed exclusively of mayors [laugh-
ter]. He would say nothing of " mare's-nests " [renewed laugh-
ter]. They wanted men who not solely sought to please the
promenading public, but who would please horticulturists, ani
promote true horticulture [hear, hear]. As to his taking Lord
Lennox's place, it was not to be thought of.

The result of the ballot was then announced — viz., that Lord
Londesborough, Lord Alfred Spencer Churchill, and Major R.
Trevor Clarke were elected new members of the Council in place
of the Bishop of Winchester. James Bateman, Esq., F.R.S., and
G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., the voting being thirty-four for those
recommended by the Council, and eighteen against.

The following -were elected ofiicers for the ensuing year : —
President, His Grace the Duke of Buocleuch, K.G. ; 'Treasurer^
Mr. John Glutton ; Secretary, Major-General H. \'. D. Scott, C.B j
Expenses Committeemen, Mr. John Glutton, Mr. John Kelk,
Mr. W. Wilson Saunders, F.R.S. ; Auditors, Mr. James Nicholson,.
Mr. John Gibson, Mr. Robert Hudson, F.R.S. The Meeting was
then adjourned to Tuesday next the 18th inst.

Report op the Chiswick Board of Direction.

During the past season tlie work at Chiswick has been mainly
directed towards the perfecting of the arrangements attendant
on the alterations in the G:;rden in the previous year. It was
then reported that in consequence of timely, though not un-
usually copious rainfall, the valuable collection of fruit trees-
had been removed with scarcely any loss. The late gloomy an(i:
rainy season was peculiarly favourable to the complete estab-
lishment of the transplanted stock, the deficiency of fruit being:
highly conducive to the same end.

Though there has been httle opportunity for what may be-
more strictly considered as scientific investigation, important
trials in a horticultural point of view have been carried on with;
respect to various objects of cultivation. Those on the different
varieties of Kales and Peas were made under unusually favour-
able conditions. Both were very carefully examined, the latter,,
including upwards of two hundred reputed varieties, by the
Fruit Committee, and the results in either case are recorled iu
the numbers of the Society's Journal recently published. In
order that no dissatisfaction might arise as to results, each-
sample was marked with a number, the name of the contribu-
tor being kept back ; and as the decisions were almost, if not
quite unanimous, they may be regarded as conclusive. To eleven
of the newest the Gemmittee awarded first-class certificates.
Amongst the most remarkable of the varieties in the trial were
a large number raised from crosses effected by Mr. Laiton, of
Stamford.

The weather was not equally favourable to trials -with flowers,
a worse season for Pelargoniums being scarcely conceivable.
Four huudreil varieties of Zonal Pelargoniums were planted
out. The more deKcate varieties made no growth, and even the
coarser ones did not develope fully their respective merits. Of
Phloxes 200 varieties, and of Pentstemons luO varieties were
also grown in the flower-beds of the new trial ground, while of
Fuchsias IdO varieties were grown in pots. These last, indeed,,
were not subject to the continued rain, but they suffered like
the other occupants of the conservatories from the continued
absence of sunlight. The Flo'ral Committee held tliree meet-
ings at Chiswick for the examination of these collections, and

February 13, 1873. 1

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

139

awarded forty-oue certificates to Pelargoniums, tweuty-eight to
Phloxes, twenty-one to Pentstemous, and twenty-six to Fuchsias.
Beports on these collections are published in the last numbers
of the Society's Journal.

During the past year a large collection of Peaches, Nectarines,
Apricots, and Cherries has been ijrocured and planted against
the new boundary walls for the purpose of comparison and de-
termination of the varieties. These have all been trained in the
form of single oblique cordons, so as to economise space and to
secure as great a number as possible against the walls.

Owing to the late spring frosts, which caused such havoc
among the fruit crops in the country generally, all out-door
fruits, with the exception of Strawberries, were unusually
.scarce in the Garden.

The large orchard house continues very attractive. The trees
•during the past season were laden with fine highly-developed
fruit, and were a subject of study to many of the Fellows of the
^society.

The Vines in the large conservatory exhibited last year indi-
■cations of laugour, through defective root action. This is
'doubtless attributable to the borders having become exhausted ;
■these having been renewed, a more vigorous growth and greater
jjroduction of fruit may be expected next season.

A new plantation of Strawberries has been lately completed.

The trial during the next season, for which preparations are
.being made, will embrace all the varieties of Potatoes which it
/is possible to collect.

(jreat pains have been taken to get together a collection of
euch interesting hardy herbaceous plants as may be worthy of
general cultivation. It is not within the province of the Society
to attempt anything like a botanical collection ; but within cer-
tain limits the Board are anxious to do something towards re-
storing a general taste for beautiful forms other than those gor-
.geous masses of colour which have become so prevalent, and
which at one time, except for the concomitant attraction of
-Perns, bade fair to exclude from gardens everything except a
few favoured bedding plants, which were repeated uuiversally,
with scarcely any variation.

It is desired during the coming season to get together more
especially a collection of all the cultivated Asters which can be
met with, with a view to a revision of the nomenclature, which
.appears to be in a very confused state. Any contributions from
Fellows for this object will be thankfully received by the Gar-
■<lener-in-Chief.

The re-establishment of the system of meteorological obser-
vations has not been effected without difficulty. The fine set
■of new instruments purchased by the Society from Messrs.
Negretti & Zambra were personally conveyed to the Kew Obser-
•vatory by Prof. Thiselton Dyer. Having been satisfactorily
■tested, they have been fixed in their proper positions at Chis-
wick, and the observations have been regularly taken with them
■since the beginning of July. The thermometer-stand, however,
which was made at considerable expense at the recommendation
•of Mr. Glaisher, does not prove wholly satisfactory, and it may
•ultimately prove necessary to abandon it for some other arrange-
ment.

It will be seen from the following figures that the rainfall at
Ohiswick of the last six months of 1872 was equal to about two-
.thirds of the average rainfall of the whole year (23.5 in.) ; —

Number of Average

Days ou which Kainfall

^ liaiu fell iu Baicfall of

1872. 1H72. 44 Tears.

July 14 .... 1.94 .... 2.32

August 13 .... 1.H8 .... 2,41

September 11 1.19 2.50

October 24 4.fi5 2.63

November 22 .... 3.2.5 2.10

December 22 8.91 1.53

106 .... 16.83 .... 13.49

In the period 1826-1869 the whole rainfall of the driest year
<185,8) was 1.5.8 inch ; in 1861 the whole rainfaU was only 16.9 inch.
, Prof. Thiselton Dyer has commenced some eveuing lectures
on the Scientific Principles of Horticulture to the persons em-
ployed in the Garden. These lectures are stiU in com-se of
delivery.

It is hoped during the present year to make some progress
"with the formation of a herbarium of correctly-named speci-
mens of cultivated herbaceous plants. This will be exceedingly
Tiseful for purposes of reference, especially for naming the
living collection.

A very important collection of the seeds of Cotton plants
supplied by Major Trevor Clarke was raised at Chiswick for the
International Exbibitiou, of which it proved to be one of the
most interesting and attractive features during a great portion
of the period the Exhibition was open to the public.

Experiments are about to be made on the practical manurial
■value of the various products of M.ajor-General Scott's system
of sewage precipitation.

The conservatory at South Kensington has bee-u maintained

in an exceedingly gay condition throughout the season by means
of 14,200 ornamental plants cultivated at Chiswick for that pur-
pose ; while the exterior gardens at South Kensington have
been embellished by 52,000 bedding plants from the same source.

During the year about 9000 flowering plants ; 16,000 cuttings
of flowering plants ; 12U0 packets of cuttings of Apples, Pears,
Plums, Cherries, Vines, and Figs ; 3000 Strawberry plants ;
60,000 packets of flower seeds ; and 60,000 piackets of vegetable
seeds, have been distributed amongst the Fellows by ballot or
otherwise. Large collections of cuttings of fruit trees have
been sent to Australia, Canada, Natal, New Zealand, and India.

Presentations of plants, seeds, &c., have been received from,
amongst others ; — The Royal Gardens, Kew, Dr. Denny, Major
Clarke, Messrs. Veitch & Sons, W. Bull, Knight, F. & A. Smith,
Downie, Laird, & Laing, T. Laxton, Van Houtte, E. Parker,
H. Cannell, W. Paul, E. G. Henderson & Son, George, Gibson,
Quilter, Moore, Barron, etc.

The presentations of Peas for trial were made by Messrs.
Minier, Nash, it Nash; James Carter & Co.; Sutton A: Sons;
Veitch & Sons ; Hurst it Son ; Gibbs <.t Co. ; "Wrench & Son ;
Howcroft (t Watkine ; T. Laston ; Dean ; Williams ; Cutbush ;
James Clarke; Barr & Sugden ; James Dickson it Sons ; F. and
A. Dickson it Son ; Finney, Nutting, it Son ; Hooper it Co. ; &c.
M. J. BehIvELet. I T. Moore.

E. HoGO. W. T. Thiselton Dub.

Statbhent of AocorxTB from January Isi to December Slet, 1872,
Kjeceipts.

£ t. d. £ s. d.

To Balance 155 15 0

Life Compositions 1018 10 0

Admission Fees 529 4 0

Annual Subscriptions 7942 8 0

Garden Produce and Charges 520 5 8

Daily Admissions and Promenades 1258 1 10

Kent of space in Arcades 297 7 0

Exhibitions and Fetes 1173 16 5

Miscellaneous 113 6 8

Interest on Davis Bequest B9 8 1

Prollt on Provincial Sho^ Accounts (Ba-
lances) 1865 14 6

Library Account 4 5 5

14,782 7 7

Balanco 376 19 9

Total 15,815 2 4

EXPEMDITITRB.
By ChisTrick Garden Expemet : —

£ s. d. £ s. d.

Rent, Bates, and Taxes 281 9 1

Labour 1141 17 1

Implements, Manure, Coke, itc 228 14 7

Kepalrs 112 17 6

Trees, Plants, and Shrubs 15 4 R

Miscellaneous 56 19 6

1887 2 2

By Expenses of Management : —

Salaries S32 16 8

Horticultural Directors, Fruit and Floral

Committee.^, &c 623 19 10

Foreign Importations 10 0 0

Fxamlnation of Gardeners 5 5 0

Postages 87 10 1

Distribution of Seeds, Plants, and Cuttings 149 5 11

lieading Room 20 17 3

Gas 38 7 9

Journal 2 10 6

Wages 842 10 5

Printing, Stationery, and Almanacs 130 2 6

Miscellaneous 41 1 2

. 1834 7 1

By Expenses of Exhibitions : —

Tents 500 0 0

Advertising and Posting 285 0 0

Prizes and Medals 1386 13 0

Bands 610 2 0

Police 74 19 11

Labour, Judges' Fees, Luncheons, and

Sundries 517 1 7

Expenses of Permanent Exhibition 75 12 ID

Superintendent of Flower ShoTfs 100 0 0

Entomological Collection 38 2 0

-. 3087 11 4

By Eensinffton Oardsn Expenses : —

Labour 940 5 4

Bates, Taxes, and Insurance 922 9 11

Water 95 18 6

Eepairs 369 18 2

Implements, Manure, Coals, and Coke . . 215 8 7

Gravel

Trees, Plants, Seeds, &c 272 8 3

Superintendent's Salary 100 0 0

Miscellaneous 24 15 1

Conversazione 56 0 0

2997 3 19

Bent to Her Majesty's Commissioners of 1851 1200 0 0

By Interest on Debentures 1943 13 10

By Liabilities on Current Account 18fj5 4 1

Total 15,815 2 4

140

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Fciruary 13, 1873.

FRUIT AND FLORAL MEETING.

Febbuaby 12th.
Fk^it Committee.— G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair.
Mr. D. PicirUlo, Wigmore Street, London, sent specimens of
Pink Naples GarHc, and of Naples Flat Red and Giant Rocca
Onions ; also a dish of the Giant Naples Chestnut, containing
eighty fruits, which weighed in all 8 lbs., and Violet, Rose, and
Orange blossoms for dessert. For this collection the Committee
determined that a letter of thanks should be sent. Mr. Dinnock,
High Street, Ryde, showed a kind of Red Beet with green
leaves, named Dinnock's Green Top. Messrs. Carter & Co.,
High Holboru, exhibited some variegated sorts of Garnisliing
Kale. Mr. Jones, Royal Gardens, Frogmore, sent a dish of
Little Gem Pea, a bundle of Asparagns containing forty-six
sticks and weighing 3i lbs., and two specimens of Hedsor Winter
Cucumber; also a Smooth Cayenne Pine, and a fine bunch of
Bananas, consisting of twenty-six fruits. The latter was awarded
a cultural commendation. Mr. Henderson, gardener to H. W.
Peake, Esq., M.P., Wimbledon House, Wimbledon, showed a
bunch of Black Hamburgh Grapes, for which he received a letter
of thanks. Mr. Farr, gardener to F. A. Houghton, Esq., Owl-
pen Park, Dursley, exhibited a specimen of the Variegated
Pine Apple (Ananassa Porteana). Mr. J. Drewett, Denbies,
Dorking, sent two varieties of Apple to be named. Mr. Bond,
gardener to G. A. Smith. Esq., The Beeches, Walton-on-Thames,
submitfed four Queen Pine Apples to the decision of the Com-
mittee, which, although well ripened, were not considered to
have any extraordinary merit. Dr. Haig brought a specimen of
Uvedale's St. Germain Pear, gi*own in the grounds of Mrs.
English, Torquay, in the open air. It was well formed, well
coloured, and weighed 1 lb. 10 ozs.

Prizes were offered for the best three dishes of dessert Apples.
Mr. Rutland, Goodwood Park Gardens, was first with Cockle
Pippin, Ribston Pippin, and Nonpareil Russet, very good. The
second prize went to Mr. Gardiner, Lower Eatington Park Gar-
dens, Stratford-on-Avon, for Blenheim Pippin, large and very
highly coloured; Ribston Pippin, and Cox's Orange Pippin.
Good fruit came from several other exhibitors. The only exhi-
bitor of Pears was Mr. Miles, gardener to Lord Carington, who
had a first prize for Prince Albert, Monarch, and Beurrlj da
Ranee.

Floral Committee. — Mr. J. Fraser in the chair. Messrs.
J. Veitch it Sons sent a splendid collection of Orchids. Promi-
nent amongst them were some exceedingly fine forms of Odon-
toglosBum crispum (Alexandra), some fine spikes of O. gloriosum,
and, what is presumably a natural hybrid between the above,
O. Andersonianum ; also Dendrobium crassinode with one flower-
ing spike, the largest yet seen — it had thirty-five flowers on it;
of Mormodes colossus, two fine spikes, eight or nine flowers on
each; MasdevalhaVeitchii, wonderfully brilliant in colour; and
several specimens of Lycaste Skinneri covered with a profusion
of fine flowers, and singularly gay and attractive. An extra
prize was awarded for the group, and a cultural commendation
for Dendrobium crassinode. Mr. li. S. Williams, of HoUoway, had
an extra prize for a fine collection of Orchids, Ferns, and I'alms.
In it were Ccelogyne cristata covered with its chaste blooms,
Cattleya Trianra with rich-coloured laliellum, Cypripedium
Warneri and C. villosum. Mr. W. Bull, of Chelsea, staged some
fine plants, including Orchids, for which he had likewise an
extra prize. Encephalartos villosua ampliatus with immense
spreading leaves was deservedly honoured with a first-class cer-
tificate.^ B. villosus expansus is also a very handsome species,
Anthnrium Scherzerianum had very large spathes. The collec-
tion also contaiued a well-grown pan of Trichomaues radicans.

From Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord Londesborough, Nor-
biton, came a splendid group of Orchids, which had a cultural
commendation. It contained a magnificent example of Coelogyue
cristata ; very fine examples of Cypripedium villosum ; Odouto-
glosBum cordatnm, Alexandr.'e, and roseum ; Dendrobium hete-
rocarpum ; Cypripedium Lowii, with three spikes and nine
blooms ; the brilliant orange MasdevaUia ignea, Cattleya Skin-
neri and TriauiB Ruckeri, the latter very fine ; and La;lia autum-
nalis grandiflor,". The latter had five large beautifully coloured
flowers, and received a first-class certificate.

Mr. Lawrence, gardener to Bishop Sumner, Farnham Castle,
sent Vanda gigantea with a fine spike of its brown-spotted,
yellow, fleshy flowers. This, too, had a cultural commendation.

Mr. James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., Redlees, Isle-
worth, contributed a group of Chinese Primulas, white and
crimson, with very large blooms. One, named Marquis of Lome,
was especially fine. For these and a group of Cyclamens an extra
prize was awarded. From Mr. Harris, gardener to A. C. Ashby,
Esq., Naseby Wooleys, came Chinese Primula Superlative, re-
markably double and very free-flowering. Mr. Goddard, gar-
dener to H. Little, Esq., Cambridge ViUa, Twickenham, sent a
splendid collection of Cyclamens well varied in colour and full
of bloom. These received a cultural commendation ; and one of
them, called White Perfection, a fine white, had a first-class cer-
tificate. A cultm-al commendation was also given to Mr. Kings-

bury, Bevis Nursery, Southampton, for a group of Primulas.
Mr. Ware, Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, had an extra pi'ize
for a good collection of hardy fine-foliaged and flowering plants;
and a like award was made to Messrs. Standish & Co., of Ascot,
for a charming group of Azaleas, Lily of the Valley, Spirasa
japonica, &c., together with cut Roses. Mr. Williams, Hollo-
way, had a cultrural commendation for a large and handsome
plant of Camellia Jubilee, bearing a p^rofusion of flowers, also
one for a group of Chinese Primulas.

Mr. W. Paiil sent four stands of Camellias, and two boxes of
Waltham White Primula, and for each he received a cultnral
commendation. The Primulas were snowy white, with yellow
eye, petals finely fringed, and of good substance. The best
Camellias were the Double White, Imbricata, Mouteroni, Cupof
Beauty, l^imbriata, Vicomte de Nieulant, Bonomiana, Adelina
Benvenuta, and Rubens. A flowering spike of Sphrerogyne lati-
folia, the inflorescense somewhat resembling a flowering spike
of the Horse Chestnut, was sent by Mr. Green, gardener to
W. W. Saunders, Esq., Hillfield, Reigate, and had a cultural
certificate. A first-class certificate was given to Messrs. Jackman.
and Son, of Woking, for a beautiful golden variety of the western
Arbor Vita?, of dwarf and compact habit. Mr. Rutland, gar-
dener to the Duke of Richmond, Goodwood, sent a collection of
Cattleyas.

Prizes were offered for the best six Chinese Primulas. Mr-
Goddard was first with extremely well-bloomed plants of red,,
white, and lilac varieties chiefly of the Fern-leaved class, and
this not only in the size, but also in the colour and profusion of"
the flowers. Mr. Farrow, Brigadier Hill, Enfield, was secondl
with an excellent group. Of Lycastes, the only exhibitor was.
Mr. Denning, who had a first prize for fine SiJecimens of varie-
ties varyiug in intensity of colour and marking, but none more-
beautiful than the milk-white one.

STRAWBEEBY PLANTS FOB FOECING.

YouE correspondent Mr. Mowbray, in asking for opinions oc
this subject, is quite right. Here we force Strawberries in large-
numbers, but not ten thousand, as reported to be forced at>
Sandringham. We generally begin to gather the first week,
iu March, and continue gathering until fruit come in outside.
Our stock this season is 2500, which keeps us well on until the-
last week of May. In July we plant-out good runners iu well-
prepared land, taking them up in February or March and pot-
ting them, filling the orchard houses with some at once. Our
first gathering from the.se plants last year was on the 25th of
May. The large quantity of air admitted is the very life of
them. The fruit is of fine colour and flavour, and, if Pre-
sident and Sir Charles Napier be used, of an enormous size.

For upwards of thirty-five years I have been engaged in
Strawberry-forcing, and for four years I was foreman to the-
late lamented Mr. G. McEwau at Arundel, and the records of
all our horticultural exhibitions of that day show plainly his-
success as an accomplished Strawberry-grower.

With respect to storing, I use the same plan as my dear old
master. When they are ready for storing every plant is pro-
perly cleaned and slightly surfaced, all put down level, and
the day before storing I give through a rose a good dose of
clear lime water, which kills aU worms and keeps the plants
sufficiently damp during the time they are at rest. They
are then stacked in sawdust, and in snowy weather or very
severe frost covered with fern. I find fresh sawdust an ex-
cellent material for this purpose, inasmuch as there is a slight
heat. Some plants taken out yesterday showed the young
white roots at the crock-hole, which is a healthy sign, but
all should be set level on the ground before March 1st. The-
varieties are Keens' Seedling, Sir Charles Napier, President,,
and British Queen for the last crop in the forcing houses.
— E. Gilbert, Burghley.

"THE GORRIE" PATENT GBOUND-FAST
PLANT TALLY.
Op all horticultural appliances there are none which are
more troublesome to gardeners than tallies, and especially
tallies for out-door use. Wood quickly perishes, earthenware
gets broken, and cast iron both rusts and gets broken. Through-
out a long experience we have tried every description of plant
label that has ever come under our notice, and we have come
to the conclusion that there is none which is so durable as that
made of zinc and simply written upon vrith a quill and suitable
ink. Moro than thirty years ago we planted an orchard of
pyramid fruit trees, in which there were not fewer than five or
six liundred trees, all of which were marked with strips of zinc
on which the names were written with the ink referred to, and

#e!)raary 13, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENES,

141

to this day these labela are as imimpaired, and the writing ag
distinct, as they were when attached to the trees:

The Gorrie tally is a plate of ziuc on which the name of the
plant is written, and this is fitted into a galvanised iron frame,
which has a long stem of twisted stout galvanised wire termi-
nated by a round foot, which keeps the tally firm in the ground,
and prevents it from being removed except by a special effort.
The material of which the tally is composed, with the excep-
tion of the zino plate, being entirely of this stout galvanised
wire, it is not liable to decay incident to wood and cast iron ;
and being somewhat elastic and yielding to pressure, it resists
with impunity the accidents arising from tools and wheel-
barrows coming violently in contact with it. This tally is
made of various sizes. The largest is 1 foot 9 inches high, and
is called the " Arboretum Tally." For such establishments as
Kew, and other largo places where arboretums exist, this would
be invaluable. Then there are the " Eosery Tally," 1.5 inches
high; the "Herbaceous Plant Tally," a foot high; and the
" Alpine Tally," 0 inches high.

coddling would suit it well. People try to grow it, believe all
that they have heard about it, try the nostrums, and as a con-
sequence fail. There is one thing I am persuaded of — that the
most rational way of growing it is not to use a highly stimu-
lating compost for the winter potting, and then to top-dress
richly iu the month of February. I have had more success in
growing them since I adopted this plan than I ever had before ;
the flowers have been large and at the same time quite in
character, the foliage clean and vigorous, and the death-rate
smaller.

It will be remembered that we had, very early in the winter
of 1871, a very sharp frost, which was in my opinion favour-
able to the Auricula. It checked any premature attempts at
blooming, and, where the precaution of well covering the frames
is adopted, frost is iu no way injurious to the Auricula. Damp
is its great enemy, and when that is combined with a warm
atmosphere the Auricula suffers. At the time of top-dressing,
my plants looked stout and promising ; and although an out-
sider would think them then as unlikely to do much, yet a

•h:

-,V->^-".^„.<='-v..,

For this ingenious and well-contrived garden appUance the
pubhc are indebted to Mr. William Gorrie, of Edinburgh ; and
it is through the courtesy of Messrs. Little & Ballantyne, of
Carlisle, who are agents for the sale of them, that we are
enabled to lay both descriptions and illustrations of them before
our readers.

THE AUBICULA BLOOM OF 1872.
I HAVE had long experience as an Auricula grower, extending
now over five and thirty years, but I do not recollect in all
that time a more favourable season for the Auricula than that
of 1872. I have never seen flowers more thoroughly in charac-
ter— large without being coarse, and foliage vigorous but not
rampant. Certainly my own collection never was so good or
did me such good service. With the exception of the year
when the National Auricula Show was held some years ago
at the Royal Botanic Society's at the Regent's Park, so many
have not been exhibited at one time as at the Royal Horticul-
tural Society's Show on April 19th, when the Society's prizes
and those offered by the Metropolitan Floral Society were com-
peted for ; not but that there is room for many more exhibitors,
and I for one Would gladly hail such an accession of new
men as would throw more vigour into the competition. I do
not believe the plant is so difficult to grow as many have
declared, and that a little more simplicity and a little less

grower knows that if you have a good stout collar to your
plants they will soon develope into fine plants. The spring
frosts that we had did not injure plants which were protected
in frames, however injurious they were to fruit-tree blossoms ;
and by blooming-time the trusses were well developed, and the
position I was enabled to take at the exhibitions showed that
my anticipations had been correct. A few notes on the varie-
ties exhibited may perhaps be interesting to those who care
for this lovely spring flower.

Green-edged varieties are never so numerous as the grey-
edged varieties, and therefore I was glad to see a new flower of
Mr. Headly's, which, if i be a good grower, is likely to be
an acquisition^Alderman Wisbey : it is a little rough on the
edge, but is otherwise fine. One of the best green-edged flowers
exhibited was Traill's Mayflower ; as shown it bore some ana-
logy to a good Oliver's Lovely Anne, but was better than that
variety. Colonel Taylor was once exhibited, and only once,
and hardly, I think, merits the high opinion that is entertained
of it. Smith's Lycurgus was very fine, but the plant has a
pecuhar faihng of gumming its leaves together, and mine were
affected in that way. Hudson's Apollo did not do well with
me, but I had several fine blooms of Traill's General Neill,
although they were over before the exhibition day. It is an
admirable grower, produces offsets freely, and is a very neat-
flowered plant.

In Grey edges Headly's George Lightbody unquestionably

lis

JotJENAii OP HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

t February 13, 1873.

took the lead. The four plants entered for the premier prize in
Grey edges were all of this variety — an eyidence of the opinion
entertained of it by growers, and well it deserves the partiality
sho^Ti to it. Next in excellence I must, I think, put Light-
body's Richard Headley. Although some have found fault
with it for not opening flat, with me it generally did so. Good
old Lightbody had a high opinion of his Robert Traill, but I
have never had a satisfactory bloom of it. Chapman's Maria,
although not sufficiently defined in its edge, was yet most
lovely, and no lover of the Auricula can ever dispense with so
beautifully coloured a flower. Cheetham's Lancashire Hero,
which before the advent of George Lightbody was considered
the best grey edge, was also very fine ; it is, however, some-
what late in blooming. Fletcher's Ne Plus Ultra although
very large was coarse, and while I must keep it for the stage,
I question very much if it will ever do for the exhibition table
again. Waterhouse's Conqueror of Europe is another old
flower of good character, but still not equal to the more
modern ones.

White edges are a scarce class. Taylor's Glory seems almost
a thing of the past, and yet it is the very best and purest
white edge we have, many of the others having quite as much
grey as white in them. This is the fault with Smiling Beauty
and Eopplewell's Conqueror, while Countess of Dunmore has
the division in the segments too marked. Two of the best
white-edged Jlowers I had last season were Smith's League and
Ne Plus "Ultra ; the latter, especially, was very good.

_ Selfs are a numerous class, and a very attractive one. Spal-
ding's MetropoUtan was lovely with me ; its intensely beautiful
blue captivated all who saw it. Campbell's Pizarro is one of
the best dark-coloured flowers we have, although at times apt
to spHt ill the paste. But the best flower of that type that I
had was Lightbody's Lord Clyde, a deep rich maroon with a
dark green leaf. Spalding's Blackbird was also very good,
although apt to be a httle thrum-eyed— that is, to throw up
the stamens above the eye. I did iiot see, except in very im-
perfect form, Campbell's new Selfs, but Mr. Horner, no mean
authority, thinks highly of them.

I have a few notes on some seedlings of which pips were sent
to me, and I may give them next week, and must now close
these rambhng notes. — D., Deal.

tointerr the beginning of September." These and other opera-
tions the reader is advised to carry on during " benign inter-
vals," but whether such are to be looked for and taken advan-
tage of in the weather or the cultivator, does not very plainly
appear. — -E. D. Taylob.

[The leaf sent to us by our welcomed correspondent is from
the third edition of a book of which we have seen only the
first edition. This is entitled, " Dictionarum Rusticum ; or a
Dictionary of Husbandry, Gardening, Trade, and Commerce.
With plates ; two volumes 8vo., 1704." We do not know the
date of the second edition, but the third was pubhshed in
1726, and the fourth in 1728. On the leaf sent is a list of the
books on gardening " made use of " by the compilers, and
among them is " Mrs. Ives' Way of Ordering GiUiflowers and
double Stocks, 4to." If that list was in the edition of 1704
we overlooked it.

Miisures, we believe, were the species of Mouse-ears. Flames
or Fla my are a rare old local name for the Pansy. lioses nf
Geldahond are our Gueldre Eoses. Bee-flotoer is the Ophrys
apifera. Star-floieer is our Aster. Muskets are the Musked
Crane's-bill. Jacinths are Hyacinths. Tripol]) is our Aster
Tripolium. — Eds.]

MRS. IVES' BOOK ON GILLIFLOWERS.

In my inquiries about the old name GilUflowers, it would
seem that I have stumbled upon traces of what must be a very
rare book indeed, when you doubt its ever having been in
existence. That such a book was pubhshed, however, there
can bo little doubt, and I am not without hopes of being able
by-and-by to make and estabUsh for her the claim— not an
unenviable one— of being the first lady writer on horticulture
in England.

The enclosed leaf is taken from a short list of old books on
gardening and rural economy, and in it you will see mentioned
the good old lady's (luarto volume. I have also seen it in
another old catalogue, which 1 am sorry is not now in my pos-
session, but I am nearly positive that the date there assigned
to it was 1690.

The work mentioned at the head of the list I send you is
entitled " A Dictionary of Husbandry, CJardeniug, Trade, Com-
merce, and all sorts of Country Affairs. Printed in London
for .James and .John Knapton and others," and bears the date
of 172(5 on the third edition. The compilers of this dictionary
give Mrs. Ives' book as one of tlieir books of reference ; so that
from this you will sec, although not entombed in the British
Museum, it is not entirely forgotten, and its authoress, if she
be a myth, is at least a very old one.

In this same dictionary may also be found most of the old
names I mentioned; thus under the heading of "May" we
read—" This month presents us with an infinite number of all
sorts of flowers, such as Tuhps, Stock-Gilhflowers of all colours.
Primroses both deep and pale blue, Musures, Daisies, Flames,
Spring Honeysuckles, Eoses of Geldabond, single Anemones,
single and double Narcissuses, Peonies both of the flesh or
carnation, and of the very red colour like the Persian Lily,
Bee-flowers, Star-flowers, Julians, Yellow Trefoil growing on' a
.shrub, Marigolds, Sedums, Muskets, white Stock-Gilliflowers,
Columbines, Plumed or Panached Jacinths, yellow Martagons,
and a multitude more." And in the calendar for October,
" The planting of Ranunculuses, Tripoly, A'ernal Crums, etc.,
and to remove seedling Holy-Hocks and others are also proper,
as 'tis the time of year to plant choice Tulips which you feared

EOSES IN THE NOETS.

Every admirer of the queen of flowers must feel deeply
grateful to Mr. Hinton for his most interesting and pains-
taking Rose poU, and it is to be regretted that there seems to
have been no return from these northern regions. Although
it is not to be expected we could compete in the cultivation of
England's emblem, stiU it would have been interesting to have
noted the varieties possessing the hardihood of constitution to
succeed among our Thistles. Being of the " modest Rose-
growing" class, cultivating only some 150 varieties, I do not
intend now to step forward with a supplementary list as the
Scottish representative, but merely to note two or three varie-
ties that do, and as many more that do not, succeed with us.

To begin, then. The premier Rose, Charles Lefebvre, well
deserves his place — a most robust free grower and constant good
bloomer, making shoots often fuUy 10 feet in length in a season ;
and I have had the pleasure of cutting well-formed blooms,
the other mild fall so late as the 4th of December. Would I
could say as much for the gorgeous-coloured Marechal Niel.
Since its introduction I have spent more money in its pur-
chase than I dare reckon up ; I have tried it extensively on its
own roots, Manetti, Briar, and Glohe de Dijon, and all these
years to no purpose, for I have never been rewarded by even a
single bloom, except when the flower-buds had been well deve-
loped under glass before being planted-out. I have grown it
on walls, trellises, and poles. On its own roots it will not sur-
^"ive a sharp winter ; on the Manetti stock it is little better ; on
the Briar, trained peudulously, I have forced it into flower-bud
in April, but on the slightest check the buds dropped, and again
it would bear another crop of promise in autumn — too late to
open. Mr. Rivers, jun., made a valuable discovery in finding
Gloire de Dijon was its most suitable stock. I was delighted
with a beautiful box of blooms exhibited in early summrr a
year or two ago at a Glasgow show ; they were grown in the
open air, but on making imiuiry I found the stock on which
the plant was budded was Gloire de Dijon. The locality— the
warm and sheltered sea-beach on the southern shore of an
arm of the Clyde — and the enthusiastic grower, to eifect his
purpose, having availed himself of the additional warmth
afforded by the flue of a baker's oven to which the plant was
trained, explained the phenomenon. In Scotch catalogues, at
least, this Rose ought always to be described as for the con-
servatory only ; out of doors it is an utter failure.

No. H, Alfred Colomb, is too weak a grower to have gained
such prominence, but it is at the same time a very free bloomer,
and possesses the additional advantage of being bright and fast
in colour, not sporting to the many shades of purple numbers
of the reddish crimson class do. Madame Rothschild, coming
next in order, is of a nice soft colour, and beautiful in the
half-expanded stage, but altogether lacks the central stuff of
her next-door neighbour, John Hopper, first-rate in every re-
spect. Souateur Vaisse, too, is lower down than I would have
anticipated ; as for colour, growth, and free-blooming qualities
it is hardly to be equalled, and as a competition flower it is
generally awarded the proud distinction of the best bloom in
the room at exhibitions in our quarter. I recollect of seeing
a large quarter in a nursery, planted with all the Hybrid Per-
petual varieties, quite a blakse of beauty at the time of my

Fobraruy IS, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICDLTUBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

143

visit ; and viewing the sloping bank from a little lUstance, for
freeness of bloom and brightness of colour the Hues of John
Hopper and Senateur Vaisse stood out pre-eminently over all
the rest. Duke of Edinburgh, good in growth and colour,
comes so invariably one-sided and malformed, that I shall be
obliged to throw it out. How disappointing to the modest
grower armed with notes from our Journal, the opinions of
authorities, on visiting the nursery to find the growths of many
recommended of the weakest description ; and he may safely
calculate that, if these be the results obtained in nurseries in
the south of England, or even France, transplanted from their
sunny skies to his ungenial clime, how short, beyond aifording
him a bloom or two on the wood so ripened, must be their
existence. And experience will have taught him not to repeat
the experiment with Marquise de Mortemart, Madame Furtado,
Xavier Olibo, Louise Van Houtte, and many other.s. For white
and light colours Madame Vidot, Mrs. Elvers, Acidalie, and Vir-
ginal are useless ; while Gloire de Dijon, Souvenir de la Mal-
maison, Baronno de Maynard (smaDish, but pure white), Bouli
de Neige, Louise Darzens, Madame Bonnaire, are all useful
good ; but when is a white Charles Lefebvre to appear ?

I was delighted to see good old Devoniensis at the head
the Teas. A plant on its own roots put out
eighteen years ago has stood without the slightest
protection, though cut to the ground with zero
frosts on more than one occasion, and blooms
on as beautifully as ever. Madame Falcot and
Homer are very free bloomers on the Manetti,
and both beautiful in the bud ; the former is,
however, a little tender. Three Eoses — CCUne
Forestier, Triomphe de Rennes, and Solfaterre —
of the Noisette class, always highly esteemed in the south, are
worthless with us, the first-named scarcely blooming ; whUe on
the Manetti that beautiful Tea, Sombreuil, is gorgeous, being by
far our best Ught autumnal bloomer. Of course they are all
grown as pole Eoses, but in a sheltered warm nook. Leopold
Premier is another good autumnal bloomer of the crimson
class, and succeeds in a shaded spot; and what finer for a pillar
Rose than the superb Charles Lawson ? And can I close with-
out a word of praise for the good old sporting General Jacque-
minot ? Of course, although rather loose in his habits for the
exhibition table, yet in certain stages and in some lights he
flaunts a shade of colour second to none, and is besides invalu-
able for the bouquet and for garden decoration.

With the exception of a few Teas and Mosses on the Briar,
Manetti is the only stock for successful cultivation in a Ught
soil. — A Rexfrewshiee Bee-keepeb.

JOHN POWELL STEAWEERKY.
I WAS much pleased on reading your Journal of December
26th, 1872 (page 308), to find Mr. Eadolyffe speaking so highly
of John Powell. I am quite willing to endorse aU, and more
than all, that he has said respecting it. I have grown it by
the side of several other sorts ; for instance. Dr. Hogg, Eclipse,
La Constante, British Queen, President, and others, and, with
me, I have no hesitation in saying that, under fairly good out-
of-door treatment, for all purposes it is the best berry that
I have grown. If I were asked which Strawberry I should
grow for all purposes, supposing that I could only grow one
sort, I should say, Give me John Powell before all the rest.
I am the more anxious to speak thus highly of John Powell,
because the Rev. W. P. Eadclyffe is the only one by whom I
have seen it brought prominently forwai-d in print. — E. S. N.

GLAZED COPINGS.

brackets are fixtures, and the lights are easily put in their place
in a few minutes. When hinged together in pairs they are
useful in summer and autumn for protecting plants and seeds.
Cost of 120 feet of temporary coping 2 feet wide.

24 [galvanised iron bracliots at is. Grl £5 8s.

Bolts and tixing 1 3«.

£6 111.

12 glass lights 10 ft. bj 3 at 17s. M. each 10 8«.

£18 19«.

Cost per running foot, 2s. IBii,

In your .Journal of the 30th January, in answer to a corre"
spondent " T. F.," you give drawings and a description of
Parham's patent glass copings. I now send drawings and a
description of the coping I adopted in the spring of 1870,
taking thejjlan from Robinson's " Parks and Gardens of Paris,"
(page 585). The brackets were made by Messrs. Brown, 90,
Cannon Street, London. The frames were made of rough
wood covered with tarpauUn, costing about £3 for 120 feet.
The result has been so far satisfactory. The year 1872 was the
worst for fruit in this neighbourhood that has been known for
some years — so much so, that in general there was little or no
fruit on open walls. I used no nets, yet the crop of Peaches and
Nectarines was a very fair one, some of the trees having a full
crop. I have now substituted glass lights for the tarpaulin for
80 feet, and am trying them alternately with the latter. The

Glazed Coping. — Scale 1 inch to a foot.

a, Brick on edge set in cement, h. Permanent coping.

rf, Galvanised-iron brackets.

The glass lights are chamfered at one edge so as to hinge
together when not required for the wall, so as to be useful for
protecting seeds or plants. Cost of hinges and fitting, 2s. per
pair. — J. W. Geey, Lynwood, Berks.

A CENTURY OP ORCHIDS FOR AMATEUR
GROWERS.-No. 2.
Section I. For which the mean temperature should average
about 60°, but which luill thrive in winter at a tempe^
rature of about 38° or 40°.

ANGDXOA.

This genus does not find great favour with many Orchid
cultivators,yetthe various species produce large, TuUp-shaped,
richly-coloured flowers, possessing a strong aromatic perfume.
The labellum is hinged, and, together with the column, being at
the bottom of the cup-shaped blooms, they have been Ukened
by some imaginative writers to a baby lying in a cradle ; but
having had ample opportunities of becoming famUiar with
both babies and cradles, I have never been able to reaUse the
similarity said to exist in the blooms of this genus.

There are several very beautiful species of this family, but
two kinds will be suflicient in a small collectioa. They may
be potted in good rough peat and sphagnum moss, and the
pots well drained. They delight in an abundant supply of
water and heavy shade whUe groiiNang, and even during the
winter months should not be subjected to severe drought.
They form large, stout, pseudo-bulbs, which are surmounted
with large, broad, plaited, dark green leaves. The flowers are
borne singly upon erect scapes, and continue a long time in
fuU beauty if ordinary care be bestowed upon them,

U4

JOUBNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB.

t Febrnaij 13, 1873.

A. Clowesii. — A robust plant, producing large Tulip-shapeJ
flowers, which are rich deep yellow in colour ; its perfume
somewhat resembles that of a chemist's shop, and 13 not
agreeable to some constitutions. The flower is very showy
and handsome, coming in about May and June. Native of
Columbia.

A. rsiFLORA srPEREA. — A less robust-growing plant than
the previously-named kind. The flowers are white, dotted on
the inside of the sepals and petals with chocolate brown. It
blooms in ilay and June. Native of Columbia.

BAEKERIA.

The species of this genus are aU extremely handsome when
in bloom, and as several of them produce their elegant flowers
during autumn and winter, they become doubly valuable. Pot

culture is not suitable or congenial to Barkerias, they should
therefore be grown upon blocks ; but as they do not adhere
very firmly to these, perhaps the very best contrivance for
them is a rough cork basket. The plants should be made fast
with copper wire, and a little Uve sphagnum used amongst the
roots; but very little moss or peat is necessary, as the roots,
which are thick and fleshy, usuially grow straight out into the
air. During the season of rest the plants lose their leaves,
and at this time amateurs generally dry the Ufe out of them ;
this, however, is wrong treatment, as the blocks or baskets
should be occasionally syringed, even when the plants are
dormant, otherwise the following season's growth will be very
weak and the flowers somewhat microscopical.

B. Skixxeri. — No more charming object for a Christmas
bouquet could be wished for than a few spikes of this plant.

BukeiiA Skiiuieri.

represented in the accompanying engraving. The stems are
from 9 to 1"2 inches high ; the spikes are long, produced from
the top of the shoots, and bear a quantity of lovely deep rose-

coloured flowers, which last many weeks in perfection if kept
from damp. It blooms during the dull autumn and winter
months. Native of Guatemala. — Espeeio Cbede.

THE BRITISH OAK.— No. 1.

" Heakts of Oak are our ships, hearts of Oak are our men,"
is stiU a truism. Iron-clads are a sprinkling, but the multitude
of our ships are still of the Oak ; and long may it be so, al-
though the rhythm would be as good and as true — " Forms of
iron are our ships, hearts of iron are our men." This, how-
ever, is only an " aside " utterance, for on the present occa-
sion we purpose confining our notes to the beauty and utility
of the British Oak ; we have no purpose in our pen to touch
upon any other Oak, from that at Mamre to the Chinese Oak
fliscovered in 1850. The beauty of the British Oak, Quercns
Robtir, is fully felt by all who have a just appreciation of tree
form and forest seenery. " It is confessedly," says Gilpin,

" both the most picturesque tree in itself, and the most accom-
modating in composition. It is suited to the grandest, and
may with propriety be introduced into the most pastoral. It
adds new dignity to the ruined tower and gothic arch by
stretching its wild moss-grown branches athwart their ivied
walls — it gives them a kind of majesty ; at the same time its
propriety is still preserved if it throws its arms over the brook.
Milton introduces it happily even in the lowest scene —

* Haid-bv, a cotta^ chimney smokes
From between two aged Oaks.*

The point of picturesque perfection is when a tree has foUage

enough to form a mass, and yet not so much as to hide the

Febrnary 13, 187S. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTIGULTUKE AND COTTAGE GAllDENER.

145

ijrT-^

."IG

JOUBNAL OF HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAKDBNEB.

[ February 18, 187S

branches. One of the great ornaments of a tree is its rami-
fications, whieli oiiglit to ap))car lure and there under the
foliage even when tlie tree is in full leaf." Strutt adds,
" Beauty united with ttrength characterises all its parts. The
leaves, elegant in their outline, are strongly ribbed, and firmly
attached to the spray, which, although thin and excursive, is
yet bold and determined in its angles ; whilst the abrupt and
tortuous irregularity of its massive branches admirably con-
trasts with the general richness and density of its clustered
foliage. Even as a sapling, in its slender gracefulness it ex-
hibits sufficient firmness and indications of vigour to predicate
the future monarch of the wood, a state, indeed, which it is
slow to assume, but which it retains through many ages ; and
when at length it is brought to acknowledge the influence of
time, and becomes ' bald with dry antiiiuity,' no other produc-
tion of the forest can be admitted as its riv.il in majestic and
venerable decay. The general form of the Oak is expansive,
luxuriant, and spreading. Its character, both with respect to
its whole and to its larger masses of foliage, is best expressed
by the pencil in bold and roundisli lines, whether as single
trees, as groups, or as forming the line of a distant forest."
" The genuine bark of an Oak," says Gilpin, " is of an ash
colour, though it is difficult to distinguish any part of it from
the mosses that overspread it, for no Oak, I suppose, was ever
without' a greater or less proportion of these picturesque
appendages. The lower parts, about the roots, are often
possessed by that green velvet moss, which, in a still greater
degree, commonly occupies the bole of the Beech, though the
beauty and brilliancy of it lose much when in decay. As the
trunk rises you see the brimstone colour taking possession in
patches. Of this there are two principal kinds — a smooth
sort, which spreads like a som-f over the bark ; and a rough
sort, which hangs in little rich knots and fringes. I call it a
brimstone hue by way of general distinction, but it sometimes
inclines to an olive, and sometimes to a light green. Inter-
mixed with these mosses you often find a species almost per-
fectly white. Before I was acquainted with it, I have some-
times thought the tree whitewashed. Here and there a touch
of it gives a lustre to the trunk, and has its effect ; yet, on
the whole, it is a nuisance ; for, as it generally begins to thrive
when the other mosses begin to wither (as if the decaying
bark were its proper nutriment), it is rarely accompanied with
any of the more beautiful species of its kind, and, when thus
unsupported, it always disgusts. This white moss, by the way,
is esteemed a certain mark of age, and, wiien it prevails in
any degree, is a clear indication that the vigour of the tree
is declining. We find, also, another species of moss of a dark
brown colour, ineUning nearly to black, another of an ashy
colour, and another of a dingy yellow. We may observe, also,
touches of red, and sometimes, but rarely, a bright yellow,
which is like a gleam of sunshine ; and in many trees you will
see one species growing upon another, the knotted brimstone-
coloured fringe clinging to a lighter species, or the black soften-
ing into red. All these excrescences, under whatever name
distinguished, add a great richness to trees; and when tliey
are blended harmoniously, as is generally the case, the rough
and furrowed trunk of an old Oak adorned with those pleasing
appendages is an object which will long detain the picturesque
eye."

" The Great Oak of Panshanger " is characterised by all the
attractions thus described, and therefore, as well as for its
grandeur of form, size, and age, we have selected it as a model
specimen of our national tree. Oaks must have been abun-
dant in this manor, even in the days of William the Conqueror,
for Domesday Book records that its woods afforded " pannage
for forty hogs," and various records notice the production of
oaken timber on other parts of the valley, through which flows
the river Mimeram. On the nortli-ca'st bank stands "The
Great Panshanger Oak." In 171'J this tree was measured, and
found to contain 315 cubic feet of timber. In 1801 it was
again measured, and then contained 796 cubic feet, including
those branches which were sufficiently large to be considered
timber. It was called " the Great Oak " in 170!l, and when
Arthur Young measured it in 1801 it was 17 feet in circum-
ference at 5 feet from the ground ; he adds, " It is one of the
finest Oaks which I have seen, though only 12 feet to the first
bough." Our portrait is of the tree when it was in the meri-
dian of its vigour, but Mr. Huffett, the gardener at Panshanger,
informs us that " tho top branches are now decaying, although
the lower part appears as sound as any young growing tree."
Mr. Ruffett adds that tho extreme height is between G5 and
70 feet ; extent of branches from stom^ of tree, 48 feet ; cir-

oumfereueo of tho tree's stem 2 feet from the ground, 22 feet
II inches; 12 feet from the ground, 20 feet (i inches ; 22 feet
from the ground, Ki feet 0 inches ; :^2 feet from the ground,
15 feet ; 48 feet from the ground, 'J feet.

Next, regarding the usefulness of the Oak as an ornamental
tree, we must always have regard to the soil we have to plant,
and the rate at which a tree grows. On these circumstances
our latest and practically good authority is Mr. Brown, who,
in his volume, " The Forester," says : — " The rate of growth
and quality of Oak timber, like those of all other trees, depend
very much upon the nature of the soil and situation upon
which it is grown ; and the result of my observations is that
the best-grown Oak trees are to be found on a heavy deep clay
soil, or heavy loam of a deep description, into which the roots
can get well down without any check from a change in the
character of the subsoil. On a light loam I have seen good
timber of Q. pedunculata produced. On this description of
land I have seen trees from 12 to 18 feet in circumference of
stem ; hut under these circumstances as to soil, tho trees are
generally found short of stem and large-headed in proportion ;
while trees of the same chcumference of stem, and grown on
deep heavy land, carry their stems vei"y much higher, and
therefore form more proportionate and ornamental trees. On
high-lying and exposed situations the Oak will grow, and even
become timber of useful size, although the soil be but poor ;
but to produce Oak of the best description, whether as to the
dimensions of the tree or quality of its timber, it must be
planted on rather a low-lying part, and on a heavy or loamy
soil." The rate of increase in the diameter of the stem is
recorded by Mr. Brown as follows : —

DiAMETEn

IN Inches 8 Feet trom

THE GRODND.

Agf.3 of Trees.

1st.

2nd.

8rd.

On favourable

On moderately

On unfavour-

Soil and Site.

favoiu-able

able Soil and

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For ornamental planting it is of more importance to know
the rate of growth in height, and on this point Mr. Brown has
obligingly written to us as follows : — " On the average, and on
a favourable soil and site. Oaks at ten years of age will stand
15 feet high ; at twenty years of age, 28 feet high ; at thirty
years of age, 40 feet high ; at forty years of age, 48 feet high ;
at fifty years of age, 55 feet high ; at sixty years of age, 62 feet
high ; at seventy yeai'S of age, 66 feet high ; at eighty years of
ago, 70 feet high ; at ninety years of age, 73 feet high ; at
a hundred years of age, 75 feet high. You may safely publish
these heights as the average of the Oak at the ages stated, for
they are from actual measurements taken by myself at various
times, and intended to bo used in the next edition of my
hook."

The other uses of the Oak are thus epitomised by Dr. Hogg
in his "Vegetable Kingdom:" — "The wood of the Oak is
harder and more solid than that of any other European
timber tree, and, as is well known, is largely employed in ship-
building, carpentry, waggon work, cabinet-making, mill work,
and coopering. The bark is of great utility, as furnishing in
greatest abundance the article known as tan JEor tanning hides
and skins, and this property is owing to the presence of a
great quantity of tannic acid ; it also contains a peculiar bitter
principle, known by the name of quercin ; after the bark has
been used in the tanj-ard it is employed for making hotbeds in
forcing houses. Acorns, or the fruit of the Oak, are highly
nutritious to various animals, but particularly to hogs, which
rapidly fatten on them ; and it has been observed that those
are best for the purpose that have been washed and dried by
exposure to the air. In Turkey the acorns of several sorts of
Oak are buried in tho ground, in the same waj' as cacao beans
are, to deprive them of their bitterness ; they are then dried,
washed, and reduced to powder with sugar and aromatios; the
substance thus formed is called palamonte, and the food that
is prepared from it is called racahout, and is used in the

t'ebruaiy la, 1873. ] JOURNAL OP HOBTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE QAROENER.

117

Beraglios to fatten and keep up the embonpoint of the sultanasi
In some parts of Europe acorns are said to be converted into
bread. By analysis they have been found to contain in
1000 parts, fixed oil, 13; resin, 52; gum, Oi; tannin, 90 ;
bitter extractive, 52 ; starch, 385 ; lignin, 31'J ; and traces of
potash, lime, alumina, and some earthy salts ; by which it
will be seen that they contain more than a third of nutritive
matter, and that consequently they aro capable of being taken
as food, particularly when they have been deprived of their
resinous and extractive matters. In Italy the oil is extracted
and applied to burning in lamps, but it does not appear that
much attention has been given to this branch of industry. It
is stated by Dr. Barras that he found the infusion of roasted
aoorns, sweetened with sugar, of great advantage in promot-
ing digestion, if taken in the same way as coffee, after meals;
and that he has seen dyspepsia, and even disordered stomach,
cured by the use of them ; the acorns and their cups have been
found useful as an astringent in mucous diarrhuia."

WOEK FOR THE "WEEK.

KITCHEN GARDEN.

In mild weather the Asparagus in frames or pits should have
abundance of air after the shoots have made their appearance.
Prepare groimd for permanent bods if the soil works well.
Plenty of good rotten stable manure should be used. A little
Beed of Early Horn Carrots may be sown on a sheltered warm
border when the soil is dry and works freely. Those in frames
should be thinned when an inch or two high. The greatest
attention should be paid to the state of the Cucumber bed for
the first fortnight after the plants are turned out. The heat-
stick should be examined daily. Prepare the ground for plant-
ing Horseradish. Dig two spits deep if the soil will admit of
doing so. No manure should be dug-in unless the ground is
very poor. Jerusalem Articholtes may be planted. Plant the
Onions of last year which begin to grow; they wiU be very
useful when there is a scarcity of sound ones. Plant Underground
Onions if not done in the autumn. Weed and clean the autiunu
crop. A good sowing of Parsley should be made as soou as the
ground is in a fit state to receive the seed. Make a sowing of
Knight's Dwarf Green Marrow Peas ; at the same time some
other approved sorts should be sown to keep up a succession.
Two or three crops of those sorts which come in for use quickly
must be sown, and will be ready before the Marrows. If any
Potatoes were placed in a forcing house a fortnight since, as
recommended, they will now be ready to plant out : a very
moderate heat will be sufficient. Plant some on a warm shel-
tered border if the weather be mild and favourable. A few rows
of Spinach may be sown between the early Peas if there is a
scarcity of autumn-sown ; if not, defer sowing a week or a fort-
night longer. Sow some seed of the Early Dutch Turnip on a
shglit hotbed; or where the soil is hght and dry, a sowing may
be made on a warm border. See to the due preparation of ground
for crops in general, but beware of carrying on operations when
the soil is in a wet state. Better be a fortnight too late with
any given crop.

FRUIT GARDEN.

Where there are inferior sorts of Apples and Pears, or too
many of one sort, prepare scions of superior varieties for gr-af ting,
and keep them till wanted in a cool situation.

FLOWER GARDEN.

As soon as the gi-ouud is a httle dried after the frost and snow,
it will be a good plan to have all the vacant beds in the flower
garden forked over, bo as to get the soil properly pulverised
prior to planting-out the autumn-sown annuals. Preparation
must also be made for a general sowing of tlie more hardy kinds,
such as Larkspurs, Godetias, Clarkias, Nemophilas, &c., which
should be made the first day the ground is sufficiently dry to
admit of sowing them. Proceed with the pruning of shrubs and
common Hoses, but leave the more tender kinds until you are
sure they will not be iujured by frost. The most tender of the
Chinese varieties that were covered with leaves in autumn are
in excellent condition. See that the plants in the reserve garden
are not thrown out of the ground by the late frost. If they are
loose, fasten them. Proceed with planting-out biennials as soon
as the ground is in a tit state, and pirepare a little ground in a
warm corner for sowing Stocks and some of the best of the
annuals for transplanting. As a matter of course, all floricul-
tural calendars must to a certain extent be acted on only as the
weather is favourable for the operations there detailed as neces-
sary. During spring and summer the experienced florist finds
it comparatively easy to point out the previous week what is
requisite to be done the ensuing one, but at this imcertain season
we must be guided by circumstances. Whilst writing, the frost
and snow appear to bo rapidly disappearing ; it will therefore
cause the florist to be on the alert. If the weather continue
mild di-aw the Ughts completely off the Auricula frames during
the day. Examine the plants minutely, and see the soil is going

on well. Should any mild rain fall during the week they will
be benefited by a good sprinkling in the middle of the day.
When the li^^hta are drawn on tilt them, so that the grass may
become as dry as possible before night. These observations will
apply to Carnations, and carefully remove all spotted or diseased
leaves. Still cover Tulips with sand as they appear. Should
the beds get sufficiently dry, the Eanunculuses should immedi-
ately be planted. Strike Dahlia cuttings in moist heat as they
get long enough. As before observed, see that all planting is
completed forthwith. Improve as much as possible outlines of
every kind. Plant fresh masses or groups where necessary, aud
introduce specimen plants where fitting opportunities offer.
Much mischief is done by planting single specimens in recesses ;
these should be carefully preserved, as a general rule, to give
deep shadows and to throw the prominent features into bold
relief.

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY.

Collect at the proper season for doing so a goodly store of the
various sorts of soil ready for a future season. Loaui, peat, aud
vegetable mould should be stacked a year at least in the compost-
yard before being used for potting. I have seen plants greatly
injured by being potted in fresh-cut soil. The conservatory
should now be full of interest, and ought, where much attention
is paid to flowers, to be quite as gay as at any other period of
the year. CameUias done blooming should, if possible, be re-
moved to some warm house where a moist atmosphere and a
temperature averaging 05"^ will induce them to jn-oduce wood
freely, shading them, should the weather become bright, for a
few hours in the middle of the day ; under such treatment the
leaves get well developed, large, and healthy. The plants may
also be watered occasionally with weak liquid manure. Climbers
should now have a thorough dressing, cutting away all weak
and decayed wood, and shortening where necessary to furnish
back wood previous to the growing season. The advantage of
increased solar light and heat will be rendered apparent by the
increased brilhancy of colour in the flowers and the depth of
verdure in the leaves, provided a judicious admission of air and
a just proportion of other essentials be continued. The disj^lay
of flowering plants in the conservatory may receive additions
from various quarters. The stove will afford the beautiful
Euphorbia jacquinireflora, which may be removed without in-
jury; the pits should long afford a supply of Cinerarias; the
Heath house, too, may contribute. Eragrauce is a quahty
always sought for in flowers ; the most striking are too often
deficient in that recommendation. In effecting an arrangement
this must not be forgotten ; however humble in appearance, the
modest Mignonette will always be valued for its delicious fra-
grance. Possibly water will be required more frequently, but
still administer it with care. Kemedy defects in drainage in
long-potted plants. Shift Calceolarias; repress green fly. A
temperature varying between SO'^ and CO^ in bright weather will
easily be sustained.

PITS AND FRAMES.

The plants they contain should now be worked over ; remove
the moss that may have accumulated on the surface of the soil
in the pots ; draw the hghts off every mild day to dry the
plants. Begm, if not ah-eady done, propagating summer-flower-
ing plants, such as Verbenas, Salvias, &c., that will afford
cuttings. — W. Ke.^ne.

DOIKGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

The comparative highucss of the barometer on the evening
of the 1st inst.i when wo last Wi'ote, did not lead us to expect
such a fall of snow on the following days, Although that has
been much lessened, still the snow remains with us, aud the
sUght frosts of the morning, with easterly and northerly winds,
prevent its total disappearance. This has to some extent put
a stop to active employment on many kinds of out-door work.

The snow lying on the ground was of gi-eat advantage to
many crops in the coldest night we have yet had — crops made
rather tender by the ijrevious dull, warm, moist weather. Many
subjects also imder glass received the benefit of the snow cover-
ing where there was no artificial heat. Eor instance, Calceo-
larias have had a snow covering over them for a week, and will,
probably, not be uncovered until all the snow is gone. Some
Czar Violets we imcovered to-day, after they had been covered
with glass and snow for eight days, and the blooms were as
sweet and nice as if the sun had played on them for hours
yesterday.

Covering from Frost. — Cauliflowers underhand-lights have
had a sprinkling of litter over them all the week. What would
have been the use of taking away the httcr with its sprinkling
of snow, when for the week there was scarcely a gleam of sun-
shine ? The only thing to be cared for in this continuous
covering is to be sure that the plants are in such a safe but low
temperature that there shall be no stimulus presented to them
to grow and elongate.

We had acted on this principle for years before we saw it
advocated by our late clear-headed practical coadjutor Mr,

Us

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAfiDfiliER. t Fei»T:aty 13, 1873.

ErriQgton. TVs have seen men employed whole days in un-
covering cold pits to give them a little light in cold, frosty, dull
■n-eather in midwinter, and then begin to cover up again as soon
as they were uncovered. If the plants were safe, and at a low
temperature, the daily work of uncovering might have been
saved. When there is only a little litter it may be of import-
auce to shake it up instead of removing it, as every shaking-up
would present a new line of radiation, and as often as that line
was broken, frost and heat aUke would have to begin their
efforts anew. When we have a covering of snow we have so
long regarded it as one of the best we could have, that in the
case of cold pits and frames we are always loth to remove it,
more especially as it is hardly possible to replace it. But for
tills consideration wo might have swept off ours in the middle
of the week. A few inches of snow wiU keep out a keen frost.
The looser the snow is, the more effectual it will be. When
from sun or a shower the sm-face has been solidified, it becomes
then a better conductor of heat and cold, and we have often
settled that matter and brought it back to its normal state by
breaking the firm surface with the teeth of a rake.^ A great
many of these homely matters have been lost sight of in garden-
ing, because all accelerating is so easily done by hot- water pipes ;
but if hot water is to be obtained from coal at from 45s. to 50s.
per ton, even proprietors far from poor may come to see the
necessity of getting as much as they can without the aid of coal
heat at*uch an enormous price.

Cleaning Htone Pathways.— Besides the matters referred to
last week, we have expended much labour in scrubbing and
cleaning the stone flooring in plant-corridors and conservatories.
The greater the heat, and the more the moisture used, the more
likely the stones to be encrusted with green. In small places
the cleaning is often left to the housemaids. In many cases
the cleaning is not cleaning at all, but a daubing-ovei; with a
layer of whiting, made regular with cloth and brush, which does
not look so much amiss untQ it is damped, or a lady with a long-
skirted black dress passes along and gets the dress encrusted
with the whiting. There are two things here we have no faith
in. First, the daubing-up of nice stonework with whiting or
limewash, so as to resemble the doorsteps of town or villa resi-
dences ; and secondly, where there is much of such work, in
having housemaids or other women to do it in gardens, or even
to attempt to clean the stone and leave it with its natural ap-
pearance. This is work which is more suited for, and will be
done better by young garden labourers. "We have had even the
whitening process done more elegantly and regularly by men
than we have ever seen it done by women ; and as to scrubbing-
off the gi-een, there is no comparison — in fact, it is such work
that we would not care to see a woman at.

For scrubbing stonework we chiefly use a little sand, hot
weak soap water, scrubbing brushes, and house flannel to dry
all up, and a very little practice enables the man, if young, to do
the work very well indeed. We greatly prefer tlie natural appear-
ance of the clean flagstone, tiles, &c., to any daubing that can be
given to them. When they are thus cleaned the finest dress wiU
not be soiled as when whitestoned or whitening-rubbed. There
is no reason why comfort should be lost sight of — the comfort
of warm water, and more especially as, after a little soaldng, the
warm water will enable the workman to clean the stones better,
and the warmer the water after the cloth has passed over them
in the di-ying-up process, the sooner will the stones be bright
and dry. We have had to wash plant pots with ice in the water ;
but wliat was or could be the benefit of it ? The pots could not
be made so thoroughly clean, and they were long in drying. In
the cleaning of stones, iu addition to the warm water, scrubbing-
brush, and flannel to clean all up by wringing in a pail, we
would depend on active scrubbing, as, if there is a little soap
dissolved in the water, it must be only a little ; and, contrary to
general practice, we say, Never rub soap on the brush, as it
ouly clogs it up, and prevents its acting on the stone.

In cleaning stone we have used salt, soda, and other easy vic-
tors of the green, and the result is, we would say to our readers,
"Don't." Unless the stone is very peculiarly hard, all such
BaUne ingredients, though they remove rather easily the green
coating, will be apt to leave an eating inflorescence on the stone
that will give a flowery appearance on the surface for months
afterwards, and continue to wear it out. On this account it is
not advisable to use such saline matters for cleaning stone in
corridors and conservatories. We would even decline to use
such helps for cleaning out-door stonework, where after-results
are to be considered. We have known some stones, a little soft,
show this wearing-out flowery appearance on the surface for a
twelvemonth afterwards. Stone pathways, out of doors and iu
corridors and conservatories, look well wheu kept clean ; and,
as hinted above, we think they are best every way when of
their natural colour, and not daubed over with dirt and filth
cover-alls.

Seating. — Next to stoves in a small house, the cheapest mode
of heating is by a flue ; and the neatest mode of doing this,
though not getting quite so much heat, is to have the flue not
above, but under the floor level, the top of the flue forming

part of the pathway, no flue or mode of beating thus presenting
itself, whilst the warmed pathway is very agreeable in cold
weather. In a house of considerable size, or even houses to be
heated by hot water, and where in these dear coal days it is de-
sirable to make as much of the heat from the fire as possible,
then a flue should proceed through the house, or make turns in
the back wall, before going directly from the boiler up the chim-
ney, with nothing to keep the heat from wasting except a
damper. We thus had a large conservatory heated when coals
had to be carted fourteen or sixteen miles, and the flue was
almost as useful as the hot water.

In the case of flues alone, it is as well if there be no dips from
the furnace to the chimney, as the more and deeper the dips,
under paths, itc, the more height will be required for the
chimney. But failures in heating, and smoky and too-much-
heated stokeholes, do not proceed so much from such a cause
as from inattention to two or three simple matters. First,
make sure that the iron bars of your furnace are from 18 to
24 inches— 30 inches if you can go down conveniently— below the
level of the bottom of the flue. Secondly, we have no objection
to a fair length of a furnace, but do not have much of a dead
rest, say not more than 6 or 8 inches, at the farther end ; the
grating bars of the furnace going pretty well up to the extreme
end of the fm-nace. Thirdly, what rest you have should be in
the shape of a stout iron plate, half an inch thick, and from 8 to
12 inches iu length, close to the furnace door. From want of
attention to these matters there is often a want of draught,
suffocating back smoke in the stokehole, a red burning heat at
the furnace door, and a much higher temperature in the stoke-
liole than could by any means be got in the house. In a num-
ber of cases, of nice though small houses, that have within a few
years come ivnder our notice, the evils could chiefly be traced
to the desire of saving in these cheap days, so as to dispense
with the dumb iron plate inside the furnace door. The cheap-
ness was thoroughly neutralised in some of the cases by the
framework and furnace door being burned by their closeness
to furnace bars. We have seen the furnace doors gleaming
red with but little heat in the flue, as the cold fuel on the
long rest at the farther end arrested free draught, and sent
the heat and smoke back to the stokehole. Let the rest be
at the fm-nace door, and the fresh fuel put next the door will
be gradually heated; and the hottest fuel, being beneath the
bars at the farther end, there will be no back smoke, and little
smoke at all, for that wiU be burned up. In many cases where
such changes have been made, we are assured that now all goes
right, and that more heat is obtained in the house with half
the quantity of fuel. People should act as if they wished to heat
their house and not the stokehole. The great evU of having
many boilers is, that unless the firing and the damper are care-
fully applied, much heat goes up the chimney to warm the
general atmosphere.

The same simple principles apply to furnaces under boilers.
We happen to know of several cases of boiler-heating where
the close-cutting system so ruled that there was no dumb iron
plate next the furnace door, but the furnace bars came close up
to the door, and there was a large, long, dead rest at the farther
end. We say nothing of the discomforts ; we feel sure that, so
far as ultimate wear and tear are concerned, the trifling saving
will be a penny- wise-and-pound-fooUsh affair.

One case has come very prominently under our notice — a
conservatory, such as we have noticed above, heated by a boiler,
and the flue from the boiler having several turns in the back
wall. Sometimes on commencing firing in winter it was found
necessary to light a small fire at a soot door in the flue to dry it
a httle, and then there was no difficulty for the season. It was
desirable to make the boiler do more work, and, as it was old, a
new one was put in at once. From circumstances we need not
mention the work was not superintended as it ought to have
been, and the furnace bars were brought close to the furnace
feeding-door, consequently a long dead rest was left at the
farther end. Pity a chimney-sweeper inured to smoke who
should be condemned to stay a few minutes in that stokehole
after the fire was lighted ! The finest coke could be made to
burn in a certain way, but not so as to heat the water or heat
the flue properly, though the furnace door would become pretty
well red hot. There was a thought of taking the shaft from the
furnace to the chimney at once without going a long length-
some 80 feet at least— thi-ough the flue ; but a fire placed in a
soot-opening of the flue burned nicely, yet stUl the furnace be-
neath the boUer was a perfect abomination and martyrdom to
all concerned. Well, what was done ? Neither boiler nor flue
was touched, but as much of the boiler-setting was taken down
as permitted of some 15 inches of the dead rest being removed
at the farther end, the furnace iron grating-bars moved all that
closer to the end of the furnace, and a dead plate of the same
size, from 12 to 15 inches, placed next the furnace doors;
now there is not the least trouble with smoke, itc, and the
draught through the long flue is so good that, to prevent the
lower range of flue becoming too hot, it is necessary often to
use a damper. We feel convinced that many who are iu difii-

February 13, 1873. J

JOURNAL 0:e HOBTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

140

culties about their furnaces may obtain relief by attending to
one or more of these simple matters. — K. F.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

S. Dixon A; Co., 48a, Moorgate Street, London, E.G. — Select
Xiist of Vegetable and Flower Seeds, d-e.

Downie, Laird, tt Laing, StansteadPark, Forest Hill, London,
S.E., and 17, South Frederick Street, Edinburgh. — Descriptive
Catalotjue of Garden^ Flower^ and Agricultural Seeds, Imple-
tiicnts, d'c.

John Harrison, Darlington. — Descriptive Catalogue of Fruit
Trees, Hardy Ornamental Trees, and Shrubs. — Descriptive
Catalogue of Jtoses and Hollyhocks. — Descriptive Catalogue of
Vegetable aiid Flower Seeds, Bedding Plants, dc. — Trade
List of ConiferSj Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, Fruit Trees, d-c.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*,' We request that no one will writo privately to any of the
correspondents of the '* Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing they
are subjected to unjustifiable troublo and expense. All
commuuications should therefore be addressed solely to
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, dc, 111, Fleet
Street, London, E.C.

We also request that correspondants will not mix up on the
same bheet questions relating to Gardening and those ou
Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them
answered promptly and couTenieutly, but write them ou
separate communications. Also nOYar to send mora than
two or three questions at once.

N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until next
week.

Gardeners' Teab-Book (Sfnex). — We are greatly obliged to you for calling
attention to the errors ; where there is BUuh a mass of figures it is not easy
to avoid them, and it is only when practical use is made of the tablei that such
errors are discovered. We shall see about the other matters.

Back Nuhuers (A Constant Subtcriber). — You can have the two nambera
you name.

Ivy [E. and J, P.). — We have seen the Tariety before, and have spoken of it
a9 the Copper-coloured Irish Ivy.

LiNNBAK SociBTY (G. Jamet). — The entry in the almanack you mention is
the hour at which the Society meets. It is purely for natural history. Put
gold fish iu the aquarium. No Fern would grow in the water ; yuu must
place aquatic plants there. Write questions fur our different departments on
separate pnpers.

DisEASBD Larch {R. J. S.). — The specimen sent is severely cankered, pro-
bably cauaed by the soil.

Meadow Lakd Injured by too Frequent Mowing {Sussex). — Do not
sow "hay-seed," for it is mingled with heeds of weeds. Buy a miiture of
(,Tas8 seeds of seedsmen who advert ise iu our columns. Tell them the nature
of the eoil, and they will send you the most suitable species. Sow early in
the next mouth, and bush-harrow.

Orchidb roa Sale (An Old Subtariber). — Adrertise them, stating names
and prices.

Leek Seed (Inquirer). — Wg know of no other mode of selling it than
offering it to Eome of the wholesale seedsmen. We know nothing of the
wholesale price.

Overs HA DO wing Treb (W. O. D.). — An action on the case is maintainable
againet the owner of a tree the branches of which injuriously overhaug a
neighbour's ground; but there are various circumstances to be known before
that course could be advised. Consult your solicitor.

WoRMcASTS OH Lawn (Catoj-). — Water the lawn once tt-week with lime
water.

Crowpoot (B. Jf.).— The Crowfoot is more likely to "smother" the Cab-
bages than the Cabbages to smother the Crowfoot. The roots of the latter
should have beeu forked out of the soil.

Erecting a Greemhouse (Z. A.). — We cannot recommend any builder-
Wiite to some of those who advertise in our columns, and teU them exactly
what you require.

Rainfall in Cumberland. — In the quotation of Mr. Fletcher's remarks
at page 1:^4 respecting the rainfall on the Stye, for "nearly 25 inches" read
" nearly 225 inches."

Khamnus Franoula. — " I am anxious to pleuit some quantity of Rhamnng
Frangula, Berry-bearing Alder. This is said by Loudon to be preferred bj
raakeiK of gunpowder to all other charcoal. I have ordered it of two nursery-
men, but without success. It is, I believe, very common in Germany, but I
am (|uite at a loss where to procure plants. — J. P., of York."

[\N'e shall be obHged by any correspondent replying to this.]

Fig Tree Blossom (A Toung Beginner). — The blossom is insido the
fruit.

Cyclamen tersiccm Failing (W. S. W.). — We are unable to account for
the failure of the Cyclamen; probably it has been kept too wet and cold.
With flower-buds and abundance of leaves showing, the plant must have
received a sudden and severe check to have cauticd nearly all the buds and
leaves to go off. Probably the soil is unsuitable, or the watering has been
given directly on the crown of the corm, causing the leaves aud buds to
die-off at the surface of the soil. The temperature in winter for plants ad-
vanced for bloom shi>uld be 45- at night, and r»0"- by day. The failure of the
Azalea we should attribute to the soil, which is wholly unsuitable ; and we
fear you water, or pour the water in watexing, on the neck or coUoi- of the

plant, which, from being kept constantly wet, causes it to decay. The peat
should be taken from high ground, not from a low boggy place.

Propagating Azaleas (M. B.). — They are increased by cuttings, taking
off the young shoots when 3 or 4 inches long. Cut below a juiut, remove tho
lower leaves from two-thirds the length of the cuttings, aud insert in pots
rather thickly up to the leaves, the pots being well drained, and fdled to
within an inch of the rim ■with sandy peat, and to the rim with silver sand.
Water gently, and set them in a house with a temperature of 6U^ to 65^, shad-
ing from sun, and keeping moist. The cuttings should be covered with a
hand-glasj made to lit within tho rim of the pot, or the jjot may be inserted
in one of larger size, filling up tho inter^'al with moss, siu-facing with silver
sand, on which the bell-glass is to rest. When the cuttings are rooted remove
them to a cooler house or greenhouse, take off the bell-glasses every night,
replacing in the day, aud after a fortnight of this they may be potted-off
singly in 3-inch pots, placed iu a framo and kept close, and shaded until
they aie established, thou harden them off, and remove them to the green-
house.

Hyacinths after Flowering (7(ifm).— Place them in a cold frame, and
when the weather becomes more mild plant them out-doors with the balla
entire. They are not worth forcing a second year, but in the borders they
flower in spring, and are useful for cutting from.

Hardy Ridgk Melon Treatment (Idem). — Sow the seeds about the
middle of April, place in a hotbed, and when the plants are showing tho
rough leaf pot off singly in 4-inch pots. When they have two rough leaves
take out the point of the shouts, and harden off, planting out about the middle
of May on hills in a worm sunny eipOBuro. Take out a hole or trench about
2 feet wide, and a spade deep, and place in this IH inches deep of hot ferment-
ing materials, and ou this the soil token from the trench 10 inches deep,
forming into hills slightly raised at every 3 feet, and cover with a hand-glass.
When the soil is warmed put out a plant on each hill, and after watering
gently, cover with the boll-glass. The li[,'hts will need to be tilted a few
inches on tho sunny side when the days are bright, closing at night. When
the plants are advanced so that tho shoots reaoh the sides of the hand-lights,
rai-e the latter by bricks placed under the corners, to allow *f the shoots
running outside, and after the end of June the hand-glasso3 may be removed
altogether. Water copiously in dry weather. Achapesnorrischer is probably
the best hardy ridge kind of Melon.

Grafting Camellias and Koses (Idem). — Tho best time to graft Camel-
lias is September or tho early part of February, covering them, after grafting,
with a haud-glass. The plants should be placed on ashes on a firm bottom,
aud the lights should be brushed over with a thin size of whitening and
milk. Keep on the hghts until they begin to grow, then remove them gradu-
ally. Tongue- grafting is the most suitable, using grafting-wax in place of
clay. The present is the best time to graft Roses. The stocks, after having
been estabhshed in pots a-year, should be brought in-doors and grafted, using
the cuttings of wood of last year. It is sufticieut if the grafts have two eyei.
Graft about an inch above the soU, and place the worked plants in a house
with a temperature of 50' to 55-. Side-gi'aftiug without the tongue is most
suitable. Keep close and moist, and they will grow away freely. Use graft-
ing-was, and cotton for binding. Harden well oS when tliey have grown from
4 to 6 inches.

Pruning Peach Trees in Cool Housh (H. H.). — Peach trees in a oool
house may now be pruned though pushing. It will not do the trees the least
injury, either on the score of bleeding or from the cuts. Peach trees do not
bleed like Vines when late-pruned.

Bbgonias Failing (S. Z>. A.). — We should say the plants are old and
weak, the soil in a sour state, and the roots very unhealthy. We should give
them more heat, and repot them, removing most of the old soil, and the old
shoots if there ore any fresh ones coming from the base. The plants may
flower iu the early part of summer, but in April we should put in cuttings of
the strong young shoots, which will soon strike root in a gentle bottom heat,
or in a Cucumber frame; and if their growth be encomrayed throughout the
summer, they will make very much finer plants fur winter- flowering than the
old plants, which after a year's flowering ought not tube kept. The tempera-
ture you name is too low for their growing aiid flowering in winter. The
temperature at night shotild be 50° to 55'^, and 60'^ to 65° by day j, with a rise
from sun heat with air.

Conservatory Plakts Injured {A Constant Reader). — There mnst har©
been something more than ordinary oil paiut used for the connervatory, or ifc
would not have done the mischief you describe. We have had houses painted
both tho colours you name, and have not experienced any injury to the plants.
Perhaps the plants were put in the house before the paint was thoroughly
dried. Had this not beeu the case, and air beeu given day aud night, we do
not think the plants would have suffered; but there may have been some
ingredient used in the paint causing the mischief you complain of. We are
unable to throw any light on the subject, and wa do not think you mended
matters by placing vinegar in saucers.

Melon Bed Lining {J. H. B.). — In lining the Melon bed it is not neceE*
Bory to remove any part of the old dung of the bed, but place the lining on the
old materials, which wiil settle, and this, along with raising the frame, will give
you sufijcient space for linings. Bring the dung up level with the under side
of the lights, but so that thty can be moved freely up or down. You will need
to line front, back, and both ends of the bed.

Celery Prickikg-out {Idem). — The Celery may be sown at the end of
February, or early in March. The latter period is to be preferred if you only
make one sowing. Place the pans in a gentle heat, as that of a hotbed, and
encourage growth in a house, keeping the seedhngs near the glass to prevent
their becoming diawn-up. They should be hardened off after they show one
rough leaf, by placing them out of doura in the day, and in a frame or house
at night ; and after about a fortnight of this treatment they will be showing
the second rough leaf, and be lit to prick-out early in May on a warm south
border, the ground being mado rich and light with well-rotted mauure or leaf
soil, or both. After pricking-out, tho bed will need to be kept well watered,
aud shaded from sun by mats on sticks hooped over the bed, giving the same
prutectiou at night if frosty. When the plants are growing freely, withdraw
the mats, using them only as shade from sun until they are established, or to
protect from frost at night, at other times exposing fully.

Weight of 21-nz. Glass (John Smith).— Vslxy not weifih several feet of
21-oz. glass and take tho average of the nctt wei:-;ht '.' You could easily get,
and we could easily give, the weight of 2000 times 21-oz., but that would not
be the exact weight of the glass unless it were veiy much alike. We have
found 21-oz. glass in some cases fully 22 ounces, whilst we have found some
nut more than 19 ounces. The best samples will be the most uniform, but
the best will not always average 21 ounces.

160

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ February 13, 1S73.

Treatment of Vines (G. B. li.). — The outside border, in which a portion
of the roots of your Vines are, should have been covered with some ferment-
ing material at the time the house was started. You had better put on a
Fullieient depth of leaves or other litter to cause a gentle heat. To have the
Grapes ripe in June, a nearly unifoi-m night temperature of C5- should be
kept up, letting the houee rise by day to 70'-', or with sun heat to 75'^. Vt'e
never syringe the Vines after the buds have started freely. A moist atmo-
ephere is maintained by syringing or sprinkling the paths and surface of the
borders twice a-day, and also from troughs filed or cast on the hot-water pipes.
"WTiilst the Grapes are iu fiower the evaporating troughs should bo dry, and a
rather higher temperature ought to be kept up. As soon as the flowering
period is over the troughs should be again supplied with water, and a night
temperature of es^'be kept up until the Grapes show signs of colouring.

Grafting Vines {A Constant Reader). — The best time to graft Vinea is
when the young shoots have grown 2 or 3 inches. The grafts should have
been previously started into growth to the eitent of about half au inch.

Fruiting Eriouotrya japonica (Idem). — We do not thint your seedling
plant will fruit in an 11-inch pot. It should be grafted on the Whitethorn.
Xou might still retain your seedling plant, but we advise you to graft one if
jou wish to fruit it.

Camellia Flower-bdds Falling [Monitor). — Most likely the falliug-off
of the Camellia buds is owing to an unhealthy statu of the roots. This will
also take place from the roots being too dry or too moist, especially in such
weather as we have had of late. There is another cause more fatal — escape
irom gas-pipes ; but if that had been the case the point of the bud would hare
suffered first, whilst yours is quite healthy. Our experience would say, Ou no
account admit gas pipes into plant houses. The mere burning of the k&s is
had enough, but it is nothing compared to having couductiug pipes passing
through the houses. Hardly any joint will prevent bad impure gas Irom
■SBcapiug.

Changing Fluk to Stbtb [H. A.]. — We say in yoiir case, Let well alone*
As the flue is there keep it there, at least for the present. You need not
waste room by your flue, as you could have a shelf or trellis-table over it. The
slowness with which the flue heats may depend on the thickness of the flue
or the arrangement of the furnace. In the latter case there is often much
wastL* of heat by having the fire-bars close to the fumace-door. There ought
to be a dumb-plate next the duor of from 9 to 12 inches wide. Without that,
much of the heat goes to the stokehole instead of along the flue. The flue,
iiaving so much larger a surface, will keep tho heat longer than a mere stove,
but the keeplng-up the heat for a long time with little fuel depends very much
ou keeping the fumace-duor and ashpit-duor shut, with just the smallest
opening in the latter to admit a very little air. Whenever we see a furnace-
door oi,>eu after the fire is set going, it always speaks to us of waste, though
sometimes in emergencies that must be submitted to, as the cold air passing
over the glowing fuel cools it, cools the boiler, cools the flue, &c. What air
■is required for combustion of fuel — we pass over combustion of smoke — ought to
come thruugh the grate sashbars, and the draught must be regulated there.
One reason why we advise you to keep your flue for the present, is simply
that a brick stove in your small house if made now, would have to stand the
fcest part of a month before you could give it a chance to be used fairly. How-
■ever, if you resort to the usual mode of preventing dust, a small brick stove
would heat your little house, 8 by lu feet, admirably, and you could do all the
attendance inside. When you speak of a stove 9 inches square we presume
jou mean the firebox lined with firebrick. The rest of the stove may be
built of good bricks — say 28 inches square, and 36 inches in height. The
j-egulatiou uf the draught at the ashpit-door will enable you to keep most of
the heat iu the bricks.

Synon^'MES (A. C). — Eritrichum is the same as Myosotis. Xiphion tingi-
tanum was discovered near Tangiers in 1825, and figured and described in the
** Botanical Magazine" of August last. Hyacinthus eandicans is figured in
Mr. Wilbou Saunders' " Refugium Botanicum." It is a Cipe bulb i-cquiring
& greenhouse temperature.

Flotvering Bocgaintillea glabra in June (A Yojing Plantsman). —
Keep the plant dry, and about the middle of March start it in gentle heat,
giving it the benefit of a tan bed or other bottom heat. Eepot the plant
previously if it be needed, and do what pinning is required. Ihis should be
confined to cutting out the old shoots and removing the unripe portions of
the young shoots. These, we presume, aie ripe and hard ; if not, the chance
of lioweriog is small. The bottom heat should bo 75^, the top heat 55"^ to
60'-" at night, increasing to fiu° or G5- at night in about a month, with a rise
toy day of 5'^ to lU^, and 15° to 20'^ with suu and abundance of air. Shift the
plaut into its blooming pot in April, and early iu May it will have made a
good growth. Keep it fully exposed to light, and do not let the soil becomo
«o dry as to affect the foliage, and it will very probably show flower. It will
then need to bo forwarded with plenty of heat and a moist atmosphere, not,
however, syringing overhead. If likely to flower too early, place it in a house
with a lower temperature, and afford more heat if it appear to be backward.

Flowering Medinilla magnifica in June (Id^m). — The plant should
i)e kept moderately dry up to the middle of April, and then moister, and this
will soon cause the swelling of the flower-buds, which come from the base
of the leaves at the points of last year's gro\\th. The plant, if not in a small
■pot, need not be repotted; but, if nccossai-y, this may be done, and in thetem-
^erature above named it will flower at the time you vnsh, though if it show for
bloom earlier it must be retarded by placing it in a lower temperature. To
have plants in flower at a stated time requires the exercise of considerable
judgment, much depending on the condition of the plants.

Geranium Leaves Spotted IS. M. H.).— The leaves are spotted with
mildew, due, we think, to the plant having been kept in a moist and ill-
ventilated atmosphere with a low temperature. Give more air, and if you
cannot give more heat without interfering with the well-doing of other plants,
keep it drier at the roots. More heat with air would be the best remedy.
With brighter weather the plaut will outgrow the evil. We are not quite sure
of the name, but we think it is Pillar of Beauty.

Hand-drill (A, B. G.). — That advertised in our columns, called Le Butt's,
would suit you.

Namks of Plants [Mac). — Wo are willing to name your Mosses, but
you will gain far more knowledge if you work them out for yourself. Your
Ko. 1, for example (Polytrichum commune), could very readily be determined ;
2. Eacomitrium aciculare ; 3, Leskea sericea; 4, Hypnum commutaium.
{B. E.). — 1, Pteris cretica; 2, Nephrolepis exaltata ; 3, Selaijiuella Braunii.
(C. H. A.). — 1, Gynmogramma ochracea; 2, Ncphiolepis cordifolia; 3, Adi-
antum formosum; 4, A. lethiopicum ; 5 and G, Indeterminable. (J. V.). —
1, Coccoloba platyclada; 2 and 3, Adiautum hispidulum. {S. M, .ff.).— In-
determinable.

POULTET, BEE, KM) PIGEON OHEOKEOLE.

EFFEEVESCING AND OTHEE BEITISH WINES.

A CORRESPONDENT, a fewvTeeks since, requested to be informed
how to make effervescing rhubarb wine. I have waited in
trust that some other person, more experienced than myself,
would send you the desired information. Finding this up to
the present not to be the case, allow me to refer you back to
No. -129, page 409, where you will find my minutiae of mauufacture.
One cannot invent new processes or produce fresh objects of
sustenance under long periods of time — at least I cannot; and I
have nothing to take away from the advice referred to, and but
little to add to it, further than that I have recently been in corre-
spondence with an enthusiastic amateur British wine-maker,
who informs me he has lately made a compound infusion of pine-
apple and elder flowers for flavouring and giving bouquet to
some of his wines. I should think it would ! In the days
whcu I confined myself to rhubarb wine, I used to submerge
dried elder flowers in the barrel as soon as it had done working,
and the wine was racked of its first grounds, when the wine was
allowed to qualify-off the crude first fiavour of the flowers by
standing in the barrel a couple of years before it was bottled.
Those monks of some monastery or other on the Swiss borders,
who (secretly) gained centuries of applause for their peculiar
'* brand," by merely adapting the elderliower flavouriag to
their wines, might have smacked their lips with envy on the
discussion of a bottle of my simple home-made. But keeping
the wine so long in the cask destroys the effervescing quality.
"What I have been trying to attain since I last wrote on this
subject, is to give a proper champagne tint to my effervescing
rhubarb andgooseberry wine. I cannot master it, try what I may,
by logwood, cochineal, itc, for the tint will ripen oft more or
less of a pale or dark sherry shade, instead of a faint pale violet,
or Madame Kivers Kose-colour. Perhaps some of your clever co-
adjutors could enlighten us on our way ; for the above wine with
a proper tint would be an acquisition worth knowing anent a
" Veuve Cliquot," or somebody or other's "reviver." Last season
I made a gallon of colouring juice from those little black cherries
usually so plentifully hawked about — Foisted cherries they call
them in my county, Suffolk — and added it to thirty gallons of
rhubarb and gooseberry wine, but with no better success than
with the drugs. I have also tried highly-coloured Esperione
Grape and other wines, and other Hquids which I am now going
to mention in connection with my grape wine, all to no purpose,
and I fear I must give it up and stick to dame Nature's natural
appearances in the matter.

Now I am upon the subject of home-made wine, if I do not
touch upon wliat I have been doing in progress with my paper,
it would be something like the play of Hamlet with the charac-
ter of Hamlet left out.

I have taken to add one-third in proportion of the Muscat of
Alexandria grown on the open wails to two-thirds of Royal
Muscadine Grapes as an effervescing grajie wine — a great im-
provement indeed upon the wine made totally from the Musca-
dines. It does away with the peculiar smoky twang attached to
the latter grape in its ripenese, and which never loses itself iu
the bond fide wine.

Last year and the year before my Esperione Grapes did not
colour well, though quite sufficiently so for an effervescing pink
champagne ; but we prefer our Esperione as drawn from the wood
two or three years in cask, and of a good porty colour. Well, two
years ago I was looking over my seedling potatoes at Bedfont,
and side by side with them was a nursery plantation of the broad
hoUy-leaved berberis, loaded with its handsome bunches of blue-
black berries, on which the birds were carousing. I had a suspi-
cion my Esperiones would not be up to their mark of colour by the
next vintage time, and it struck me forcibly that those berries
could be utilised as a colouring matter for the wine. A con-
sultation with Mr. Alex. Dean soon decided that some should be
sent to me, and Mr. Dean has favourably impressed our honour-
able and reliable Fruit Committee on the feasibility of their
concoction into excellent jam. I made two gallons of colouring
juice from the berberis, just as I proceed iu working the juice of
the Grape, and put it to thirty gallons of the Esperione wine
after its first racking-off, and I find it makes a splendid colour-
ing for it, and adds also to the bouquet. This is a first-rate idea
for your wine-making subscribers, and the berberis wine, as we
may call it, is really very nice and palatable of itself. I have
again tliis season made two gallons of it to add to tliirty gallons
of my Esperione. Last year I also made three gallons of ripe
elderberry juice, and worked it exactly as for my other wines
as a coloiuing matter for the Esperione. I added it to thirty
gallons of the latter, when the fermentation had nearly ceased.
It has giveu it a fine colour indeed, but, as in the case of tie
elder flowers submerged in the rhubarb wine, an elder smack
maintains itself too strongly to be agreeable at present. I hope
time will rectify the crudity as in the case of the elder flowers,

February 13, 1878. ]

JOUKNAL OF HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAJIDENER.

151

for elder berries could always be a comeatable colouring matter
for unripe black Grape wiuo for those who have high-coloured
notions.

My 1872 vintage occurred on November 7th, a very good pro-
duce for the season ; the Eoyal Muscadine keeping up its charac-
ter for ripening best, and the Muscat of Alexandria, curious to
say, ripened better than in 1871 ; but the Eaperiones were less
coloured than I ever remembered to have seen them, and they
did not meet their usual weight by 60 lbs. So, on the recom-
mendation of my correspondent above quoted, I was induced to
weigh the water with sugar before I put it to the must (accord-
ing with the practice of many foreign vintage districts, where
the extraction of Grape acid to the uttermost is considered of
more consequence for wine-making than the ripening of the
Grapes) after this manner ; — As soon as the juice of the first must
had fermented and was pressed off, I divided the quantity
of sugar required f ,i the whole, and put half of it to the run-
off juice, and then dissolved the other part in the quantum of
water required, well stirring it amongst the skins, pressed it
off when it had arrived at a state of strong fermentation, and at
once added it to the first run-off juice in the working pan. I am
informed they ferment the skins in this manner, " four or five
times over " abroad, in their immense vats. I was content with
*' three draws," the last made by mixing the skins of the white
and black Grapes together in the mash, with sugared water in the
proportion of 2i lbs. of sugar per gallon ; thus I gained eighteen
gallons more from the musts than I should have done by my
usual method. The result I shall keep separate as an effervescing
petit vin, to be drunk as a household table beverage during, I
hope, hot thirsty weather next summer. I like this previously-
8Ugared-water-for-the-must plan, and, please the Fates, I shall
adopt it in the future, for, besides facilitating in several particu-
lars soon acknowledged by the workers, the working processes
of the wines themselves follow out more satisfactorily and ex-
peditiously.

My last season's wines both red and white, sixty gallons, pro-
mise to become very good, and the petit vin is quite beyond
my expectation.

Since 1865, No. 235, page 259, I have sent you no annual
specific gravities of my Grape juices. Perhaps for the benefit
of your recent wine-manufacturing subscribers and Grape-eaters
in general, you raay think it sufficiently interesting to tabulate
the degrees of sweetness that the Grapes I cultivated out of
doors have arrived at during the fifteen years that I have fer-
mented their juice. I suppose the universally-liked Black Ham-
burghs would arrive at about the same degree of perfection in
ripening out of doors as the Esperione, but the latter is by far
the best maker of wine, and of course I do not cultivate the
Muscat of Alexandria as an out-of-door ripener, but merely for
the sake of giving a prettier flavour to the Muscadine wine.
About 21° is a palatable ripeness in a bunch of Grapes, so you
will see how the Eoyal Muscadine comes off with great credit
in that respect in this midland county, Oxfordshire ; but for the
matter of latitude I believe it would ripen equally well in the
College garden at Elgin, N.B. I know about twenty years ago I
ate excellent large ruddy-cheeked Peaches from the open walls
there, far better than what I could ever hope to do from the
open walls and soU of this garden at Woodstock.

SACCHAROJIETEa IN PuKE JUICE.

1R5S

Esperione

Grapes.

21"
20^

15°
17'
19"
2U=
22'

ig"

18"

17"

2Cli=

20"

17"

16°

25"

1859
1860 1
1861
1862

1863 .

1864 .

1865 .

1866 .
1SC7 .

1868 .

1869 .

1870 .

1871 .

1872 .

1870 .

1871 .

1872 .

Koyal Muscadine.
"Txiit came to notliing

22°

1B59

1860 July 4tli, Vines inblosBom
fruit came to nothing

1861

17J
20°
21j
22-

1.S6-1

1863

18"

1864

O.J 3

1865

1866
1867
18(J8

20°
21 =
22°

1869

1870

20°

1871

Muscat of Alexandria.

1872

Kojol Muscadine.

18^
13°

18RR

15°

— E.

Eenn.

MALAY FOWLS.
What can be done to induce poulti'y committees to revise
their lists of prizes so as to include the despised Malays 1 The
fancy are much indebted to Mr. Brooke for calling attention
from time to time to the injustice they receive. As an old-
established breed of the very" earUest date, no exhibition of
poultry is complete without them ; besides, they always command
their share of notice from the visitors at shows. From my ex-
perience of committeemen we rely too much on the schedules of
other shows, and 1 beg to suggest to thosS of the fancy, if living

In the neighbourhood of shows, to try what influence they have
on committees.

1 quite agree with Mr. Brooke about cups, they are about the
most useless articles offered for prizes. I know a Bantam fancier
who has more than a dozen cups, and the only use he has for
them is to ornament the sideboard. Of late he won a cup, but
the committee gave him the choice of either a cream-jug or tho
cup ; the former was taken. And, by-the-by, this jug is al-
ways on the table at tea time, and it is natural for the better-halS
to think better of poultry shows iu future. Articles that can be
brought on the table for use are the best, as at table is a good
time to discuss the quality of the bird that won the victory. —
Hawkins.

[The reason why committees do not offer prizes for Malays is,
that rarely are there a sufficient number of pens to pay the amount
of the prizes. A good test would be to endeavour to obtain sub-
scriptions for a special prize for Malays at a principal poultry
show. — Eds.]

FAKENHAM AND WEST NOEFOLK POULTRY
SHOW.

This Show was held in the Corn Hall at Fakenham on the
4th and 5th inst. The building is one of the best to examine
poultry in, the light from the dome-shaped roof being so weli
diffused. The pens (Turner's) were well disposed in double tiers,
and the backs covered with calico.

In poultry the entries were very good, and for the most part
the birds were in good order, and very few pens were too late
for competition. An official feeder having been provided, the
birds were well attended to. Among the Dorking cocks of the
Dark-Grey variety there were some good birds, but others were
very poor. In the Any other variety class of Dorkings there
were only two Silver-Greys. The first-prize bird was nearly
perfect; the owner also took the cup. The class for hens,
was perhaps one of the best in tho Show, scarcely a bird being,
unworthy of notice. The first prize went to Silver-Grey, and
the second to Dark Grey. In Cochins the cup was carried
off by a grand old Buff cock ; and the second prize in the sam&
class was awarded to an excellent bird. In Cochin cocks of any
other kind, a capital Partridge was first, and White second.
Cochin hens were extremely good, and a large number of the-
birds received favourable notice, the first-prize Buff and second-
prize White being birds that may bo pronounced almost faultless.
iJra/tmaswere very good in both classes of Dark, the first position
being gained only by a little superiority in the rise of the tail.
There were several other birds especially noteworthy. In the
hens also the competition was very close, the grand marking oi
the first-prize hen succeeding over the greater size of the second.
Light Brahmas were not of high merit, though the winners-
were good in point of both marking and size ; but the award in.
hens was an unaccountable mistake, the order of merit being,
the reverse of the prizes. Game were good, and the comiietitiou
close in all classes. Brown Beds were first on the list in cocks,,
and a handsome close-feathered chicken stood first, and only
lost the cup on account of a slight fault in the sickle feathers,
which were a little too broad ; the second was an adult bird in
nice order. In Black-breasted Eeds, also, a cockerel stood in the
place of honour, and a capital cock was second ; both birds-
being sound iu colour and very good in hand. In Game cocks-
of any other breed, the first was a Duckwing cockerel of fine-
colour and style ; and the second a marble-breasted Pile of very
sound and hard appearance. The hens were, however, the best-
as a class, scarcely a faulty bird being shown. The first priza
and cup were won by a handsome Brown Eed hen, and the se-
cond prize by a capital Black-breasted Ked pullet. With few
exceptions the Mamhurglis were very poor, the cause being, no-
doubt, the mixture of the classes, which always diminishes com-
IJetition. In Spangled both pairs were Silver-spangled of fair
quality ; and in Pencilled the first were Goldeu-pencUled, the
second Silver-pencilled, the cock in the first-named pen being,
the only good bird shown. The Black Hamburghs, which were
allowed a class to themselves, were very much better, and the
cup and county prize were awarded to the first-prize pair. Spa nish
were a fair lot, there being little choice between the first and
second-prize pairs. Polands were extremely good, and the cup-
for the section was given to a splendid pair of Golden. The
second prize was awarded to very good White-crested Blacks.
French fowls were also pretty well represented, the first aud
county prize goiag to very good Creve-Cceurs, and the second to
Houdaus. Both the SeUing classes were large, but the sales
were not numerous

Ducks were next. Aylesbury and Eouen were shown together,
and their quality was pretty good. In the Variety class of
Ducks, Black East Indians were first, and Carolinas second.

Bantams were numerous, but as classes they were not of the
highest merit, though the winning pens were mostly of good
quality. In the Eed Game the first were old birds, nearly
faultless ; the second very good, but not nearly so short or close-
feathered; while several other pens were noticablo for their

152

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

I Februaxy i:^ 1973,

beauty of colour. The county prize was carried off by a very
well-colourecl pair of Brown Reds. In the Variety class of Game
the first were Duckwings, the hen being very good and in nioe
bloom, but the cock ratiier dull in colour and low in condition.
The second prize went to very good Piles. The class for Any
other variety of Bantams was poor, but a very good pair of
Golden Sebrights stood first. The best pen of birds (lilacks),
were more dead than alive.

Turkeys and Geese were well shown, the birds being in the
best of plumage and very large in frame.

Of Babbits there were but two classes, and these contained
twenty-six entries. The Lop-ears were a very good lot, and the
winners as follows : — First, a Fawn buck, ears 22^ inches by 4iJ ;
and second a Grey-and- white doe, ears 21 A by 4 J ; although the
longest-eared Rabbit in the Show was a pure White, shown by
Messrs. Shaw and Allison, of Sheffield; and the most hand-
some one was a very young Tortoiseshell doe from the same
exhibitors. In the Variety class a perfect Himalayan buck was
first, and a SUver-Grey second. Several very good Angoras
were highly commended.

For Figeons there were not many classes, but it is seldom so
iew entries can count so many iirst-rate specimens. Carriers
and Pouters were shown singly, and of any sex ; and in the
iormer class a Black cock won both prizes; the cup for the best
j)£U in the Show going to the first, a well-developed bird.
Whit^ won both prizes for Pouters, as also the county prize.
In Barbs a young Red cock was first, and Black second; both
being good in bkull and cere. In Tumblers there was one class
for Balds and another for Beards, and it is not often so good a
-collection of these varieties is seen. The first in Balds were
Reds, nearly perfect in all points, and the second Blues ; and in
Beards these remarks will also apply, both pairs being, how-
ever, Blues, the first very beautiful in colour. In Tumblers of
Any other variety all were Almonds, and little was the difference
between the two ■U'inning pens. Fantails were also shown
singly — a course to be recommended ; and the whole of the birds
were extremely good, though some of them will require to
moult before they can win, the dirt being so thick upon their
plumage. In the Variety class the first were Bed Jacobins, and
.the second an enormous pair of Blue Bunts.

Of Cage Birds there were some deserving Epecimens, es-
pecially among the Norwich.

D0EE1X03.— Coiourfd.— Cocfes.— 1, Mrs. E. C. Sapwell, Kensington. 2, W
Barvt'j, sbeEBeM. County, Mrs, tiuuttiwuoU, Fakeuuam. he, Mrs. auuthwuod;
F. Parlftt, (Jbelmbford ; HiiuryLlngwooii, Burkiny, Neudham Market; J. Wliile,
"Warlaby.

Dorkings.— ^fiy other variety. —Cocks. — 1 and Cap, "Wren & Page, Lowestoft
.(SilTer-Grey). 2 itud County, T. a, U. Heath, Norwiuii (SUrwr-Gre^J. Ilnu.—i,
"Wren & Pa^e (Silvei-Grey). 2, Henry Liugwood (Colourt;d), County, Mrii.
Soathwood (Coloured), he, Hira. R. C. Sftpweli (Coloured) (-2); T. & H Heiitb
(Silver-Grej); Wren ^v Page (Silver Urejj ; F. Parlett (Coloured); \V. Harrey ;
J. White (Gulourtdl; Mra. buuthwood (CoJoureJ) CIi.

Cocm\H.—V inmtiaon or Huff —Cue fc4.~l and Cup, Lady Gwydyr, Ipewicb.
2 and County, M;ijor Biynuld, Norwich, he, J. S. Pearson, Great MeUou ('2);
W. BruQton, Ea^t iJereham ; Henry Liuffwood (i). c, VV. Haryey.

CocHins.—Any utfier caruti/.—Coeks.— l, W. Hnrmy. 2, U. S. S. Woodgate
(White). Couutv, Majur Biguold (Partridge); /«*. Major Bigiiold (PurlridKa
and White); T. j. SalimKrbb. Cht-lmstord (Piirtridge;. c, Mrn. R. C. Sapwell
(Partridge). Htm. — 1 and 'Z, G. H. Procter, Durham. Couniy, Major Djguold
(Buff), /tc, T. Lievcbley. Liucoin (Buffj; J. S. Pearaon (Buff) (:i) ; Major Biguold
(Buff and Partridge) (,;) ; Lady Gwydyr, Ipawich; W. Harvwy. c, Mre. K. C.
Sapwell d'artna^e): T. W. :5avory, Burnbam, Sutton (Partridge) (-i); J. Bone,
In'ortb Elmham ; Major Bij^uuld (White); J. Watsuu, Norwich.

Brsh^x^.— Dark.— Cockg.— I, Horace Lingwuod. Creetiug. 2, Lady Gwydyr.
County, Col. Cocklmrn. Brecondale. he, H. Ditwa.'lt. Pleahey, Chelmsford; W.
Mansheld; Col. Cockburn. Brecondale; W. branford, F<*k6uham ; C. Xiudall,
Jpswich. H«/w.—l. Horace Liugwoud. 'JiKeT-J. I). I'eake, Laleham County,
"W. Bruntiiu, he, H. Dowaett; Dr. Holmea, Whitecotea. Cheitterfleld ; Lady
Gwydyr; W. Brunton. c, T. H. William*, Brecon; H. R. Plattin, i-'akenham ;
"W. BurrowB, Diss.

BBiHMAs— Ln/'(/.— Cof/w. — L Lady Gwydyr. 2 and County, J. P. Caae,
Teeterton. Fakt-ulinm. he, H. Dowsatt : Horace Lmgwood. c H. W. SaTory ;
H. Love, Elsing. liens.— I, Horace Lingwood. 2, Lady Gwydyr. Couniy, J.
P. Caso. he, H. Dowsett; M. Leno. Jdarkyitte tttruet; C. Tindall. c, J. P.
Case: H. \Vatbun, Criu^'lcford, Norwich.

Gamb.— iirou-n li^'ls— Cneks —\. 2. ConnXj, and K^itf, H. E. Martin, ScnUhorpe.
Jic, E. M. L. Cocksedge, Woolpit; T. Wade, atibbard. «, S. J. Stafford, Gr«»t
Yarmouth.

Game.— Black Red~Cocks.~lani. County. D. E.Martin, Shipdham. 2, E.
M. L. Cocksedge. he, J. Fletcher, Stoneclough ; R. Hall, Cambridge; E.
Branford.

Game.— ,4nj/ other variety.— Goek».—\, E. M. L. Cocksodge. 2, R. Hall (Piln).
County. D. E. Martin, he. J. Fletcher (Duckwing); D. E. Martm ; T. Wade ; G.
V. Tricker, Fakmham (Duckwing); F. Sales, Crowle (Duckwingl. Uens.—l
and Cup, J. Fletcher. 2 and County, E. Branford (Black Red), vhc. E. M. L.
Cocksedge (Brown Red), he, W. Ciiamburw, Dorking, Lynn (Pile); C. Waiey,
South Creake (Brown Red); E. M. L. Cockaedge (UrownRed); G. P. Tricker
(Duckwing and Bhick Red) ; H. E. Martin.

HAMnCKUHS.— f^'f/rf <iyid Silvr-svannled.—l, J. Wright, Lowestoft. 3, Mm.
W Groom. County, H. T. Cnidauui, Lynn. he. C- Denton; H. T. Coldham ; J.
P. CuBu. Oold iind iiilvfr-in-nctUtd.—l. W. K. Tickner. K, Mrs. T. Thornhill,
Bury St. Edmunds. County. A. Baker, Downham Market. Black.— 1, Cup, and
County, J. P. Case. 2, W. Cutlack, jun., Littleport. he, W. Cutlack, jun. ; S.
Emersin, Potter's Bar. c, R. Crane, jun., Fakeuham : T. A. Wright, Yarmouth.
Spanish.— 1. E. Brown, Sheffield. 2. F. James, t'ounty and vhe, Col. Coek-
bnrn. he. Rev. T. P. Flatten : T. A. Wright; J. Norman, Colebcster; H. GrisH.
PoLANDs.—l mid Cup. W. Harvi.y. 2, J. Koyle, Manchester. Couniy, W. K.
Patrick, West Wmch. he, W. K. Patrick (3) ; W. Silve&ter, Shetfleld. c, W. K.
Patrick.

Fkench Fowls— 1 and County, Miss J. Leathes. Fakenham. 2. W. Cutlack,
jun. he, W. Driug; W. Harvey, c, Mrs. Ffolkea, UiliinRton Rectory, Lyuu.

Table Fowls.— 1, W. Cutlack, jun. 2, Mrs. F. Butcher, he. Rev. C. H.
Crosse, Cambridge : E. Branford. c, C. Horsley, jun , Scullhorpe.

Selling Clahs.— Coc/c.<,— 1, Lady Gwydyr. a, Kev. C. H. Crosse (Dorking).
8, Burch & Boulter. Shemold (Spanish). 4, U. E. Martin (Brown Red Gamej.
he, J. Blackett. jun. (Gold-pencilled Hamburgh); W. Harvey; Mrs. Southwood
(Coloured Dorking) (2) ; F. Hardingham, Fakeuham (Minorca), c, Mrs. South-

wood (Coloured Uorking). Iien3.~l,S. Osbiaton, Rayullam fBrown Red Game).
2, Rev. C. H. CrosBt! (Dorking). S, Lady Gwydyr. 4, b'. James (bpioiibh). he,
J. Bone (Coobiu-Chiua); R. H;ur (Brown Red Game); C. G. Ellis, Attlu-
borough (DorkiuK). c. H. E. Martin (Browu Red Vlame); W. Haivcv.

DvcKS.—Ai/ltdOury and itoufn.-l and Couuty, H. C. Bonner, Kuu'ham. 2, J.
Brcoko. he. Mrs. Claxton, Thurslord ; J. N. Waite, Yarmouth: C. Horsley,
jun. c, E. Branford. Any other variety —1 and 2, M. Leno (Black East Inaiau
and Carolina). Couuty, R. B. Leeds (ical). he, H. W. Savory (Musuovy); K.
D. Savory (MuBCovyj; J. W. Sharmau, Fakenham (Black Eustlmtiaui; K. B
LeeJs (Carolina and TeaO; J- N. Waite (Wild), c, A. X. Binny, lijbuigh
(East Indian).

Gauk Bantams.— li/iicfc and Brown It^d.—l and Cup, "W. F. Entwigle, Brad-
ford. y,Mi»niF..H Jeflries, Xpiwicb. County, J. S. Peai'son. ftc, J. S. Pearson ;
J.W.Morris; T. &H. ileath, R. Mall; W. Adams, Ipswich ; U.P. Uait. Any
other i-anety.—l, W. Adnmii (Duckwing). 2, W. F. h-niwisie (Pile). County, b;
Cooper, Long Stratton (Duckwuigj. he. F. Cooper (Duckwing); J. Graves; G.
Watson (Duckwiugj; E. Farriuglou, Worcester (Pile); W.Adams (L)ucii)yiiigK
W. F. hintwisie (Pitcl; F. steel.

Bantams.— .-Irtj/ other vartety except Gama.-l, W. Stringfield, Lowestoft
(Gold-laced Sebrights). 2, G. B. Francis, North Ockendon, itomlurd (olack).
Couuty, Mrs. Norih, Rouyham Hall (White), lie, hi. Leno (Laced); C. Roea,
Camlnid^e (Black); Rev. F. Tearle, Gazeley Vicarage (White), c, Burch antl
Boulter (black Roae Cumbed).

'1 UKKEVs.— 1, M. Kew, Market Overton. 2, E. Arnold, vhe and County, J. W.
Sharmau. he, C. Winn, bcullhoipe; W. .K. Money, Kirkby Kedou.

Gekmk.— 1 and Couuty, A. Cracknell. 2, J. N. Wuite. he, J. W. Sharman ;
Irlrs. North, c, J. Hammond, jun , Thettord ; J. W. Sharman ; MrB. s^-urrell.
PIGEONS.

CARR1BR9.— 1 and Cup, W. Mineou. St. Ive« 2, F. W. Metcalfe. County, H.
Thurlow, Burnbam Maritet. he, H. Yardlcy, Birmingham ; F. W. Metjallc; H.
Thurlow.

Pouters.— 1, W. Minson. 2, Mrs. Ladd, Calne. County, H. Thurlow. /«;,
Mrs. Ladd; \V. Cottage, Noriuampton ; J. Hawlej ; H. Thurlow (2). c, F. W.
Metcalfe.

Bahus— 1, W. H. Tomlinson. 2, W. Uinion. County, H. Thurlow. he. C.
Norman; H. Yardley.

Ti:tHiLE.U3.— Balds— I, 2, and County, W. Woodhouae, Lynn. he. W. Banns,
Lowestoft. Beards.— 1, J. Fielding, jun. 2 and Couniy, W. \Voodhi^u«e. he,
W. Woodhouae; C. Cowles, Loweaioft. Any otfur variety.— \,Vi. Minson. 2,
J. Fielding, jun., Rochdale. County, W. VVood.noutte. ho, iP. W. Metcalfe,
Cambridge.

Fantails.— 1, J. F. Loversidge, Newark. 2, J. Walker, Newark. County, H.
Thurlow. he, J. Walker ; J. F. LurerBidgw ; H, Yardley ; W. H. TomUuBOu. c,
W. Woodhouae Mrs. Ladd.

Any other Vakibty.— 1, W. Woodhoueo (Red Jacobina). 3, T. D. Green
(Spaniuh Runts), he, H. Yardley; W. Harvey (2).

selling CLAbS.— 1, A. W. Wren (Drajioons). 2, H. Thurlow (Blu« Pouters,'.
he, W. Harvey; H. Thurlow (Carriers).

CAGE BIRDS.

Ci.yi.Rix5.— Clear. Yellotr or Buff.—\, 2. Cup, r/w, and he. CoUiniOB A Alden,
Sprowtttou. Vuriiijated, Yeiluw or Buff.— 1 auil 2, G. A J. Mac^Jcy. Norwich.
he, CoUmson & Alden. Any other variety. — 1, G. k J. Mackl«y (Goid-Bpaugl&d
Lizard). 2 and he, Colliuwou i.^ Alden (Cresled).

British boNo Bians.—l and H, G. &. J. Uaekiey. 3, W. Oj»i ton, Fakanham.
e, W. Wright, Fakeuham.

Sbllinq Class.— 1 and 8, ColUnson & Alden (Norwich Canary). 8, G. &. J.
Mackloy (Ticked Buff Norwich). f,J. Dortou (Lw«ScJ Uwdpolej.
RABBITS.

Lop-BABBO.— L F. Banks, London. 2, J. & A. Weaver, Leominster, County,
J. T. Coe, Downnam Markst. he, C. J. Bentall ; J. T. Coa (2); Shaw & Alhoon,
Sheffiela (a); W. Kayncr.

Any utmbu Vaiilety.— 1, W. H.Tomlinson, Newark (Himalaya). 2. H. Dykes
(Silver-Gray). Cuuuty, J. Dorton, Buruham Market tHimalaya). he, J. nioh-
ardsou (.^jjgora); W. J. Uayell (Whit* Augora); J. F. Farrow lAugura);
H. White (&^ilTer-Gr«y) ; A. Hudson, Hull (Himalaya) (J); W. H. Tomimsou
.Himalaya).

Judges. — Mr. Hutton, Rev. E. Ffillowes, aud Mr. Tliui'low.

NANTWICH POULTRY SHOW.

Tub thirteenth aunual Show was held in the Town Hall on
the 7th and 8th of February, and was a great success. The pens
were arranged on each side of the room, aswsll as in the centre,
and the Exhibition had a pleasing appearance. The majority
of the Game were very fine, and the winners good in all points,
i^artridge Cochijis were in excellent order, and Mr. Tudmau, of
Whitchurch, well merited his position. Tlie Sjyanish and Hani'
burghs were a nice clase. Bantams were not good, except the
winners. The Brahmas were fine, but Mr. James AVaiker, of
Keele, made short work of the competition with hia birds. The
pencilling of his hen was much admired. The Sociaty's silver
cup for the best pen in the Show was awarded to this peu.
The Bucks and Turkeys were but of av(srage merit. The Figeons
and Singing Birds were most interesting, and attracted a good
deal of attention. Appended is the prize list : —

Spanish.— 1. R. Hulae. Winsford. he, S. L. Edwards, Cota Brook.

CocHix-CiiiNA — Parfridi/c— 1 and he, E. Tudman, Aahgrove. Any other
Colour.— J, Dutton, Bunbury.

Brahua PooTni— 1 aud Cup, J Walker, Keele. 2, J. Johnson, Over Wins-
ford. 3, W. B. Etches, Whitchurch.

Ginn.— L'ochereU.— i, R. Abhlcy, N'antwich. 2, Galley A Co. S. Sowerbutts
and Co., Nanlwich. 4, J. Chcaterb, Naniwich. he. H. Ashley; Messrs. C. W.
M. Laxton A Co., Nautwicb. iiweepttalte».— Coekt.—l, J. Chealera. 1. C. F.
Ward, Wrenbury. Uther thun Black ur Brown-breasted Itids.—l. J. WilkiuBon,
Norbury. 2. R. Ashley. 3, W. Church, Nantwich. he, J. Wilkinson ; R. Ashiey.

GAUit.—Croa'7i farfdsffid ii«(i*, —1, Galley A Willett, Nanlvrich. a, K. Ashley.
8, T. Burgess, Burleydam. he, T. Burgess; G. F. Ward- ChiclsBiu. — 1, J.
Burcell, Vauxhall. % R. Ashley. 8, T. Bursoss. he, J. Chefiters.

timE,.—Biack'brtasted iicdj — 1, R. Abhley. 2, J. Manning, Crewo. he, 3.
and h. l^rince. Chickens.— \, R. Abhley. he, T. Dickson.

Game.— i/e/i or Pullet.— \, W. Roycroft, Acton. 2, T. BurgCBU. 3, W. Perrin«
Nantwich. he, W. Stubba.

jeoLANDs.— 1, W. E. Little, Chester.

H»MniiKOH8.— Pcnciiifd. — 1, W. Spcakmau, Doddington. 2, Mrs. Flynn,
Hardingwood. 8, P. HinUe, Little Budworih. t^pangltd —\, Mrs. Flyau.

SKLLi.NG Class.- 1, J. Piatt, Swaulow. 2, S. Joinsou, Nantwich.

Gauk MkfiiAiL^.—Black-hreastiid liedi.—i and Cup, C. A. Bowles, Chester. 2
A. Aphlcy. Worcester. 3, T. Barker, Burnley. 4, W. Clarae, Ruloe. Brown
breudtt'd lieds.—l, T. Barker. Nantwich. 2, A- Ashluy. S, W. Duuuing, New
port. Any variety.— 1, G. F. Ward. 2, P. Hind, Budworth. 3, W. Gnliilhs^
Nantwich.

Bantams.— .4«i/ other variety.-l, H. Hulae, WLns£ord.

SWEEPsTAJiE.— 1, J. Walker.

February 13, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

153

SaowN AS Extra St'^ck.— I, C. Herring, Sandbach.

Docks.— ii'jufrn.—l. J. Flatt, Swanlow. 2, S. L. EdwarJa. he, R. Ashley.
Nantwich. Any other variety.— 1, Mrs. Hornby, Poole Hall, he, Miss H. F.
ClemeoBon, Stapeley.

Geese.— 1, T. Whittingham, Bartherton. 2, W. Bowera. he, T. Comer, Bas-
ford : W. B. Etches.

ToftKRys.-l, W. B. Etches. 2, STrs.E.Gibba, "Worleston. Ac, Mrs. E. Gibbs ;
A. EobiDson.

PiOEONS — Crtm>r--.— 1, Prince & Pass, Nantwich. DraQOon*.—!. S. Cliff,
Nantwich. 2. J. Tavlor, Cre've. Eitri 2. W- Gimon. Chester. Poutpr$.—l,J.
Taylor. BarbH.—l. Prin-'e & Pa»a. 2, J. Taylor. Nuns.—l. J. Taylor. 2. S.
Armstronti, Unrland. Tambk-rs.—l, E- J. Rjwley, Bursiem. 2. P. Hinde. Bud-
worth. Fantaiis.—l, Prince & Pass. 2, J.Tavlor. Jacobini. — 1. Prince A Pass,
Trumpeters.— I and ■_', \V. Gainon. Owls. — 1, W. Gamon. 2, W. Kycroft. Actoii.
Turhiti.—\, J. SKiuk, Austersoa. 2, S. Armstrong. Burlanl. Any other variety.
—1, T. Gam in, Santwich. 2, A. B. Biiley, Ljngtou. Dovit.—l, T. Gaman. 2,
2£.Ta. J. Hockenhull, Nantwich.

Srs'GiNG Birds.— Canarifis.— Yellow Belgian. — 1 and he, S. Williamson, Nant-
wich. Buff Belgian— \, S. Williamson, he, W. Barnett. Cungletnn. Yelloui
Norwich. — 1, W. Barnett. 2, S. Williamson. Buff Norwich — 1. S. Williamson.
Varieaated —i and 2, S. Williamson. Linnets — Brown. — 1, H. Timmis,
WalKhen.m. Re<i.~l. H. Timmis. 2. S. Williamson. Sfiylark—l, W. Sim-
jnonds, Nantwich. 2, T. Jervis, Nantwich. Bullfinches.— 1, tl. Timmi*. 2, S.
Williamson.

Rabbitb.— I, T. Gatnan he, W- Beckett. Northwlch; F. Boyer, Nantwich.
Heaviest.— 1, T. Gaman. 2, J. R. Whittmgham.

Judges. — Poultry : Mr. J. Douglas, Clumber. PigeonSj d-c. :
Mr. Ridpetb, Liverpool.

SOUTH LONDON FANCY BABBIT SOCIETY.

The half-yearly meeting of this Society "was held at the
"Angel lun," Webber Street, Blackfriara Road, on the 10th
oust. The following are the awards : —

Prizp Age. LenRlh. Wiaih. Weight.

m. d. ins. ins. lbs. ozfl.

iBt. Mr. Pritchard's Fawn doe 6 21 .. 23 .. 5J .. 8 B

9nd. Mr. Pritcsard's FAwn and-white doe 6 21.. 21|.. 5t .. 8 13

3rd. Mr. Cornwall's Grey and-white back .. 5 28 .. 20i ..5 ..7 15

<th. Mr. Green's Black-and-white doe 4 11 .. 20J .. 4! .. 7 2

5th. Mr. Bainbrid^re's Fawn-and-white buclt 3 22 .. 20J .. B ..7 2

eth. Mr. Bambndce's Tortoiseshell bock 3 24 .. 20i .. 4i ..7 14

8th. Mr. Cornwall's Grev-and-white doe 5 2ti .. 20J .. i\ .. 7 12

„„, IMr.Pntchard's Fawn bock 6 21.. 21J.. 6 .. 7 6

""'• (Mr. Bainbri.lgf's Fawndoe S 23.. SOJ.. 5 .. 7 2

loth. Mr. Red^rave'd Fawn-and-white doe 4 12 .. 204 .. 4i .. 8 4

Judges. — Messrs. Vaaghan, Lewer, and Bakewell.

PIGEONS.

Tour correspondent (January 23rd), 'who signs himself " Ohb
•OF THE Old School," is misled when he says there was not a
single Pouter or Short-faced Tumbler exhibited at the young
Show of the Peristeronic Society. I exhibited in each class.
Again, if by those who simply purchase birds to show and make
money of them, your reporter means dealers, he says they
show birds till their constitution is exhausted, and then sell at
an exorbitant price ; and y«ur reporter also says it is very annoy-
ing to an exhibitor to be asked the price of a bird. If either of
these statements were true of the amateur or dealer, which I
deny, where is a young fancier to get stock from ? The auction
is ail that is left, and he might have to wait longer than suited
him. — H. Heritage.

[We admire your valour, but your offer to exhibit for a twenty-
guinea prize would be an advertisement. If our reporter
omitted noticing any deser'ving birds the omission was caused
by our urging brevity, for we had little time for printing the
report. — Eds.]

NEW METHOD OF INCREASING STOCKS OP
BEES.
[Tour readers will recollect some time back, that I drew
attention to a plan for " increasing stock," put forward by an
American bee-keeper of the name of Hosmer, by dividing stocks
in autumn and encouraging them to breed early after cellar-
'wintering. I extract the folio-wing excerpt from the American
" Bee Journal," which will show both what Mr. Hosmer's plan
is, and how attention has been drawn to it across the Atlantic.
Xiet it be understood that what is said below was spoken at a
meeting of the North American Bee-keepers' Society. — B. it W.]
Loud calls were made for Mr. Hosmer, of Minn., who issued
the challenge at the last meeting, to obtain 10,000 lbs. of honey
from ten stocks of bees to start -with in the spring, or forfeit the
price of 103 swarms of bees at §1.5 per swarm. Mr. Hosmer
came forward and described his method of increasing stock. In
the fall his plan is to divide his swarms so as nearly as possible
to have them composed of one quart of bees. In taking these
from the cellar early in the spring, he places the combs with the
bees on one side of the hive, and suspends a sack of honey in the
opposite side of the same, which the bees work on, and as fast
as the combs are occupied -with brood they are separated, and a
new empty comb placed between the first. In this way the lower
hive is soon filled with brood combs, which are removed, one at
a time, to the upper part of the hive. In this way the whole
hive may be filled 'with, say, eighteen cOmbs, which are mostly

brood and young bees. This he would manage to have occur about
the time that honey-gathering commenced in earnest. He then
gave an instance of what he did with one hive the past season
thus filled with brood. First taking out one comb, and placing
it in a nucleus hive between two other combs, he allowed the bees
to make as many queen cells as they chose, and just before these
were ready to hatch removed three of them, and attached them
to as many combs taken from the parent hive, and placed them
in as many nucleus hives, -with two more combs of brood taken
from the parent hive. As soon as the queen was hatched he re-
moved the three frames to a full-sized hive, and filled up 'with
empty frames of comb and combs of brood from the parent hive,
at the same time removing more queen cells from the first nucleixs
hive to the other nucleus hives, and treated as before. In this
way, at the end of the season ho had nineteen good strong swarms
of bees made from the one to start with. It was by this method
of increasing stocks that he intended to secure the large yield of
honey proposed.

Mrs. Tupper said she must yield the palm to Mr. Hosrner.
She aimed to increase brood as fast as possible, after removing
from the cellar in the spring, in order to be ready to divide as
early as the honey season commences — by last of May — she then
divides, so as to make two swarms one. Did not seek to divide
further, but aimed to prevent any after-swarming. When di'vid-
ing, places a queen cell, nearly ready to hatch, into each old hive.
This prevents any tendency to swarm; sometimes had made
later swarms by dividing.

Moon. — I aim to have my stocks as strong as possible early m
the season, then take one frame of brood and honey from a hive,
and place in an empty hive (if the stock is extra strong can take
two from a hive), and thus fill up the new hive. Go over the
apiary once in about three days in this way, as long as the honey
•eason lasts. Have thus increased a stock to the extent of nine
or ten colonies from one. Supply the new hives with a fertile
queen, or a queen cell just ready to hatch.

Several others gave their methods, which did not vary materi-
ally, but the above will give a fair idea as to what extent the
dividing may be carried on.

iMFORTg OF Pisa Apples. — The island of St. Michael, so
justly celebrated for its Oranges, is likely soon to be equally
famous for its Pine Apples. The production at present is not
large, but is annually increasing. " The Ocean " steamer
brought 150 last week, which realised at public auction from
lOi. to 30.-. each.

OUR LETTER BOS.

BooKJ (S. if. L.).— li youmean bee-keeping, onr "Bee-keepers' Mnnoal"
will suit X""- ^o" ••" i^"' i' '^66 '■y P"" " J"" enclose flT« postage stamps
with year address.

PocLTmr-PLDCKixo (B. P.).— Ton, as wsU as oar critical contemporary, aro
qoite wrong. The moment the koiie is passed through the root of the
fowl's month it enters the brain, and seasation ceases. The quirering the
A'«i» Tork Tribuna mentions is only the contracting ol the muscles, known
to professional men as the rigor morlM. Oor critical contemporary should
dire.t his lash against the sheep-and-call-kiiling butchers.

'WoLTiBHAiiPTo;i iSD BiHEOw SHOWS.— Mr. T. r. Anadell informs ua
that he won the eitra prize for Dark Brahmas at the Show first named, and
the first prize for Bult Cochins at Barrow. Wo published the prize Usts as
we reeeiTed them. At the latter Show Mr. G. Fletcher was second, and Mr.
G. Cartmel and Mr. J. 'W. Taylor highly commanded in the same class.

CHiLK POK Fowls (J. H.).— Do not mil chalk -irith the food. Hare a
miiture of the chalk a»d coal ashes in a heap, that the fowls can risit as
they like. Oyster shells calcined in the lire until they readily can bo pounded
are quite as good as chalk for the purpose. There is nothing in melt that is
superior to any other scraps of flesh for fowls.

Food vok Pocltht.— " 'Will ' Orsxin Shell' state the food which he
says 'you noTer mention,' but with which he has aucceeded in obtaining a
Tery eonsiderable number of eggs ? — Ikquirbb."

Eoa-EiTlna Hexs iF. E. S. and An Old Suiicrihtr).— There is no cure
but watching each hen on her nest and taking away the egg when hiid, or
haying the nesta made a> drawn and described in our ssteateenth TOlume,
page 427.

DiKK BBiHjiiS (£.).— Yon may safely set eggs laid during the moultinff
season but it is rery unusual for hens to lay at that time. After a pullet ha*
laid eighteen or twenty eggs yon may set the others. The cock you hare lost
doubtless died from stoppage arising from improper feeding. It is more than
probable that, having only hard food, the poor animal substituted hay for
green food, and that it formed a baU in the giizard. Such is almost always
a hopeless case. As soon as you had succeeded in softening the contents of
the crop you should haTO held the bird up by the legs, and by that means the
contents would hare been got rid of. Vie helieTe, if you have a post-mortem
eiamination, you -.rill find the inner part of the giziard full of dry hay or
grass preventing the passage or digestion of food. We have, since writing the
above, read your second letter. The piece of wire you enclose could not cause
death. We have known fowls live and do as well as any others with a large
pin passing literaUy through the gizzard, and having remamed lonj enough
therein to have been considerably eaten away, and to have formed itself a bed
in the flosh. The smaU piece of wire would have passed away m the ordinary
way, and without effort.

Fowls roE a Farm (J. 3/.).— If von ivish to sell very high-class poultrr
you must keep Dorkings, and tor a farm we beUeve no fowl is more prohtable.

154

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ February 13, 1873.

Erahmas are the next best, and tbore is uo doubt they are much hardier in
gome climates than Dorkings are. "We are much opposed to any cross where
prolit is the object of poultry-keeping, as birds produced by them are unsale-
able alive. The others, Iloudans, Creve-Cteurs, Ac, are uon-sitters, and
necessitate the employmout of other breeds. Hambui-^hs' eggs are too small,
and the same fault may • e found with the birds.

PcLLETs DisoRDEKED (G. H.I.— Alteryour feeding. Potatoes arebadfood,
oyster shells are worse. Fowls dislike oats. Throw two or three barrowloads
of bricklayers' rubbish in a heap in the middle of their run. Let them scratch
it about, they will Jlnd shells for their eggs. Give them daily some sods of
growing grat-s cut with plenty of fresh earth; they will tear it to pieces and
eat the whole of it. Let ihem have slaked oatmeal in the morning and even-
ing, with Indian corn or house and table scraps at midday. They will soou
do well, and lay plenty of good hard-shelled eggs.

Commencing^ Poultry-keeping (CVj. il/o.).— We advise you to keep Dark
Brahmas, as they do better in coniiuement than any other breed. On the
space you mention ynu may keep a cock and twelve hens well. If any part of
it is grass, so much" the batter; if it is not, we advise you to lay it down at
least half. In the other half let them have bricklayers' rubbish and road grit.
Put them in heaps, as it amuses them to scratch them down. You may also
advantageously plant a few artichokes. They afford both shelter and food in
hot weather. You will requii-o a separate sitting-house. The roostiug-house
may be opeu all day, but the sittiug-house must be shut. When you hatch
chickens you mustput the hen under her rip among the currant bushes and
the rhubarb. They will do good rather than harm. Place yom- buildings
against the north wall ; that will give you a southern aspect. Wooden houses
will afford all the shelter and security you require. The roosting-house may
bo 6 feet deep, 8 long, 8 high ; the dour at one end, and the perches at the
other. A sitting-house the same height, but 6 feet loug and 4 deep, will be
enough* Both must have earthen doors, and must bo provided with windows,
filled with perforated zinc for the summer, but provided with thutters for the
winter. The roof should be slate or tile, and if it affords ventilation just
under the eaves, bo much the better. These wooden erections, if they are
kept covered with gas tar, last many years, and they are every way more
deshrable than more durable and permanent buildings. We believe we have
answered all yom- questions ; if wc have not, we shall be happy to do so. For
many minor details wo must refer you to Baily's book on fowls, where the
subject is fully treated-

White Silkies ( C^rsar). — Silkies should have white hair instead of feather-
The cock has two feathers that may be called sickles, but they are a compound
of the silky hair and a straight common feather. The comb should be double,
flattened, and blue. The face should have a bright metallic blue; the skin
and bones dark blue. They should be hve-clawed and have dark legs. Many
have a little hair on the legs, but there should be nothing like a feather. It
would be a disqualification.

HoME-KEEPiNO Fq-wls {St. Edmunds). — The only fowls that will not fly
are Cochins and Brahmas. The Houdans are able birds, and do everything
well except sit, but thoy are sad ramblers. We do not like fowls with thek
wings cut. As you must suit your fowl to your place yom- choice is restricted ;
you must act accordingly. You have Buff and White Cochins, Dark and
Light Brahmas. Wo think the latter very handsome, and we know their
qualities are equal to the Dark. If you make up your mind to cut the wmga
you may choose any breed you like. We rather recommend you to see the
birds than to buy from some of the imaginative pictures.

Brahma. Cock Dyino UNACCOrNTABLY {Our Journal). — We can only
imagine your bird picked up eomethiug poisonous. At his age there could
be no leg-weakuess, and the squatting would be caused by the beginning of
the attack, which ultimately killed him. Cocks die from apoplexy, especially
at this time of year. It may have been so in this case, but it is geuerally at-
tended by a symptom you -could not fail to have remarked — viz., a dark blue
shade on the face aud comb. Nothing but poison or an internal injury could
have killed the bird in so short time.

German Paste {F. roit-filey).— Nearly every kind of soft food nowia paste,
and there are so many kinds of paste, one is puzzled to say which is the
genuine article. I can give a receipt for a very easily prepared and invaluable
Lark food, supplied with which they will need no other. The articles re-
quired ore 1 lb. of peameal, a quarter of a pound each of lord and moist
sugar, and one egg. The peameal is best prepared by grinding split peas in a
coffee-mill. The ordinary meal as supphed by flour-dealers is too fine ; be-
sides, if you grind your own peas you know what the product of your labour
is, which is more than you can say for many manufactured articles in these
degenerate days, when rascaUty is at a premium. Rub the meal and the
xord well together, and then add the sugar. The mixture will at this stage be
still crumbly, and of such a consistency as to be easily rubbed through the
hand, but on adding the egg, which muit be well beaten, it will turn to some-
thing like soft soap, and you will think it will never become dry again. My
original receipt did not include the egg, hut it was recommended to me on so
good an authority that I U93d it with the last lot of '* paste " I made, and
fearing I had spoiled it, I added as much ordinary peameal as served to dry-
up the Bticky mixture. Then bake the savoury dish, stirring it occasionally
to prevent its becoming lumpy. Stow it away in au earthen jar, and it will
keep good for auy length of time. As a food for Skylarks it has no superior.

CANARY-GoLDriNCH MuLES ( Wem).— There is no sort of Canary which'
from any properties native to that sort, will produce what you call the best
Goldfinch Mules. The fact is simply this— the offspring of the Goldfinch aud
Canary is, as a rule, a dark self-coioured bird; but it having been observed
that here and there a Canary hen showed a tendency to throw Mules more or
less pied, such hens have been taken care of, and by judicious pairiug with
cocks known to be of a strain from which pied Mules have not tmfrequently
sprung, something like a breed which can be depended on for throwing pied
birds has been manufactured. This is a work of years to those interested in
the production of these hybrids, aud when any Mule-breeder becomes pos-
sessed of a rehahle strain, he values them accordingly. There is no one sort
of Canary to select, but as nearly every first-class Mule-breeding hen within
my knowledge ii pink-eyed, it seems to indicate that the Cinnamon is the
most likely variety to produce curious hybrids. — W. A. Blakston.

Nmc VOMICA FOR Canary's Asthma (Spo().—"Fringii,la CANARiA"Bays
one drop in the water-tin each morning.

Moving Stock into Greenhoi'se (7. M.). — It would be very injudicioui
to remove yom- bees at all, and particularly into a grreenhouse, which is
usually a most uusuitable place for a hive. If you desire an early swarm
give them a small quantity of food twice a-week during March and Aprli*
■which will promote breeding. >

Hive Overturned {Ignoramus). — You cannot do anything to your hive
now, as probably the bees have secured the combs to each other aud to the
floorboard. If they are li^i-ng, and take down food readily during genial
weather, you may, we think, hope for a swarm iu due time. We should
advise your substituting boiled sugar for the barieysugar during March and
April, feeding from the top by the bottle system so often described iu our
pages. Give 2 or 3 oza. twice a-week, which will promote early and increased
breeding.

Evans on the Bee { W. I.) — We know nothing about the poem.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION?,

Camden Squabb, London.

Lat. 51° 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0° 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

D i T y.

A.U.

In the Dai.

i&S

a^

..

Shade Tem-

Hadia

tion

.3

1873.

ilygrome-
ter.

perature.

Temperature

Feb.

1

In

On

Dry.

Wet.

Q°

Max.l Min.

Bun.

grasB

Inches.

del?

cleg.

deg.

de{?.

deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

We. 5

Sl.S

31.3

Calm

36.6

35 G

30.5

46.0

3u.5

Th. G

S1.7

80.9

N.

36 3

37.5

26.2

46.8

26.4

—

Fri. 7

iss.i

34.4

N.E.

36.6

41.2

30.8

72.2

30.3

—

Sat. B

35.1

33.1

N.E.

36.4

365

34.1

S8.1

33.0

—

Sun. [1

34.5

82.5

N.E.

S6.7

35.9

C3.4

41.5

Si.i

.01*

Mo. lu

34.5

32.

N.

36.4

42 1

31.9

64.1

28.6

.am

Tq. n

ao.S87

SJ.2

31.2

N.

S6.5

37.0

30.2
31.0

76.1

28.5

.010

Means

39.181)

S3.6

S2.3

36.5

88.1

65.0

29.9

.068

REMARKS.
5th. — Neither thawing nor freezing, but very dark all day ; very foggy tho

after-part of the day aud all night.
6th. — Still foggy, but not near so bad as last night ; veiy gradual thaw, but

scarce any sun ; cloudy at night.
7th. — Very clear bright morning, aud fine all day, at some parts very strong

Bunshiue.
8th. — Bark morning; fair, but not a bright day; snow not yet gone; wind

rather high at night.
9th. — Sleet early, snow just before noon, and occasional sleet all day.
lUth. — Bright in early morning; snow between 9 aud IU, fair soon after;
snow at intervals all day; ground quite white at night with a splen-
did coating of snow crystals, some of the liuer varieties being abun-
dant.
11th. — Beep snow during the night; alternate sunshine and snow showers,
ground white at night.
Temjierature very unifurm, aud much the same as last week. Snow and
sleet more or loss daily, and very gradual thaw. — G. J. SviiONS.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET. -Feeruakt 12.
No alteration here worth notice. Prices and supply remain the same.

Apples i sieve S 0 to 5

Apricots doz. 0 0 0

Cuerries per lb. 0

Chestnuts bushel 12

Currants j sieve U

Black do. 0

Figs doz . 0

FUuerts lb. 1

Cobs lb, X

Gooseberries quart 0

Grapes, hothouse lb. 4

Lemons ^100 6

Melons each 1

8. d. B. d

Mulberrlps ¥^lb, 0 OtoU 0

0
0
0
0
0
0
6
0
0
0 10

U I Nectarin*6 doz. 0 0

0 0

10 0

0 0

S 0

2 0

0 0

10 0

0

0

Oranges ^ Hi\) 4 0

Peaches doz. 0 0

Pears, kitchen doz. I 0

dessert, doz. 8 0 12 0

PineApplffl lb. 6 0 8 tt

Plums isieve U 0 0 0

Quinces doz. 0 0 0 0

Kaspberries lb. 0 0 0 0

Strawberries t*lb. 0 0 0 0

Walnuts bushel 15 0 80 U

ditto ^lUO 2 0 a 1>

VEGETABLES.

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus. %*-100

Beans, liidney #-100

liroad bushel

Beet, Red doz.

BroucuU bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums %+HJO

Ca.rrot3 bunch

Cauliflower doz.

Celery bv;udle

Coieworts.. doz. buuchea
Cucumbers each

pickimg doz.

Endive doz.

Kennel bunch

Garlio lb.

Herbs bunch

Horseradish bundle

Leeks bunch

Luttuoo doz

B. d. e. d.
S 0to6 0
0 10

Mushrooms pottle

Mustard & Cress. .punuet
Ouious ^ bushel

pickling quart

Parsley per doz, bunches

Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Round do.

Radishes., doz. bunches

Rhubarb bundle

Salsafy ^i^ bundle

Savoys doz.

Scorzonera.... %► buudle

Sea-kale basket

ShaUots lb.

Spinach bushel

Tomatoes doz.

Turnips bnucb

Vegetable Marrows., doz.

1

OtoS!

0

0

2

0

0

a

(1

4

u

0

6

U

!►

2

0

3

i>

0

9

1

0

II

0

0

0

4

0

7

II

0

0

0

u

0

II

II

0

0

1

0

0

2

u

n

1

0

n

2

l>

0

1

0

0

2

u

»

n

u

«

t,

0

II

•A

u

n

8

n

II

0

0

0

0

POULTET MAEKET.— Febroakt 12.
The BOiiply is small, but the trade is wretchedly bad. 11 there were an
arorajjc Bupply the pricss could not be maintained.

B. d. s. d.

Large Fowls 4 0 to 4 6

SmallcrOitto 3 6 4 0

Chickens 2 6 3 0

Goose 7 0 7 6

Guinea Fowls SO 8 6

Ducks 3 0 3 0

s. d. s. d.

Pheasants 0 0 to 0 0

Partiiages 0 0 0 0

Harea 0 0 0 0

Rabbits 15 16

Wiklditto 0 0 0 10

Pigeons 10 12

Fehnmij 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICOLTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

153

WEEKLY

CALENDAR.

Day

of
Month

Day

Arerage Tempera- ' Rain in

Sun

Sun

Moon

Moon

Moon's

Clock

before

Sun.

Day

ol

Year.

Week.

FEBBUAET 20—26, 1873.

ture near London. ,43 yeara.

Rises.

Sots.

Kises.

Sets.

Age.

Day.

Night.

Mean.

Days.

m. h.

m. b.

m. h.

m. h.

Days.

m. s.

20

Th

i5.5

30.7

38.1

20

6»f7

22af5

24 1

58 9

(

13 56

51

21

F

46.7

S2.3

39.5

20

4 7

24 5

43 2

28 10

24

13 49

62

22

S

46.8

31.9

39.3

19

2 7

26 S

0 4

11 11

25

13 41

53

23

Sum

47.4

31.5

39.4

14

0 7

23 5

8 5

after.

26

18 32

54

21

M

St. Matthias.

47.1

32.8

39.9

20

68 6

29 5

2 6

29 1

27

13 23

55

25

Td

Shrove Tuesday.
Ash Wednesday.

47.7

S2.7

40.2

22

55 6

31 5

42 6

59 2

28

13 14

66

26

w

47.2

33.6

40.4

23

53 6

33 6

11 7

32 i

29

13 4

67

From observatlona taken near London darins? forty-three yeara, the aTerage day temperature of the week is 4Q.9^ ; and its night temperaiore |

82.2'. The greatest heat was 62', on the 25th, 186S ; and the lowest cold 10', on the 2l3t, 1855. The greatest fall of rain was 0.92 inch.

1

FERNS AND FEEN-CULTURE.

T all season.^; of the year we admire the grace
and elegance of our hardy and exotic Ferns.
There are vei-y few gardens in which they
do not find a place, and where their culture
is not attempted with more or less succeBS.
Year by year they are increasingly cultivated,
and, as a consequence, continued efforts are
made to obtain new species and new forms
to supply the demand. Some exceedingly
handsome species have been introduced
within the last few years, and many elegant and hand-
some forms of the old species have been selected.

Perhaps the most graceful, or at least the most useful,
of all Ferns is the Adiantum cuneatum. It is veiy easily
cultivated, the mature fronds keep well after they are
cut, and there is none more useful for buttonhole flowers,
bouquets, or to mix with cut flowers for any decorative
purpose — indeed, seldom is any other species used for the
best bouquets in Covent Garden ; but the mature fronds
ought only to be used, as young fronds very quickly
shrivel. The true British Maiden-hair is much like
A. cuneatum, but it has larger pinnules, and does not
gi-ow so freely ; it requires similar treatment to A. cunea-
tum when under cultivation, and is most at home in a
cool stove. Sevei-al distinct forms of this have been
raised; E.J. Lowe, Esq., of Nottingham, has two; the
best is A. Capillus-Veneris admirabile, of which the fronds
are more wavy and graceful than in the original. A. Ca-
pillus-Veneris daphnites is a more dwarf form of the
species, and the fronds have larger pinmiles. A. Capillus-
Veneris magiiificum and undulatum are also very desir-
able, and should be in all large collections.

Of the recently-introduced exotic species of Adiantum
some have the young fronds tinged of a deep red colour.
A small-growing very neat species is A. tinctum, but it
is not of free growth. A. Veitchianum has fronds of the
deepest red, and is very free. Adiantum asarifolium is
a very novel species with simple orbicular fronds, when
full grown about 3 inches across. It should be grown for
its distinct character. A. concinnum latum is a charm-
ing form of the species ; the fronds are more erect in
growth. A. farleyense is the most magnificent of all,
but as it does not produce fertile fronds it is yet scarce ;
it can only be increased by division. It is not so easily
grown as most of the other species, and requires rather
different treatment. Most of the Adiantums thrive with
a fair supply of air, and should get a little sunshine ;
while A. farleyense is much affected by draughts, and the
■fi-agile delicate pinnules are injured by sunshine.

The potting material for Adiantums should be about
equal parts of tough fibrous peat and turfy loam ; a little
silver sand and a few pieces of charcoal should be added to
keep the whole porous. The repotting of Ferns should be
done with care ; if the ball has become matted with roots
prick amongst them with a pointed stick until they are
loosened out, but do not break the ball of earth. Some
of the old spent mould may be removed from the surface.

No. 621.— Vol. XXrV., New Seeibs.

The pots to be used should be clean, and they should be
one or two sizes larger, according to the vigour and
species to be potted. One large potsherd should be
placed at the bottom of the pot, and the smaller pieces,
which should be quite free from dirt, placed over it
in a careful manner. The compost should be packed
round the ball rather firmly, but not quite so firmly as
is done with hardwooded stove or gi-eenhouse plants.
Do not water the plants immediately after they are re-
potted ; this is a matter I have continually kept before
the readers of this Journal in all niy articles on pot-
culture. Experienced cultivators of pot-idants do not
require to be told about it ; but I have seen expensive
plants taken to the potting-shed, shifted into another
pot, and watered on the band-baiTow before being re-
moved to the stove or gi-eenhouse — such is barbarous
treatment, and highly injurious to delicate plants. Fre-
quently I do not water plants for a week or ten days
after they are repotted (when the operation is performed
early in the season), and by that time fresh rootlets are
formed, and ready to take up the water when it reaches
them. The same treatment apphes to aU classes of pot-
plants.

Davalha is a useful genus of Ferns, and nearly all of
them are adapted for small houses. Some very distinct
and notable additions have been made during the last
and previous years. D. Mooreana is a noble and very
handsome species, its broad arching fronds are between
•2 and 3 feet in length. It is a stove Fern, having been
introduced to this country from Borneo. D. parvula is
one of the smallest of the species, the fronds are only a
few inches high, but are finely divided and very neat.
D. Tyermanii, or Humata Tyennanii, was brought into
notice last year ; this is very distinct, and similar in size
to the last. It is well adapted for basket-work, and was
introduced from the west coast of Africa.

The Gold and Silver Gymnogrammas should be gro'^\ii
in all plant stoves, but they ought to be placed iu a
part of the house where they are out of the reach of the
syringe, as watering them overhead sadly disfigures them.
G. Laucheana makes a very neat medium-sized specimen,
and the gold powder underneath the fronds is of the
deepest yellow. A major form of this has been exhibited,
and the fronds have the same rich colour. G. ciysophylla
is also a very desirable species, slightly powdered on the
upper surface and golden yellow underneath. Of the
Silverj' species, G. tartarea and G. argj'rophylla peruviana
are the best. A very elegant .species was exhibited by the
Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, very recently. It seemed to
be a hybrid between the Gold and Silver species ; the
fronds are finely divided, and have a very graceful ap-
pearance ; it is named G. decomposita.

The Lomarias are an easily-cultivated class, and some of
the species are very pretty. Lomaria gibba is very easily
pi'oduced from spores, and in a small state it is vei-y
pretty as a table plant. L. gibba crispa is a small-growing
form, which is also pretty in small plants, but it does
not make a handsome specimen. L. gibba BeUu is weU-
deserving of notice, as it makes a handsome specimen,

No. 1S73.— Vol. XLK , Old Sebibs.

156

JOCBNAL OP HOBTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Febrnary 20, 187S.

and very seldom produces fertile fronds. The fronds are
similar to those of the species, except that the ends are singu-
larly tasselled.

It would fill many pages to describe half what ought to be
grown in collections, and would occupy too much space. A
few more remarks on culture may be added. Except Maiden-
hairs, most stove Ferus thrive in turfy peat, with a rerj' little
loam added to it, and when the pots are well filled with roots, a
good supply of water is required. Too much water before the
pots are tolerably well filled with roots, and overpotting, will
cause the soil in the pots to become sour, after whiclr the
plant will not thrive. During winter a high night temperature
is not desirable, 55' will be quite sufiicieut ; nor should they be
syringed overhead at this season, although the atmosphere
should be pretty well charged with moisture derived from
water scattered about the floors and stages. If the weather is
fine, after the first week of March the plants may be syringed
overhead (always excepting the Gymnogrammas, which are
disfigured by the syringe being used upon them), and as young
fronds will now freely be produced with increased warmth,
the house will require to be shaded during hot weather. Ven-
tilation requires, perhaps, more attention during this than any
other month of tlie year. Unless great care be taken vegeta-
tion suffers from the drying winds which we have, often ac-
companied by frost. Admit very little air at such a time, as it
will be better to shade to keep down the temperature.

Ferns are subject to be attacked by various insect enemies.
Where bug is plentiful it gets upon the fronds of some of the
species, and can seldom be dislodged without injury to the
plant. Others are attacked by thrips, which can be destroyed
by two or three applications of tobacco smoke. Green fly will
also attack the young fronds of Lomarias and cheek their
growth. These may be destroyed by the same means. — •
J. Douglas.

SUPPOETS FOE HYACINTHS
IN GLASSES.
Having often been troubled to find
a really good and efficient support for
Hyacinths in glasses, I have this year
had some made on a plan of my own,
and they have answered thoroughly
in all respects. They have the addi-
tional advantages of being simple
and easily made by any ordinary car-
penter, and are also light in appear-
ance. I have a circular flat piece of
wood about 4 inches in diameter for
the glass to stand on ; into this is
inserted a piece of iron wire, which is
carried upright until about 4 inches
above the top of the glass, and is
then bent round and round like a
corkscrew, each circle being about
3 inches in diameter. Your readers
will perhaps better understand what
I mean by the accompanying rough
sketch.— E. C, Oakham.

EOYAL HOETICULTURAL SOCIETY.

ADJOURNED GENERAL MEETING.

February 18th.

The adjourned Meeting of the Fellows of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society was held ou Tuesday afternoon in the Council-
room, South Kensington, W. Wilson Saunders, Esq., F.R.S.,
in the chair. There was a very full attendance, the room being
filled to the doors ; aud the proceedings excited great inlerest,
amounting in several instances to evidences of strong feeliuf^s on
the part of the supporters aud opponents of the Council's policy
respectively.

The Chairman, in opening the proceedings, said he regretted
that the post of Chairman had devolved upon him, but, as he
was one of the Vice-Presidents of the Society, it became neces-
sary for him to accept the position that day, as Lord Henry
Lennox, 11. P., who presided at the Meeting that day week, had
written to say he had been summoned to the Court of Common
Pleas, in an action in which he was plaintiff, and that must be
his excuse for non-attendance at the Meeting. Now, the Meeting
had been summoned that day for the discussion — he would not
Bay of propositions — but of something which had been proposed
to the Council. The letter of the Commissioners of the Exhibi-
tion of 1851 had been read to the last Meeting, and everyone in

the Meeting probably had certain propositions in their possession
which he held in his hand. This letter* had never come other-
wise to the Commissioners except by report ; but as soon as that
letter ai)parently reached the ears of the Commissioners they had
a raeeting. He should now call tipon the Assistant Secretary to
read a very important letter dated 18th of February, 1873 (that
morning). A meeting of the Council was called that day at two
o'clock, and the letter placed in their hands, and the Fellows
x-ould well conceive that the Council had really no time to con-
sider the letter, which he would himself read to the Meeting. It
was as follows ; —

" The attention of the Committee of Management has been called to a diaft
letter dated 12th Februai-y, 1873, which has been circtilated amongst the-
Fellows of the Royal Horticultural society, as the intended reply of the
Council to the Comiuissioners' letter of the Sth of Februaij. They under-
stand this letter contains the alterations of the conditions the Council ar©
prepared to recommend to the Fellows for acceptance, as terms of agreement
between the Eoyal Horticultural t:ociety aud Her Majesty's Commissioners.
"While the Committee of Management are desirous of coming to an amicable
arrangement between theKoyal Horticultural society and the Commissioners,
by which the rights of both may be preserved, the Committee are not pre-
pared to recommend to the Commissioners the modifications which have been
proposed [cries of hear aud loud laughter]. The Council may, therefore, Ihink
it unnecessary to submit these modified proposals for the acceptance of the
Fellows to-day [renewed laughter]. AVhile reverting to the subsisting agree-
ment, the Committee of Management express their desire to co-operate with
the Council in effecting arrangements which will xJromote the convenience
aud comfort of the public who may visit the Horticultural Gardens and the
Eihibition. " I have the honour, Ac,

(Signed) " T. A. "Wkight, Secretary to the Executive."

Now, gentlemen, contiuued the Chairman, you will see that
we are by this letter entirely thrown back upon our agreement,
and that is really our position. There is nothing before the
Meeting as regartls the docttmeut which has been sent to you,
or any previous document [laughter and ironical cheers].

Several Fellows rose to points of order, a good deal of con-
fusion being the consequence.

The Chairman. — One at a time, gentlemen, if you please. If
I am out of order I will sit down promptly, but if I am in order
you will allow me to state that the Council thought it necessary
for me to read —

Several Fellows. — We have not heard a word of the letter
[hear, hear].

The Chairman. — Well, I will ask Mr. Richards, the Assistant
Secretary, to read it to you [hear, hear.]

A Member. — What is the date of the letter?

Mr. Richards. — To-day.

The Chairman. — If you have not all heard the letter I will
have it read to you again, but I assure yoir I did the best I
could with my poor voice [hear, hear].

A Fellow. — Who are the Committee of Management? I
thought we had only to deal with Her Majesty's Commissioners.

The Chairman. — They are the Committee of Management of
Her Majesty's Commissioners [hear and a laugh].

Another Fellow. — We do not recognise them. Who is the
letter signed by ?

* The letter referred to is as follows : —

" Hoyal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, Feb. 12th, 1873.

"Sir, — The Council of the Boyal Horticultural Society having bad under
their consideration the letter of Her Majesty's Commissioners of the Sth inst.,
are prepared to recommend to their Fellows the acceptance of the terms for
an agreement, as herein set forth.

" 1. The Society to admit to the Gardens, conservatory, and arcades, and te
the flower shows at Kensington, all the visitors to the Exhibition, excepting
on Sundays.

" 2. The Fellows of the Society to be entitled to one non-transferable ticket
of admission to the Exhibition and Gardens for each guinea t bat they pay to the
Society. Life Fellows now on the books to have corresponding pri\-ileges.
Debenture holders to have one season ticket for the Exhibition for each de-
benture.

"3. The annual subscription to the Society and for Exhibition season tickets
to be the same, and only to be altered by mutual consent.

" 1. The receipts from the Exhibition and Gardens on every Wednesday
during the Exhibition to bo equally divided between the Commissioners and
the >ociety. On the other days of "the week the receipts from the Exhibition
and Gardens to be the property of the Commissioners.

'* 5. The Society to have the use of the north-east and north-west entrances
on Sundays and during the period when the Exhibitions are not open.

" G. When the Society receives in any one year a sum in excess of £8000 for
yearly paying Fellows' Tickets, they shall pay to the Commissioners one-half
of such excess, and the Commissioners to pay to the Society one-half of their
total receipts for season tickets, so long as the total amount received by the
Commissioners on account of Exhibition season tickets does not exceed i'4000.

" 7. The Commissioners to pay to the Society annually the sum of £4400.

" 8. Of this sum £'2000 is to be appropriated to the formation of an ac-
cumulating redemption fund, for the extinction of the dobontuio debt, and
the remainder towards the payment to the Commissioners of the rental re-
served to them under the lease to the >ociety.

" 9. In settling the annual accounts of the Society, the Society shall not be
choTRcd with the onc-tifteenth part of the existing life compositions.

" itt, Xo more life members to bo accepted during the continuance of this
agreement with Her Majesty's Commissioners.

" 11. These an-augcments to be tor the whole term of the Society s lease,
unless the Exhibitions cease.

" I have the honoui- to be, Sir, your obedient servant,
" James Richards,

" Ma,ioi>-Gen. H. Y. D. Scott, C.B. " Assistant-Secretary."

" Secretary to Her Majesty's CommiBBionerB."

Febrnary 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

157

Sir Alfred Sl.U)E. — It is not signed by General Soott.

Mr. Shirley Hibbekd. — Tlien it has no official value for us
here to-day [cheers].

Mr. A. F. Godson. — The only person who can sign the com-
munication is General Scott, and I simply ask is that the con-
dition in which the document is — is it, in point of fact, not signed
by General Scott ?

Sir A. Slade. — The iirst communication was signed by General
Scott.

Mr. WoosTER wished to know whether any persons other
than Fellows were present.

The Chaibmam said he h:id not taken a survey of the Meeting,
and hence was perfectly unprepared to answer the question, but
he did not think that any person unconnected with the Society
would take part in the Meeting.

Mr. A. F. Godson. — Any person who is not a Fellow, and votes
upon any money question, may be prosecuted for fraud [loud
laughter].

The Chalrman. — The question is asked whether any person's
not Fellows are present. I will make the request that any who
are not F^ellows will withdraw from the Meetiug [hear, hear].

A Gentleman asked if that was required of tiiose who held
extra tickets from Fellows ? He had no intention of voting or
exposing himself to the heavy penalties with which they were
threatened [laughter] . He had always avaUed himself of the
two-guinea transferable ticket, but if that hospitality was with-
di-awn he should retire [hear and laughter].

The Chairman. — Then I do request that if tliere is any voting,
only those will vote who have the power to give a vote [ap-
plause].

A Fellow — Let only those who have paid their subscriptions
vote [oh! interruption, and question]. It is a very j^ertinent
question that only those who have the right to vote should do
£0 [hear and cheers].

The Chairman.— There is nothing before the Meeting, and I
should be obliged if you will allow it to proceed [interruption].

A Fellow remarked that they were all ready and wilhng to
pay their subscriptions, but they should like to know what
terms they were going to have ? [loud cries of hear].

General Scott said it appeared to him that the mere question
at present before the Meeting was as to the letter read to them
being signed by Mr. "Wright. It seemed to be supposed that
there was some hidden mystery about this ; but perhaps the
Meeting would allow him to inform them that he had been
present at a meeting held that day of the Committee duly
authorised by Her Majesty's Commissioners within certain
limits to recommend, or not to recommend, the result of the
negotiations conducted with the Council of the Society. It was
stated in the letter that the Committee of Management would
not be prepared to recommend to Her Majesty's Commissioners
the terms named in the letter of the Council of the Royal Hor-
ticultural Society. He (General Scott) had not the slightest
objection whatever, if it were necessary, to have Mr. Wright's
name scratched out, and his own name substituted. Perhaps
after that explanation the Meeting would not think that neces-
sary [a laugh] . He must take the liberty of speaking of another
matter, even although he were out of order in doing so [oh,
oh]. A gentleman stated he (General Scott) was Secretary to
the Royal Commissioners

Mr. A. F. Godson. — And to the Royal Horticultural Society
also [cheers].

General Scott. — 'Well, the meaning is the same. I am the
Secretary to the Commissioners, and also to the Royal Horti-
cultural Society, and if I am acting in these two capacities it is
your own fault [loud cries of oh, and interruption], and I now
place my resignation in your hands [cries of oh, and uproar].
If you think it for the benefit of the Society I will resign [cheers
and cries of no].

A Fellow. — "What is the motion before the chair ?

The CU.URMAN. — There is no motion before the chair at all.
The letter, as far as I can read it, and I cannot understand it in
any other way, is to the effect that Her Majesty's Commissioners
will not assent to the propositions on the paper before you, and,
therefore, they say, that reverting to the subsisting agreements
between the Society and the Committee of Management, they are
desirous of co-operatiug witli the Council in effecting arrange-
ments which will promote the convenience and comfort of the
public who may visit the Horticultural Gardens and the Exhi-
bition.

A Fellow.— 'What does that mean ? [Cheers].

The Chairman. — "We do not know what it means [loud laugh-
ter, and cries of oh].

The Fellow. — What course does the Council propose to
adopt ?

The Chairman. — I can only give my own private opinion.
The Council have met and received this document, and if you
ask what it is — it is this, that we as the Council or you as the
Fellows of the Society have a right to determine under the old
arrangements made from time to time that you have a right to
the conservatory [hear] , and to the arcades [hear J , and to stop

if you please any one coming out of the Exhibition into your
gardens [loud cheers]. All this you have a right to do, but I
do not mean to say whether it is poUtic or not for you to do so.
I am only expressing my own private opinion. You have a
right to make such arrangements as to admit into the Gardens
from the Exhibition anybody or nobody [cheers].

Sir A. Slade said he believed they were assembled that day
to resume the discussion on the motion for the adoption of the
Report of the Council for the past year.

The Chairman. — Certainlj', that is the question.

A Fellow. — That Report has been withdrawn by the Chair-
man.

Sir A. Slade. — I beg your pardon, the fact is quite different.
The Chairman had informed him that he was right in assuming
that they had met to resume the question whether the Report
of the Council be received or not. Now, he (Sir A. Slade), pro-
posed to offer a few remarks to the Meeting to show why it was
that this Report should not be received and adopted by the
Meeting. In the Report there was this special paragraph, " The
Council, looking to the position of matters and the necessity of
•circumstances, are satisfied that their policy in this respect was
wise and ought to be persisted in." He maintained that their
policy was not wise and ought not to he persisted in [cheers and
no] . What was their poUcy of last year ? It was to allow a
great many of the Exhibition people into our gardens, thus
sacrificing our rights and privileges [loud cheers]. The only
possible excuse for it could be a financial success ; but what
was the result of last year's finance ? It was dinned into our
ears that we were able in 1862 and 1871 to pay our rent, but
they did not tell us what we were able to do in 1872 — also an
Exhibition year [cries of hear, hear]. He had looked into the
accounts and the result was, that at the end of 1872 instead of
being enabled after the sacrifice of their privacy and comfort to
pay their rent — £2400 — which was the extreme amount of rent
they could have ever to pay, because they were not hable for it
unless they made it — they only had a balance of under i'200.
And what did the Council do ? They paid the Exhibition
Commissioners ±'1200 of our money, i'900 of which ought to
have remained in our hands. He hoped he was wrong, but that
fact of itself called for a Committee of Investigation into the
accounts [hear and cheers]. That was the result of their policy
of last year, and they stated they were going to persist in it.
They had then a proposal of the Exhibition Commissioners to
the Council, in which they asked the latter what answer they
were going to make so that they might join the poHcy they
were going to persist in. What was it they had in the letter ?
What did the Council say? They earnestly entreated the
attendance of the Fellows to support them in that policy
whieh had been so disastrous to the Society and its Fellows.
They were told that if these arrangements were carried out
they would result in a balance of i'5400 in favour of the Council.
He should not go into these facts because his honourable friend
Mr. Hardcastle was prepared to follow him, and show that they
would lose many thousands — that they would have enormous
losses by giving away i'30,000, J;40,000, or i'50,000 worth of tickets
to the Exhibition Commissioners [cheers]. Gen. Scott told them
that as honest men they ought to pay their rent, and that they
could not pay it unless they made some such arrangements as
these with the Commissioners. That was a very taking phrase,
but it had no foundation [applause]. They ought to carry out
their arrangements but no more. Honest men carried out their
agreements willingly, but dishonest men were forced to do it
[hear]. In the Royal Charter, § 135, he found it stated that the
disposal of the receipts of the Gardens wits to be made in the
following way : First, that the whole of the expenses of the
Gardens were to be charged to the receipts ; and secondly, the
interest on the debentures ; and thirdly, the sum of £2400 to
the Commissioners as rent '* if the receipts should be adequate
for such payment [loud cheers] after retaining for the said
Society the sums authorised for the expenses and interest ; but
otherwise such a sum only as shall be equal from year to year
to the residue of the receipts after the sums in precedence."
So that the Society were only called upon as " honest men " to
pay what they had left after defraying their expenses. What,
then, did General Scott and the Council mean by saying that as
"honest men" they ought to do this, that, and the othet?
[cheers]. They were told that if they did not pay their rent
in five years they could be turned out of the Gardens. That
was not so if they paid in any five years £2400, which, he be-
lieved, they could do by means of their own finances if it were
left to the management of the Council, and that the latter were
independent of the Commissioners [loiul cheers]. But the
extraordinary fact was that the President and Secretary of the
Council were also members of the Exhibition Commission.
The Duke of Buccleuch was the head of the Royal Commis-
sion, and General Scott was the principal secretary [bear, hear],
and he was told there were two other Commissioners on the
Council board. He had shown the Meeting quite enough to
convince them that the Council of the Society was not inde-
pendent of the Exloibition Commissioners, and that the Society

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t February 20, 1873.

had not fair play [loud cheers]. Now, let them discuss the
policy which the Council said they were determiued to carry
out, and it was for the Meeting to Bay if that was the policy
they wished their Council to persist in. It was quite evident
the Commissioners wanted something very hadly from the
Society. The Exhibition was practically in two halves — one on
this side, and the other at Prince's Gate. He believed that
without the sanction of the Society not one person could pass
through their property, and he had no doubt it would be a very
serious thing for the Exhibition Commissioners if they had to
pay a very handsome sum to the Society [great laughter]. If
he had the bargain to strike he should make them pay smartly
[renewed laughter]. But what did the Couucil say? They
wanted absolutely to pass all the Exhibition visitors over the
Gardens without any payment whatever [no, no, from the
Council]. Well, without any payment for that particular pri-
vilege [cheers]. The Couucil said "no, no," but he referred
now to the financial scheme in the Report, and the first clause
stated that the Society was to admit to the Gardens all visitors,
except on Sundays; and the second clause gave this quid pro
quOy that the Fellows were to be entitled to one non-transferable
ticket for the Gardens for each guinea — that was, they were to
give up the privilege of introducing, as four-gniuea Fellows,
every day six persons, for the magnificent present of four non-
transferable tickets for the annual bazaar [laughter and cheers].
That was not the policy he wished to see followed [cheers].
The question amounti^d tothis — " Shall we admit the Exhibition
visitors to our Gardens, and if we do, what shall they pay?"
Of course, there was a further qiiestiou — " Shall we refuse it
altogether, and cut ourselves adrift from the Commissioners,
and stand by ourselves on our own account?" Mr. Hardcastle
would show theni that when they did so they would have* a large
surplus. Last year they made i£1800 out of the Birmingham
Show, and that alone would form the foundation of a very re-
spectable sinking fund. In 1871 they paid their rent, and they
were perfectly safe until 1870 if they paid i^lGO in that year.

A Fellow. — You are bound to apply the surplus of the year.

Sir A. Slade. — Yes, but the lurplus only of the receipts of the
Gardens, not the surplus of Shows at Bath or elsewhere. He
could assure the Meeting he was perfectly up in his subject, and
that they would not find him astray [laughter]. He felt certain
that the majority of persons in that room were London Fellows,
and he asked them to look at the disastrous policy which the
Council asked them to persist in. The Gardens would be perfectly
ruined, and if they went into them to enjoy horticulture they
would find them filled with Exhibition visitors who came thera
to eat their sandwiches [hear and a laugh]. The charter stated
that the object of the Gardens was for the improvement of
horticulture, useful and ornamental, and the arcades were made
to keep the gardens from further encroachments. What pur-
pose did they serve now? Why, they were use! as exhibi-
tion stands, and refreshment buffets for Spiers &Pond [laughter
and hear, hear]. Concluding a speech which was frequently
applauded in its delivery. Sir A. Slade moved that the Report
of the Council, as it at present stands, cannot be received by the
Meeting, and that it be not adopted [loud cheers].

Mr. A. F. GonsoN rose to ask a question respecting the balance
sheets, two of which he held in his hands, which wei"e issued by
the same auditors and dated the same day. Both were sent
from the Horticultural Society to him, and one showed a differ-
ence in income from the other as between 1'13,G00 and i'15,300.
Which of these balance sheets were they discussing ?

A Fellow. — Are we dealing at all with the balance sheets ?

The Chairman. — No, sir, we are not.

Mr. Godson. — The balance sheet is in the Report.

Several Fellows. — None of us have received it [hear, hear].

A Member asked what was the precise object Sir A. Slade
had in view.

Sir C. Daubenv. — At the Meeting this day week, Lord Henry
Lennox said he should embody Sir A. Slade's resolutions in the
Report, and make them a part of it.

Sir A. Slade. — We are here, I take it, to consider the Report
of the Council. I did not press my resolutions last day, and
Lord Henry Lennox said he should not do anything until the
answer of the Council was given.

A Fellow. — Should we not simply waste our time by going
into the accounts ? I have not seen them.

Mr. Godson. — But I have [laughter].

A Fellow said he was of opinion that before the Annual
Meeting the accounts should be circulated amongst the Fellows,
so that they could discuss them and agree as to what should be
done. Although he was a Fellow of long standing, he had not
seen the Report or accounts [oh].

Mr. LiGGiNs thought there had been a great breach of faith
on the part of the Council [hear, and no] m some things. He
thought it the most monstrous thing that he had ever read —
that document which the Council asked them to support [cheers,
and no-]. He thought it a most disgraceful thing that the Royal
Horticultural Society should be ruled by General Scott, a double
Secretary, who sat at a Board which was ia direct antagonism

to the Council [oh, and interruption]. He thought it a great
piece of effrontery that the Council should recommend that
General Scott should hold that position [hear, no, and con-
fusion]. He thought it monstrous to have as their Secretary
the Secretary of an Exhibition which ought to have been wound
up long ago — which should have been utilised for the public
good instead of being kept as a huge bazaar to the great injury
of the tradesmen of the country [hear, and laughter]. The
Society ought not to place themselves in the hands of Com-
missioners like these. What did they actually see taking place ?
The noble soldiers of Great Britain whitewashing, under General
Scott, the ceilings of the Exhibition [cries of question, and
much uproar] . He had been invited there to discuss the Report,
and he had never had an opportunity of seeing it.

The Chairman. — According to one of the bye-laws, the printed
copy of the balance sheets may, seven days previous to the
Meeting, be given to any member applying for the same.

Mr. A. F. Godson. — Which is the balance sheet I am asked to
believe ?

General Scott in reply said there tvas a balance sheet as
between the Commissioners and the Society. His own opinion
was that the Society and the Commissioners were partners, and
for this reason — that after they paid their rental and debenture
debt, the profits were divided between the two [hear, hear].
One of these statements was drawn up in conformity with the
Charter to meet this case of partnership between the Com-
missioners and the Society; the other in conformity with a
request of the Fellows at a meeting a few years age, that the
accounts should be drawn up in such a way as that the Fellows
should see what the receipts were and were not. If anything
was to blame for having a double account, it was the same
disorder in carrying on such a meeting as the present which
led to that result [loud cries of order and no]. But it was the
case. This second statement had been drawn up in conformity
with a resolution passed by the general body of the Fellows.
And with reference to the flower shows not appearing in the
Commissioners' accounts, they ought not, because it would
make a difference between the two statements. With reference
to the gains to be made by the country shows, although he
had been a little abused that day, he had had a principal hand in
starting them. But, then, at Oxford, there was a loss of it'300,
at Leicester they made nothing, and for the last six years
their total receipts on this account had been only £1800. If
there was a partnership between the two bodies it m^y have
served to stave off difficulties in the past. As far as he was con-
cerned, he should only be too happy to be released from such a
position as he occupied [no, no]. Rather than discuss the merits
of the Council individually, the Meeting should consider whether
they were prepared to pass a vote of confidence in the Council
or not, and in saying that he believed he spoke the sentiments
of the Council [hear, hear].

A Fellow remarked that if the Council had mixed the pro-
perty in partnership, it was not quite clear that the Council had
not a right to share in the profits made by Her Majesty's Com-
missioners [a laugh]. He thought it probable the Court of
Chancery might say they were.

Mr. Lindsay wished it to be understood that those who had
come there to oppose the policy of the Couucil did not want to
oppose the legitimate harmony which should exist between the
Commissioners and the Society [hear, hear] . They felt it to be of
the greatest interest to the Society that it should be in harmony
with the Commissioners, but they also felt that the policy of
the Commissioners tended entirely in the one direction. He
felt, as a member of the Society, that did the policy of the
Commissioners prevail, all his interest in the Society would be
gone altogether. As a four-guinea subscriber, he felt that the
tickets under the new policy would be perfectly useless to him,
aud that he believed was the opinion of the majority of the
Fellows [hear, hear]. It was proposed to take away tlie pri-
vileges of the Fellows in order to enable the Exhibition visitors
to cross the Gardens to partake of tea and coffee. He looked
upon it as a great misfortune that the Exhibition should be
there at all, for it was the ruin of the neighbourhood, aud was
ruinous to the tradesmen [hear and laughter]. He thought
that when there were two parties to an undertaking there ought
to be a certain amount of harmony aud courtesy between them,
so that if either made a concession that party ought to have a
quid pro quo [hear, hear]. What was proposed would be a
direct loss to them individually aud collectively. The Council
said they should act in harmonj' with the Commissioners, but
the latter had proposed a scheme which took away all the
Fellows' privileges, aud he thought the way in which it ■\\8i3
attempted to settle the business was not creditable to the
Council riiear, hear]. The Council said if this policy was net
adopted they would resign — that they had come with that alter-
native. He had come prepared to say that a Couucil which
took up that position ought not to possess the confidence of the
Fellows, and ought to resign [cheers]. They now told the
Meeting that question was not before them because the Com-
I missioners had withdrawn it. Seeing the extraordinary policy

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159

which the Council were prepared to recommend, lie felt it his
duty to second the motion tliat this Meeting do not receive or
adopt the Report of the Council [hear and cheers].

Mr. C. PoYNTZ Stewart said lie should he happy to second
the motion proposed by Sir Alfred Slade.

Mr. Allan Bruce complained that no notice of the previous
meeting had been given him, and uo notice last night of the
present Meeting. He thought that if their privileges were to
be affected in the way intended by the Council, it ought to
be done courteously as a question of good faith and gentle-
manly feeling as much as a question of people acting for them
to protect their interests, and not the interests of Her
Majesty's Exhibition Commissioners of 1851. The whole
question seemed one of much wider ground than one merely as
between the Fellows and
the Council. He made the
charge that good faith had
not been kept by the Council
to the I'ellows [hear, hear].
They ought to consider the
circumstances under which
the whole of that neighbour-
hood had been improved —
under what circumstances
people had taken their
houses — what sums of
money had beenput into the
pockets of people who owned
the laud, whether Commis-
sioners or not — and into the
pockets of contractors who
built the houses — and how
the value of the property
had been increased [loud
cheers]. One of the chief
inducements for coming to
that neighbourhood was the
power to go into the Royal
Horticultural Society's Gar-
dens [hear, hear]. They
wanted it for themselves,
their families, and friends,
and there were very few
people in the neighbourhood
who had not taken tickets
for the Koyal Horticultural
Gardens, who were not en-
titled to the privileges of
these Gardens, and who did
not look upon it as a ques-
tion much wider than that
merely between the Fellows
and the Council as to
whether the privileges of
the Gardens were to be
reserved for the FeUows of
the Society [hear, hear].
These were the views he had
intended to bring before the
Meeting had the Council
persisted in moving the
adoption of the Report. As
it was they had found the
Council out [loud cheers].
They had found out what
the Council were doing. As
a body, one-half of the Coun-
cil belonged to the Royal
Commission.

.„^,™"'^' S'--"Ti' (interrupting).— I am the only one belonging
to the Exhibition of 18-51. t= e

Mr. Bruce.— What about Mr. Kelk?

Mr. Kelk. — I am not one of them.

Mr Bruce begged to apologise. WeU, the Council and the
bociety have said the Report is to be withdrawn because they
are ashamed of it, and if there is a vote of confidence brought
|°™^™^e '^^"^ ^""^ °°* ""^^^ "'"■ feehngs upon it are

The Chairman.— The Duke of Buccleuch has not attended the
Council meetings at all. I may say that notices of the Meeting
were inserted m the Tirnes and Standard, and I am very pleased
to see so full a Meeting. ^ ^

, Mr. Hauohton thought a special notice ought to have been
given of so important a Meeting as that [hear, hear]. This
was quite an exceptional case to those in which the FeUows did
not care to attend in order to transact the ordinary business of
a meeting. He had come to the Meeting with a wish to support
tne Council, and he thought they were in some sort partners
with the Commissioners. The provisions read by Sir Alfred
blade stowed that the Society held their land upon most favour-

Barleria elegans. (For description see page 166.)

able terms. The land had been given to them on terms such
as they could not get in the market, and they were Ijound, he
thought, to act harmoniously witii those who were their partners
[hear, hear]. He wished that these Gardens and the buildings
surrounding them, and the Albert Hall, should work as far as
possible in union — one with the other, so as to confer the greatest
possible benefit on the jilace [hear and no]. .\.t the same time
they had to consider what were their own rights and privileges
respecting the Gardens, and he thought that the conditions
offered to them were absolutely unsatisfactory, as the most
vaUnible of their privileges would be taken away witliout getting
auytliing in return [hear, hear]. If the Council had reduced
the number of tickets to one-half, and made them freely trans-
ferable, he could have assented to some slight modifications

in some of the subsequent
clauses not expressed so
clearly as they ought to be,
and then he could liave given
the propositions his hearty
support. As it was, he de-
clined to join in the impu-
tation of motives on gentle-
men sitting at the Council-
table [cries of hear] ; in-
deed, he felt strongly that
such imputations ought
never to have been made.

Mr. Bruce. — Oh, no im-
putations were made.

The Chairman. — Well,
gentlemen, the question be-
fore us is — Whether the Re-
port of the Council be or be
not adopted ?

A Fellow. — That Report,
I understand, is withdrawn.
The Chairman. — No ; it
was placed over until this
day for consideration, it be-
ing agreed that certain re-
solutions of Sir Alfred Slade
were added by the Council.
The Council do adopt these
resolutions in their Report.
Sir A. Slade. — I think
not.

A Fellow. — The Com-
missioners tender an agree-
ment to the Council of this
Society.

Sir A. Sl.ide. — No ; tho
Council tender it.

Tlie Fellow. — No, I am
stating the case con*ectly.
The Council intend propos-
ing certain modifications in
the agreement.

The Chairman. — Tou are
quite right as far as you go.
The Fellow. — The na-
ture of these modifications
I do not know, but on ac-
ceptance of them by this
Society, Her Majesty's Com-
missioners withdraw their
proposals. That being so,
I do not see how it is in the
power of the Council to lay
these propositions before
^ the Meeting.

Sir A. Slade.— They have not withdrawn the propositions.
The Chairman.— This document has never before been sent to
Her Majesty's Commissioners. We knew nothing of what the
Commissioners thought untU this morning, when we received
the letter I have read to you. We have nothing to do with the
Commissioners, mind, in this matter. The Council are not
influenced by them in any way whatever. Knowing this docu-
ment was coming before you to-day for your assent or disap-
proval, the Council recommended a course for your adoption.
'That IS exactly where it is. We have nothing further to do in
this matter than to show the way in which the Commissioners
are now meeting us. According to this proposal, they say
they will have nothing to do with any propositions. The
whole thing is broken up, and we go back to the subsisting
arrangements previously to this correspondence. The motion
is-" That the Report of the Council be not adopted."

Mr. HiBBERD rose to move an amendment [cries of " order,'
and "divide."] He should be very brief. Last week they were
taken by surprise, and to-day also. It seemed to him advisable
to make terms with the Commis.sioners if they could— [No, no] —
and for the future to keep as far apart from them as they could

160

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[Hear, hear.] To do all these things would require time,
because a considerable majority of the meeting had not mastered
the elements of the case. Like Mr. Godson he had looked at
the balance-sheets — one showing ^.'13,000 odd and the other
i£15,000 odd — and he required time to know what they meant.
There could be no good reason for taking the Fellows by surprise.
If the Commissioners wanted an answer immediately, in order
to prepare their programme, they should be told the Society
required time ; and if they could not prepare their programme,
it was no affair of the Society. He begged to move that the
Meeting be adjourned to that day week. [No, and time.]

The amendment having been seconded, was put to the Meet-
ing by the Chairman, and declared lost.

Sir CouTTS Lindsay, Bart., expressed his regret that the
Council should have caused such a feeling amongst the deben-
ture-holders. He thought that, as had been already expressed,
it was a great mistake for the Council not to have given all the
debenture-holders due warning and information of what was
going to take place [hear, hear]. The Fellows had been, in a
certain sense, trapped into a course they did not think right.

The Chaieman then put the motion that the Report of the
Council be not adopted.

When the question was put. Sir A. Sl.ade, who was sitting in
the front seats, stood up, and loudly addressing the Meeting (to
which the Chairman was only partially audible), said to them a
couple of times " Hands up against tlie Council."

The result of the show of hands as decided by the Chairman
was as follows — For Sir A. Slade's motion, 80 ; against it, 14.
Majority in favour of motion, 72. The result of the voting was
received with loud and prolonged cheers.

Sir A. Sl.\de, addressing the Chairman, said. Have you any
announcement to make to us ?

The Chaibman. — I have no doubt the Council will place their
resignations in your hands. Allow me to say I can make no
proposition as a Council until the Council meets, when you will
learn what our feeling is on the expression of opinion of the
Meeting to-day, and that will be as soon as we can meet
together.

Sir A. Sl.ade. — A great many Fellows have come here to-day
from a great distance at a great expense. When are we to have
an answer ?

Several Fellows. — Adjourn for an hour [no, no].

The Gh AIRMAN. — No. The Council will take time to consider
the question.

A Fellow remarked that when they had upon the Council a
body of gentlemen of such ability, and who had paid such at-
tention to the affairs of the Society, they could not ask -them to
give an immediate answer to the vote just passed, which he
assumed they took as a vote of want of confidence [hear, hear].
It was a vote vei-y warmly expressing that the majority of the
Society did not join in the views expressed by the Council.
There were many gentlemen, no doubt, ou the Council who
would be inclined to give a further consideration to the matter
[order, and chair].

Sir A. Slade. — I heard Lord Henry Lennox say the Council
would resign.

Mr. Kelk. — We are only a part of the Council, and it would
not be right for us to speak for our colleagues. As we of the
Council present feel, I can say we will place our resignation in
the hands of the Society [cheers].

Mr. Lindsay. — The Council is composed of gentlemen who
will not play any tricks [hear, hear]. And I shall now move a
vote of thanks to the Chairman for the manner in which he has
conducted the proceedings on the present occasion [hear, hear].

Mr. Hakdcastle, M.P., cordially seconded the motion and
hoped the Chairman in acknowledging the vote would pledge
himself and his colleagues to resign their positions in the
Council of the Royal Horticultural Society [no, cheers, and
much interruption]. He did not mean tliat they should resign
as individuals, but as a body [no, no, and hear hear], because if
individual members resigned the gentlemen now present could
elect persons to take their places, so that they would not have
the old Council there again [cries of adjourn for a fortnight].

A FELLO^v proposed that Sir A. Slade and Mr. Hai'dcastle,
M.P., should be appointed as a Committee, to confer with the
Council [no, no].

The vote of thanks was unanimously carried.

The CH.UKMAN. — Let me just bring you to common sense.
The affairs of the Society must go on. It is quite right and
proper we, as a Council, should resign ; there is no alternative.
In the meantime something should be done to see that the
affairs of the Society go on properly. It would not be right for
ns to say, " We all resign, and do your best " [hear, hear]. W'e
will do our liest uutU you find some one to take in hand the
reins of government of the Society. We have all done our best,
and we will tontinue to do so until a general meeting is called,
when you will have to elect as a Council those men who will do
what is rigiit and proper in your minds. Tliat is the common-
sense view of the matter. We will still meet as a Council, and
afterwards you can take your own steps to carry ou the affairs

of the Society. I am very much obliged for the vote of thanks
passed tome [hear, hear].

Mr. Allan Bbuce asked the Chairman whether he would
undertake to send by post to every Fellow an accovint of what
had taken place at that Meeting, of the result at which the
Council had arrived, and the object for which the next meeting
would be summoned ?

Sir A. Slaee. — Yes, three days before the meeting. Say yes
or no.

The Chaieman. — We have some 3.500F ellows ; if this expendi-
ture is to be undertaken, of course, it must be.

Sir A. Sl.cde. — You are bound to do it.

The Chaikiian. — I will pledge myself to this : — As soon as the
Council has met and come to a decision to resign their position
into your hands, every one of the Fellows shall have notice of
it. [Hear, hear.]

Sir A. Slade. — At the next meeting ?

The Chaiajian. — We shall have nothing to do with that — we
shall resign.

Sir A. Slade. — Then we shall be without a head.

Mr. Bruce said what he understood was that merely the
result of the Meeting would be communicated, and the resigna-
tion papers thereupon, and the Council would then cease to
exist. The Society would then be a body without a head ; and
it would be very awkward for them to be placed so. The only
alternative would be to elect some body, including several
Members of the present Council, to represent them.

The Chaieman. — You have mistaken me. You said that
vii-tually you would be without a head, but the fact is, your
Council will not cease their action until you have appointed
another.

Sir A. Slade. — Then you will call another meeting ?

The Chairman. — That will be the result of it.

The Meeting then closed.

The resignation of the Council is an event in the history of
the Royal Horticultural Society, unprecedented in the long
period of seventy years during which the Society has existed.
Those who read carefully the ample report we were enabled to
furnish of the Annual Meeting held last week, might have
anticipated some such result to take place at the adjourned
Meeting held on Tuesday last ; and though the event took many
by surprise, to those who have watched the course of events for
some years past, the wonder has been that the crisis has not
happened long ago. There are bounds beyond which endur-
ance cannot go, and the propositions submitted by the Royal
Commissioners of the Exhibition of 1851 to the Council of the
Society, and which were published in our last week's report,
were of such a nature as to goad the Society into a condition
of indignant rebellion.

Ever since the connection between the Royal Commissioners
and the Society was established, the relation between th.e two
has been one of exaction and oppression on the one hand, and
of abject concession on the other. The life of the Society
since 1864 has been a struggle for existence from a cunningly
conceived design to absorb it into the South Kensington system.
How succeeding Councils could have been cajoled or fasci-
nated as they have been into some of the most absurd and
suicidal arrangements is beyond the power of ordinary mortals
to divine ; but that such has been the case was so apparent to
all who cared to watch the progress of events for some years
past, that no other result than that which has at last come
could reasonably have been expected.

Where the late Council has been manifestly in the wi'oug is
in accepting as a foregone but erroneous conclusion that *' the
Society is bound hand and foot " to the Royal Commissioners,
and that whatever propositions emanated from them, no
matter how adverse they had been to the interests of a Society
founded for the advancement of horticulture, and for that pur-
pose alone, they were either bound to accept them or to submit to
the extinction of the Society as the only alternative. In this
respect we have always regretted that the Council did not act
with greater decision and more ii\depeudence. ."Vud yet perhaps
as individuals the Council were not altogether so culpable in
this respect as may at first sight appear. The mode which
has obtained of late years of electing and re-electing the same
men is entirely responsible for this — there has been so little
infusion of new blood on the Council for many years past in
the shape of working members. Any new names that have
appeared have been representatives of men who attended
the meetings only in few instances, and the business and
interests of the Society were entrusted to the care of the same
individuals from year to yeai' who were imbued with those
foregone conclusions.

Nothing could have been more objectionable in a popular

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JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

161

Society like the Royal Horticultural, than the way in which
the Council were nominated ; and what renders the system
doubly objectionable is that the bye-laws under which this
system is practised were specially framed in opposition to the
spirit of the charter, no lonRer than eleven years ago. It is
a significant fact that this re-vision of the bye-laws, and the
introduction of the objectionable clauses were adopted imme-
diately upon the accession of Mr. Henry Cole, C.B., to the
Council ; a gentleman to whom rumour properly or improperly
attributes the whole of the unwarrantable interference with
the free action of the Society, of which the Royal Commis-
sioners have to bear the stigma.

We cannot but regret, in the resignation of the Council,
parting with the names and presence of many men who are
endeared to the memory of all true friends of the Horticultural
Society, names historically associated with it and with horti-
culture. We could have wished that the tide of affairs had
taken a different turn, and to hare seen those names still pre-
served among us ; but the late Council has only reaped that
which it has unconsciously sown. We part from them with
many regrets ; and with none of them more than the late much
esteemed Secretary. It was a difficult part which Major-Geueral
Scott had to play, and we doubt much if any other man would
have done it so well. We make no apology for singling out
General Scott from the rest of the Council in these remai'ks,
for his name was so freely used, and he himself dragged so
prominently forward in the late discussions, that we express
the feeling of every horticulturist, that although General Scott's
position made it often difficult for him to concede all that
could be desired, his conduct and dealing with the Society were
always such as to have left on the minds of horticulturists a
feeling of sincere personal regard towards him.

And now that the crisis has come and the administration of
the Society will fall into other hands, we trust those who have
taken the initiative in this matter will not forget the old
traditions of the Society, and the objects for which it was
founded. All the troubles which defunct Councils have
had to encounter have been brought about by a greater or
less neglect of horticulture, and in forming the new Council
it will be a matter for serious consideration what will be the
result if a majority of its members are not horticultural mem-
bers. We do not mean that they should all be practical or
professional horticulturists, but they must at least be patrons
of horticulture ; and just so far as any Council that is to be
formed neglects the primary object of its existence, or estranges
itself from the horticultural interest, it too will also reap what
it has sown.

FOECING STRAWBEERIES.
Therk are various causes of failure in forcing Strawberries .
often only known to those who have charge of the plants
Some failures arise from weak plants to begin with, the result
of not having time, or rather being able to layer the runners
at the proper time ; some from not shifting the plants into
the fruiting pots in time to fill these with roots before growth
has ceased ; some from manure water improperly administered ;
and others from ramming the soil so firmly in potting that
the roots cannot penetrate the soil, nor water pass through ;
and many plants, no doubt, are lost through starting them in
too great a heat when first started.

Having been engaged in Strawberry forcing for nearly twenty
years, I am fully aware that no gardener can reasonably ex-
pect to be successful unless he prepare and carefully attend
to his plants from the time of laying them up to the time of
storing them away to rest before taking them into the forcing
house. In every garden where any considerable quantity is
required it is always best to plant a piece of ground, or rather
a border, for that purpose alone. The sorts to be forced
should be planted in the open ground or border a foot apart,
in rows not less than 4 feet from each other, to enable anyone
to layer them so as to be fuUy exposed to the sun. I consider
the stepping-stone to success is to secure good sturdy plants at
first, and endeavour to ke&p them so, instead of the long and
lanky plants we so often see where a large quantity is required.
Some gardeners use small 60-sized pots for layermg, but in
this case, if the plants are left too long in the pots, they are
so apt to become potbound, that they are a long time before
they make a start when they are put in the fruiting pots.

I find the quickest method of securing plants is to put
fresh soil between the rows, press it down firm, and then layer
clear from the old plants. They make the best plants of any
for forcing.

Layer the ruimers as, soon as they are large enough, putting
down a small peg or a stone just to hold the runner firm tiU
it make roots. A man or lad can layer a thousand or two in
a very short space of time, and if he just count the pegs or
stones before he commences he can soon know when he has
the required number.

AVhen the runners are well rooted no time should be lost in
getting them placed in their fruiting pots. The soil, which
should have been prepared beforehand, should consist of
fibrous loam, with one-third part of rotten manure, and, if
possible, some soot or wood ashes should be mixed with it as
a check against worms. The pots should be carefully crocked,
and a dusting of soot should be put in the bottom to keep the
worms out. The soil should not be too wet, but just moist
enough to make it firm without being clammy. It should be
squeezed in with the hand and not rammed in with a stick —
I have seen some ramming it in as though they were putting
in a post. The collar of the plant should be just a trifle
below the rim of the pot, leaving fully half an inch for
water. As soon as the roots have reached the sides of the
pots they should be supplied with weak manure water, and as
the plants grow the surface should be stirred occasionally, and
more space should be afforded between the plants to prevent
their leaves becoming drawn. From the time of potting up
to the time of resting, the plants should never be allowed to
get dry enough to flag, as nothing is more fatal. They should
be frequently looked over, and if there be any weak ones
among them it is far better to throw them out at once than to
leave them and have to do so at last.

^^'hen the plants are ready for resting, before you force them,
if room can be spared, by all means place them in-doors, but
in many places this cannot be done ; then the best way of
storing "is the old-fashioned oue of piling the pots on their
sides in ridges with coal ashes on a north border. Before
bringing in the plants for forcing they should have a top-
dressing of strong loam and rotten manure ; the drainage
should be examined, and the pots washed.

Care should be taken not to put the plants in great heat at
first. From 45° to 50° should be the highest temperature at
first, and let it gradually rise as they begin to start into
growth. They should not have too much water until the
flowerstalks begin to show, but afterwards never allow the
plants to get dry till the fruit is ripe. When the plants are
in flower they will be benefited in bright sunny days by going
over them and gently shaking the blooms, and if the weather
permits air should be given both top and bottom, so as to have
a free circulation through the house or pit. As soon as the
fruit is set give plenty of manure water, weak at first and
stronger by degrees ; good clear cow or sheep dung water is
the best.

The varieties I have always found the most certain are
Keens' Seedling, Due de Malakoff, Sir Charles Napier for late
forcing, with British Queen. Black Prince I can never depend
upon. The only drawback to Keens' Seedling is that its fruit
is not suited for travelling, but for home use I believe it has
no equal. Mr. Radclyfl'e', Dr. Hogg, President, and Sir J.
Paxton I have tried, and sometimes they have turned out
good and sometimes the reverse. They cannot, in my opinion,
be depended upon as so sure as the three first-named kinds. —
Lancashike SuBscarBEB.

CONDENSED JIOISTUEE IN GREENHOUSES.

A PERSON who really delighted in a pretty cool greenhouse,
with a few Vines up the roof, abutting against the principal
living-room, and communicating with it by a close-fitting door,
has wi-itten that he was quite alarmed about the house fur-
niture, itc, because morning after morning there was such a
deposition of moisture on the inside glass of a handsome window
on the other side of the room. Visitors and wise folk laid
it to the much-loved gi-eenhouse, closed door and all, and that,
too, though upon an average, whilst this alarming moisture
was at its height, the general temperature in the greenhouse
was much lower than the temperature of the living-room. The
blamegi-eenhouse-theory upholders seemed at first to have it
all their own way ; " For see," said they, " the next room is just
similar in size to this sitting-room, and everything else similar,
except the accompanying greenhouse, but in the latter room
there is little or no deposition of moisture on the inside surface
of the glass of the window !" Satisfactory though this seemed, we
think it was a striking instance that we can rush too quickly to
conclusions. On inquiry it was found that everything was not
similar in the two rooms. In the greenhouse-sitting-room there
was a good fire to keep it comfortable; in the other room a fire

162

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTDEE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEB.

[ Febmary 20, 1873.

was only used occasionally. In the first case, then, besides the
■vapour in the air that went up the chimney, the bulk of air in the
room, with its vapour, was heated, and expanded, and brought
into contact with the cold glass, acting as a condensing metlium,
and wringing out the watery vapour, as it were. In the other
unheated room, the comparatively quiescent and cold air, with
its cold vapour, could be but little acted on by the cold plane of
glass in the window. The greater the difference between the
high temperature within the room and the low temperature out-
side the window, the gi'eater would be the condensing jjower of
the latter on the vapour in the air inside, so long as there was
vapour left to condense.

In a similar case, where a greenhouse was blamed — it was
separated from the living-room by a glass door — it was found
that the glass door was dry, or nearly so, in the morning, whilst
the glass of the window on the other side of the room would be
found covered with water. Why the difference ? Just because
the glass was exposed to different temperatures, and was the
best condenser when it was coldest and came in contact with
the hotter air.

We wish to give this matter prominence — first, because the
blame-greenhouse advocates are not at all convinced ; and
secondly, because if they succeed in persuading people of the
effects of damp, etc., thus produced, hundreds may see reason
to deprive themselves of a great source of pleasure in having a
greenhouse or a conservatory easily entered from the chief
living or other room by opening a door. We candidly believe
that, attended to with car^ as stated, there will be no danger
whatever — quite the reverse.

Many in speaking on such matters forget the simple principle
that the power of any substance to condense the vapour in the
air into water will greatly depend on the low temperature of
that body as compared with the temperature of the air. Our
younger readers and beginners wiU forgive us if we give them
three simple well-known facts, on which they may generalise
and form what they think a right conclusion. First, take a clear
crystal glass and fill it with cold water, and take it into a room
about as cold, and the crystal will remain clear and pellucid,
and you can see the water through it. Take a similar glass of
water into a room some 20" warmer, and the sides of the glass
will become dulled by a deposition of moisture. Secondly, put
on a pair of spectacles in the open air and you may wear them a
long time without wiping them. Pass at once into a hothouse
some 10° to 20" warmer, and how long could you see through
your spectacles? They would be covered with dew at once.
Thirdly, cut a bunch of Grapes in an airy house, carry it in the
open air, .and go into a moist hothouse, and every berry would
be covered mth a fine dew. because every berry, from being so
much colder than the air of the house, becomes at once a con-
denser of the moisture in it. — B. F.

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.
A M.iN in Crittenden county has made an experiment designed
to ascertain how far Soil is Protected fkoii Cold by Ssow.
For four successive winter days, there being i inches of snow
OB a level, he found the average temperature immediately
above the snow 14 ' below zero ; immediately beneath, 10' above
zero ; under a drift 2 feet deep, 27° above zero.

We have received the new edition of Mr. Rivers's

" Orchard House," a work now so well known, and which has
repeatedly been so favourably noticed in these columns, that
it is only necessary for us to say that it has reached the fifteenth
edition.

In- Watowan Co., Minnesota, Sunflowers are raised

for fuel. The oily seeds make a hot fire, and the woody stock,
when dried, furnishes a good substitute for cordwood, which
is very scarce in that region. It is estimated that two acres
will produce enough to last an ordinary family through a long
winter.

Her Majesty's Commissioners for the Vienna Exhi-
bition have allotted 22J square metres of space to Messrs.
James Carter & Co. for the display of their coUectiou of
models, &c.

PEINCE ALBERT PINE APPLE.
The unknown origin of this magnificent Pine is not more
surprising than its scarcity in the country. Though my know-
ledge of its existence dates back about a score of years, yet
how many Pine-growing establishments can boast of containing
as many plants ? Certainly its demerits cannot be assigned as
a reason for this regretted unpopularity, as it is justly admitted
by all who have had an opportunity of judging, that it possesses
every quality necessary to constitute a first-rate Pine. My
own opinion places it second to none but the Smooth-leaved
Cayenne. The latter I regard as the best of all Pines. One
can rely on its starting into fruit at a given time, independently

of all the starving fit-and-start operations too often practised
on Queens ; and there is a positive certainty of its blooming
and swelling well during the dullest seasons. It has also the
great recommendation of possessing an unvarying first-class
flavour.

The fruit of Prince Albert in shape resembles a cone having
a broad base tapering to a very small apex ; it averages from
12 to 1.5 inches in height, and has a remarkably small crown
— so small indeed that the crown of an 8-lb. fruit is rarely
more than 2 inches high. The flavour is nearly equal to that
of the Smooth-leaved Cayenne in winter, and improves during
summer. In colour it is blended with the bright j-eUow of the
much inferior variety, the Enville, and the dark hue of the
finely flavoured Black Jamaica, the whole slightly tinted with
a delicate red. What a gratifying and memorable sight to the
Pine-admirer would be a houseful of this variety on the eve
of maturity. Mr. David Thomson, in his recently published
practical treatise of "Fruit Culture Under Glass," describes it
as being a " compact grower, free fruiter ; flesh soft, very juicy,
and well flavoured. A most desirable variety in every respect."
Assuredly the noble examples I saw while at Drumlanrig last
autumn gave manifest proof of its fully meriting the above
description. I may state that the variety sometimes known as
Prince Alfred is wrongly named, and identical with Prince
Albert.— J. M. C.

ELECTION OF EOSES.

According to the Eev. W. F. RadclyS'e La France Rose does
not bloom freely in Dorset. With me it is very different.
Last season one of my trees of this variety put out from the
centre of the plant a branch which bad about sixteen buds
fully expanded at one time. This Rose, above aU others, I
think, was the most admired. AU my plants, even to cuttings
G inches in height, bloom most freely. It is a good grower,
very hardy, and has fine foUage. It begins to bloom with me
out of doors about the first, and continues until nearly the last.
I must also say a few words with respect to Madame Augusta
Verdier, which he recommends us to read Madame Eugfinie
Verdier. If I am right, it only came out in 1870 or 1871 ;
therefore it cannot be the same Rose at aU. The description I
have of it is, pale pink, edges silvery, bright and clear, the
colour excellent ; of extra large size, very double, and beauti-
fully formed. It is a Rose of the finest quality, and its colour
is not subject to fade. Who could wish for a better quaUfi-
catiou ?

There is another Rose which does not appear to be known
much to your numerous readers, as it has not yet been even
mentioned — that is. Velours Pourpre (1870). It bloomed with
me last year very well. The colour is a rich velvety purple ;
the flower is cupped, large, and full ; the foliage handsome ;
the plant a vigorous grower. It is said to be first-class for
exhibition, and I have no doubt it will prove to be so. I may
also say that I was astonished to find Emilie Hausburg so very
low in the list. I have grown it from the first, and I must
confess that as yet I have not had a bad bloom. Perhaps iu
another election we shall see it take a higher place. — T. Lister.

I CANNOT understand how it is that Marie Baumann does so
badly with Mr. Eyre and Mr. Radclyfl'e, unless it be that they
have tried it on the Manetti only. Here (about twenty miles
due east of London) I find it wiU not flourish on that stock,
but on short Briars, 2 to 3 feet, it does well, growing and
flowering most satisfactorily. I have two hundred plants of it
of various ages, the six oldest being those I had from Mr. Cant
the year after it came out, all, old and young, growing vigor-
ously. I have one hundred plants from buds of 1871, which last ■
summer made splendid wood 3 to 4 feet long, with good strong
side shoots. Indeed this Rose is such a favourite here that as I
think if I were obliged to grow only one variety, this would be
the one ; I should certainly place it in the first three. Besides
being a good grower, it is so constant that on several plants
last summer I could have cut at oue_,time four or five blooms
all fit for a box of twelve at South Kensington.

Mr. Radclyffe is right about Mdlle. Marie Rady ; it is a first-
rate grower^ and a truly splendid flower, and, I tliink, not
sufficiently known and grown. The season of 1871 seemed to
suit it here exactly ; it was not quite so good last season, but
then what a season we had !

Mr. Radclvffo having condemned Marie Baumann, says La
France does not open well with him, but he recommends
Souvenir de la Malmaison and Triomphe de Rennes as two o£

Febrnwy 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEfi.

163

the best six Roses for general purposes. It is clear that some
Roses are very capricious ; for, singular to say, whilst both
La France and Marie Baumann grow and open here as well as
I could desire, I can do nothing at all with either Souvenir de
la Malmaison or Triompbe de Rennes in. the open ground. I
have tried Souvenir de la Malmaison on Briar, Manetti, and its
own roots, but, although the plants have grown well, I have
never been able above once or twice to get the buds to open ;
they always go-off brown instead of expanding. As to Triomphe
de Rennes, it will not even grow here in the open ground. I
have tried it on Briar, Manetti, and its own roots with the same '

result — viz., weak wood, invariable shedding of the foliage as
soon as it is fully expanded, and consequent diminutive flower
buds, most of which do not open. I am glad to be able to
add, however, that having at last tried it as a pot-plant on
the Briar I now get sound healthy wood, persistent foliage,
and fine blooms. I take this opportunitj' of recommending
Marie Van Houtte (a Tea of 1871) as a pot-plant for early
forcing. I have had some beautiful blooms of it. In shape
and fulness they reminded me of Madame Bravy, but the
colour is a pale primrose or sulphur. It is a very nice Rose
indeed, and quite distinct. — R. B. P.

NEW ZEALAND DEAC^NAS.— No. 2.

Dracjena ahsthai-iSi — The subject of these few notes is a
fitting companion to its nearly-related species from New
Zealand, upon which a few remarks appeared at page 8 of the
present volume. It rejoices in the various names of Cordy-
line australis, Charl-
woodia austraUs,
and Dracsenopsis
australis. The last
name is considered
the most correct,
having been sepa-
rated from the old
genus Dracffina by
Dr. Planchon. The
new genus is cha-
racterised by a
" six-parted mar-
cescent campanulate
perianth, with the
segments biseriate ;
six stamens inserted
at the base of the
perianth segments ;
a three-celled ovary,
■with many ovules iu
each cell ; and a pea-
shaped berry con-
taining several seeds
in each of its three
cells." So much for
the botanical part of
the subject, which
I do not fancy will
be a sufficiently
powerful argument
for the amateurs of
the present genera-
tion to adopt the
genus ; but if we do
not adopt it our-
selves we must im-
press it upon the
minds of those who
are younger aspirants to fame in the horticultural world.

I will now say a few words upon this plant in a cultural
way. The illustration, I must say, does not give a sufficiently
good idea of the plant's beauty, for it certainly must be
ranked amongst the most beautiful ornaments of a green-
house or conservatory at any season, the intense rich deep
ETeen of its leaves affording a relief to the eyes, be it at mid-
summer when the glaring sun has nearly dazzled us, or when

Dracsna australis.

the snow hes deep upon the ground, aa it does while I write.
It is always presentable, always chai'ming, and therefore to all
who have room I say, Seciu'e a plant of this my favourite
plain-leaved Dracsena. This species is not so hardy as its re-
latives before no-
ticed— at least that
has been my expe-
rience with it, and
therefore I would
not advise its use
in the open air
during summer, be-
cause I have noticed
its broad and some-
what soft leaves are
apt to become bent
down and broken by
winds that leave
such kinds as D. in-
divisa and D. line-
ata unscathed, and
when this occurs the
symmetrical beauty
of the plant is gone.
It is a noble plant,
producing leaves
some 2 or 3 feet in
length, and nearly
4 inches in breadth ;
in shape they are ob-
long lanceolate, and
in colour rich bright
green. It carries a
splendid crown of
leaves, and, as before
remarked, is one of
the most beautiful
ornaments for a cool
house. In potting
drain well, and let
the soil be a mix-
ture of peat and
loam, adding to it a
fair proportion of silver sand ; or, when this cannot be pro-
cured, sharp river sand, or even road scrapings will be found
equally serviceable for the majority of plants, although it is
not so good for the purpose of propagation : therefore, my
fair amateur readers, be not dismayed if you cannot procure
the best (that is Reigate) sand to keep the soil open and
porous, for any kind that is free from mud wUl suit the New
Zealand Dracsnas. — Expekto Ceede.

EVENING MUSINGS FOE PLAIN PEOPLE.— No, 1.

A viMEET, large or small as the case may be, is becoming a
common adjunct to the residences of almost every class whose
means enable them to have these very enjoyable structures.
Enjoyable they certainly are, and also beneficial; and perhaps
their pleasures and benefits are felt by no class of men more
than those in office pent aU day long, whose mental work,
insidiously enervating, calls for a change giving repose from
the business or professional strain which their vocation entails.
The real benefits that a garden affords in this respect are
immensurable and incalculable. Hundreds can bear testimony
to this amongst clergy, lawyers, doctors, and others, who have
their respective happy hunting grounds amongst Boses, Gla-

dioli, hardy fruits, or in-door plants and Vines. Instances of
this have come under my special notice within a radius of a
very few miles, and which are only samples of the great aggre-
gate niunber spread over the whole countrj-. Not long ago, in
looking into an amateur's vinery, the owner's son remarked,
" This is my father's great solatium. I don't know what we
should do without it. He used to come home with the anxie-
ties and responsibilities of his business pressing heavily on
him, making him sometimes morose and iiTitable. He now
comes home and spends an hour here in picking, potting,
watering, and training. He forgets the cares of business, and
is better, and we are better too." Another, a medical man of

iU

jOuenal of hoeticultuee and cottage gaedenee.

[ February 20, 1873.

great practice, made this remark to me when looking through
his little houses together, " Ail the spare time I can find from
doctoring others is spent in here doctoring myself." A clergy-
man also, with the heavy work of frequently three Sunday
services before the same congregations, said to me in effect
during a garden walk, " You cannot think what a reUef and
aid this garden is to me. I often feel spent, depressed, and
feeble, and in a short run round I see the works of an Almighty
Hand ever -s-igorous and smiling, when my energy is restored
and my duties made easier to myself, and, I believe, more
effective." Further, I can see almost every morning of my
life a gentleman past the allotted age of man, whose days are
spent in the superintendenco of and directing the largest bank-
ing establishment in the county ; but neither the labour and
responsibility of this great business, the anxieties necessarily
connected therewith, nor advancing years, appear to impair
the pristine vigour of mind and body which seem steeled for
all exigencies. Is not one great contributory cause of this
found in the daily visits to his garden and through his houses,
inspecting, admiring, and suggesting ? I believe it is — indeed
I feel as certain as I am of anything, that it is not pleasure
merely that his garden affords, but real benefit, and I am not
alone in this opinion. ^

Gardening in its different phases by amateurs is not only
enjoyable and beneficial to them, but by and through them is
made beneficial to others. Amateurs very frequently confine
their efforts to perfecting one special branch, and after attain-
ing proficiency are, by their position, peculiarly able, and gene-
rally disposed, to impait the information they possess for the
benefit of others. Practical gardeners, however able, are really
indebted to this class of men for much interesting information,
and they in turn are generally willing to give a hand in assist-
ing others wishful, yet lacking sufficient knowledge, in making
a start in any particular line of gardening. Any hints for the
guidance of such cannot be too plain and practical, nor too simply
expressed. Elaborate writing and attempts at scientific reason-
ing are of quite secondary importance. As a rule, instruction
is generally the best and easiest to work by when given on the
assumption that the instructed knows little or nothing of the
matter treated of by the instructor.

After these musings — perhaps not altogether out of place
and unseasonable — I venture the attempt of a few plain notes
on Vines, &c., solely for the guidance of the uninitiated. A
vinery is one of the most useful of garden appendages. It
can, besides giving luscious fruit without great cultural skill,
be turned to account in providing and preservhig plants for
the flower garden, for there is no real reason why Vines and
bedding plants will not associate together and both prosper.
And if bedding plants are not required, other things interesting
and beautiful may be grown with the Vines, notwithstanding
the reiterated advice tliat Vines must have a house to them-
selves. Tills advice, sound enough in itself, but too dogmatic
and exclusive, is calculated to have a deterrent effect on the
minds of certain people who desire both Grapes and plants,
while they can only manage to erect one house. But enough
for the present. I will resume the subject another week. —
J. W., Lincoln.

ECONOMY IN FUEL.
When I designed my double-glazed house I imagined that,
in consequence of the small amount of radiation from the
glass, there would be a great saving in fuel, and that probably
coals might be dispensed with altogether. During the last
three months I have had sufficient experience to prove that I
have not been mistaken in my views. In front of the saddle-
back boiler I constructed a brick oven capable of containing
large roots, rotten posts, and other useless wood and rubbish.
Half a ton of coals were carted into the stokehole, in case they
might be required. I find that 1 cwt. has been used, but not
because it was necessary. I have carefully watched the night
and day temperature, and find that it has been invariably at
night 45°, and from 50° to 55° during the day ; the tempera-
ture might have been higher had there not been sixteen 2-iuch
apertures, G feet apart, in the floor of the house, opening under
the hot-water pipes, which, with the open cross ventilators in tlie
ridge, caused a constant brisk motion in the air of the house
niglit and day. However, at this low temperature the Peaches
and Nectarines are in fruit, and the Vines also coming on fast,
all looking remarkably strong and healthy. The door of the
oven, 'J feet s(juare, is outside, but the oven itself is built
inside the house ; the top of it, i\ feet by o, forms a good

bottom-heat arrangement and Melon bed. The flue — a 6-inch
iron pipe — is also inside the house, the harsh heat from it
being kept down by its being enclosed in a terra cotta pipe
filled with watered sand. This oven is not in contact with
the earth, there is a space between, and the air heated in this
space passes into the house rapidly through a 4-inch aperture
in the floor, the draught being caused by an aperture outside
on a level with the firebars of the oven. The whole of this
house, with the heating apparatus, was complete from the
first, and we have had no occasion to make any alteration
since. When the ventUators and apertures in the floor are
closed, it is au'tight if necessary. — Observer.

THE YUCCA.

The Yuccas may assuredly be classed amongst plants having
a tropical appearance ; for although they neither require a
tropical heat nor the unclouded sunshine of chmates usually
termed temperate, these plants are nevertheless Bufficieutly dis-
tinct from those commonly regarded as hardy. In most parts
of the south of England the species usually termed Y. gloriosa,
Y. aloifolia, Y. recurva, and Y. filamentosa not only stand the
winter well, but flower in favourable seasons. Their flower-
stems, it is true, are not so plentifully produced as those of
Hollyhocks or Pelargoniums, but they have a charm of theu'
own which florists' flowers do not possess, and at all times
present a neat though rather formidable appearance. When
a Yucca is once established in a particular spot it is rarely
meddled with afterwai'ds, except to propagate it ; for the
growth of the plant being slow, few like to disturb one when
it has arrived at a flowering size. It is not every year that
the same plant throws up its unique spike of blooms, although
those having a number of plants may reasonably expect one or
more every year ; and should there be a fine dry autumn and
mild winter, a large number of flower-spikes will probably be
produced in the following summer, as has been the case here
on several occasions.

In the past summer, amongst other Yuccas that have bloomed
well on a south border was one of more than ordinary im-
portance, having three fine spikes of bloom upon it all fully
out at the same time, and all three as nearly ahke as pos-
sible, two of them being 10 feet G inches high, the third
10 feet 4 inches, and all perfectly upright, as, in fact, all Yucca
flower-spikes usually are. Thej- also stood sufficiently far
apart to be clear of each other. The plant which produced
them is an old one, and the portion which bloomed last year
was an upright naked stem with three branches, and destitute
of leaves for between 3 and 4 feet, then there was a tuft at
each of the points, out of which the flower-stems sprung.
Another portion of the same plant did not flower. I do not
remember ever noticing as many as three spikes on one plant
before, and but rarely two. Individually the flower-spikes
were quite as good as in plants sending up only one spike, and
better than in many, but we have had much finer in former
years ; however, in the past season 9 feet, 8 feet, and as low
as 7 feet G inches were the general run for the tall species, and
for Y. filamentosa still less. The flower is so handsome, and
the plant altogether so unlike most hardy subjects, that I
should be sorry to part with the Yuccas on any account.

The situation in which the Yuccas are growing is a very dry
one — a south border against a terrace wall, with good shelter
in other directions. The soil is highly charged with calcareous
matter — in fact, the subsoil may be said to be decomposed
limestone, but it is well adapted for the growth of many kinds
of shrubs and trees. From some trees of Magnolia graudiflora
growing against the mansion only a few yards from the Yucca
border a dozen or more fully-expanded blooms could be gathered
at one time. We have also Yuccas growing in other places as
well, and they flower more or less freely according to the
character of the season. In making alterations some years ago,
several Yucca plants were stored away for the time being in
a piece of outside kitchen-garden ground, the soil of which was
rather stiff and moist, and not being all wanted again, they
were allowed to remain. Several of them have bloomed in
favourable years, and look well; others as single specimens iu
conspicuous places seem also at home.

The only drawback to the general cultivation of Yuccas ia
their slowness of growth and propagation ; but old broken-
down or cut-down plants emit a number of shoots, which, after
attaining some size, may be taken off like Pine suckers, and
will root accordingly. Still the progress of the plant is so slow
that the amateur sometimes gets out of patience iu waiting for

FabrtiHy 20, 1875. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

165

the blooming ; but even when not in flower they are fine-look-
ing plants, almost as sturdy as the Aloe, and infinitely superior
to it in the beauty of the flower-spike. The principal border
of Yuccas here is of considerable length, and 10 feet wide; a
retaining wall, 7 feet high, surmounted by an ornamental
balustrading, forms its northern boundary, and against this
wall Myrtles, Ceanothus, Grislinia litoralis, Swaiusonia, and
other New Holland plants are trained, as well as Roses, &c. ;
while the only plants in the border besides the Yuccas are
Irises, including a good proportion of the variegated one,
Eeheveria now and then, and one or two plants of Cha-
mffirops Fortunei, which has stood several winters, and done
very well. The border is edged with the Califoruian Houseleek,
and being seen from the gravelled terrace above by simply
looking over the parapet, the appearance is good, and when
very fine spikes of Yuccas are produced they show as high as
the parapet. No single spike of flowers that I know is half
the height of a good spike of Y'ucca gloriosa or its allies, nor
is it wanting in grace and. dignity. To those having only
a few plants of this choice shrub I would say. Take care
of them, for some day you may be rewarded by their bloom-
ing.— J. EOBSON.

EOSE MAEIE BAUMANN.

This Rose, if I remember aright, was sent out in the autumn
of 1863 ; very few of the trade in this country were fortunate
enough to secure it the first year. I bought it, and after
getting-up a good stock exhibited it in my winning stands at
the principal Rose shows in 18G5. There was no doubt about
its being much admired, as very many of the largest growers
requested me to let them have a supply. I have ever since
grown it every year in very large quantities, and must say that
I have always found it a good free grower and quite sufficiently
vigorous, and what is very important, it produces plenty of
blooms of the very first quaUty in size, shape, and colour — in
fact, it never gives a bad one. I ought, perhaps, to mention
that mine are all maiden plants, but I have seen it equally
fine on older. I wish any of those who deem this Rose an in-
different grower could look at my stock of it next summer, I
am sure their opinion would undergo a change.

By post this week I had a letter from an amateur grower at
Whitby, speaking in the highest terms of Marie Baumann.
Even so far north, it grows and flowers beautifully. — BaNjAiiiN
E. C-iNT, Colchester.

NEW VINE DISEASE.
Having examined a further supply of excrescences upon the
branches of the Vine forwarded by Mr. Roberts, and noticed at
page 72, one of which contained the lai-va which I had sup-
posed might possibly be that of one of the Gall-flies (and con-
sequently that the excrescences were true galls caused by the
deposition of an egg by the parent Gall-fly in the stems or
buds of the Vine), I am more convinced than I was before that
they are vegetable tumours caused by some irregular action of

The excrescence ou the Vine stem, natural size.

the plant tissues, especially as the larva proves not to be that of
one of the Gall-flies, but is that of one of the many species of
weevils which are devourers of vegetable matters, of which Otio-
rhynchus vastator is one of the most notorious, and which is
often found gnawing off the young buds of the Vines, and to
which these excrescences would oft'er an admirable place of de-
posit of their eggs, affording so large a supply of food to the larvte

when hatched. Ordinarily, the larva of Otiorhynchus is found
gnawing the roots of succulent or other plants in pots, and it
has been very long ago figured in the pages of The Cottage

Section of excrescence with grub inside ; the black spot showing the puncture
made by the parent weevil when depositing the egg.

Gardener before it altered its name to The Journal of Horti-
CDLTUHE. The grub is white, clothed with short stiff chestnut-
coloured bristles, and with a chestnut-coloured head, armed
with a pair of strong black horny jaws. It must not be over-
looked, however, (in regarding these excrescences aa not being

i9f»S*

The grub, natural size and magnified.

the result of insect action), that some of the weevils do cause
galls upon plants, as for instance, upon the stems and roots of
Cabbages. But I beUeve it will be found, in the case of the
Vine now in question, that the parent weevil laid her egg in
an already-formed excrescence and not in the body of the stem,
which subsequently became developed to this extraordinary
extent. — J. 0. Westwood, Oxford.

CULTUEAL NOTES ON PLANTS

AT THE EOYAL HORTICULTUEAL SOCIETT'S MEETINGS.

The Fruit and Floral Meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society on the 12th inst., was again of a very interesting
character, and though few prizes were offered by the Society,
the Council-room was well filled, and very gay with flowering
plants. Notwithstanding the inclement weather exotic Orchids
were again predominant, a large proportion being composed of
those requiring cool treatment. As cool-house Orchids are
fast becoming everybody's flowers, a few cultural notes on
some of those exhibited may be useful.

Odontoglossnm crispum (Alexandra;) is certainly the queen
not only of Odontoglots, but of all the cool section. Some of
the varieties exhibited by Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, were
surpassingly beautiful. One variety in particular had pure
white sepals and petals, large, well formed, of great lubstance,
and quite waxy, the Up sparely spotted. During the winter
these beautiful flowers will remain in perfection for nearly three
months, and their culture is so simple than any amateur can
grow them as easily as he can Geraniums, or any other com-
mon plants, and the first cost is not so much as some sup-
pose. Of course, large established plants of selected varieties
would cost a great deal of money. Newly imported plants
bought from those nurserymen who import them, can be ob-
tained for a very few shillings each, and that after they are
fairly established. Then there is the charm of watching their
progress until the first young growth is nearly completed, at
which time the flower-spike wiU be thrown up, and to the
ardent cultivator there is more pleasure stiU in watching the
expanding flowers in the expectation of something extra fine
turning up amongst the batch. At all events, the grower will
not be disappointed, as all are good and worthy of culture. I
will in as few words as possible explain the cultural treatment
they require.

Newly imported plants should be potted in very small pots
just large enough to contain the roots. The pots should be
filled rather more than half full of drainage ; over this place

166

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t Fsbruary 20, 1873.

Eome fresh sphagnum. The plant should be raised out of the
pot a little, so that the compost, when it is placed round the
roots, will be raised in the form of a mound. The potting
material should be tough fibrous peat, fresh sphagnum, and
broken pots, in equal proportions, and the broken pots ought
to be clean before using them. A moist atmosphere is very
essential to the plants, but do not apply much water to the
roots until fresh rootlets are formed, when water may be
freely applied to them. It is well to drsss the surface of the
pot with live sphagnum, and when this is in a healthy con-
dition it is a sure sign that all is right with the atmosphere of
the house. The flower-spikes come up with the new growths,
and generally show themselves when the pseudo-bulbs are
about half grown, and by the time the bulb has attained its
full size the flowers will be expanded. When the flowers fade
the plant wiU proceed to make a new growth at once, and this
will be the time to repot, using the same compost as that re-
commended above, and pots only one size larger. Nothing is
more injurious either to cool or hothouse Orchids than over-
potting them, more especially those that requu'e a good supply
of water, as however porous the potting material may be, if
there is too much of it, it will certainly get sour, and the
plants will not thrive. A lai-ge proportion of them will not
flower the first year, but as all were placed in very small pots
it will be necessary to shift them'into larger pots as soon as
they begin to make a second growth.

There cannot be much divergence of opinion as to the best
form of structure in which to grow them. In the south of
England a lean-to with a north aspect is the best. In the
north they do very well in low span-roofed pits, and these
should run north and south. They thrive best in small houses
where the plants can be placed near the glass. Ventilation
should be provided by having sliding top lights, and a row of
small ventilators should be placed in the front or side walls
on a level with the hot-water pipes ; the latter ventilators
should be kept constantly open unless the weather should be
eiy severe.

As to temperature, the collectors say that in their native
country these plants enjoy a mean temperature of 65'. We
find that in cultivation during the winter months a minimum
of 45° is quite sufficient, and even with 5° less they succeed.
I have had them out in a cold frame with no covering but the
glass, and the thermometer but little above the freezing point
outside, yet no harm came to them. If the temperature is too
high the pseudo-bulbs are apt to shrivel, and the growths are
checked. This I have found to be the case during very hot
weather in summer. I may say further that they do not require
an elaborately built house. Mr. Wilson Saunders, who has
had much experience with them, when commenting on those
exhibited, stated that a house could be built to grow them in
Mfection for £10; so that even the humblest amateur may
•go in " for the culture of what used to be considered as the
aristocrats of the vegetable kingdom.

Lycaste Skinneri though not to be compared with the Odon-
toglots in some respects, has merits of its own which place
it in the front rank as a winter-flowering Orchid ; its large,
handsome, and persistent flowers are very useful for deco-
rative purposes at the dullest season of the year. In Lord
Londesborough's collection was a variety with pure white
flowers, much better in form, and the sepals and petals of
greater substance than that usually grown under the name of
L. Skinneri alba. Messrs. Veitch's coUeotion contained many
very fine varieties ; indeed, it would be a difficult matter to
find any two of them aUke. This requires similar treatment
to Odontoglossum, except that a higher temperature is de-
sirable when the plants are making their growth. Ca?logyne
cristata, requiring similar treatment, is a most charming winter-
flowering species, its pure white flowers are always welcome.
Mr. B. S. Williams, of HoUoway, had some immense well-
flowered specimens. No lover of Orchids should be without
this, as it is easy of culture, and flowers freely. — J. Douglas.

I double advantage in such draining where stones abound — you
are clearing the land by the process at the same time. With
regard to burning bog, I can endorse all " J. T." says as to
the value of the ashes as a manure ; bat I think his suggestion
should be taken as chiefly valuable in the primary process of
reclaiming heath and bog land. By burning, you at once re-
duce a great quantity of fibry substance into a valuable man-
ure, whrch would otherwise be a good while in rotting. To
continue the process of burning would be destroying the staple
of the soil, as, after being drained, bog does not renew itself.
" Pushing and burning " was commonly practised with the bog
land here many years ago ; but it was found to be " killing the
goose," and has been long since prohibited and discontinued. — Y.

DKAINING BOG.
I AM obUged to " J. T." for so promptly and kindly auswer-
ing my inquiry on the subject of draining bog laud. Where
he writes from — Maesgwynne — sounds very like a land, not only
of bog, but of rocks and stones. I ought to have mentioned
that from the absence of stone where my land is, the cost of
procuring it would render stone draining practically impossible.
I have myself done some extent of stone draining in a Welsh
county, and his plan No. 1. is a good one ; there is also a

A CENTURY OP ORCHIDS FOR AMATEUR
GROWERS.— No. 3.

Baekeeia spectabilis. — Anothei;fine species. It grows erect,
and from the top of its stem-lUve pseudo-bulbs are produced
long racemes of large bright lilac and pink flowers, which are
in some varieties freckled with crimson dots. Its flowers are
freely produced during the months of June and July, and last
a long time, especially when cut for bouquet-making. Native
of Guatemala.

B. ELEGANS. — This is also a native of Guatemala, and is at
the same time one of the most beautiful and rarest of the
whole genus. Like the others its growths are slender and
stem-like, whilst the flowers are very large and richly coloured,
the sepals and petals being dark rose, and the lip deep red
shading into crimson. When I add that these beautiful spikes
of bloom are produced during midwinter, enough will have been
said to recommend it to all interested in this order. A repre
sentfttion of this beautiful species is given on a previous page.

AEPOPHYLLUM.

This may be truly called a neglected genus, as few amateurs
either know it, or those who are acquainted with it seem to
have given it the cold shoulder entirely, for no other reason that
I can ascertain than the difiioulties which most have expe-
rienced in producing a spike of bloom. Now, I cannot permit
the few species of this genus which have, up to the present
time, been introduced to this country to be utterly cast out of
amateurs' ooUeotions without becoming their champion, and
thus endeavouring to prevent their passing out of cultivation.
Firstly, then, my readers, allow me to inform you that the
Arpophyllums are very free bloomers, and that those who have
hitherto found them otherwise have only themselves to blame,
as many have had to do with respect to other genera, the fact
being that if kept in a very low temperature they grow superbly
and flower profusely. The individual blooms of the members
of this genus are not large, but as they are very numerous,
want of size is amply compensated for. In potting drain the
pots well and thoroughly, and use only rough fibrous jjeat and
sharp sand to pot them in. During the period of growth an
ample supply of water wiU be necessary, and in winter it must
not be entirely withheld.

A. GiQANTEUM. — This plant has slender stem-like pseudo-
bulbs, each bearing a single, thick, fleshy, dark green leaf.
The flower spilie proceeds from the apex of the stem — that is,
from the base of the leaf. The spike is erect, stout, and
densely set with small dark purple flowers, the outline very
much resembhng a Fox's brush. If kept very cool in winter
it wiU bloom about the middle of May ; but if the spring
months are warm it usually comes in about the beginning of
April. Native of Guatemala.

A. cAEDiNALE. — A Very beautiful kind from the same locaUty
as the preceding, but it has now become very rare. In general
habit it resembles A. giganteum, but the flowers are rich red
shaded with rose ; these come in after those of A. giganteum
are past. — Expebto Cbede.

BLICKLING HALL,

The Seat of the Marquis of Lothian.
Blicklinq Hall is about two miles from Aylsham in the
county of Norfolk. The manor was known by the name of
Blicliuga when the Domesday Book was written, but we pass
over all its subsequent owners until we come to Sir John
Fastolff, who, about the year 14.50, sold the manor and house
to Sir Geffrey Boleyn, Lord Mayor of London. Sir Geffrey
adopted it as liis country residence. The estate descended to
his great-grandson Sti' Thomas Bulleyn, who was the father of

Febninry 20, 1873. )

JOURNAL OF HORTIODLTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB.

167

Anne, one of the sacrificed wives of Henry VIII. Sir Thomas
usually resided, when in the country, at Eochford Hall in
Essex, but he also resided occasionally at Blickling, and here
Anne was born in 1507. It has been stated that here also she
was married to Henry VIII. in 1533. It is certain that the
marriage was private, but we know of no contemporary autho-
rity which states that the ceremony took place at BUckling.

From the Boleyns it passed by marriage to the family of
the Cleres. One of them, Sir Edward Clere, to relieve him-
self from debts resulting from his extravagance, sold it about
the year 1600 to Sir Henry Hobart, then Attorney-General,
and afterwards Chief Justice of the Common Pleas. His son
built the house now remaining. It was finished in 11J28. More
than a century later it was described, and the description is
still nearly correct, as being of " two courts, with a fine library.

elegant wilderness, good lake, gardens, and park." In 1716
the Hobart then its possessor was created Earl of Buckingham-
shire. His second daughter married to the eldest son of Lord
Suffield, and who succeeded to that title. The offices in front
corresponding to the rest of the mansion, together with the
west front, were rebuOt in 1769 by theEarl of Buckinghamshire.

Blickling Hall was Lady Suffield's dower house. The pre-
sent Marquis of Lothian was her nephew, and therefore suc-
ceeded her, as she had no children. Lord Suffield having it
only in right of his wife.

The park and gardens include about one thousand acres.
The park is divided and adorned by woods and plantations
of noble forest trees. The lake, nearly a mile in length, is
crescent-shaped, and 400 yards across in its widest part, and
its banks are beautifully wooded. The garden is a mile in

Kl.ICKLINtj HAT.T..

circumference. The gardens at the present time, especially
the flower garden, are undergoing extensive alterations. The
new wall and terrace steps just erected, enclosing two acres for
flower garden, were designed by Sh- Digby Wyatt. The plans
for groundwork were furnished by Mr. Nesfield, and executed
by that well-known contractor Mr. Meston. The present de-
sign of the flower garden is entirely Lady Lothian's, and car-
ried-out by the present gardener, Mr. S. Lyon.

Our view of the house and garden in front— we wish we
might include the old carved oaken staircase inside— is from a

photogi-aph taken by Mr. Finch, Photographer, Aylsham. This
front garden is bounded, as shown in our engraving, by those
massive Yew hedges so common two centuries since, but now
so rarely remaining. These Yew hedges measure 110 feet in
length, are 17 feet in height, and 10 feet in breadth. They
are known to be two hundred yeai's old. The kitchen garden
is four acres in extent, and since Mr. Lyon's appointment to
the gardens in 1870 have been thoroughly remodelled. One
great feature is a fine old Oak standing in the orchard ; stem
50 feet high.

WORK FOB THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GAKDEN.

As soon as the "weather is favourable give the Artichokes their
spring dressing : Basil and Marjoram should now be sown in
pans or pots, which may be placed in a forcing house. Earth-up
the early-sown crops of Broad Scans ; if any were sovm iu boxes,
place them where they can have abundance of air nijrht and day
to harden them off for planting. The autumn plantation of
Cabbages should now be fiUed-up, and fresh ones may also be
made. Sow more seed to produce plants for summer and au-
tumn use, also seed of the Red for pickling. If Cauliflower
seed was sown early on a hotbed with Carrots or Radishes, the
plants should now be prioked-out on a slight hotbed, or in a
cold frame where they can be protected in severe weather. The
present sunless and cold weather is highly unfavourable to the
health of the Cucumier plants, as it will not allow of an ad-

mission of fresh air daily without fear of their receiving injury.
After linings have been renewed, keep a constant watch on the
state of the bed. Lettuce. — Fill-up any vacancies in the au-
tumn plantation. Sow some seed of the Green Cos on a warm
border. Musli/room beds out of doors must be protected from
wet, damp Htter should be removed and its place supplied with
dry. Autumn-sown Onions may be planted-out iu favourable
situations. The general spring sowimr may be made at the end
of the month in light and dry soils. Harden-off the Peas sown
in pots and boxes previous to planting them out, place them in
a cold frame, and let the hghts remain off night and day in
mild weather. Earth-up the early crops when the soil is some-
what dry. Make another sowing of liaclislirs to succeed Ihose
sown at the beginning of the month. Bhubarb may be for-
warded in the open groond by placing a hand-glass or Sea-

168

JOUENAL OF HOETICULTDRE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Febra&ry 20, 1873.

kale pot over the roots. Sow seed of Savoy for the first
crop.

FRUIT GARDEN.

Take every favourable opportunity to finish pruning fruit
trees ; Currants, and tlie Grape Vine especially, if not cut in
autumn must not be delayed.

FLOWER GARDEN.

The frost and snow which set iu at the early part of last week
have in a great measure suspended the operations of the gar-
dener, and many of those directed must be understood to de-
pend on a relaxation of the weather. New plantations of orna-
mental trees should be made, and old ones that have become
too thick should now be freely thinned-out. Auriculas may be
kept moderately moist. If not dressed as before directed, let
this be done immediately. See to Polyanthuses ; as spring ad-
vances, the snails become proportionably troublesome, diligence
must be used in trapping them. Plant Eanunculuses without
delay. Seed must be sown, though I prefer autumnal sowing
where there is an opportunity of protecting during winter.
Frames covered with calico prepared with Whitney's or some
similar composition, will afford great facilities in the way of
preservation in severe weather. The compost necessary is leaf
mould and loam in equal parts, previously exposed to the action
of heat to destroy insects, eggs, &o., contained therein. Boxes
about 18 inches by 12, and 6 deep, are most convenient. FiU with
compost, and water it well ; sow the next day, cover with very
fine soil hghtly, for if too deep the seed wUl not appear. After
Bowing it must be protected from hea^ rains and frosts — a cold
frame is, perhaps, the best situation. Should any soil have
lodged in the axils of the leaves of Carnations it should be re-
moved ; a quiU with the feather stripped oil on one side and cut
halfway oft on the other, makes a simple but effectual brush to
perforra this operation, and by timely looking through the
stock disease may be prevented. Planting-time is now rapidly
drawing on ; exhibitors who have not strengthened their weak
or deficient classes in the autumn should now look out for the
sorts wanted, if they mean to get first prizes or silver cups.
Pinks may yet be planted in beds. I should much like to see
these highly-fragrant flowers more extensively cultivated, but
the flowers do not usually lace so well as in the case of plants
planted in September.

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY.

Many plants will soon be fit for repotting. When plants are
removed to a higher temperature shake the old soil from them,
examine their roots, and repot them in fresh soil into smaller
pots. This is a good mode for preparing plants for the one-
shift system, which may be adopted as soon as the roots begin
to spread on the outside of the new soil. The one-shift system
should never be adopted until you are satisfied that the roots are
in a healthy state and beginning to grow. There is no time
when a low night temperature is more necessary than during
the next six weeks, as plants are now more readily excited than
at any other period. Orange trees if now removed to an early
vinery or stove, and kept in-doors all the summer, will come into
flower next Christmas with very little forcing. Camellias that
have not formed their flower-buds may now be introduced into
heat in succession from this time. Some of them may be ex-
pected to flower about the middle of next September. Plants
of Fuchsia eorymbosa which were cut back last autumn to the
ripened wood and preserved in an outhouse through the winter,
will flower in May if they are removed to a vinery or forcing
house. The night temperature of the conservatory should
now be lower than through the winter, say about 451^, in order
that the plants may be started away slowly at first. This
should be attended to now by all who regard the proper cul-
tivation of their plants. If you guard against frost in the green-
house, there is no danger of this house getting too low iu tem-
perature, and air should be admitted every fine day in order to
keep the plants from growing too rapidly at this season owing
to a drier atmosphere being thus produced. The plants iu the
house will require constant attention with regard to watering.
Shift and tie-out Pelargoniums as may be required, and allow
plenty of space after this time, with all the light possible, and a
free circulation of air whenever the weather wiU permit, but
avoid cold north-easterly winds, which are very injurious to
plants in active growth. Do not allow Calceolarias to suffer for
want of pot room, as any check at the present season might
throw them prematurely into bloom.' Echeverias and other
plants in pits and frames will now require frequent shifting and
placing at greater distances from each other in order that air
may be permitted to circulate freely among them. Damp and
mildew are the great enemies to be guarded against here, and
these must be sharply looked after, especially iu the case of
plants that have not ripened their gi-owth and are in rather a
soft state. If the former is troublesome it must be got rid of by
means of free ventilation on mild days, using a little fire heat
at the same time, and for the latter a dry airy atmosphere is
the best preventive, but the plants should be frequently ex-
amined, applying sulphur on the first appearance of the enemy.
Get all the plants tied with the least possible delay, for it is

difiicult to tie a plant so that it will not look somewhat stiff
and unnatural, and the sooner all this description of work is
done the better the specimens wiU look when in bloom later in
the season.

FORCING PIT.

This is a good time for propagating many plants by cuttings,
grafting, and seeds, and the forcing pit is now the best place for
this purpose. Seedlings already up ought to be potted-off as
soon as they can be handled. Foreign seeds had better be sown
in 6-inch pots, putting four or five kinds into one pot, and
placing labels in the middle facing the different seeds. Less
water will then be needed than if each kind were sown in a
small pot.

COLD PITS AND FRAMES.

A calculation should now be made as to how far the inmates
of cold pits and frames will supply the demands to be made upon
them. No doubt damp has reduced the number of some kinds.
Strong plants, or pots of stores which had become well es-
tablished in the autumn, of Verbenas, Fuchsias, Petunias,
Heliotropes, Salvias, Calceolarias, &c., should be removed forth-
with to some of the houses or pits at work. These wUl quickly
furnish abundance of early cuttings, which should be slipped off
and propagated. — W. Keane.

DOINGS OP THE LAST WEEK.

kitchen g.akden.

The weather, though finer, has been too variable to admit of
much, except rough work, being done out of doors, as the snow
is not quite gone on the 15th, and the gi'ound where at all stiff
can hardly be worked. Trenching, ridging, carting, and wheel-
ing could be well done, as, though there was plenty of thaw and
mud during the day, the mornings, with the exception of that
of the 15th, were hard enough with frost to permit of such work
being done. We have little faith in sowing iu such a state of
the soil. Where the soil is light and dry the work may be
different.

Situated as we are, we must try to forward Peas aiid Beans
under glass, and we have been getting ranges of slight hotbeds
ready for frames and pits of Potatoes, Carrots, early Turnips,
&c. For all such purposes a httle bottom heat, about 70°, is a
great advantage. When the soU is put on, the Potato sets
and seeds will be in an average of 55", and that will do very
well. A much higher temperature will do more harm than good.
We have seen whole ranges of pits of Potatoes, Peas, dwarf
Broad Beans, and even Dwarf Kidney Beans, next to destroyed
by too much heat. It is quite a mistake to imagine that a Pea
or a Potato wanted early will stand anything like the heat of a
Cucumber or a Kidney Beau. Many beginners act as if they
thought heat would do anything, and it requires a little teach-
ing, and above all the teaching of experience, to find out that too
much heat is as daugerous in many cases as too low a tempe-
rature is in others. For all such helping beds we merely throw
the fermenting material together, water, if too dry, and as soon
as it heats kindly we use it for the main part of the shallow
beds and place a surfacing of the old beds over it. It requires
a little experience to be able to do all this to a nicety without a
mishap. We can pretty well judge as exactly what bels of
different heights will do, according to the material, just as in
going thiough a range of houses at different temperatures we
can, on opening the doors of the compartments, tell at once
within a trifle the temperature iu each without looking at a
thermometer.

In a large place it is a good plan to have one standard ther-
mometer proved to be correct, and compare it with the other
thermometers on the place. We have found many very cheap
thermometers very correct, and some high-priced ones the
reverse, though, on the whole, a thermometer moderately priced,
say 4s. Gd. to 6s. may in general be more depended on than one
at Is. Gd. to 2s. The latter, however, are often good enough for
common purposes.

As the weather became milder, and we had also, especially on
the 15th, some fine gleams of sunshine, in the middle of the week
the coverings were removed from Celery beds and Broccoli,
so that the plants might be kept hardy. Snow's and Walchereu
Broccoli came in very useful after Veitch'a Late Broccoli was
over. Potatoes^ planted early in winter on a bank sloping
to the south, are growing and rooting well. The frost was not
severe enough to reach them, and if it had threatened to do so,
we should have strewn some litter over the ground. Sea-kale,
Rhubarb, and Asparagus we have lately said enough about, but
they help greatly at this season. Took out one of our Mushroom
beds, and have materials for another. Duriug the winter our
shelf beds generally do better, at least come in more quickly,
than those beds made on the floor, as they are more thoroughly
under command of what heat and moist vapour we may choose
to give. With beds in open sheds and in the open air success
in winter will chiefly depend on two things — a greater bulk of
materials, and a more careful covering to secure a uniform
temperature.

February 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL 0^ HORTICULTURE AND COtTAGE GARDENI^R.

inn

FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

The weather has kept us back in pruning, tying, nailing, &c.,
and the frost has helped to prevent the trees pettiufj too for-
ward. We notice that the birds have been making more free
than is desirable with Apricot buds. Trees in orchai'd houses
must be pruned, and glass and woodwork cleaned forthwith.
Wa moved Strawberries from pits and frames into Peach houses,
and from other pits into a hot-water pit. From circumstances
we shall be much later than usual. A good many of our Straw-
berry plants in pots have been iujured by rats and mice feeding
on the buds. Singularly enough we lose few by this means
when the plants are in the open ground, but let the plants be
fine ones in pots, and they are almost sure to be attacked ; and
the finest plants, as a rule, are pitched upon for this destructive
attack.

"We gave plenty of air in the mild days to Peach trees in
bloom. In dull days we gave a slight rise from fire heat to
permit of this to be done. In sunny days less fire was necessary.
In a sunny day, with a nipping fierce north wind, we gave com-
paratively little air, but lessened the fire heat. A little air early
given, and a little artificial heat, in a sunny frosty day, would be
better than allowing a cold frosty air to play at once on blooms
that had been considerably weakened by the previous protection
and very dull weather.

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT.

See what has been lately said of lawns, turf-laying; protec-
tion to Auriculas and half-hardy plants ; planting Ranunculuses,
Anemones, itc, when the ground is drier; protecting forward
bulbs in the open air; and attending to Hyacinths, Tulips, i^'c,
in houses, giving them some manure water slightly heated,
as the flowerstalks and heads show, which adds much to their
strength. If given earlier it may also impart strength, but at a
sacrifice of colour. In hardly any case will mamu'e water be
useful to flowering plants in pots until the pot be crammed with
roots and the flowerlnids begin to appear. Of course, there are
cases where strength of growth is necessary to the formation of
flowerbuds, but these must come in as exceptions to the rule.
As a general rule Lilacs, Roses, Deutzias, Spartiums, Wall-
flowers, Stocks, Rhododendrons, Azaleas, tVc, when forced
derive the most benefit from manure watering when the flower-
buds appear or just commence to swell. The whole of the
Pelargonium group are bettered by manure watering after they
are knotted for blooming, and when the pots are well supplied
with roots. Given at an earlier period, it would so much en-
courage grossness of foliage that the flowers in comparison
would look meagre. — R. F.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until next
week.

Books (Cflmjcc).— The "Cottage Gardeners' Dictionary" and Jolmson'a
" Science aiul Practice of Gardening." Both can be had from our office.
(Mar). — MiKti Plues's " Rambles in f^earch of Flowerless Plants " is a separate
work. (A Suh^^cribi'r for IVrtrs).— The "Cottage Gardeners' Dictionary " in-
cludeH all garden plants and their culture, &c. ' [H. T.).— The " Cottage Gar-
deners' Dictionary " is a t;ood work of reference, and would Rive you the
needful loformation on all garden subjects. Our " In-door Gardening " would
suit you m reispect of the greenhouse. The former may be had free by post
from oui- office for 7s. '2d., and the last-named for Is. Ihd. (A Beginner).— Our
" Keane'3 Out-door Gardening " would suit you. Free' by post from our oflSce
If you enclose twenty postage stamps with your address,

CvcLAiiEN Soil (E. F. TI^.).— There are full particulars in our number
published on January liSrd.

Grape Chop [F. R. F.).— No one, even if you had mentioned the variety,
could have told what would be the probable produce of Vines during three
years. Too much depends upon soil, vigour, and season.

Presekving Grapes {G. 7i.).— There are a drawing and description of the
mode by putting the end of the spray into a bottle of water on page 313 of
our 57l8t number, published on the 7th of March, 1872.

Panshanger {Ignoramus).— It is near Hertford ; railway station, Cole Green.

Ni-NEHAM Park Onion (A Subscriber).— It was brought to public notice
by Ml". Stewart, when gardener at Nuueham Park. It is only a good strain
of the White Spanish.

RiiAMNrs Frangula (J. p., I'ort).— Writs to " Rhamnus," office of this
Journal. Mr. James Smith, Darley Dale Nurseries, Matlock, can also sup-
ply it.

Dandelion (C. £J.).— There is a long communication on its use as a salad,
&c., in oiur No. 3, N.S., published April 16th, 1861.

GiLLiFLOWER (.i Laflij in Cheshire).— Yoiw friend is quite in error; the
name is certainly not a corruption of " July Uower," but of the French name,
* ' Girofli'e." Your mother is accui-ato in her description, showing that the
Carnation in Scotland seventy years ago and more was knoiVn as the Gilli*
flower.

MnsHROojis IN Greenhouse {Mrs. Bains).— Tvfo 4-inch pipes will be suf*
ficient for the greenhouse if not very ^vide. If the house is at all wide it will
be better to take them round the end as well as front. Mushrooms will grow
well under the stages if the heating pipes are not too neai- them, and if the
water from the stages does not drop on the beds. Saucers for the plants
would fio far remedy this ; but perhaps the best plan would bo to have a water-
proofed cover, or tarpaului, not laid on the bod, but 3 or 4 inches above it.

Planting Eosery [N. Tr.).— -We are sorry that, owing to press of ques-
tions, we were not able to answer yours sooner, and even now cannot give you

much assistance. The list of Roses is good, and with the exception of Mrs.
Rivers, which we fear is too weak and uncertain a grower to depend upon,
they may all be planted for beds. The design of the beds, however, is to
very irregular, although somewhat uniform in its irregularity, that it will be
difficult 10 plant so as to produce any definite effect either by contrast or
harmony of colouring. We should recommend you to try cross- balancing—
for instance, to use Charles Lefebvre and Fisher Holmes for match beds ;
Louise Vau Houtte with Duke of Wellington, Prince Camille de Rjhan with
Pierre Notting, and so on. We are led to make these remarks, as iu some
cases the buds adjoining eai:h other are very similar in colouring, in others in
great contrast, and we hardly know which plan you intend to adopt. If we
ouce began to alter the position of the Ruses, we should have to alter so many,
that wo prefer to leave it to your own judgment.

Deficient Heat from Hot Water {J. i?.).— As your piping is sunk under
a grating, we thoroughly approve of having 100 feet or so more piping; and in
the position indicated, and for the purposes mentioned, with your piping
exposed, you would have had enough with 1 foot of piping to 21 cubic ie<.-t of
air. From our own practice we should say that pipes so sunk under a grating
make their heating power under a grating fully oue-fourth less than would bo
at once available if they were fully exposed to the atmosphere of the house.

Zigzag Gas Boiler (Cons^rra^ory).— We sent your queries to the manu-
facturer, and in reply he says :— " First, the supply of gas will not be quite
equal, but the flame will not go out with a reduced pressure. Secondly, Bun-
sen's au' and gas burners give the greatest amount of heat, and without
smoke. Thirdly, the boiler can be fixed inside or outside. The Hue pipe is
made large enough to carry off any eflluvia or unconsumed gas. Foui-thly,
the ascent of heat is not perpendicular, but under and over a series of flat
surfaces containing thin layers of water. Fifthly, there is no accumulation
of soot, as Buusen's air and gas burners are used, and a blue flame is emitted."

Heating from Kitchen Boiler {Clara).— We prefer 1-inch instead of
three-quarter-inch for a convoying pipe from the kitchen boiler; as part in
the gieenhouse has 2-inch pipes, the return should not be less. The green-
house must be small if you can heat it with two pipes, even if both were of the
diameter of 2 inches. The supply-cistern is placed right enough, and, as
stated lately, it is a matter of comparative indifference where it is placed,
provided it is higher than the highest point of the pipes, and there is a small
air-pipe at the highest point of the pipe, such as where you show the return
elbow. With a ball-tap the boiler will be kept full, whatever you take out of
it for house use. The steam-pipe is valuab!e in all close-topped boilers; but
we would have a tap on it, to be open when no heat is wanted in the green-
house, and to be shut when you want a brisk circulation in the greenhouse
pipes— at least very nearly shut. The pipes will carry off the extra heat
without wasting heat by the escape of steam. You should have a tap on the
valve un the flow-pipe into the greenhouse, as heat from the boiler there would
be unwelcome in summer.

Cuttings and Seed-sowino in Greenhol'se {A Lover of Flowers).—
In your small greenhouse, in which you use fire heat only when there is
fmst, you want some simple contrivance for obtaining a little bottom heat.
The simplest we know is a stout wooden box, say wood 1 inch thick and
34 inches long, 17 inches wide, 13 inches deep at the front and 18 inches deep
at the back, all inside measure. If this wood is well seasoned, and the whole
neatly put together and grooved where ends, sides, and bottom meet, it will
hold water if a little white load be run in the joints. Even without that, it
will do so if the box be soaked in water for a short time. All that would be
required then would be a plate of zinc or tin placed with a few supports be-
tween the bottom and it, and 3 inches from the bottom, with a plug or tap at
one end and a funnel-pipe at the other, so as to supply the vessel beneath the
plate with hot water from '2 to 2^ inches deep. A few small pebbles or clean
rough ashes should be placed on the ii'on, and then you can phmge the pots
in what is most handy. Such a box will hold eighteen of what are called
48-pots, and thirty-two of what are called 16-pots. The water will generally
be hot enough if supplied once a-day, and an equal temperature can easily
be afforded by removing only a part and adding a part of hot. Such a bos
should stand in the greenhouse or wiudow. A rough box would do if you had
a tin vessel 3 inches deep and covered. With a box having a bottom of iron
you could heat with lamp or candle, but the box of hot water is the simplest.
The top should consist of three squai-es of glass moveable, resting on the
back and front, and if each square is in a neat frame all the better ; but they
may be easily laid on and moved without any frame, and a tack in front will
prevent them sliding, ^^^leu thus moveable the squares can easily be turned
top Ride under.

Trenched Ground not Fertile {H. T.).—ln trenching your garden
ground, we apprehend you have gone too deeply and brought too much of tiio
gravelly subsoil to the smface. This will, from exposure ta the atmosphere,
become ameUorated, and the present apparent evil will ultimately result in a
positive good by giving you a greater depth of soil. We should apply the
manure yon propose, and not be sparing of it ; and this we should give at
once, pointing It in with a fork, aud at the end of Blarch we would use salt
at the rate of ten bushels per acre. Tliis will rid you to a great extent of
slugs, and then, before sowing or planting, dress with nitrate of soda at the
rate of 1 lb. to 30 square yards. By all means apply guano aud soot as a
liquid manure during the period of growth, and we think you will be rewarded
by superior crops.

Aloes Wintering in a Cellar (Sw.f5r.r).— We think your cellar would
answer at the dullest period of the year, say December, January, and Febru-
ary, if the plants were kept dry and safe from frost. In October, November,
March, April, and part of IMay you could probably accommodate the plants in
an outhouse where they would have light, which you need only afford in mild
days; and at night a covering of canvas, in addition to closing the doorsi
would give you all the protection you require.

Potting Geranium Cuttings (F. /.).— The cuttings may be potted-off
from the boxes now, aud placed in the propat,Mtin.,' frame heated by hot water,
where they should remain not less than a fortnight— better three weeks,
during the last week of which they should have air freely admitted, so as to
harden them well off before removal to the cold frame. In the latter they
will need protection at night, or during frosty weather, by mats or other cover-
ing placed over the lights.

Setting Peach Tree Blossoms (H.C. J.).— \Mien the pollen la perfected
shake the branches uf the trees on the back wall of your vinery.

Rhododendrons (J. Taylor).— The varieties are such a multitude that no
one can name any but those markedly distinct. We lately noticed fully the
winter blooming.

Zigzag Boiler— Ahnott's Stove (A. A.). — "We are equally surprised with
yourself at manufacturers not fully advertising their inventions. More particu-

l70

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Febmiry 20, 187S.

lors are wanted by our coiTespondent as to the price, and heatinc power of the
Zigzag boiler. The Araott stove to which you allado is a portable one, which
you will find figured at page 28, vol. xiv., of The /ournal of Hokxicultcre.
It could no doubt be had through any of our principal ironmongers in large
towns.

Spots on Rose Lewes (M. F. TT''.).— The leaves sent are not inferited
with any disease ; they are only spotted from being in a cold and damp atmo-
sphere. The loaves you sent arc of last year, and had not been shed, probably
owing to the soil havinc; been kept drier. The fresh leaves will come all right.
We do not recommend one seller or purchaser of plants in preference to
another, and we cannot depart from our rule in respect to cut flowers.

Dahlia Treatment (Chcc). — They should be placed in a bos or in pans,
covered to the neck with light rich soil which is just moist, and set in a
gentle hotbed in March. When they have shoots about 3 inches long divide
the roots from the crown downwards, preserving a portion of old tuber to
each division; or the shoots may be taken off close to whence they proceed,
when 3 or 4 inches long, and potted in light rich soil singly in 3-inch pots,
inserting them half way in the soil, resting the base of the cutting on sliver
sand. Surround them with the saraeaud place them in agentle hotbed, plung-
ing the pots to the rim in coal ashes or other material. Water cax-cfully, keep
close, and shade from bright sun. In a fortnight or three weeks they will be
well rooted, i.nd should then bo hardened off, potting, however, in 4J-inch
pots, when the roots are matted round the sides of the smaller-sized pots,
and when the roots again show at the sides remove the plants to a cold frame,
setting them on coal ashes. Keep them rather close for a few days, then
admit air daily, water well, and keep them safe from frost. They may be
planted out at the end of May. The situation should be open, but sheltered
from winds, as the shoots are brittle. The shoots should be thinned, also the
flowers on each plant, pi-eserving the best and strongest. Keep the plants
well staked. The Dahlia likes a rich, deep, friable loam, enriched with well
decomposed dung. You will find particulars of the treatment of this and other
florists' flowers in our " Florists' Flowers," which can be had from our office
for five postage stamps.

Potted Vines not Breaking [Ibid). — The cause of the Vines not breaking,
or breaking so very irregularly is probably due to the canes not having been
depressed, and they have not perhaps bean moistened two or three times a day
with water of the temperature of the house. Had you brought the ends of
the canes down to a level with the pot, arching them over, it is likely they
would, with moisture, have broken every eye from the base to the top of the canes,
and when all the eyes had broken the canes could have been tied up to the
rafters ; or had they been coiled around stakes we think they would have broken
more regularly. We should even yet depress the canes, bringing their ends level
with the soil or even below the pots, arching the canes over so as not to break
them, aud in this way we think you may even yet ensure tho breaking of every
eye, xinless they are rubbed off or have been otherwise damaged. We think
you have pruned them too short to ensure a crop, as the eyes at the bottom of
pot Vines are not nearly so well ripened as those on the upper part of the
ceans. We should have left them 7 feet, or even 8 or 9 feet long had the wood
been strong and hai'd, and the eyes prominent.

Ferns, &c., for Hanging Basket in Conservatory (Amateur). — Ferns :
Adiantum Capillus- Veneris, A. setulosum, Davatlia dissecta, Nephrolepis
tuberosa, Niphobolus lingua corymbifera, and Platycerium alcicome. Flowev'
inrj plants: Convolvulus mauritanicus, Ivy-leaved Geraniums, with pink,
scarlet, mauve, and white flowers, also with variegated leaves, Heliotropium of
sorts, Lophospermum Hendersoui, Lithospermum prostratum, Campanula
garganica, Lynaria Cymbalaria, Lysimachia Nummularia, Trop.ToIum Lobbi-
anum var. Brilliant, and Triompho de Gand, Nierembergia gracilis, Sasifraga
sarmentosa. The whole are cheap, and may be had of any nm"aeryman ad-
vertising in our columns. We cannot recommend dealers.

Preventing Rabbits Barking Fruit Trees (Idem).— The best preven-
tive we know is to wrap the stems to a height of 3 or 4 feet with a hay band.
The bands must be renewed every alternate year, but should be gone over
rinuaUy to see that the stems are covered. Strips of card paper dipped in
gas tar placed in slits in sticks thrust in the soil so as to be about 6 inches
above ground, and disposed around the trees, wiU keep rabbits off the stems so
long as the tar is fresh. If, however, the trees are dwarfs the only effectual
remedy is to wire the enclosure round with 2 feet 6 inch netting, and the
lower edr'e embedded 1 or 2 inches in the ground. We do not know of a
double White Geranium.

Soil for Rhododendron and Hardy Azaleas (H. F. F.).— As yoiu* soil
is light and rich, it will grow Cedrus Deodara well if the situation is sheltered
from winds. For the Rhododendrons wo should advise you to add to it some
cocoa-nut fibre refuse as you ijropose, aud some good tiu-f chopped up rather
small; and you may further add leaf soil or old cow dung, all of which are
good for Rhododendrons ; and in such materials they grow better with us
than in peat.

H^-bridising Geraniums (^f. Tr.).— There is but one way of effecting the
hybridisation of plants, and that is to apply the pollen of one species to the
stigma of another. Most of the present race of Geraniums are not hybrids,
but cross-breds. You will need to remove the stamens of the flower you
wish to operate on before the pollen is ripe, and envelope the flowers iu a
gauEe bag both before and after the pollen of the other has been applied to
one or all of the horn-like stigmas. When the seed vessels enlarge you may
remove the bag. The best time to apply the pollen is in the early part of the
day, and the plants seed more freely when they are kept rather dry, so as not
to be gross, a dry well- ventilated atmosphere being necessary.

Gladioli in Pots (Idrm). — Place three in a 6-inch pot filled with a com-
post of two parts light turfy loam, one pai-t old cow dung or leaf soil, and one
part sandy peat, the whole well broken up and mixed, adding a sixth of silver
sand. Place the bulbs on silver sand, and surround them with the same
material. Cover them about an inch deep with soil. If the soil be moist no
water should be given. Plunge the pots in ashes in a cold frame or pit, water-
ing sparingly until they begin to giow, then water more freely; admit air
abundantly, and protect from frost. ^Vhen they are growing freely water
abundantly — not over watering, and when they arc advancing for flowering
water twice weekly with liquid manmc. The flowering pots should be 8 inches
ju diameter ; shift into them when the roots are slightly matted' round the
sides. Ajfford plenty of head room, but place the plants near the glass, and
syringe twice a-day to keep down red spider.

Best Varieties of Fruit Trees (Sam. -Boicrrs).— -It is not easy to
enumerate the best sorts of fruit trees for a given locality. We have found a
variety succeed well in one garden, but not in a neighbouring one. Winter
Nelia Pear does not succeed with ns, and a friend a few miles distant thinks
it quite first-clasa. Your soil being light and near the gravel is naturally not

a good one for fruit trees. The best Apples for you are— Adams's Pearmairi,
Court- Pen du- PI at, Cox's Orange Pippin, Early Harvest, Golden Pippin, Early
Margaret, Kerry Pippin, King of the Pippins, Old Nonpareil, Pitmaston Non-
pareil, Scarlet Nonpareil, Mannington's Pearmain, Reinette du Canada,
Golden Reinette, Reinette Jaune Hativo, Ribston Pippin, syke House Russet,
and Sturmer Pippin. The following are kitchen Apples— Bed ordshure Found-
ling, Blenheim Pippin, Cox's Pomona, Dumelow's Seedling, Emperor Alex-
ander, Galloway Pippin, Gloria I\Iundi, Gooseberry Apple, Hawthornden,
Kentish Codlin, Lord Suffield, Mere de Menage, Norfolk Beefing, Tower of
Glammis, and Warner's King. Pears — Beurre Bosc, Beurre d'Aremberg,
Beunt- d'Amaulis, Beurre Giffard, Beurre Superfin, Conseiller de la Cour,
Doyenne d'Ete, Fondante d'Automne, Jargonelle, Louise Bonne of Jersey,
Mai-ie Louise, Madame Treyve, Summer Beurrt- d'Aremberg, Williams's Bon
Chretien, and Zephirin (irV'goire. PZum,";— Angelina Burdott, Goe's Golden
Drop, Golden Esperen, Groen Gage, Guthrie's Late Gage, Jefferson's, Kirke'a,
Purple Gage, Reine Claude de Bavay, and Transparent Gage. Kitchen Plums^
Diamond, Early Prolific, Mitchelson's. Orleans, Pond's Seedling. Prince of
Wales, Prince Englebert, Victoria, and Washington. Chnrics — Bigarreau,
Bigan-eau Napoleon, Black Eagle. Black Tartarian, Elton, Florence, Governor
Wood, Kentish, Knight's Early Black, May Duke, Morello, and Royal Duke.

Slugs (J. S. S.). — You had better sprinkle quicklime of an evening between
the crops. The slugs are then on the surface. If the soil is heavy it would
be improved, and the slugs extirpated, by paring and burning Cinches deep of
the whole surface. Brown's "The Forester," is the best book on manoging
woods and plantations. There is no small-priced work on the subject that is
practical and trustworthy.

Mass of Mushrooms (J. L. F.). — A group of Mushrooms, more than fifty
in number, and weighing 17 ozs., grown on a hotbed is large, but not a
phenomenon.

Altering Lean-to Greenhouse {J. A.). — As your house of 40 feet must
not be a fixture, we would obtain leave from the landlord to fix a IJ inch board
by 7 inches to the ba;k wall to receive the ends of the rafters. Wo would
have the whole wood and glass. The front sill we would lay on short stout
sleepers laid on the ground, and havo upright studs between that and the
wall plate to receive wood and glass in front, part to be a wooden ventilator.
All these we would fix with screws, so as to be easily moved. You do not say
the width, but the best plan will be to have your rafter sash-bars about
16 inches apart, and groove them to receive glass of that width. These
could be packed firmly with strips of soft cord, &c., beneath, and thus the
glass could be easily taken out and repacked. You could not heat with a flue
without leaving it behind you, unless there was a regular agreement to the
contrary. On the same principle, if you used hot water, the best plan would
be to have a small portable boiler complete in itself, requiring no fixing, and
in that case boiler and pipes could be moved. In your case, with the two
divisions, the simplest plan would be to have a small iron stove in each house,
and take a 4-inch pipe through the roof, using a square of sheet iron with a
hole in it instead of a square of gla.«s.

Heating an Orchard House and Vinery (Amateur).~lt is so far im"^
portant that the orchard house is lower than the vinery, as the flue entering
the irchard house first will give off its greatest heat there; but that wiU
enable you to make it the earliest house. Then, if there is no special draw*
back, the flue in the vinery would act better if it were near the front of the
house instead of near ihe back wall. First, with the furnace sunk as stated
you could heat both houses with one flue. Second, yoiu* mode of sinking the
flue in the orchard house near the front and chambering it over will do, but
then, besides an opening at each end of the orchard house. It would be ad-
visable to have a grating opening: In the middle ; in fact, a good covering for
the flue might enable you to dispense with chambeiing altogether. If not
inconvenient, why not have the flue under the pathway, the top of the flue
forming part of the pathway ? Thkd, for the orchard house, we would recom-
mend a brick flue, and as there is only one, we would have it at least 8 or
9 inches wide, and 8 inches deep inside measure. Fourth, you can heat the
orchard house separately by having a small chimney at the point where it
rises to go into the vinery. Fifth, to heat both houses when desirable, and
the orchard house separately when desirable, with the stokeliole at the same
place, the first flue should terminate in a brick box, with a damper to pre-
vent the heat going farther, and sending the smoke into the chimney.
When the heat is wanted to go on, shut-up with a damper the hole in this
chimney and take out the other, so that the heat shall pass into the flue of
the vinery. If you could place yom- stokehole at that point you could heat
either house at will. Now you must heat the orchard house before you heat
the vinery. Sixth, approving of bricks for the orchard house, in order to inter-
fere as little as possible with the Vine roots in the vinery, we would use 8 or
9-inch hard-burned pipes there ; Portland cement pipes would answer ad-
mirably. The brick box at the end of the flue in the orchai'd house should
be raised high enough, aud be covered ■nath a wide tile or stone to receive
these cylinili-icai pipes, and if they rise a little all the way to the chimney they
will answer all the better. At all corners it is well to have a brick bisfor
cleaning, and then neither the flue nor the pipes need be disturbed. Seventh,
the simplest plan would be to take the flue on without the intermediate
chimney. The size of the funiace should be about 30 inches long, 14 inches
wide, and 16 to 18 inches high. Eighth, when you ripen Peaches, Grapes,
Ac, we are not sanguine of ripening a second crop in pots, unless you apply
the heat early, and then if you did, so as to have early fruit, yon would need
a much larger flue. A great many plants, and even salads and vegetables,
may be kept in winter after the leaves have fallen.

Treatment or Horizontal-trained Pear Trees {Frank Corbctt). —
Certainly, allow the upper branches to grow out as far as the imder ones In
order to fill up all the wall surface.

Vines Failing {B. C.).— From the specimens enclosed we beheve ono of
two things to be the cause, either that the wood was imperfectly ripened last
year, or that it is from defective root action since the Vines were started. Tho
temperatuie was right, and if you gave the pots enough water, wo do not
know what more you could have done. When starting pot Vines we prefer a
rather higher temperature for the roots, either by placing thom uear the hot*
water pipes or plunging them in a bottom heat of about 85\

Plantin Back Wall of Vinery (J. W. S.).— Pot Vines trained to the
wall would be as good as anything. We have seen Figs do tolerably well
planted out on the back wall of a vinery.

Catekpillahs on Filbert Trees (A Subscriber). — Y'oiu- case is a very
common one amongst Filbert -growers, and those who grow them on a large
scale have tho same enemy to contend against. Many of them adopt hand-
picking by women and children ; or when the caterpillars are very numerous,
cloths are spread underneath the trees in as quiet a way as possible, so as not

February 20, 1873. i

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB.

171

to disturb it, when it ia sharply ahaken, and a number of the ma-^gots will
fall off at once. These, of course, cau be easily collected into a pail or other
vessel and destroyed: but there will always bo souiolett, so that hand-picking
is uocessarv as well. We have heard of several bu^heU of caterpillars being
secured, and if this plan is found to pay tlie grower for market, who has rent
and all other expenses to meet, it ought U> be worth while to the private grower.
Nam:e8 of Plants (IF". Af.).— Daphne iudica. a greenhouse evergreen.
(G. f.).— We cannot name either plants from leaves, or florists' varieties.

POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON OHEONIOLE.

THE POULTRY OF 1872.— No. 3.

I CAN say little about the Game classes, except that they have
well held their own ; more they could hardly do, considering
the perfection to which years of close competition have brought
all the main colours of this noble breed. I have already re-
marked that the Brahmas have beaten every breed of late in
point of mere numbers ; but it must still be said that in no
■variety are there such a number of skilled and careful breeders as
in Game, and in no classes at any good show can such a number
of almost faultless birds be fouud giving rise to endless disputes
over the correctness of the judging. After all that has been said
regarding the change in style, or the difference between the old
fighting and the modern exhibition birds, the breeders, the
public, and the judges have given an unmistakeable preference
to the high-bred, graceful, fiue-boned modern style ; and the real
question seems to me to be, Do any of us really want to bring
back again the old cock-fighting days ? If we do not, if our
Game fowls are now to be preserved as exhibition and not as
actually fighting birds, it is utterly impossible but that some
amount of change should slowly aud almost imperceptibly take
place, for the simple reason that the handsomest bird will na-
turally be preferred. I have seen both kinds, and for myself I
prefer the modern bird ; those who wish to revive cocking may
think otherwise. On the whole I should be disposed to say that
Black Reds and Duckwings have shown the best during the past
season. Why no Silver Duckwings are ever shown is a mystery
to me, having only lately learnt that there are birds of this
beautiful variety still in existence; surely they would secure
their fair share of honours in the cock classes at least, even if
the dull colour of the really true-bred hen disabled tham in the
pairs.

Amongst the Hamburghs I think I have seen better Silver-
pencils than for some time, several hens having been exhibited
with a rich lustrous black marking that left little to desire. The
other marked varieties have been much as usual, but Blacks
have to my fancy shown rather more of the Spanish than
formerly iu contour. The faces have been free from the taint,
but the light and graceful outline of the true-bred Hamburgh
has been wanting in many prize birds.

In Polish fowls, both Gold and Silver-spangles have advanced
in richness and accuracy of marking, and on the whole I think
in popularity. But the poor White-crested Blacks seem dying
out; scarcely any have been shown, in fact, only one or two
really good pens have appeared. Delicate as they are, the loss
of this breed would be regretted by all. Chamois have almost
disappeared, but about them perhaps few would care much.
Moreover, they can always be " made to order " if wanted.

Two, at least, of the French breeds are becoming more and
more kept. Houdans retain their place, and increase in size
aud weight. I may note here a curious fact. When first im-
ported the fifth toe was very uncertain, aud many people thought
it would be well to "breed it out." I myself hazarded the
prediction that if this toe were finally " fixed " in the breed
we should have bumblefoot, having long made up my mind
that the affection in Dorkings was owing to this cause, and could
not possiljly be accounted for by the accidental ones usually
alleged. Having had the curiosity to watch the result, I hear on
almost all hands that bumblefoot is now appearing in the
Houdan race, though unknown at the first, when the abnormal
toe was less general, and hence we see the connection between
the weakness of functiou and the excess of growth, a counection
Bo frequent as to be well known to physiologists. Creve-Cceurs
have gained ground immensely, have improved in freedom from
foul feathers, and according to information kindly furnished me
by various breeders, also in hardiness : in fact, they seem at last
to be becoming acclimatised, which at one time appeared very
doubtful indeed. La Fluche appears a hopcsless case.

Glancing briefly at less popular breeds, Malays seem to me to
have established a marked advance. More of them have been
shown, and at least one hen has appeared on the scene which
honestly deserves to be called large. We may see the old Malay
again yet ! and if we do it will be much more popular than the
little weedy things which have lately passed by that name.
Sultans aud Silkies have both shown a tendency to come into
fashion. The White American Leghorn has firmly established
its footing, and deserves it, as one of the best if not the very best
of layers known. It lays as well as the Hamburgh, but a much

larger egg, and is hardier and more adapted to moderate confine-
ment. I notice a tendency to breed it with pale and short legs ;
this should be guarded against, spoiling the beauty of the fowl
completely. Plymouth Rocks have also made their appearance
on one or two occasions, and seem rather likely to be popular —
I hardly know why, being inferior in my opinion to the Do-
minique, which is in less favour ; indeed, in what the Rocks
differ from tall, smooth-legged Cuckoo Cochins it would be hard
to say. They are, however, hardy and " generally useful " birds,
and if they obtain a recognised place no one will grudge it them.

Game Bantams still advance, being more like Game, and less
like other Bantams in shape every year, indeed, a bird not
genuine Game iu character would now stand a hopeless chance.
I think the young birds, iu fact, can hardly perhaps be bred
better; but even the best in most cases get " stumpy " the se-
cond season and lose the gamey look which is so fascinating.
In this direction there is still much to be done, and it is being
done ; for more old birds were shown with the required points
than I can ever remember. I once thought it hopeless, but I
now yet expect to see them so improved that the old birds shall
keep their shape aud carriage like the real Game, of which they
are the miniatures.

In other Bantams we have had a new Dark Japanese variety,
said to be very hardy and a good breeder. Cochins seem dying
out, which is a pity, as the queer little creatures were always
popular. Why don't the few who have them cross into some-
ting else and back again, and so restore the prolifacy and vigour
of the strain ? Blacks have made giant strides. I have seen
almost thirty entries in a class, and winning has become difficult
indeed. Whites have increased too, and often claim a class to
themselves ; but the Rev. F. Tearle still, like a veritable Comte
de Chambord, holds his "white flag" aloft with proud defiance.
But I sigh for a breed I lased to love, and keep in days gone
by, though never then an exhibitor — the exquisite White-booted
Bantam. I saw it once and only once last year. Let every
man have his fancy, the world is wide. But to my eye the
White-booted Bantam, with his quaint little ways, is the nicest
little pet of the lot. He wi'-l stand and cock his head at yon
like a Canary, and he is almost the only bird you can trust
in a garden. As to the Sebrights, the Golds have been getting
so large, that while the lacing is all that could be, if care be not
taken they will soon not be Bantams at all. Silvers, real Silvers,
it has often been said have disappeared. This season the aver-
age colour has been worse than ever, and on one occasion I saw
two pens side by side, one called Silver, the other Gold with
not a shade between them. It may have been a mistake, but it
was at worst not a very exaggerated statement of the case. On
the other hand, some half dozen times there have been shown
pens of Silvers really startling in their clear white ground, and
also with more blue in the earlobe than I can remember seeing
for long. Let us only hope they may increase and multiply.

I know little, or it may be better to say nothing, about Water-
fowl and Turkeys, at least while alive, it would therefore be pre-
sumption to make any remarks. If anybody sends me one dead I
will discuss it in my best manner. What I have said on other
matters also is no doubt open to criticism, especially as it is
founded almost entirely upon the classes at the few great shows,
but I have given my honest opinion as to our progress or other-
wise in poultry matters, as exempUfied by the show season o£
1872.— L. Weight.

OUR ANNUAL EXHIBITION OF POULTRY.

This is au event not to be smiled at nor even lightly re-
garded. I can assure you it is an affair of great importance,
and is conducted in a manner that reflects the highest credit on
everybody.

From the time of its commencement in the morning till the
last crow of the last departing "chanticleer" dies away in the
distance at evening, we have an unsettled feeling that some-
thing other than the usual market and occasional brass band is
going on. Covered carts and mysterious hampers excite our
curiosity — groups of carriers (a class easily distinguishable)
converse or " hold forth," on the respective merits of themselves,
their horses, and the return journey. Early iu the morning you
would be certain to meet clean little boys with curiously con-
structed boxes that would hold, say, a rabbit, side by side with
tidy little girls, with blue noses and white pinafores, carrying
what might be a cage, but all wearing such a " first-prize " air
of expectation that it would be nothing short of refined cruelty
to suggest even the possibility of " only a second." Then
about noon our omnibus begins to be very busy. We have no
cabs in our Httle town. Cabs, especially hansoms, savour of
gaiety, rapid transit, &o. ; either of these are abominations.
Still we are unmistakeably improving, for hitherto 10s. has been
the highest award at our poultry show ; this year, however, 20.s.
was the prize offered for the best pen of Brahmas— a compli-
ment they acknowledged by mustering somo excellent specimens ;
and your"" special correspondent " more than ever bewailed the
mournful fact that the handsomest bird she possessed should go

172

JOUBNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEK.

I February 23, 1873

and moult his tail three parts white. Ne cede tnalis. Never yield
to misfortuue — trauslatiou for those who have forgotten their
Latin. Brave motto ! but when the eldest daughter of the fickle
goddess not only visits you often, but comes to stop, one is apt
to undervalue her polite attention.

I was highly amused the other day; a man came to inspectmy
pets with a view to purchase some birds that would make up
some defects in his own run. In reply to my question of what
description the defects were, he said, "Well, ma'am, my
Brahmas are very small, they are very bad off for feather, and
they are not at all a good shape." Size, shape, and feather being
defective I gave up the case in despair, referring him to our
Journal. But I thought of the old-fashioned tale of the Irish-
man, whose gun ouly required k new " lock, stock, and barrel."

Yes, our Show was a success, but I should like to make one or
two suggestions. I think, and others are also of the same
opinion, if they made the pens a few inches higher in the Cochin
and Brahma classes, the birds would have been able to stand up
their full height, and perhaps have prevented the continuous
" stirring-up " process with sticks and umbrellas. When will
committees of poultry shows give the humane order that sticks
should be left at the doors ? I noticed that a man who seemed
to be selling some splendid Cochins, made them rise instantly
by simply blowing in their faces, and he went from pen to pen
doing this in each case successfully. Fowls evidently object to
he " blowed."

On leaving the Show I was told (in confidence) that probably
next j'ear we might have another. If sS I will let you know. —
J. K. L.

POULTRY-SHOW JUDGES.

I coBDiAXLY agree with the remarks of " Observer," as well
as those, of the Eev. T. B. Cato, that a standard for the guidance
of breeders is necessary in other classes as well as the Silver-
Grey Dorkings is generally admitted, and that unless some
means be adopted to establish a code of rules such as will enable
breeders to know what they have to breed for, jioultry shows
will soon become extinct. Already several known breeders have
intimated their intention of not exhibiting again, simply on
account of the uncertainty of judging. It has occurred over and
over again during the past season that birds which have been
awarded cups as well as first and second prizes at one show
have, when reviewed at the next by different judges, been en-
tirely unnoticed. Perh.apa the breeders of Dark Brahmas have
most cause to complain, inasmuch as birds that would have
been branded as i-ulture-hocked last year, are now considered
comparatively clean-legged. What an injustice, then, is this to
a breeder who has been doing his best, possibly at considerable
cost, to reduce the leg-feathering of the previous year, iu order
to carry out and meet what then seemed to be the opinion of
the judges !

In the absence of a code of rules by which judges as well ^3
breeders should be guided, there appears to be no hope of satis
factory judging.

As regards judges being either breeders or exhibitors, com-
plaints on this head were so loud at Birmingham that I scarcely
think this mistake will be repeated.

There is another evil which also requires to be remedied, and
that is the want of impartial criticism by journalists. Nothing
can be more easy than for a man to write his own character in
the pages of a journal when he has free access, at the same time
having the power to exclude a competitor from even making a
remark iu justification of any act complained of. This leads me
to inquire how you reconcile the statement in the Journal of
the 6th inst. that the Brahmas exhibited at the Devizes Show
were not equal to anticipation, whereas it so happens that the
cup and second-prize pens exhibited at Southampton were
amongst the number ; and as they gained a victory over the
Crystal Palace and Birmingham cup bird, it follows that the
cup pen at Devizes must have been a very superior pen of birds.
Added to this, I beUeve the Oxford cup and first-prize birds
■were present, as weU as the Worcester first. I heard but one
opinion expressed at Devizes, and that was a most favourable
one ; and as regards the Brahmas, I went through the whole
class with Mr. Teebay, when that gentleman expressed himself
freely, the cup pen evidently being in liigh favour, as well as
the pullets in the two pens exhibited by Mr. Lingwood.—

JnSTITLi.

[We wish that you had confided to us your real name. Our
reports are from various reporters, and each exercises his own
judgment.

" 'Tis with oiu- opiiiions as our watches : none
Go just alike, but each believes his own."
—Eds.]

MALAYS.

I MTST take exception to your reply, in an editorial note, to
" Hawthns," in reference to "Malay fowls and their position at
shows. The reply appears to me altogether erroneous. Let me

ask at starting. What is the object aimed at by committees in
poultry exhibitions ? Vrell, some tell us, by printing after the
name of the society, that it is for the encouragement of the
breeding of our domestic poultry. If you grant me this, it
follows as a matter of course, that all established breeds should
receive it. Now, the Malay fowl is one of the very oldest. It is
true that it is no longer so popular. How can it be when it gets
no encouragement ? I have often urged in your columns the
impossibility of saying beforehand positively what breed of
fowls will be most largely entered at any given show — probably.,
Bow-a-days, Brahmas or Game — yet sometimes these give, con
Bideriug their popularity, ridiculously small entries. For in'
stance, at Bristol in 1872, Brown Bed cocks ten entries, hens
seven ; Duckwing cocks nine entries, hens seven ; Game cocks
any other variety, three entries, hens two entries. Now, is not
this worse than ridiculous, when in each class i'5 5s. was offered
in prize money, besides two silver cups ? At the same Show
in 1873, Dark Brahma hens mustered twelve pens ; any other
variety of Game cocks nine, hens five entries. I do not suppose
anyone will say that beforehand, he could have predicted this
shabby exhibition. But I recollect a worse instance — viz., when
at oue of the leading southern shows five entries of Buff Cochins
contended for three prizes, £3, .i'2, and -tl. In your reply to
" E.^^MiiNs, you say, " Barely are there a sufficient number of
Malay entries to pay the amount of the prizes ; " but surely you.
will not tell me in the cases I have mentioned above, or ill
those mentioned lower down, that the entries were sufficient to
pay the prizes. Why, then, are all these classes retained especi-
ally when at both these shows Malays, which received a smaller
amount of encouragement, greatly exceeded these entries ? You
then go on to state that it would be a good plan to obtain sub-
scriptions for a special prize. Well, for several years the Malay
breeders assisted by special subscriptions the Birmingham Show
with this result, that the Birmingham Committee refused to
alter the division of the money in accordance with the wishes
of the subscribers, so the latter declined their subscriptions,
and the Malay prizes have been considerably reduced (another
capital form of encouragement). Take, again, the Crystal Palace
Committee. Mr. Brooke urged them to give a Malay class at
their first Show, and offered them most generously £1 towards
it, the result was a class of nine entries. These, with Mr.
Brooke's subscription, paid the prize money, yet the encourage-
ment (?) given last November was to offer the smallest prizes iu
the schedule to the Malays, with this result that only three
competitors appeared. Now, contrast with this Bristol, which
during 1872 and 1873 has given a fair amount to Malays. In the
first year there were twenty-seven entries, in the second twenty-
five. Now, I ask any impartial member of a committee to look
at these figures following, and carry them out in the ouly logical
way that your reply to " Hawkins " suggests. At Bristol in 1872
and 1873, the same amount of prize money was offered to all the
following breeds, and here are the entries : —

1-4
15
IG
19

1873.
21
28
20
37

Silver-spangled ditto.
Gold-spaugled ditto .
Malay

1872.

. 12 .

. 21 .

. 27 .

1873.
22

25

Pnlands

Black Hamburghs . . .
Silvcr-liGucilled ditto.
Guld-peuciiled ditto .

Now, all these figures with the exception of Gold-pencillecl
Hamburghs iu 1873, are iu favour of the Malay, aud according
to your reasoning in your note, all except the Gold-pencilled
Hamburghs and the Malays ought to be removed from the next
prize schedule, a very pretty, and I have no doubt, very popular
result !

Now, take Devizes, and I take these two shows as the only
shows in the south that have offered a fair encouragement to
Malays.

Coloured Dorkiugs. .

Silver-Grey Dorkiugg

Other variety ditto

Partridge Cochins. .

Other variety ditto .

1872.
. S

187S.
10

1872.

1873

Brown Red Game . .

: i'}-

. 10

Other variety ditto

Polauds

. U

Black nambiirgha . . -

, —

. u

Malays

. 7 .

. a

Considering the popularity of the Dorkings aud; the cups
offered to them, 1 say theirs is a miserable display compared
with the despised Malay. The Cochins are not so good; in
fact, the Polands alone are really better.

Writing as you do with all authority, I cannot but think your
reply to " Hawkins " very injurious indeed to the poor Malays.
Considering how they are snubbed on all sides. Editors, com-
mittees, &c., the ouly wonder to me is, that they show-up so
well when they are offered a chance, as at Bristol and Devizes.
— JosBPH Hinton, Warminster.

[Tlie object of a poultry show is and ought to be to improve
the brci-i.s of our domestic fowls, aud if OTir energetic corre-
spondent can persuade committees to include Malays iu their
prize lists, we will neither pen nor publish anything to render
his effort still more difficult. — Eds.]

Prizes for R.ibbits at NoRTBLorpTON. — Seldom do we find
BO attractive a schedule. There are eight classes, exclusive of

Febraary 20, 1873. 1

JOURNAL OP HORTIGULTDRK AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

173

the Selling class and local classes, also sii cups. AVe wish the
Coimnittee that success they deserve.

PORTSMOUTH POULTRY SHOW.

This was held in the Ride Drill Hall, Landport, on the 11th,
12th, and 13th inst. The awards were as follow : —

Gxu&.-Btack, and other /kVtij*.— 1 and 3, W. H. Stagg. Nethcravon. 2, F.
■^\'arde, Maiiibdnie. Any vth'T rarictij. -1 and 3, Kev. O. S. Crawys, Ouvon.

Cocms'i.—Buif and Cinnamon. — 1, H. Llayd.juu., Haudswunh. 2, MibS J.
MUward, Bristol. 3, E. Tiiuinas, brecuii. c, J Pures, Guilafurd. Any other
variety.— 1, E. 'IraDnois, iiuutlisea. 2, H. Feast, bWituseu. 3, O. E. Cresswell,
Bagsbot.

Bbahhas.— j:>arfc.-l, H. Feaat. 2, Kev. J. Ellis, Bracknell. 3, O. E. Cress-
well, c, R, Crabb, Fratton ; H. Woud, Soathsea.

Bra-HMas.— Light.— I'oung.—i, Cup. and 2, A. Williamson, Leicester. 3 and
he, — Majnard, Uolmewuud. c, jilrs. T. Turner, Kingwood; T. A. Dtan,
Harden. Old.~l and Li, — Ma j-nard. 3, Mrs. T. Turner, he, J. I'ares ; M. Leno,
Dunstable, c, — Itudbard, Wriugcon.

Dorkings.— 1 and 3, O. E. cresswell. 2, T. C. Bumell, Micheldever. he,
Virgo & Son, Guildford, c, F. Cheesman, Ashford.

Spanisu.— 1, — Ijrown. 2, R. Samwaye, Southampton, e, "W. Doig, Stam-
Bhaw

A.NDALCSiANs.— 1 and he, T. Moore, Landport. 2, — Armyatt-Bumey. 3, —
Wiidey. c, Miss A. J. Ailken, Greenock ; R. Parker, Southampton.

'H.A.n -,Vhou».~Gold-pencilled.—l, R. Ashton, Mottram. 2, B Norton, 3, G.
W. GreenhUl. Silver-peneilled.— 1, is. Norton. 2, F.W.Arnold. 3, \V. Wise,
Landport.

Uaiiburghs.— GoW-sj)an/jZtf(Z —1, R. H. Ashton. 2, F. Cheesman. Silver
8pajigltd.-l, J. H. Howe, aianehester.

PuLANDS.— 1. T. P. Edwards. L>ndhur8t. 2, A. Cruttenden. Brighton. S, J.
Hinton, Warminster, he, Capt. Coleridge. Henley-on-Thames, c, F. Alban,
Freemantle.

FRbNcn.— 1, Rev, N. J. Ridley, Newbury. 2, W. Drinfr, Faversham. he,
Lieut b,.J. H. Parker.

A.vY uiuEK ViKiETY.— 1, J. Hiuton (Malay). 2, Rev. G. S. Cniwys (White
fliinorca). he. Kkx. N. J. Riuley (Malay); J. H. Howe (Slack Hamburgh);
Major Croad (Japanese) ;.U. £. Cresswell. c. Countess of Ayleslord, Leaming-
ton Spa (Gut^kuo Dorking).

GiMK Bantams.— ii/acfc a7ul other Reds.—l, P. Ogilvie, Hambledon. 2, M.
SanUfurd, Dover. 3, J. Pares. Any other variety. -1, W. S. Mar&h, Deal
<Duckwing). 2, O. Nicholson, Lanaport (Duckwiug Gamej. 3, W. Adams, Ips-
wich (Duekwing). c, J. Bundey, Farebam (t^le Game).

Ba-ntams.— .4/11/ other variety except Oame.—l, R. H. Ashton (Black). 2 and
8, Rev. G. S. Cniwys (Bantams).

Duces. — Aylesbury. — 1. H. D. Hoare, Southampton, 2, — Copaey, Hilaea.
Souen.~l, J. Harvey, jun.. Canterbury. 2, \ irgo li: auu. c, J. Partd ; F. Cbeeb-
man. Any other variety.— 1 and 2. Mies A. .J. Aitl^en (Black East Indianj.

Geese.— 1 and Cup. A. J. Keed, Porisea. 'J. O. E. Cresswell.

TuttKEYs.- 1. F. Warde. 2, Rev. N. J. Kidley. c, Miss J. Milward.

Selling Class.— 1, J. Hintou (Silver Polanls). 2, W. burrows, Diss (La
Flecbe). 3, E. K. Gray. Frome (buff Cochin) he. T. Faulkner, Jan., Merston,
Isle of Wight (Silver-topan;:lea Hamburgh); \V.Wildey (Andalusiau); T.Moore
(Andalusian). c, — Bishop (Guineafowl).

Selling Class.— Coc/c or Cocterti.—I, T. W. Anns, Clapham (Partridge
Cochin). 2, T. Moore (Anddlu&iaus). 3, E. R. Grey (Buff *.oebiii). he, O. E.
Cresswell (White Cochin) c, — Samways (Black Spanish); H. Moore (Golii-
pen<-ilied Uamburgha); H. Bainton, Soulhsea (Dark Brahma); C.F.Wilson,
Xuttou (Blacit Hamburgh).

Selling Class.— -ffe/i-s or Pullets.— 1. J. Pares (Light Brahmaa). 2. T. Moore
(Andatusians). 3, Miss A. J. Aiiken iHauiburgbs). he, C. F. Wilson (Light
Brahnias); H. Browne iSpauiah); T. Mooru ; H. Bainton (Dark Brahmas) ; —
Leuny. Lewes- c, W. Wcatcott, Lau'iport (Dark Brahmaa); E, W. P. Tnomas
{Buff Cocnins); H. bainton (Dark BraUmasi.

Pheasants.- 1, Mrs. T. Turner, 'z, F. Warde. he, E. Pike, Christchorch.
PIGEONS.

Pouters.— 1, H. Pratt, Birmingham. 2, Mrs. Ladd, Calne.

Bakbs.— 1, vnc, and he, H. M. Maynard. 2, C. L. Gilbert. Salisbury, c, G.
Easton. Landport.

Cahriebs —I.E. L. Gilbert. 2, H. M. MajTiard. /ic, H. M. Maynard (2) ; E.
F. Wilson, Brighton; E.L.Gilbert.

Dragoons.— 1, C. L. Gilbert. 2, H. Jacobs.

TciiBLERS.— 1, — ijoodman. Gosport. 2, O. Nicholson.

Fantails.— 1 and he, H. M. Maynard. 2, J. Walker, e, J. F. Loversidge,
^Newark.

Any other Variety.- 1 — Maynard (Red Jacobins). 2, H. Jacobs, Sandown
<Autwerps). he, Mrs. Dressing, Fareham (silver Runts); H. Gibson (English
Owls), c. C. L. Gilbert (Malttse).

Selxing Class. — 1. K, Douger, jun. (White Dragoons). 2, — Mavnard
(Yellow Jacobins), he, E. b. C. Gibson (Red Barbo) : G. Easton (White
Dragoons); H. Jacobs; — Blackman (Carriers), c, J. D. blackmau, South-
ampion (Turbits); G. Parker, Fareham (Antwerpa); G. Eaaten [White Dra-
goons); H. Jacobs.

CAGE BIRDS.

Norwich.— Clear TeUow.—l, Adams it Athersoch, Coventry. 2, W. Walter,
Winchester, vhc, J. Capau, Can.erbury ; Adams tic Athersuch. Ai;, J. Caplin ;
W. Walter, c, C. & D. Carver, Landport.

Cochins.— C?car Buff.—i aud -.i, W. Walter, vhc and /ic, Adams & Athersucb.
C, — Carver.

Norwich.— Evenly-marked or Yellow Variegated. — 1, 2, and he, Adams and
Athersueh. r/[c,W. Walter. Evenly-marked or Bujf Variegated.— IjW'.yValler.
2 and he, Adams i .\therauch. vhc, Adams &, Athersueii ; W. Walter.

Belgian'.- C'icrtr Xetloic.—l.T. Moore. 2, — Davies. vhc, u. Nicholson. Clear
Buff.— I, — Daviea, 2 and vhc, O. Meholaon.

Belgian.— .-iH 2/ othtr variety.— 1,— Moore. 2,0. Nicholaon. he, J. Hicks,
Landport; O, Nicholson.

Lizard.- c;o/(/ and oilver-spangled. — 1, 2, i;/ic, 7ic, and c, O. Nicholsen. c, J.
Sims, Southampton.

GoLDFiNcu Mule.— 1, E. W. Lulham, Brighton. 2, E. Hawman, Middles-
borougb. I'hc, K. Hawman. he, E. W. Lulham ; W. Walter, c, A. Cruttenden ;
W. Walter.

Canaky tR McLE.— /In]/ rarie(j/.— 1, W. Walter. 2, T. Willsher, Chichester.
uTic, E. Arnold; O. Nieb-jlaou. lie, E. W. Lulham; R. Hawman; E. Arnold.
c, R. Hawman.

British Bikds.— Any other variety.— I, Cup, and 2, T. Willsher. Extra 2, W.
Boots, Landport. rftc. T. Willshtr; Miss Barnes; 0. Nicholson. /iC, MissE.
Barnes, c, W. Walter.

i'oHRioy.— Any variety —1,3. Lewis. 2, W. W^alter. vhc, Mrs. F. Hill; W.
Walter; Mrs. Baines; O.Nicholson.

Selling Class. — 1, — Simmons, Portsca.

RABBITS.

Length of Ear.— l. F. Banks & Co, London. 2, Shaw & Allison, Sheffield.

Bl4CK and White, and Blue axd Whit«.— 1, J. Hume, York. 2, E. "W.
Cantelo. Newport, he, C. Gravil, jun., Doueaster. c, Shaw & Allison.

Grey anb White, and Yellow and WaiTE.— 1 and 2, A. H. Eaaten, Hull.
;ic. E. W. Cant«lo.

ToRTOisEsoKLL.— 1, F. Banks & Co. 2, A. H. Eaaten. he, Shaw & Allison.

Self-Colour.— 1, F, Banks & Co. 2, A. H. Eaaten. he, W. Heath, Hoxton ;
Shaw & Alliaon.

Foreign.—], C. Arthur, Melksham. 2 and c, F. Banks & Co, he. Master W. H
Anns, Clapham ; Mrs. Dressmg.

SELLING CLASS.— 1, Shaw li: Allison, 2, F. Banks & Co. he, G. E. Gittena,
Port^^ea ; — Simmons, c, — bimmuus.

CATS.

Tabbibs.— 1, E. A.Smith, Gosport. 2,— Ellis, Southsea. he, — Samways;
W. Mitcuel, Portsmouth, c, Mrs. tenner. Portsmouth ; H. Bainton.

Any otber Variety.- 1, Mrs. Munn. bhankiiu. *.;, W. Hening. AJveratoke.
3, W. Baker. Portaea. Extra 3. T. Gmidaril, baudtion. he, V. Tupiin, Farubain ;
Miss A. J. Walter, Winchester; ]Mrs. Johnson ; Miss Samway.

Kittens.— 1. — Drewm, 2, G. StanliL-ld.

Judges. — Poultry: Mr. W.B. Tegetmeier, London ; ilr. G. S.
Sainsbxiry, Devizes. Figeons : Mr. F. C Esquilant, Brixton,
London. Cage Birds : Mr. A. AVillmore, Loudon. Babbits :
Mr. E. Owen, London. Cats : Mr, G. Billett, Southampton.

WAVERLEY POULTEY SHOW.

This Show was held on the 12th and 13th of February, in the
Corn Exchange, Melrose. The entries were not so numerous
as last year, but the quahty of the birds in most of the classes
was much higher.

Of Silver Dorkings there were some very good birds. Dark
Dorkings were also very good. Cochin-Chinas were well re-
presented. Dark Brahmas were remarkably good ; but Light
Brahmas were a very indifferent class. The prizes for Black
Red Game were well contested. In Game, any other variety,
the first prize and cup went to Duckwings ; the second were
Brown Keds. In our opinion Mr. Harley ought to have been
placed with a fine pair of Duckwings. In i^pa^iish the first prize
and cup were taken by a beautiful pair of birds, the cockerel
being very fine in face and comb. In Golden or Silver-spangled
Hamburghs there were only two entries, both belonging to the
Countess of Tankerville, and according to the rules of the Society
the second prize was awarded to the Silvers. In Pencilled
Hamburghs, deser\'edly first were a fine pair of Golden. In any
variety the Frcuch got the preference, and Black Hamburghs
were second. Black Bed Game Bantams were a fine class.
Any other variety of Game Bantams were also a good class.
The first were a fine pair of Duckwings. For any other variety
of Bantams, the first prize and cup went to a fine pair of Blacks ;
second came a fine pair of Gold-laced.

Aylesbury Bucks were really a fine class. Bouen Ducks were
also remarkably good. A finer class has seldom been seen at
any local exhibition. For Black East Indian the first prize
went to a beautiful pair. Of any other variety of Ducks there
were only two entries, both from the Countess of Tankerville,
the Carolinas being awarded a second prize according to the
rules. The other classes need no comment.

The show of Pigeons was very good. Pouters were poorly
represented; first Whites, and second Bluas. Fantails were a
good class. Nuns were a fine lot, aud the prize birds shown in
beautiful plumage ; first were a pair of Blacks. Jacobins were
not so good. Turbits came next, and a finer class of birds could
not have been exhibited ; first were a pair of very fine Blues.
English Owls were a small class; the first-prize birds were very
fine Blues. Tumblers were very good. In the Any other va-
riety, first were a pair of very fine Majrpies ; and second were
Dragoons. The Selling class was fair, IBlack Barbs carrying oS
the first honours.

The Canaries were a very fine show.

DofiKisGS (Silver).— 1, A. Curie. 2, D. Hardie, Hawick, c, Z. H. Heys, Bar-
head.

DoBKiNGs (Grey).- 1, J. "Wbite, Warlaby, Northallerton. 2, R. Reed, Hollin-
hurst, Canobie.

Cochin-China.— Cup and 1, G. H. Procter, Durham. 2, Capt. Lyon, Kirk-
michael. c, R. Keed.

Brahma Pootra (Dark).—!, W. Swan, Bedlington. 2, Capt. Lyon, vhe, H.
Wilkinsou, Earby, Skipton. he, R. Brownlie, Townsend, Kirkcaldy, c. Countess
of Tankerville.

Brahma Pootba (Light).— 1 and 2, Capt. Lyon.

Game (Black Reds).— 1, J. Nelson, Cockshaw, Hexham. 2, D. Harley, Edin-
burgh, he, A. Brewster, Edinburgh.

Game (Any other vanetyi.— Cup and X, R. Stewart (Duekwing). 2. J. Ander-
son (Brown Red), he, T. i J. Kobson, Bishop Auckland (Brown Red), c,
Hetherington & Taylor, Bedlington (Brown Red); R. Stewart, Blair Adam,
Fife (Brown Reds).

Spanish.— Cup and 1, W. Paterson, Langholm. 2, D. Waugh, Melrose Mills,
he, Q. Amos, Melrose, c, T. Stevenson, Bleachfield.

HAMBrnnHs (Gulden nr Silver-spangled).— 2. Countess of Tankerville.

Hamburghs (PencUled).- 1, Mrs, C. Hallyburton, Cupar Angus. 2, CounteBS
nf Tankerville. vhc. Countess of Tank.-rville. he, R. Mercer, MelrobC. c, W.
Bearpark, Northallerton ; E. Dickson, Selkirk.

ANY OTHER Variety —1, A. MXeilan. Barrhead. Glasgow (Creve-CoeuTB),
2, Countess of Tankerville. he, D. Mchol, Morpeth (Polish), c, D. Waldie,
E'linburgh (-icotch Grevsj.

G:iME Bantams (Rlack Reds).-!, R, Brownlie. 2, D. Hardie. he, G. M'Millan,
Jedburyb. c, Z H. Heys.

Game Bantams (Any other varietv).—]. Miss J. M Frew. Smclairton, Kirk-
caldy (Duekwing). 2. R. Browiilie(Pile). c. J. Archibald, Earlstnn (DuckwinR).

BA^TAM (Any other variety).- Cup and 1, J besham, Bedliugt.in (Black).
2, Earl of Haddington (Gold-lacedl. vhc. R. Frew, he, G. J. Bell, Dundee.
c, T. Watson, Free land. Perth (silver Sel-i-ighieJ; Lady Marjoribanks. Cold-
stream; Hetherington & Tavior, West Sleekburn, near Bedlington (Black).
CocAr.— 1. W. Swjinn 2, A. Scott. Selkirk (Duckwinc). vhe R. Brownhe( Black.
Red), ftc, G. M'Milian(Duckwing). c. Mi^s B. P. Fre\^. Sinclurtnn, Kirkeald

CoTTAOEBs' Class.— £,D. Waugh (Spanish), c, J. Ashcroft, Canobio (White
Cochin).

Docks (Aylesbury).- 1 and vhc, Capt. Lyon. 2, G. Dryden, Selkirk, tie,
Z. H. Keys c. Countess of Tankerville.

DuoKs (Rouen).— 1, J. Nelson. 2, J. A. Mather, Nithside, Closebnm. vhc,
W. Swann. he and c, D. Hardie.

174

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Febrnary 20, 1873.

F. E. Scho

Ducks (Black East Indian).—!, MiB» A. J. Allkcn. Greenock,
field, -Morpelh. r, T. Stevenson. Bleacliliekl, Melrose.

DicKB (Auyotbervanet.v).— 2 and i')ic, Counteba ot TankerviUe .(Larolmas
and Sheldrakes). , „ t, »t . »..

bELi-i.VQ Clahb.— 1, W. Linton, Selkirk (Creve-Ccenrs). 2, R. H. Ashton.
rlic. J. ABhcrcjft. Canobie (Silver-spangled), he, Countess o( TanservUle.
CEarl of HaddiuRtou (Black-ltreafted Game).

Turkeys.— 1, L». Hardie. '2 and kc. Earl of Haddineton.

GKt.SE.— 1, D. Hardie. 2, Mrs. Brydone, Laugtou Mains, Dunse. c,M. Turn-
bull, Melrose.

PIGEONS.

PonTEBS.— I and 2, M'Gill Skinner, Edinburgh, c, J. Fawcett, Whitby.

FiNT«iL8.— 1, A. Smith, Brousbtyterry. 2. J. F. Loversidge, Newark, he,
J. Fawcett. c, W. Brvdonc ; S. Ireland, Priory , „ „

Nuns.— 1, T. Honeyman, Melrose. 2, W. Milne, jun., Kelso, he, R. Frew.
e, K. Laurie, Melrose.

JicoBiKs.- 1, J. M. D. Brown. 2. W. Brydone. c, A. C. Lang.

Tdkbits.—I, T. Honeyman. 2, W. Milne, jun. e, P. C.Bruce.

Owls (Knglisb).- 1, T Honeyman. 2, R. Laurie.

TCMBLEHS—l and 2, W. Brydone. .

Any uthek Variety.— 1, Mrs. R. Frew, Sinclairton. Kirkcaldy (MapDiea).
2, J. M. D. Brown (Vellow Dragoons), c, T. Honeyman; s. Ireland } MGill
Skinner (Carriers).

Sellino Ci-jss.— I, M'Gill Skinner (Barbs). 2, A. Ilutton (Black Trumpeters).
e, G. Amos ( Lumblers) ; A. Hulton (Ice).

CANARIES.

Dow (Yellow or EufD.—Cocfc.— Medal and 1, J. Kemp, Galashiels. 2, J.
Hardie, Galashiels. );c, G. Laidlaw, c, R. Hunter. Hen.- 1, J. Uardie. 2, J.
Kemp. hc,R. Hunter, c, K. Laurie, Abbey Park.

Do.v (Yellow or Buff Flecked).— Cocfc.—l, J. Hardie. 2, G. Laidlaw, M.J.
Kemp. c,R. Hunter, ifeit.— 1, J. Kemp. 2 and c, K. Hunter, (ic, J. Ritchie,
Sdkirk.

Cage Bird (Canaries excepted).— I and c. J. Crawford, Melrose (Goldfinch).
i, R. Graham, Melrose (G.ildttnebl. he, A.Bell, Melrose (Goldflnch).
CiKARV (Common).— 1, W. TurnbuU, Hawick. 2, T. Mann, Newatead.

Judges.— Pou/ir;/ and Pigeons : Mt. Bum, Whitby, Tork-
Bhire. Canaries : Mr. Park, Galashiels.

Dragoons— land 2, W. H. Mitchell, Eirmiupham. rftc, S. Cliff, Nantwicb ;
TV. Gainou, Cbtster. )ic, J. Tuylor ; R Fulton ; J. Watts.

ANTWtRPs. — 1 aud vhe, J. Stanley, Biackljurn. 2, H. R.Wright, Birmingham.
he. AV. Guinon (i) ; E- Homer.

Any other Distinct Variety.- 1, R. Fulton. 2, H. Draycott. Leicester.
vhc. J. Lederer, Liverpool ; T. \V. Townson. he, T. Gamon ; tj. Homer, Leeds
(a); Mrt. v^ ood, Uttoxeter.

Rkltuns.— Lop-cared. — landuftc.J. & A. Weaver, Leominster. 2, Dr. W. B.
Boden. West Hartlepool, he, — Webb, Bilaton. c, C. Karuish, Newcastle;
Shaw it Allison; — Webb ; J. A. ^leii^b. Loiigton. .itiy lutriety. irri'^ptetive of
[e.iolh of ears or weight.— I. W. Whit worth, Jon., Maucbesler. 2, S. G. Hudson,
Hull, rfic, S. Ball, Bradford, /ic, W.G. Uaudcock, Northampton, c, W- Hall,
Leek; Mrs. Buchau, Leek (i) ; W. H. Webb; .i. Hudson; W. VVhiiworth,iun,

HANLEY POULTRY SHOW.

This was held ou the 11th, 12th, aud lath inst. The follow-
ing awards were made ; —

DoRKiNos.- Coloureti.- 1, Eitra, and 2,'Mrs. Arkwrigbt. Chesterfield. S, J.
White, Warlabv, Norlballertou, Any other variety.— I, J. Rooinson, Garstang.
2, Miss E. Williams, Ueullya Herriew. 3, Wren ic Page, Lowestoft.

Spasisb.-I and Extra. H. Beldon, Bingley. 2, J. Walker, Standeford. 3,
E. Jackson, he, K. Leeming. Broughton ; ±i. Newbitt, Epworlb.
* Cochins.- C'lHimmoR or UufT.—l, Cup. and S, W. A. Taylor, Manchester. 2,
Mrs. Allsop, Worcester, he. .Sirs. AUsopp ; T. F. Audsell, Cowiey Mount, St.
Helens; H. Tomlinson, Birmingham. Brown and l'artndije'feathered.—\,'i.
Stretch, Ormskirk. 2 and )ic, W. A. Taylor. 3, Mrs. Allsopp. Any other
variety.— I aud 2, Kev. R S. S. Woodgate, Tunbridge Wells. 3, U. Beldon.

Brahma Pootras.— Z^urfc.- 1, Extra, and 2, T. F. Andsell. 3, A. Rigg, Liver-
po.d. he, 5. Widdowson, Meynel Langley; G. F. Whithousc. King's Heath,
Birmingham ; E. Pritchard : Tettenbiilt ; J. Watts, King's Heath, Birmingham.
Light.— I, — Storer, Brewood. '2, — Bloodworth, Chellenbaui. 3, Mrs. Bncban,
Leek.

Polish.— 1. Extra, and 3, H. Beldon. 2, J. Royle, Burslem. he. P. Unsworth,
Ncwton-le-WiUowa ; J. Magnall, Leigh ; W. iioarpark, Ainderby Steeple,
Northallerton ; M. Nicholls, Peel, Isle of Man.

CRETE-CniUR.— 1 and 3, R. B. Wood, Uttoxeter. 2. Miss E. Williams, Honllys
Berriew. he, W. H. Crabtree. Manchester; W. Driug, Faversham.
HonOANs.- 1 and 2, R. B. Wo.id. 3, W. O. Quibell, Newark.
Any other Variety.- 1, Rev. A. G. Brooke, Shrewsbury. 2, R. Toft. 3,
J. S. Booth.

QAyiE.—Blaek-ireagted Iteds.—Cock.—l and Extra. J. Fletcher, Stoneclough,
Manchester. 2, G. Bagnall. Draycott. 3, C. Chalouer, Chesterfield, Whitwell.
he, Duke of Sutherland, Trenthum (S); C. Chalon, r, Chesterfield. Hiiis.— 1,
Duke of Sutherland. 2. C. Chaloner. s, W. C. rhillips, Worcester. Broien
Iied.-Cocl.-—l and Extra, C. W. Brierley. Middletou, Manchester. 2, J.
Forsyth, Wolverhampton. 3, J. Fletcher. ife«.< — l, C. W. hrierley. 2. Duke
of Suiherlaud. S, T. Mason, Lancaster, he, C. W. Brierley; E.Davis, Worcea.
ter. Vuckwinnf; or other Greys and Biues.—l aud Extra. E. C. Gilbert, Penk-
ridge. 2, E. Avkrovd. Leeds. 3, C. Chaloner. Any variety.— 1, Duke of
Sutherland. 2, C. W. Brierley. 3, J. Ridgway. , ,

Habburghs.— Btac/t.-l. Duke of Sutherland. 2. H. Beldon. 8. N. Marlor,
Golden-spangled. — 1, H. Beldon. 2 and S, Duke of Sutherland, he. W. .A. Hyde.
Silver-spanijled —1, Extra, and he. Duke of Sutherland. 2 and 3, H. Beldou.
Oolden-pencilled —1, H. Beldon. 2 and 3, Duke of Suiherlanil. he. H. Bekb n ;
Duke of Sutherland, /Sili'tr-jicncilift/.— 1 and 3, Duke of Sutherland. 2, H.
Beldon.

Game Bantams,- B!a<;k treasferf ned.-l, Extra, and 2. Cnpt. Wethorall,
Loddington, Kettering. 3, W. F. Addie, Preston, he, W. Griffiths, NantwieU ;
T. Colclouph; J. Lane, Sudbury. Derby ; .1. W. Morns, Rochdale : T. Barnett,
Walsall. Any variety.— 1. J. Smith. Southwell, Notts. 2, E. Walton, Manches-
ter. S, F. MaitlHUd. he. F. Steel. Halifax ('2). „ „
Bantams.— lidicfe or IVIute Clean-hviied.~l and Extra. H. Beldon. 2, E.
■Walton. 3, E. Cambridge, HriRtol. lie, W. H. Shaekleton. Bradford; J.Wutts;
W.A.Taylor. Any oilier rartety.—l, E. Walton. 2. B. S. Lowndes, Stoney
Stratford. 8, Duke of Sutherland, he. Duke of Sutherland ; H B. Smith,
Preston ; Mrs. Woodcock : C. H. Foole. Bridgwater ; G. Anderton, Accriogiou ;
M- Leno, Dunstable. Beds ; H. Draycott; H. Plant.

Ducks —liourn.-l, P. Unsworth. 2. Duke of Sutherland. 3, S. Mellor.
B')i/(f Aiilesbury.—\. Duke of Sutherland. .4iii; rariety.—l and 2, Duke of
Sutherland. 3, .T. Walker, /ic, J. Watts.

Geese.- ll'liift'.— 1, J. Walker. 2, Duke of Sutlicrland. Orey.—l, J. Walker.
2, Duke of butherland.
Turkeys.— 1, Kev. N. J. Ridley, Newbury.
Selling Class.- 1 and Extra, J. Kobiiison. 2. T. Gismey.
Selling Class.— 1, H. Beldon. 2, Miss E. "Williams. 3, J. Mansell.

PIGEONS.
Cabriebs —1, Extra, and iilic. R. Fulton, London. 2 and Extra 2, E. Horner,
Harewood, Leeds, e, J. Thompson. , ,,„ ,

PonTERS.— 1. J. Hawley. Bradford. 2, R. Fulton, he, Mrs. Ladd, Calne,
Wilts; E. Horner, c. T. Taylor, Crewe.

Tumblers.- I, R. Fulton. 2, J. Fielding, Rochdale, he, E. Fulton; E.
Horner, c, W. Adams, Bevorley. j , t.

Jacobi.ss.— 1 and Extra, R. Fulton. 2 and c, J. Thompson, vtic and liC, L
Horner.
Barrs,—1, R. Fulton. 2, H. Yardloy. c W. Tomkinson, 'MnnlUhome,
OWLS.-I, Extra, and 2, J. Fioldiug. vhe, E. Horner, he, T. W. Townson.
c, H. Yardley. , „ , „. . ,,

Fantails.— 1 and vhe. Rev. W. Serjeantson. 2, J. W. Edge. Bu-mingham.
he. E. Horner, c, J. Tavlor ; J. Walker, Newark ; F. .1. Loversidge.

Nuns.— 1. Rev. A. J. Brook, Shrewsbury. 2, T. E. Dean. (The whole class
beautilullv trimmed.)
TuaBiTs.—l. J. Fielding. 2, E. Horner, t'lic, J. Fielding; T. W. Townson.
c, H. Yardley.

CRYSTAL PALACE BIRD SHOW.

This was opened on the loth iust., and will be concluded
to-day. The entries amounted to upwards of a thousand, and
great interest was manifested by the public iu the Show.

Perhaps the most notable of the British birds was the class
for Nightingales — thirteen birds, and most of them in high
conditiou and perfect feather, aud yet one was surprised at the
variety of form aud colour, scarcely any two beiug alike. We
are generally apt to think that most wild birds are alike, if not
quite so in colour they are in form ; but a visit to the Bird Show
will soon disabuse us of this idea. Even the well-known Robin
was there to be seen with very long legs, beside one of more
comely make ; so to a naturalist these shows are exceedingly
interesting. Witness again the common or song Thrush as seen
at the Crystal Palace; one with nearly a white breast spotted
finely with black, aud within a cage near it another of brilliant
orange colour. The Goldfinch class was good, aud contained as
usual several Cheverils. The Linnets were an average class ;
the Bullfinches a brilliant lot. The first prize went to a very
neat and compact bird, and good in colour. In the Eedpole and
Siskin class the Judges thought it advisable to award a prize to
each variety. Only one Missel Thrush was shown, and this,
strange to say, was white or nearly so, the markings only faintly
showing on a white ground. The Magpies were a good class,
and not only contained some hanikome birds, but also excellent
talkers. The whole class of Jays-frere out of condition save one,
which deservedly got the prize for great beauty. Duly a couple
of Jackdaws, one Starling, and one pair of Lesser Whitethroata
were present. The Blackcaps were good. Amongst the curiosi-
ties were a Pied Blackbird aud a Brown Cinnamon cock Black-
bird, neither in good feather. Iu the foreign classes the Grey
Parrots were not up to the mark. The great Sulphur-crested
Cockatoos were fine, and so the Rose-colour. Only one Lead-
beater was seut, and this not a good specimen. The Parakeets
were in force, and much admired ; aud there were some splendid
Lorys, very fine in colour; also a Chilian Starling, good in the
latter quality. There were two varieties of Piping Crow from
Australia, Waxbills (the African and the St. Helena), Madagascar
and Australian Finches, Cardinals, and also Virginian Nightin-
gales, and others too numerous to mention. Altogether the
Show was rich in variety, and reflected great credit on the
Superintendent of the Natural History Department at the Crystal
Palace, Mr. W. F. Wilson, of whom we can say that he was
courtesy personified, and was also unremitting in his attention
to the wants aud comforts of his feathered friends. We hope to
see his cheery face ou such occasions for many a long year to
come. The Judges of this department were Mr. John "jeuner
Weir, F.L.S., and Mr. Harrison Weir, F.R.H.S., who seemed to
enjoy and almost revel in the discharge of the duties of their
office.

Norwich (Clear Yellow) — 1, Adams & Athersuch, Spon End. Coventrv. 2, W,
Havers. Norwich. 3, Bemrose & Ormo Derby. Extras, Bemrose & Orme;
G. & J. Mackley, .Norwich ; J. Doel, Stonehouse. t'ftc, P. Flexney (3), Caledo-
nian Road, London; Adams & Athersuch; J. Doyh. Nottingham ; W. Waller,
Winchester, he. ,1 Doel ; T. Newmarch & Sons. Crystal Palace ; T Smeatoa
and ,1. Baxter, Nottingham; P. Flexnev: Adams & Athersuch (2' ; T.Mann,
Camber'A ell New Koad. c, Moore & Wyun ; R. W'bitaker; G. & J. M,ickley,
Disqualified, P. Fl.-xney.

Norwich (Clear Buffi.— 1, P. Floncy. 2, T. Smeeton * J. Baxter. 3, .1. Doel.
Extra 3, Adams & Athersuch. I'lic. J. Doel; P. Flexney[2); Adams & Ather-
such ; W. Walter (2) ; S. Bunting, Derby, he, Moore & Wynn ; W. Havers (3);
Coilinsou & Aldeu. Norwich; G. & 0. Mackley (2). e, J. Doel : J. Carnell,
Coventry: P. Flexney; Adams A: Athersuch ; CoUinson & Aldeu (3); G.&J.
Muckky.

Norwich (Marked or Variegated Y'ellow).— 1 and 2, Adams t Athersuch. 8,
n. & D. .\udley. I'lic, Adams .t .Athersuch ; W. Havers ; G & J. .Mackle.v. he,
Moore ifc Wynn; S. Tomes, Northampton ; W.Walter; W. Havers; G. & J.
Mackley (2).

Norwich (Marked or Variegated Buff).— 1 and 2, Adams & Athersuch. 3, W.
Walter, r/ic. J. rarneU ; (i. & J. Mackley. /ic. S. Tomes; W. Walter; G.
Gavton. Northamptim. c, H. & D. Audley. Leicester ; Moore & Wyun (2) ; T
Dove. Sutton in Abhtield; W.HaverB(2): (t it J. .Mackley

Norwich (Ticked or Unevenl.v-markcd Yellow) —1, Adams & Athersuch. 2,
S. Bunting. 3, J t'arnell. Extra 3. H. & D. Audley. i'/ic, Adams & .\thersucb;
H. Whit.iker. he, J. Doel; J. Carnell; Adams & Athersuch ; S. Bunting; Coi-
linsou li Aid en. c, G. & J. Mackley (3).

Nohwich (ricked or Unevenly-mnrked Buff).— 1, T. Smeefon & J. Baxter. 2,
.T Carnell. 3, Bemroso & Orme. r)«*, P Flexnev : Adams & Athersuch (2); W.
Walter; G. & J. Macklev. /ic, T. .Mann ; W. Walti-r. e, Moore & Wyun ; T.
Mann ; W. Havers ; Coilinson & Alden (2) : G. & J. Mackley H).

Norwich (Marked or Variegated Crested Yellow). -1, Bemrose & Orme. 2,
G. Cox Northamplon. 3, ivlooro & Wvnn. r/ic, W. Havers ; G. & J. Mackley.
)ic, ColUiisou i Alden; G. & J. Mackley; Moore & Wynn. c, J. Martin,
Northamplon; W. Walter. „, , ■ „ ,

Nohwich (.Marked or Variegated Crested Buff).— 1, .1. Tarr, Caledonian Road,
London. 2, loUiason Si Alden. 3, G. Cox. tilic, J. Tarr; W. Havers, he,
Moore & Wynn; C. B. Budd, Forest Hill; G. Clipson, Northampton; W.

February 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

175

Havers (2): G. & J. Mackley (2). c. G. Cox ; Moore & Wynn (2); J.Martin;
CoUmaun & Aldt-n i2) ; G. & J. Mackley.

Norwich (Yelitiw, with Clear Grey or Dark Crest).— 1 and 3, W. Havers. 2,
Colliiibou A: Allien.

Norwich (BuQ, with Clear Grey or Dark f'rest).— 1, Colliason & Ahlen. 2 and
3, G. & J. Mackley. r'i£, H. Gibbd. South Brent ; W.Walter: \V. Huvers; G.
anil J. Mackley. /tc, \V. Waller ; \V. Hhvith ; .1. Goode, LeiCeBter. c, G. Cox;
W. Havers ; Cuiliuttuu k Al.len ; G. & J. Maekh-y.

Bel(3i*m ( Jiear and Ticked Yeliowi.— 1 unU 2. J. Doel. 8, J. Rutter. Sunder-
land. rhc.J. Doel; H. Gibbd (2): C. J. D. Ciirver, Laiulpurt ; T. Dove; S.
Buntinjjr: J. Kutter (-2). he, J. N. Harrisou, Belper. c, W. Harley, Bow; J. N.
Harritiun.

Belgian- (Clear and Ticked Bnffi.—l, H. Gibbs. 2. J. Doel. 3, S. BuntinfT-
Extras. J.N. Harrison, vlic, J. Doel (^i; C. J. D. Carver; S. Bunting; J.
KuHer )2l. he, T. Dove.

Belgian (Varietsated ydlow).— 1, 2, and 8, J. Rutter. vhc, S. Bunting; W.
Harlej ; J. >' Hiirrison.

Belgian (Variegated Buff).— 1 and vhc. J. Rut'er. 2. J. Hayes. 3, T. Dove.

London Fancv (.loDque).— 1, — Brodrick. ChucUeigb. 2aiid3,J. Walltr, fins-
bury, vhc, T. Claik. >uti.'n (2). he, J. Waller (3;. c, J. Price, pjmlico; X.
Maun; A. JohoBon, HorwleyduWD.

Li'NuiiN Fancy (Mealyl,— 1, — Brodrick. 2 and 3. J. Waller. 1'?(C, T. Mann ;
J. Mc.Millin, Horusby )vi). hc, T. Clark (.') ; J. McMillm (H) : J. Waller.

LiZAKDS (With Broken Cans and fied \Vm»;a and ladsi —1, \V. W. Fairbrass,
Canterbury. 2, A lams & Ather&ueb. S, G. i'uck^v-pod, Nottint:b:nn. Extra 3,
Adams J: Athersuch. hc. Adams 4 Atherauch; M. Burton; G. Tuckwoud. c,
"W. Watson, jun ; G. Tuckwood.

Yorkshire (Miirked or Variegated).—!, J. Stevens, Middlesbrough. 2, W.
Barnes. London. 3, .L Brown, jun., Peurith. vhe, L. Belk. Dewabury; J.
Brown, jun. : G. & J. Mackley.

Cinnamon (Jonque).— 1. L. Corti. London. 2 and 3. J. Waller. Extra 3. J
Stevens, rftc, Mo..re & W>iiu : W. CorUeu, Dartfor.i (.;) ; S. Tomes; W. Ca&tle.
Camberwell ; J. Waller W. Walson, jun., Darlington; J. N. Harrison. hc,J.,
Doyh (2). c, Mo ire & Wynn.

Cinnamon iBufif) -1 aud -j, J. Waller. 8. Moore & Wvnn. vhc. F. R. Tebbitt.
Leicester; J. Tear. Norlhauiptoii ; J. \\ aller (2). he. J. Waller (21; J. N.
Harrison, c, W. Stanford, Northampton; G. Cox; S. Tomes (ill; J. Waller;
J. Doyh.

CINNAMON (Marked or Variegated).—!, S. Tomea. 2, L. Belk. 3. G. Cox.
rftc, Moore & Wyun; S. Tomes; L. Belk; J. .>leven8; J. Brown, jun. hc,C.
Castle; J. Baxter. Neweasile: W. Barnes. e,A. bkiuuer, Faveroham.

Anv other Variety of Canary. — 1 and a, J. Smethurst, Poletlcld, Pre&t-
wicli (Clear Gobi and t-ilver LizarJ). 2, T. Dove (Golden-spangled Lizardi.
Eitra2. F. R. Teb'jilt; T. Dove. «, .1. Smetbuist. Kxtra 3. L. Belk (Coppy);
J. Stevens (Y'elbiw Coppy). vhc, Moore A; Wynne (Crested Cinnamon) (^|;
Fawcett & Auderton, Baildon (Buff Coppy and Clear Yorkshire); J. Martin
(Buff-crested Cinnamon); U. Ritchie, Darlington (^ilver-snau^fled LizarJ). hc,
C. Holasw-.rlh, Bradford (Yorkshire YelNiw); W. Wall--r (riilver-spangled
Lizard); W. W. Fairbra-^s (Goldeu-apangled Lizard), c. Dr. Greene {(iolden
Green): L Belk (Clear Yellow Green); W. W. Fairbrass (Golden and Silver-
Bpangled Lii:ard) (5).

MULES.

Goldfinch (Evenly-marked Yellowj.~l and S, J. Doel. 2. R. Hawman,
MiddlCBb 'rouffh. Eictra 3, J. Baxter. I'^ic, J. Doel; W. Stephens ; J. Brown,
jun. /iC.W. Walter.

Goldfinch lEveuly-marked Buff).— I, J, Doel. 2, .T. Rob^on, Bcdlington. 8, J.
Baxter, vhc, J Dod (J): R. .^oole; J. Stevens: G. iJ. I^lackley (2). hc, W.
Waller; W. Barnes ; F. Schwciss. c, MjoreA Wynu ; M. Burton ; W. O. Hayes,
"White St., S.E. ; G. T. Hi^rnsou.

Goldfinch (Any other claaa of Yellow).— 1 and vhc, J. Doel. 2, J. Goode.
Special and a, J. Brown, juu.

Goldfinch (Any other class of Buff) —1 and vhc, J. Doel. 2, R. Hawman.
3 and ap^cial 2, O. & J. Mackley. Special, J. Brown, Jan. he, M. Burton ; J.
Price ; W. Barnes.

Goldfinch (Dark Jonqne).— 1, E. Stansfield. 2, S. Tomes. 8, W. Barnes.
vhc,G. Cox; J. Baxter; S. Bunting. hc.K. Stansfield ; G. Cox; M. Burton,
Middlesbo ough {!) ; J. Goode. c, M. Burton ; T. Muldoon, Grafton St., Fitzroy
Sq. ; J. Baxter.

Goldfinch (Dark Mealy).— 1, G. & J. Mackley. 2. G. Cox. 3, Moore & Wynn.
vhe, E. Stansbeld. Bradford (2) ; T. Dove ; S. Bunting, hc, Moore & Wynn ; K.
Hawman. c. W. Waller.

Linnet.— 1, J. Stephens. 2, J. Spencer, South Shields. 3, J. Doel. vhc.'W.
Htttton, Baildon ; J. Brown, jun c, J. Doel; B. Lancaster.

Any other Variety.- 2, E. Stansfield- Equal 2. J. Brown, jun.; G. & J.
Mackley. r/ic. B. Lancaster {2}. iic. E. Stanbtield ; Mrs. C. Long.

Norwich (six in one Cage). — 1 and 2, Moore A: Wynn. Extra a and 3, G. & J.
Mackley. i^hc, S. Tomes ; W. Walter ; W. W. Fairbraso ; D. Sbosmith, Canter-
bury, fic, B. Wluttiiker ; G. i J. Mad ley.

Belglan (Six in one Cage) —2. H. Gibhes.

LiZAKDs (Six in one Cage) —1, W. W. Fairbrasc 2, J. Martin, Salford. 8, R.
Ritchie, vhc, V. Ward, Hythe ; R. Ritchie; G. & J. Mackley. c, W. C. W.
Selkirk (2): C. W. Hooke.

GitLDFiNCH (Six in one Cage).— 1 and 3, J. Doel. 2, E. Stansfield, hc, G. & J.
Mackley. c, J. Baxcer.

BRITISH BIRDS.

Blllfisch.— Prize. J. Drake, Ipswich, hc, T. Willsher, Chichester, c, G.
Cox; G.i; J. Mackley.

Goldfinch.— erize. J. N. Harrison, /ic, H. Gilbert ; H. Pigeon, Redland,
Bristol, e, N. Walter, City Road; B. Laucahter; T. Willsher; J. Goode ; H.
Pigeon.

Linnet.— Prize, W. Carrick, Middlesbrough, vkc, G. & J. Mackley. hc, J.
Stevens.

Redpole or Siskin.— Prize, J. Drake. Prize. G. »&: J. Mackley. hc, Collin-
son & Ald-n; G. &.J. Mackley. c, W. Walter.

Skylaug.— Prize, W. Walter, he, J. S. Benton, Rochester, e, J. Watson ; G.
and J. Mackley.

Robin.— Piize, G. Brown, Northampton, hc, J. Drake, c', L. Cosavella, Clif-
ton Street, E.C.

Blackuird.- Prize, G. & J. Mackley. he, W. Holman.

Song THhUSH. — Equal Prize, T. Land, Norwood; J. S. Btnton. I'/tc, A.
Skinner.

Starling. — Prize, W. Huttou.

MAr.i'iE.— Prize and vhc. Mims M. A. Robinson, Sydenham, he, G. Arthur.

Jay. — Prize, G. A: J Mackley.

Jackdaw.— Pi ize, S. Kiaher, Peckham.

Any oiher Variety —Prize, J. Pratt, Edgware Road (Brown Blackbird); G.
Geermg, Brightun (Hied Blackbir^l); A. Skiuuer. vhc. J. Young, Nottinti Hill
(Cole. Blue, and Marr-h Tits) ; G. Cox {Chaffinch ); T. WilUher (Yellowhammer).
ftcand c, Mrs. W. Mostyn (Reed Sparrows and Challincb),

BIRDS OF PASSAGE AND MIGRATORY BIRDS.

Blackcap.— Prize, J. Y'oung. i^hc. L. Cossavella

Nightingale. — Prize, L. CossaveUa. vhc.li. Coram ; L. Cossarella. he and<r,
R. F. Sawyer.

Whitf-throat, or any other Species of Wardler.- Prize, L. CosBavella.

Any oTHtE Variety.— Prize, J. Y'oung (Great Grey Shrike).
FOREIGN BIRDS

Cardinal.— iifd-ftcad^-rf.— Prize and kc, T. Newmarch & Sons.

Nightingale— r/rpiHian.— Prize, W. Walter

Waxbills.— Prize, S. K. Owen, Brixton, c, W. Walter.

Spakrows.- Jara.— Prizp, C. A. Steain, Peckham Rye. Itc, T. Newmarch and
Sons (2). Coral-necked.— Prize, W.Walter, hc, S. R. Owen. Diamond.— Ptize,
G. T. Harrison, c, A. Johnson.

DovF.s.—Sma/i.— Prize, A. Johnson. Barbary or iltn^?.- Prize, J. Lutchford .
Norwood.

Love Birds.- Prize. G. & J Mackley.

pARAKKEi A. —Auittralian GraAif.-Pnze. Mrs. Miller. Norwood, he, G. T.
Harrison: W. Walter. c,A. U.Owen. Australian or liraatl.taiUd. — Prizc, T.
Newmarch & Sons. Rin(i-neckt-d or Indian.— Pnze, A. Bell, hc, T. Newmarcli
and Sons: Mrs. Wilkinson.

Pariiots or Parakeets.- .flnj/ other variety of 5m<(U.— Prize, A. Johnson
(Turquobine).

i.'ockkteals -Prize. J. Groom, Camden Town.

PAKKOTS.—A'nip.— Prize. F. Schwciss, Birmingham. Ori'u.—'\. F. Schweiss.
Birmiugliam. 2. G. Macdona. (irt-en, or any other variety of large, except
Grey.— I, W. Walter. 2, F. Schweis- (Lowry).

CoCKATott.-Leadbeater or Iinsr'-breasted.—\, J. Battorehill. 2. S, .Fihher.
v^c, Mrs. N. BoLds. Lemon or Orange crested. — Prize, M. lieorge ; W.Walter.
he. F. Schweiss. Any othrr variety — Prjze, T. Newmarch & Sons.

Any other Variety. — Equal Prize, T. Newmarch & Sons (Macaw); Mrs. J.
CrosH (Chilian Starliugi; S. R, Owen (Pair of Bengalcesl; W. Walter (Small
Red Lory), r/ic, H. King (Australian Magpie); A. Johnson (.A,ustraliau Banded
Finches and Collection of Australian l-inehes). hc, T. Newmarch & Sons
(Bronze Mannakins and Parbon Fmch): C. A. Stein (Brnzilian Satin Bird); W.
Walter {.Madagascar), e, A. .lohnson (Queensland Red-ohei^ked Finches); W.
Walter (fair of .--ingiDg Finches) ; T. Newmarch & Sona (Spice Birds).

JuDGas. — Canaries : Messrs. G. J. Barnesby, Moore, audWill"
more. British and Foreign Birds : Mr. J. J. Weir, F.L.S. ; Mr.
H. Weir, F.R.H.S. Assisted by Mr. F. W. Wilson.

DRESSING A CANAEY FOR EXHIBITION.

In your issue of the fith iust. I read a letter on the above sub-
ject with niiuglecl feelings of astonishment and disgust. Is ifc
possible that such practices as those recommended therein are
in reality perpetrated? If so, I can only say that the sooner
Canary shows are brought to a close the better, as it is quite
evident that honest fanciers can have no chance of success.
Your correspondent, who I have frequently noticed acts in the
capacity of Judge, suggests that judges should have an interest
in birds sent for exhibition, and adds, "If he {the judge) be not
on your side he will slate you." This may in a great measure
account for the in-and-out judging that has taken place this
season, and which has caused so much dissatisfaction among
fanciers generally. I know several birds which in the earlier
shows were very successful i>rizetakers, but a little further on,
in the same company and with the same judges, or one of them,
have vacillated between lirst-prize winner and not being men-
tioned at all. The birds were shown upon each occasion in
faultless condition, but I know for a certainty that the judges
had no personal interest in them, and this would appear to be
the true key to the mystery of their being passed unnoticed
subsequently. I may here mention that a friend of mine pur-
chased from, a gentleman and an exhibitor, living not a hundred
miles from Derby, a Bufi Cinnamon cock. This bird was re-
presented by the vendor as having been exhibited at a show
where he was said t® have gained a second prize. To the
astonishment and mortification of niy friend he discovered,
after his moult in September last, a white feather in the centre
of his tail. Further comment, I presume, is needless ; the facts
speak for themselves ; and the sooner committees of bird shows
adopt more stringent rules and care in the selection of proper
judges to prevent these dishonest practices the better. — C. I>.
Halliburton.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Fo^vLS Egg-eaters, &c. (X. 1'. S.). — Quackery is doing much mischie'
among poultry. Pulverised Bpar and earthenware are as useful to your fowls
as a lifth wheel would bo to a carriage. You need regret no longer that you
have not given oyster shells, for they are worthless ; the same may be said of
coal ashes. Wood ashes are excellent, and make the test bath a fowl can
have, but coal ashes cause them much suffering and discomfort. It is always
considered that fowls first eat eggs for the sake of the Bhell, because they have
not access to the ingredients tiiat compose it. Lime is the principal ingre-
dient, and as there is much of it iu the hull of corn, they get some in that
way, but they should be provided with a heap of bricklayers' rubbish. If each
run is not provided with grasH, heavy sods of earth should be cut, covered
with growing grass. If they are to be had some lettuces should also be given,
but they must be given whole. Take away their trough, and let them hava
no food by them. Feed by hand morning and evening on slaked barleymeal
or ground oats; at midday give some whole maize or house scraps. This, with
the road grit, bricklayer's rubbish, grass and other green food, should keep
them in perfect health. If they are so they will not eat their eggs, but as it
is quite true that they become fond of the egg itself, you must try to cure
them. First, let them be watched, and as soon as the hen gives notice she
has laid, she must be driven from the nest, and the egg must be taken away.
\\'e have sometimes cured them by putting very hard composition e^gs in
their nests and about theii* haunts. They peck at them without making any
impression, and they turn them over and over till they give it up for a bad
job.

Gajie Cock Catahrhed and Abscessed (7*. Andre\cs).—V^6 believe a
moderate use of stimulants will relieve the Dird, and it will be prudent to
precede them with a table spoonful of castor oU. Six hours after this has b«ea
taken give a small feed of stale bread steeped in strong ale, and continue it
for a few days night and morning. The disappearance of the snow will
probably be the beat medicine. The tumour or abscess may be removed by
opening the skm. It is not a eerioue operation, but although the birds do
not die, they become eyesores from the contraction that always follows, and
hey seldom do well.

TuMoun IN Dorkings (O.).— We believe the sac or tumour you enclosed to
ns is merely the effect of frost. The wattle is the part that feels frost first in
a Dorking cock, then the points of the comb's serrations, and then the toes.
All cocks feel the frost in the comb or wattle more or less. We advise you to
leave them. They will get smaller, but will oiwaya be somewhat enlarged.

176

JOUBNAIi OF HOETICULTURB AND COTTAGE GAKDENER.

[ Febrnary 20, 1873

The diarrhoea j-oii nioution is causeLl by tho fowls oatiug snow. Snow Is a
violent purgative to all birds, and reduces thorn to mere skeletons.

Poultry 'MMiAaKUBUT {Comttant Suhscrlhcr).— It is always bad to have
but one cock, and we therefore advise you to keep both. We must warn you
that yon are interbreeding' in a manner that will make your birds valueless.
Hamburghs will not do for hitters. You should not have made the condition
jou did in buying, but having mado it you must keep it. We have never
heard of such a one before.

Hen's Intestine Protkuding (J. H. £.)•— Heplace it with a tallow candle,
and then syringe gently with strong alum water. Put the patient in a small
basket lilled with soft straw. If there is any effort made by her as thout,'h
Bhe would lay. the egg passage must ha so thoroughly lubricated with sweet
or castor oil that the egg will come away easily. It was in trying to lay that
the injury was done in the first instance. It ia not incurable, but the time
that has elajjsed makes it serious.

BoRKJNG Pullets Dying {C. M. H.).— It is more than probable the pullet
jou have lost and the present sufferer are victims of the same disorder, and
that one was, and the other is, egg-bound. When in that state the sutforor
■walks aud stands like a penguin, with tail on tho ground and legs straddling
wide apart. The cause is, the egg is stopped in the passage, aud cannot be
laid without assistance. Pullets are subject to this obstruction with their
first eggs, and it is for this reason so many of the early ones are stained
when they are laid. The cure is to take a wing feather, dip it in a vessel full
of castor oil, saturate it thoroughly, and pass it up the egg passage till it
meets the egg. It will, probably, be laid directly. In some extreme cases it
is necessary to hold tho hen head downwards, and pour oil into the passage.
The egg must hot be handled, as in most cases it is a fatal injui-y to break it
in the passage.

Cock Hen-pecked (J. C. B.).— The only plan to adopt is to separate the
cock from the hens till his comb is entu-ely healed. They will, probably, givo
him rest after a time of separation. It is quite true that the cock will stand
to be eaten as though ho liked it.

Show Labels not Aruiving (7dc7Jt).— Inquire atr the post office, and
ascertam the cause of delay and the author of it. The entry money should
be returned by eome one.

Wholesome Food (E. M. P.).— We consider " wholesome food " for poultry
to be the best barleymeal or ground oats slaked with water morning and
evening, and whole corn or house and kitchen scraps at mid-day. We keep
and have kept many hundreds of fowls, we give them nothing but the food we
have named, and if they will not eat wo starve them till they do. We thiuk
poorly of stock birds that have suffered from leg- weakness. Brahmas perch,
but they only want perches 2 feet from the ground. Common oatmeal is
more expensive feeding than the best. Fowls will not eat the ordinary ground
oats. AVheu mixed they look like wetted chaff. If you cannot get the
ground oats that mix into a paste, you will do better to give barleymeal. No
fowls can do well on a wooden floor.

Preparing Fowls fou Exhibition {A.F. H".).— Hamburghs require only
to be in perfect health and scrupulously clean. Spanish improve by being
shut-up in a dark place for a week before exhibition. By dai-k, we mean a
semi-hght, but nothing like broad dayUght or sunshine.

Promoting Laying [T. C.).— We advise no one to try stimulants to make
fowls lay. Feed as we have described in the last answer but one.

Buff Cochins (F.>.— Everything you mention tends to show you have
very indifferent birds, faulty in shape, colour, and constitution. You have no
right to have "leg- weakness." Tho best thing you can do is to buy some
eggs from a reliable person, and sot them under your hens. Rear thorn for
your stock-birds, and kill those you have. Feed properly on natural food,
and let them roost in a house with a good, dry, clean, earthen floor. The
sooner you set the eggs the better.

KouPY Fo^VLS (R. Bacon).— Try Walton's roup pills, advertised in onr
columns. There is nothing poisonous imparted to the flesh by tho disease.

Hatching Pea-fo%vl's Eggs (J. P.).— Pea-hen's eggs can be set under a
common hen, and sho will reai- them. They require to be fod like young
Pheasants or Tmkeys. A large hen will cover four, a middle-sized hen three
«ggs.

Pheasants, Bantams, and Pigeons (J. TT.).— They will do together in
an aviary. The Pigeons' nesting-place should be 6 feet from tho ground. The
cage should be provided with plenty of perches, as in the event of a temporary
disagreement they afford an escape.

Poultry Food (Q. E. D.).— Wo have no experience of tho food yon
mention. Bone dust can be obtained of any dealer in artificial manures.

Split Featbzbr (P. H.).— If by a split feather you mean a broken one
draw it out, aud in three weeks you will hare a new one. Or if you mean a
double feather, such as is frequently the centre feather of Fantails' tails,
though unsightly, it would scarcely disqualify. You may pluck such a feather
out, aud it will grow again just tho same. Wo knew a Pouter that had ttuch a
one aud took a prize. All such feathers are no doubt blemit'-es, as they
ought not to be.

Colour of Kite Tcmuler (P. H".).— A Kite should hav« no white ; if it
has it most probably is of an inferior strain, or is bred remotely from a mottle
ibird.

Points of Show Akt-wbup {F. S. TF.).— The beet description known of
this burd was given in our number for February 17th, 1870, with an engraving,
which number you can obtain free from our oftice for four postage stamps.

Tree FOit Aviary (7. B.).— As you do not state the height and other
dimensions of the aviary, wocaunot advise you.

German Paste [A. anowj.—A. receipt is on page 151 of onr number of last
■week.

Feeding Hen Canaries (71. E. H.).— Feed on hard-boiled egg chopped
fine and bread crumbs mixed. Chopping the egg is a tedious process. It
saves time, and does the work more thoroughly, to use a small box with a
bottom of perforated zinc, tln-ough which the egg can be squeezed with the
blade of an ordinary dinner kmfo. Stale bread is best for the piu-posc, as it
can more easily be crumbled by rubbing between the hands or by grating. I
always use the crumbs dry, mixing them in about equal proportions, bulk for
bulk, while the buds are quite young, and mcreasiug the quantity of crumbs
as they grow. Some prefer to soak the bread in water and squeeze it dry
before mixing with the ogg. While the hen is sitting she will not frequently
leave her nest except to take a hasty mouthful of food. If the cock bo kept
with her he will supply all her requirements ; aud it is well, especially towards

the close of the pex-iod of incubation, to give a supply of the soft food. It is
decidedly best to take away the eggs till she has laid the fourth. Thisis
desirable on manyaccounts. Should she eviuce a strong desire to commence
sitting as soon as she has laid the fii-st egg, aud be allowed to do so, the
young ones will not all be hatched at tho same time, aud a difference of a
day in the ago of newly-hatched birds means this — that the older and stronger
will got most food, and the younger and weaker will in all probability die. I
know there are many who oppose the removal of thoeggs<, and who affirm
that their young ones arc always " chipped " all on the same morning. But
it's simply stuff and nonsense. It may be that a hen will occasionally pop
on her nest and sit a while, and may be seen doing so perhaps two or three
times in tho day, aud so lead an unthinking observer to suppose she has com-
menced to sit in earnest; but, as a rule, hens do not begin to sit till they
have laid theii* complement, and it is not dcGuable for the reason above
assigned that they should. The presence of the eggs is an inducement to sit,
and for that reason they should be removed. I say nothing of the risk of break-
age, which is great, for until a hen commences sittiug in earnest she is never
done scuffling about in her nest and putting the finishing touches to it, and
though her instincts teach her to take care of her egg. she is, nevertheless,
liable to prick it with her claw — to "claw-hole" it in the vernacular of the
fancy. The Canarj' sits thirteen days — that is, suppose you give the hen her
three eggs on the morning on which she lays her fourth [I put mine in over-
night), and that day be, say Saturday, she will chip on the Friday, which is
tho thirteenth morning following. — W. A. Blakston.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,
Camden Square, London.

Lat. 5V 32' 40" K. ; Long. 0" 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date.

A.H,

IH TBB DAT.

J,?<S

>.

.9

1873.

Hygrome-
ter.

u

li^

perature.

Temperature

In

On

Dry.

Wet.

3 =

Max.

Min.

Bun.

grass

Inches.

deg

deg.

dog.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

■We. 12

30.049

3M

36.7

N.

S6.4

42.8

31.7

73.3

29.2

—

Th. 13

30.248

3.i.8

31.J

N.

37.2

43.8

89.6

S1.9

80.5

Fn. H

30.291

ou.S)

35 1

\V.

87.6

46.7

33.0

72.2

28.8

—

Sat. 15

30.423

40.5

87.1

N.

38.5

44.5

35.C

C3.1

32.a

Sun.lC

30.(i32

S7.4

34.8

N.W.

38.6

41.2

36.3

43.2

29.7

Mo. 17

30.(i« 1

34.8

32.7

N.W.

88.8

36 8

34.1

38.2

23.8

Tu. 18

30.790

31.7

3U.5

N.E.

87.7

34.0

31.6

34.8

31.6

—

Means

30.441

S(i.5

34 4

37.8

41.4

83.7

68.8

29.4

-

REMARKS.

I2th. — Alternations of sunshine and showers of hail and snow during the day;
wind rather high at night. The hail and snow did not yield a mea-
surable amount of water.

13th. — Fine in the morning, and fail- all day, at times very sunny ; fog in the
oveuing.

14th. — A very hue morning, but dull afterwards.

15th. — A lovely day thi-oughout, at times the sun vei? bright.

IGth. — Fine early, fair ail day and pleasant, though there was but little
sun.

17th. — Vei-y dark and rather thick, but not foggy, in the morning; fair all day,
but dull aud cold.

18th. — Again a dark morning, and so continuing all day; dark, dull, and
getting colder and colder towards night.
A fair and raiiUess but by no means bright week; temperature uniform,

and pressui'e extremely high, readings such as that of lath iJU.7U0 inches

occmring but a few times iu each century. — G-. J. SviioNS.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET. -Fbbbuart IJ.
We have no alteration to report.

Apples i sieve

Apricots doz.

CUerriea per lb.

Oiiestuuts bushel li

Currimts 4 sitjve 0

Blaok do. 0

Figs doz. 0

Filberts lb. 1

Cubs lb. 1

Gooauberries quart 0

Lirupes, hothouse lb. 4

Lemons ^>-100 B

Melons each 1

d. B. d.

Oto5 0
0 U U
U 0 0
0 20 0
0 0 0

2 0

U 0

10 0

10 0

MalberrlRS =^ lb. 0

Wectarims doz. g

Oranges %*■ 100 4

pLaches duZ. 0

Pears, kitchen doz. 1

dessert. doz. 8

PineAppl*>a lb. &

Plums 4 sieve 0

Quinces doz, 0

Kaapberriea lb. U

Strawberries If^ lb. 0

Walnuts bubhol 15

ditto ^100 2

OtoO
U 0
0 10
0 0
0 S
U U

VEGETABLES.

s. d. B. d.

Artichijbes doz. 3 OtoG 0

Asparagus. ii" WO 5 0 10 0

Beans. Kidney VIM a 0 3 0

iJroad buahel 0 0 0 0

Beet, Ked doz. 1 0 S 0

broccoli bundle 0 9 16

Cabbage doz. 10 16

CiipsiJums *^100 2 0 8 0

Cirr.its bunch 0 6 0 0

Cftuntiower doz. 8 0 4 0

Celery bundle 1 6 2 C

i;ulewt>rts.. doz. buuthea 2 0 4 0

Cucumbers eaou 2 0 4 0

pickung doz. 0 0 0 0

Endive doz. 2 0 0 0

KlmiuuI bunch 0 3 0 O

(.iailie lb. 0 6 0 0

H.rba bunch 0 3 0 0

aorseradish bundle B 0 4 0

Locks bunch 0 2 0 0

Lettuce d02 10 2 0

Mushrooms pottle

Mustard & Cress. .puunet
Uuiuua ^ bushel

pickling quart

Parsley pur doz. buiicbea

Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Kouud do.

Radishes., doz. bunches

Kliubarb bundle

Salbufy t' bundle

Savoys doz.

Scorzonera.... ;(;*■ bundle

Kea-kale basket

ShiiUots.. lb.

Spinach bushel

TouiiitDos doz.

Turuips bunch

Vegetable Marrows., doz.

E. d. B. d
1 0to2 0
0

February 27, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEK.

177

WEEKLY

CALENDAR.

Day

Day

ot
Week.

Average Tempera-

Eainin

Sou

Sun

Moon

Clock Day

Month

ture near Loudon.

4a years.

Rises.

Sots.

lUaea.

Sets.

Age.

before o(
Sun. Year.

Day.

Night.

Mean.

Days.

m. h.

m. h.

m. h.

m. h.

Days.

27

Th

John Evelyn died, 1706.

47.7

33.5

4U.0

20

51 at 6

35 afS

84 7

4 6

•

12 53 ; 58

28

F

49.1

82.,'^

40.9

15

49 6

86 5

61 7

33 7

1

12 42 59

1

S

St. Davtd.

47.4

8S.(i

40.5

16

47 6

88 6

8 8

69 8

2

12 80

00

2

Son

1 SoNDAY ra Lent.

48.7

34.7

41.7

17

44 6

40 5

24 8

23 10

3

12 18

61

3

M

49.9

33.2

41.0

14

42 6

42 S

40 8

45 11

4

12 S

62

4

To

49.7

81.5

40.6

11

40 6

44 5

1 9

mom.

5

11 62

6,3

W

Koyal Horticultinral Society, Fruit, Floral,
[ and General Meeting.

48.9

31.8

40.3

16

38 6

45 5

26 9

4 1

6

11 38

61

From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperatnre ol the wook is 47.3° ; and its night temperature

82.9'. The greatest heat was 70 ', on the 4th, 186U ; and the lowest cold 14', oa the 3rd, 18G2. The greatest fall of rain was 0.81 inch.

HERBACEOUS CALCEOLAEIA CULTURE.

ffi' HE herbaceous Calceolari.i presents luxu-
i^ riance of growth, symmetry, and wealth of
colour in a remarkable degree ; the bold
deep-green fohage, the large clustering heads
of flowers, rich yet soft, and extremely va-
ried in colour, render it worthy of the high
rank assigned to it among our floral gems.
It is generally treated as an annual, and the
certainty and convenience of this method of
culture cannot be disputed, old plants being
only worth keeping when huge specimens are reqiured for
special purposes.

May and June are the best months for sowing the seed,
but when it is desirable to prolong the display of flowers,
other sowings may follow in July and August, in which
case it should not be forgotten that considerable space
■will be required during winter, especially if it is intended
to grow large plants such as may be produced in 8 or
10-inch pots ; for then, as the plants gain size, no check
must be given to the growth. The plant's few but most
important demands for more space for its roots, and for
the play of light and ah- around and among its leaves,
must be promptly attended to. When this condition is
well looked to the plants make an ample return for every
care, by rapidity of gi'owth and the rude ^-igour with
■which they flourish. The shifting into larger pots may
continue till the flower-stems begin to grow, and even
after that period, if pinching is practised, as is frequently
the case when the aim is to produce plants of an extra
size.

The one cultural point of vital importance is to pro-
mote the <piick yet vigorous growth in the very earliest
stages, which is natural to this plant. For this reason
I prefer for the seed-pan a compost of old, rich, rotten
manure, finely sifted and mixed with an equal quantity
of sand, keeping it quite an inch below the top of the
pan, sowing the seed on it, and then pressing down gently
with a cu-cular piece of wood. A careful damping with
water out of a fine rose is then given, and a sheet of
glass placed on the pan, which is taken to a cool house
or pit where it can have abundance of light without being
fully exposed the full rays of the sun. So treated the
see<l vegetates quickly, and the seedlings springing up
full of sturdy vigour, are first potted singly in similar soil,
and afterwards into a rough rick mixture of manure,
tiu-fy loam, sand, and charcoal. No sifting and very little
chopping are required in preparing this compost, in which
the roots spread with such surprising rapichty that the
plantsman has to be on the alert in the shiftiag into larger
pots ; for the roots must not be sutTered to fasten on the
sides of any pot but that in wliich the plant is to mature
its growth and produce its flowers. To the practised
hand the reason for this is obvious enough, but it may
be well to point out to the beginner that when a plant
becomes potbound its gi-owth receives a check, often a
very necessary one to induce fi-ee-flowering, but which is
fatal for the time to additional size if such be required.

No. 6:a.— Vol. XXIV., Niw Sebies.

Avoid the use of peat in the culture of this plant. I do
not, of course, mean to infer that it wfll not grow in peat,
but a rich coarse soil, such as I have described, is so
admirably adapted to its wants as to be altogether pre-
ferable. The use of peat in the seed-pan is what I most
object to, from its propensity to become dry, and the indif-
ferent nourishment it gives to the rootlets of the seedlings.
A glance at a healthy Calceolaria in any stage of gi'owth
is suflicient to convince one that it is a gross feeder. Let
this but be fully recognised, and be acted upon by afford-
ing it abimdance of rich soil and stimulants, keeping the
plants clean— free from aphides and thrips — and with
plenty of ah- and hght on all sides, a full measure of
success will be the result. The assistance of stimulants,
by which I mean liquid manure, is not requu'ed till the
flower-stems appear, when then' frequent use is of tho
greatest value and importance, imparting continued health
to the growth, and to the flowers such size, form, and
colour as would be quite wanting were liquid manure
withheld ; it being evident that as the soil of any gross-
feeding pot-plant is permeated with roots, so surely does
it gradually become exhausted. Proof of this is afforded
by the decaying or unliealthy foliage, and the short dura-
tion of the puny growth of flowers. — Edward Luckhukst.

EUPHOEBL\ JACQUINI^FOLIA CULTURE.

This Jlexican evergreen shrub was introduced about
the year 183G. It is one of those plants which should bo
grown by everyone who has a stove, being of easy cultui'e,
and the flowers, though small, are very beautiful.

With a little care it can be made to produce two succes-
sions of flowers from November to March. Good-sized
plants can be grown in moderately-small pots with from
ten to twenty flowering shoots on each, and it' kept near tho
glass they will not requu-e any stakes. Cuttings of the small
young shoots taken off in March will root freely in a
Melon or Cucumber frame ; when rooted they should be
pcftted-off singly into small pots, and kept near the glass
till they become well established. If all go well, by May
they will foi-m nice healthy young plants, and by that
time they may be hardened-off, and then grown on all
summer in a cold frame, taking care to shut-up early, so
as to secure a little sun heat, which they delight in. To
form neat bushy plants they requu-e to be well pinched-back
all summer, but they must not be pinched after August
if early flowering is desired. By September they should
be removed to a shelf in the stove, and kept close to the
glass, so as to thoroughly ripen the wood, as on this
depends the proper succession of flowers thi'oughout the
■winter.

The plant is all tho better of being rather stinted as to
pot-room, and should bo only moderately suppUed with
water ; at the same time care must be taken not to allow
the soil to become dust dry, neither must it get sodden
with moisture.

Tho first crop of flowers ■will generally appear in No-
vember, and if the plants be removed to a conservatory
or intermediate house they wiU continue in perfection for

No. 1S71.— Vol. XLIX,, Old Sbribb

178

JOUENAL OF HOKTICDLTURE AND COTTAGK GABDENER.

t Febraary 27, 187S.

several weeks. Care must bo taken not to over-water while
the plants are in a low temperature.

After the first crop of flowers is over, remove the plants to
the stove again, and give them a warm corner near the glass
with as much light as possible. In a few weeks every joint
will show flower again and continue flowering for weeks, if the
plants are never allowed to become dry or to be exposed to a
very low temperature.

The soil I use is peat, turfy loam, silver sand, and a little
charcoal. I know of no plant that will better repay a httle
attention. — J. Smith, Exton Park. Rutland.

VINE FOECING.

On looking over my garden note-book for the years 1854 to
1857 inclusive, I find the following practical notes relative to
the system of forcing the Grape Vine carried out at the place
at which I then hved as under gardener. I have extracted
them and put them into a readable form, thinking probably
some one or more young beginners may think them worth
their consideration. My notes apply to inside treatment only,
except in one or two items, and the roots of the Vines were
outside in good well-protected borders. I may state that
before I became head gardener I served under several gardeners
whose methods of Vine-forcing varied considerably, but I could
not select one more to my mind than that which I shall de-
scribe, and which I have practised ever since with s6me shght
deviations.

1. Supposing the Vines to be pruned, dressed, and tied in
then- proper position, proceed to thoroughly cleanse the house
by whitewashing, so as to make it perfectly healthy ; and if
there is a pit in it, till it with leaves or any other material
most convenient for affording a gentle heat to assist the Vines
to break, and also for the convenience of propagating under
hand-Ughts if required.

2. If Grapes are required for table, say at the end of May or
beginning of June, take into consideration the strength of the
Vines and the previous treatment to which they have been
subjected, as well as the conveniences for the apphcation of
artificial heat, &c. Shut the house up by the first week of
December, keeping as nearly as possible a temperature of 45°
by fire heat, allowing the heat from the sun to raise the atmo-
sphere of the house to 55°, and keep it at that point by venti-
lation. Syringe the Vines and the walls of the house thrice
a-day, but allow the Vines to become dry once in twenty-four
hours. Steam the house occasionally by syringing the pipes.

3. As soon as the buds begin to swell raise the temperature
to 50° by fire heat at night, and not more than 55' in the day
without sun, but advance another 5° by sun heat from the last
stage. Keep the temperature as near these points as possible,
stm syringing and steaming as before, but allow the Vines to
become dry once in twenty-four hours.

4. As soon as the buds begin to burst raise the temperature
another 5° by fire heat, and by sun heat another 5°, from the
last stage, still syringing and steaming as before ; but as the
season advances, with more light and sun, as well as more fire
heat, perhaps a somewhat greater amount of moisture in the
house will be necessary. This addition at the present stage
must be entirely guided by the weather and the state of the
house inside.

5. Wlien the majority of the buds put forth their small
leaves, raise the temperature to 00° by fire heat and 70° by
sun heat. Guard systematically against any fluctuation of
temperatui-e at this stage, as it will tend to make the shoots
weakly. A little difbadding may now be done if there be
need of it ; and if the weather should prove sunny, syringing
four times a-day will not be too much, and the precaution of
allowing the Vines to dry themselves every twenty-four hours
will now be less needful through the increase of heat and light.
However, it is partially necessary to guard against their be-
coming dry too long or too often. Steam at every opportunity.

0. As soon as the shoots put forth their bunches clear from
the stem, raise the heat another 5°, or to G5° by fire and 75° by
sun heat, keeping the temperature as regular as possible, still
syringing and steaming as necessary.

7. Gradually raise the temperature from 65° to 70° as the
Vines advance into bloom. By this I mean to advance 2° at
a time, to as to reach 70° by the time the first bunch is in
bloom ; and while in bloom 72° will not be too much. Keep
the temperature very regular all through this stage, discontinue
syringing whUe in bloom, and keep the house dry. The tem-
perature by sun heat may be from 80° to 85' with a little ven-

tilation. At this time a good watering is given to the border
outside.

8. Keep the temperature up as for last stage ; in fact, from
the time the berries are set till they commence to colour the
temperature may be the same, but discontinue syringing the
Vines. However, keep the walls and floor of the house moist,
or red spider will make its appearance. The border was again
weU watered when the first bunch commenced colouring.

9. This is the ripening stage, and as the Grapes advance
into colouring more air may be given, and if the temperature
fall in consequence it will be rather an advantage so long as
it is never allowed to get too low, nor fluctuate either way in a
sudden manner. When the Grapes are about half-coloured
leave aUttle top air on at night if the weather is suitable, and
in the last week or two of their ripening a little front air as
well, sufficient to promote a circulation through the house.
Discont-nue fire heat as soon as the weather is warm enough
to maintain the temperature required.

The above system applies to Black Hamburgh and other
early and easUy-forced Grapes, but for Muscats and similar
sorts a few degrees more heat will not be far wrong. Venti-
lation should be given early, and the house closed early. It is
much the best practice to give air httle and often ; and at
closing time, if the lights are far open, do not shut the house up
all at once, but bj' parts at a time, at intervals of a quarter of an
hour. The syringing should be done first early in the morning,
again at closing time, again at dusk, and, if more is required,
at ten o'clock. I need hjtrdly mention the necessity of early
attention being paid to tying down and stopping the shoots as
such work suggests itself to the gardener. Thinning the
berries should be practised as soon as they are large enough
to be seen plainly, and good judgment in the operation is ab-
solutely necessfljy.

The above notes are the same as taken from my garden note-
book ; and the only deviations I make from the rules then laid
down are, first, I do not practise steaming the pipes after there
are leaves on the Vines (I have seen injury arise from its being
done when the pipes are too hot, and I consider evaporating
pans on the pipes much better) ; and secondly, in the seventh
stage, when it is advised to keep the house dry ; I do not now
do so. Although I hold with discontinuing to syringe the
Vines, I make it a practice to damp the walls and floor of the
house. However, this must to a great extent be regulated by
the weather. Too much damp will stop the circulation of the
poUen, which to bad-setting Grapes is at once a disadvantage.
On the other hand, at the blooming stage, when the artificial
heat is strong, the absence of moisture is sure to bring on an
attack of red spider, which the foliage seldom gets the better
of. — Thomas Eeooed.

ELECTION OP BOSES— LA FRANCE.

A EOSAKiAN of only six years' standing, although one who
has not failed to win his spurs in local touraments, I certainly
should not presume to enter an appeal against the judgment
of acknowledged authorities like Mr. Cant and Mr. Kadclyffe,
did not my very great admiration of La France prompt me to
ofi'er a word or two in its defence. Of this Bose Mr. Cant
says — " The petals are flimsy. It is often washy and dirty, it
is not to be compared with Baroness Eothschild, and the
colour being somewhat similar I would never place it in the
first twelve." Lovers of La France, what say ye to the in-
dictment, guilty or not guilty ? I suppose the warmest ad-
vocates of this beautiful Rose wiU, at once, admit that there
is some truth in Mr. Cant's first accusation. The petals are
just a httle, no, not flimsy, but say they are not quite stout
enough. Admitting this " soft impeachment," I aver La France
to be in all other I'espects as near perfection as may be. In
colour, form, and scent, it is far superior to Baroness Eoths-
child. The beautifully recurved petals resemble those of that
fine Rose, which when caught at its best is a " thing of beauty "
— Prince Camille de Eohan ; but La France is more globular,
and infinitely more beautiful in shape than the Prince.

Mr. Eadclyffe says, La France is a bad foul weather Rose,
but with me it does not suffer in this matter more than other
Ught EoHcs, such as Miss Ingram, Souvenir de la Malmaison,
and " old Glory." Mr. Eadclyffe complains that it does not
bloom well with him, and surmises that his place may be too
cold and bleak. Against this supposition permit me to say my
garden is in the " wUds " of North Yorkshire, nine miles distant
from the sea coast, about 500 feet above the sea level, and
surrounded by undrained moorland. East winds, or, as they

Febrniry 27, 1S73. ]

JOUKN'AL OF HOKTICDLTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENEE.

179

are sometimes here termed " custavJ winds," prevail in the
spring and early summer mouths with such unvarying persis-
tency, that the Kev. C. Kiugsley, were he compelled to live
here would perhaps find out that it is possible to have too
much of even so good a thing as an east wind. Well, in this
eituatiou La France blooms profusely. From a small tree on the
Briar, its second year of blooming, I cut last summer more
ihan twenty good blooms. With the exception of Guueral
Jacqueminot I grow all the fifty Roses which received the
greatest number of votes at the recent election. If in this good
company, during the last Eose season, there had been a con-
test for the premier Eose, and it those friends who came to
look had been aslied to vote (with woman's suffrage of course),
La France would unquestionably have been at the head of
the poll.

My experience of " old Glory " is precisely the same as that of
Mr. Cant and Mr. Eadclyffe. I have many plants of this Eose
— as everybody has — beautiful in bud, dehcicus in scent, but
scarcely ever producing a perfect bloom. Marie Baumann wiU
not grow with me, and Cehne Forestier is as worthless here as
Mr. Eyre says it is with him. Marechal Niel grows weU on its
own roots, on the Mauetti, and on the Briar. I get plenty of
wood, and every year I look anxiously for the blooms which
come not. — W-'SioxEHonsE, Darnholine, Goatliland, Yorlc.

EXOTIC AND HAEDT CYCLAMEN CULTUKE.

I FULLY coincide in what your able correspondent Mr.
Douglas has written in favour of this plant for winter decora-
tive purposes, and also in the mode of cultivation he adopts.
I can only add one or two remarks with a view to render the
latter still more easy.

Like Mr. Douglas, I sow the seed as early in the spring as
possible, say February, and plunge the pot or pan in bottom
iieat, if such can be afforded. As soon as the plants are tit to
handle they are pricked-out into boxes, such as are used for
Geranium cuttings. These boxes are 2 feet long, by 1 foot
wide, and 3 inches deep, and I prefer separate pots as requir-
ing less space ; for every inch of heated structure is full to
overflowing, and a box is more quickly moved from place to
place than a number of small pots. In boxes the seedlings
remain till they are large enough to pot, or, rather, large
.enough to be transferred to 3 or 4-iuch pots, by which time
there will most hkely be more room in the heated compartment
they have been occupying. In fact, like Mr. Douglas I keep
■them very often the whole summer in the Pine stove until
•they begin to show flower, when I find it is not always ad-
visable to remove them to a house too cool, for with such treat-
ment I have known some of them die-off. A sort of inter-
snediate house is best for the young plants, but older ones
"that have not been kept in the forcing house during the sum-
jner will endure as much cold as Cape Heaths and similar
plants.

When the flowering is over in spring my treatment is even
more simple than that of Mr. Douglas, for I usually turn all
the plants out of their pots, and plant them in a cold pit in
which Calceolarias have been wintered, the soU being sandy
lather than otherwise. The corms are but slightly covered
with this, but I coat the ground as deeply as the remaining
leaves of the plants will aUow with decayed leaf mould, and
take notice during the summer that there is always sufficient
to just cover the corm, which I think ought never to be ex-
posed. Beyond this no further notice is taken of them till the
middle or end of September, when they are hfted and potted,
the autumn growth having just begun about that time. By
this system no care nor attention in watering is required,
beyond giving them a good watering with licjuid manure some
wet day during the summer, although the bed they are grow-
ing in is exposed to the full sun. I am not acquainted with
any plant which can be more readily taken up than the
Cyclamen.

With regard to the species which are named in catalogues,
might I ask those who are authorities in such matters if the
bulk of those in ordinary cultivation do not run into each
other in such a way as to render botanical classification im-
possible ? For many years I have looked upon the hardy
autumn-flowering Cyclamen, that often presents a mass of
bloom without a vestige of foUage, as being a distinct species,
but now it seems linked by imperceptible degrees to the
rounder- foliaged class to which the name C. persicum is given.
Assuredly the botanical distinctions are not persistent in the
two, or there are great departures from them in the mass of

varieties cultivated both in-doors and out. The out-door Cycla-
mens are not met with half so often as they deserve to be, and
but rarely in fashionable gardens ; while in some cottager's
little flower border, nestling perhaps at the root of a Pear or
other fruit tree, one may be met with that has occupied the
same spot for a dozen years or more, and that, when in bloom
at the end of harvest time, presents a mass of floral beauty
which it is vain to look for in the best pot cultivation. The
truth of the matter is, the plant does not like rude removals.
May X ask if the Cyclamen which was found wild in divers
places is now met with '? I expect it is becoming more and
more scai'ce ; but as other kinds are now plentiful, may I
ask if any of your correspondents have been successful with
their out-door culture ? as I cannot but think some favoured
spots might be found where many of those that now grace the
shelves of our greenhouses would survive the winter, and add
as much beauty to spring gardening as the Primrose. At the
same time I hardly expect they will bear the same amount of
shifting from place to place, but if planted in some cosy
corner they might cheer us with their interesting blooms each
returning season.

Mr. Douglas mentions the liability of this plant to be at-
tacked with mealy bug. I may also mention another enemy
in the shape of a rather large grub that attacks the corm on
the under side, eating large portions of it, and so divesting it
of its rootlets ; the fohage languishes in consequence, the roots,
in fact, being all gone, so that the plant has no hold of the
soU. I have lost several plants during the past winter from
this cause, and have tried some experiments with a view to
find a means of preventing the attacks of this unexpected in-
truder, but I find it more tenacious of life than might be
expected. A tolerably strong mixture of soft soap and water
takes no effect upon it, and the same may be said of tobacco.
Perhaps some other growers have met with it also; if not, I
may say that the grub is nearly as large as that which becomes
the wasp, but is an active creature, burrowing into the soil,
and eating away at the root. Is it generally known, and what
is the best means to check it ?

I have not been very successful in multiplying the hardy
Cyclamens, perhaps inattention at the right time may have
been the cause ; although the tender kinds may be counted by
hundreds, umts wUl do for the hardy ones, and what I have
seen are scarcely less pretty. An easy and expeditious mode
of propagating them would be acceptable, more especially one
insuring the germination of the seed, which in my case is not
so easOy accomplished as with the exotic kind. — J. Eobson.

YUCCAS FEUITING IN EUKOPE.

I AM not a little surprised to see an article going the round
of the horticultural and other journals as to the non-fertihsa-
tion of Yuccas in Europe. Have we the Pronuba Yuccasella, or
are its services not required, or can it be another insect serving
the same purpose ? for Yuccas have seeded abundantly in this
neighbourhood (Cannes) for the past ten years without any
artificial fertihsation whatever.

I should Uke under the same heading to correct an error of
your correspondent " C. W. H.," (see No. 587), when at Nice,
last year, in supposing there was but one male Date Pahn in
its neighbourhood. By far the greater majority are males,
which are very visible to passers-by knowing the two sexes.
— Geo. Worihaji, Gardener, Villa Victoria, Cannes.

EHAMNUS FEANGULA.

Procuke plants of this of Messrs. F. & A. Dickson & Sons,
106, Eastgate Street, Chester. Unless the Alder Buckthorn
grow better with others than it does with me in Ught but good
soil in which most shrubs succeed well, I fear it wUl take veiy
many years and a considerable extent of ground to give a ton of
twigs worth from £10 to £14 for charcoal for gunpowder manu-
facture. It is a good subject for withstanding the sea breeze,
and wUl succeed in an exposed situation. — North Yore.

I n.wE seen Ehamnus Frangula in some of the nurserymen's
liets— Mr. WiUiam Paul's for one. From this shrub the finest
description of charcoal is made in very large quaiitities at the
Government powder works, Waltham Abbey. It is there im-
properly called Dogwood charcoal, the real Dogwood being
Coruus sanguinea, which is useless for charcoal. Gunpowder
manufacturers are almost, if not enthely, dependent on this
(erroneously caUed Dogwood) material for their charcoal, and

180

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

[ Fehrnaiy 27, 1873.

if it could be grown in this country in large quantities its
cultivation should prove remunerative. This shrub is well
adapted for fox and game covers ; the thinnings could be sold
annually for charcoal at from £10 to £12 per ton. It wiU not
thrive in a stiff soU. The Great Eastern Railway Company
have tried to cultivate it on the margins or slopes of their line,
but without success. I hope, however, that your readers may
liaye better fortune should they determine to try it. — J. C. H.

CHOICE GREENHOUSE EHODODENDBONS.
No. 1.

Who grows them ? Who knows them ? Who cares for
them? To all these questions I fear the answer must be,
Yery few, either gardeners or amateurs, care much for them ;
by this I mean comparatively few, for I think I may say,
without fear of contradiction, that, taking the number of plant-
growers into consideration, those who cultivate the greenhouse
Rhododendrons are few ; still, I am persuaded this apathy
arises more from a want of knowledge respecting them than
from a disregard of their beauties. It has, therefore, occui'red
to me that the present time is very opportune to say a few
words on the subject, with the view of promoting the culture
of these really grand and beautiful plants, and of enlisting
the attention of amateurs especially.

Very few species were known until they were discovered by
the present Director of Kew, Dr. J. D. Hooker, in his cele-
brated explorations of the mountains of Sikkim *Simalaya
During that arduous journey he met with upwards of forty
species of Rhododendrons. I cannot say the exact number,
speaking from memory, but thirty of these, I believe, were
new to science. Upon his return to this country Dr. Hooker
brought with him not only sufficient specimens for the use of
the scientific botanist, but also an abundance of living seeds;
indeed, the very abundance, combined with the fact that few
amateurs knew anything of them, was, in my opinion, one of
the great causes of their neglect from the first. People
reasoned that if they were any good they would not have been
so plentiful, and so when they might have been procured at a
small rate by anyone, no one bought them ; some, however,
who heard of their charms were induced to grow them until
they flowered, and those persons were well rewarded for their
trouble.

After Dr. Hooker's journey in Sikkim, the mountains of
Bhootan were explored by Mr. Booth, who added several fresh
species to their number. These have been augmented by
collectors from various other parts of India, and together with
the hybrids obtained from them at home, afford ample scope for
the taste of the amateur, whether as regards colour of flowers
or habit of growth. The majority of these plants require but
trifling protection ; indeed, if properly planted and protected
by adjacent shrubs, there is no doubt many of them would
form handsome specimens in the open air in various parts of
the country. I am aware this has been advocated and tried
before the present time, but I do not think all has been done
by planters which tlie importance of the subject demands;
One of their great faults for open-air culture is that the
Sikkim kinds begin to grow so very early that the young and
tender shoots get killed by our late spring frosts ; but it is
a moot case, if protectmg their buds through autumn and
■winter from the sun's influence for two or three years would
not acclimatise them somewhat, and cause them to start into
growth later in the season. Should this attention, however,
not have so much effect, it would certainly retard them con-
siderably. A few years ago I saw several collections planted
in the open air, and I should be glad to hear how they may be
succeeding. We are told that " the species of this genus are
most numerous, and the flowers attain their greatest size and
brilliancy of colouring on the high mountains of East Nepal
and the Sikkim Himalaya, at an elevation of from 10,000 to
14,000 feet. The forests in those regions reach an altitude of
about 12,000 feet, and above these the Rhododendrons com-
prise fully three-fourths of the vegetation, where they not
only display their beauties to the greatest advantage, but
supply the aborigines with wood for the manufacture of nu-
merous domestic utensils." The mountains of the Malayan
Archipelago and British Burmah have also yielded-up several
beautiful species to our home collections ; but these have not
proved so hardy as the kinds introduced from either Bhootan
or Sikkim, but, nevertheless, they are magnificent additions to
our greenhouses and conservatories. In addition to the intro-
duced species, several lovers of th«se plants have devoted

themselves to the hybridisation and cross-breeding of the
various kinds, and have thus brought into existence a number
of kinds which your amateur readers would find invaluable
for conservatory or greenhouse decoration if they would only
make themselves acquainted with them ; indeed, several of
the hybrids will bloom twice in the season if properly cared
for, and that, too, while the plants are quite young.

Rhododendrons thrive best in good, rough, fibrous, sandy
peat, and the drainage should be ample, and kept in good
working order. The hardy kinds, when planted in the open
air, will succeed well in a mixture of peat and Ught loam if
the drainage is good; indeed, they will even grow without the
peat, but I think not so well as with a little of it, although I
would not by any means associate myself with those who
assert that Rhododendrons must have peat, because I have-
seen so many proofs to the contrary ; yet for pot culture, oi"
when planted in the border of a conservatory, I should cer-
tainly prefer good fibrous peat, with just a small quantity of
sandy loam. It must also be borne in mind that, although
Rhododendrons like peat soO, they are not bog plants, and
that to ensure their well-being the drainage must be good and.
free from obstructions. These plants may be reckoned amongst
the best and most ornamental of permanent conservatory
plants, and when grown with Camellias they serve to prolong,
the gay season, as they usually come into bloom just after
the last-named plants have cast their flowers. The large-
growing kinds should be planted in tho beds or borders of the
conservatory or greenhouse, whilst the smaller-growing kinds
will be found superb ornaments for the side or front stages.
They are very easily grown, last a long time in full beauty,
and most of them are to be procured at a reasonable price.

Having now made out my case in their favour, I purpose
briefly enumerating some of the best both of the introduced
species and the hybrid kinds produced in our own gardens,,
any of which will be found well deserving the attention of
oven those with very limited space ; whilst those who can find
room to grow them all wOl have quite a galaxy of beauty, and
that, too, of a recherche character.

R. HooKERii. — I place this at the head of the list because
the name of that indefatigable traveller and collector. Dr.
Hooker, always seems to me so inseparable from these plants,
although this species was none of his finding. It was dis-
covered by Mr. Booth in the mountains of Bhootan, growing
at from 8 to 9000 feet altitude, in company with Finns excelsa,
and during the winter mouths, wliich correspond with our own,
the frost and snow are both severe and lasting. Piuus excelsa
is hardy with us, and there is no reason why the plant now
under consideration should not prove equally tractable.
Naturally, it grows upwards of 12 feet in height, but it flowers
when quite young. The leaves are about 4 inches long, and
upwards of an inch broad, oblong in shape, thick and coria-
ceous in texture, dark green on the upper side, but glaucous
below. The flowers are large, numerous, and in colour rich
crimson. It blooms in April and May.

R. Edgwoethii. — This is a fine, free-flowering, and com-
paratively small-growing species. In its native country it.
grows upon or in the forks of forest trees, as well as upon the
ground or in the crevices of rocks. The leaves are upwards
of 3 inches long, somewhat ovate-lanceolate in shape, tapering,
to a slender point, deep heavy green on the upper side, whilst
every other part of the plant is densely clothed with a bright
ferruginous down. The flowers are large, deliciously sweet,
pure white, delicately tinged with rose. It blooms early in May,
and is tolerably hardy. Native of Sikkim at some 9000 feet
elevation.

B. Veitchianum. — A very fine species, but scarcely so hardy
as the preceding. It forms a medium-sized branching shrub,
the leaves being coriaceous in texture, obovate, acute, upwards
of .3 inches long, smooth, dark green on the upper side but
glaucous below. The flowers are snow white, with a delicately
crisp margin ; they are upwards of 4 inches across, and pro-
duced in great profusion at the end of April and in May.
Native of Moulmein.

R. Veitchianum LiEvroATUM. — This is a variety of the pre-
viously named plant, and a native of the same country. It
differs from the species only in having plain instead of crisp
margins to the petals of the corolla. Both forms are very
desirable.

R. Brookeanum. — In this plant we have a lovely ornament.
The foliage is large, measuring 6 or 8 inches in length, cori-
aceous in texture, oblong-lanceolate in shape, and dark green
on the upper side, but paler below. The flowers are large.

February 27, 187S. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

181

produced in many-flowered umbels, and thick in texture, whilst
the colour is rich golden orange. Naturally it is epiphytal
upon high forest trees, hut it succeeds well in our greenhouses
under pot culture. It blooms dui-iug April and May. Native
of Borneo.

E. Erookeancm giucile. — A variety of the above, of graceful
habit, and a profuse bloomer. The foliage differs in being
somewhat smaller and light green above, whilst the large
blooms are pale yellow, and not deep orange as those of the
species. It blooms about the same time, and is also a native
■of the Borneau Mountains.

R. Ekookeanum flavum. — This variety requii-es the warmest
•corner of the greenhouse, so perhaps is not found growing
naturally at such great elevations. The plant resembles the
species in habit of growth, but the large leaves have a very
glossy and polished appearance. It produces its large umbels
of soft pure yeUow flowers during April and May in the greatest
profusion. Native of Borneo.

R. oiLiATUH. — We now come to an extremely beautiful small-
growing species, and one that will stand our winters with
impunity; but when gi'own in pots it may bo brought into
flower about the beginning of Blarch with the greatest ease.
It is dwarf and compact in habit, and blooms most profusely.
The leaves are obovate and bright green on the upper side,
glaucous beneath, and having the edges clothed with short
stiff hairs. The flowers are large for the size of the plant,
varying from pure white to deep rose in colour. It is a most
•desirable species. Native of Sikkim, at some 9 to 10,000 feet
elevation.

K. JAS5IINIFL0KUM. — Au exquisito little species, which fre-
quently blooms twice during the year. The foliage is some-
^vhat small ; leaves obovate or inclined to oblong, coriaceous
in texture, smooth, and dark green. The umbels of bloom ai'e
many-flowered; blooms tubular with a spreading limb, pure
white, and delioiously fragrant. Although a native of Malacca,
it tlirives well in the warm end of a greenhouse or conservatory.

B. Dalhouseianum. — This is truly a grand and noble species,
assuming under cultivation more gigantic proportions, it would
seem, than in a state of nature. We are told that this plant
is a slender straggling shrub 6 to 8 feet high, with oblong
leaves, and white, bell-shaped, fragi'ant flowers delicately tinged
■with rose, and that it generally grows on the limbs of the
large forest trees, in regions of fog and moisture, at some
'9000 feet altitude, and within sight of the snow-capped peaks
of the Himalayas. With us it assumes the proportions of a
noble erect tree, producing its enormous sweet-scented flowers
during the early spring months. They measure upwards of
■i inches across the mouth, with a tube of about the same
length ; they are fleshy, pm'e white, slightly tinged with rose,
and very sweet-scented.

E. AccKLAsiiii. — A fine bold-growing species, and somewhat
Tare in cultivation. The leaves are leathery in texture, oblong,
•with a rounded base and acute point, some 8 or 9 inches long,
■bright dark gi'een on the upper side, glaucous below. The
flowers are produced in May and June ; they are pure white,
and nearly as large as those of E. Dalhousianum. By some
•this is considered the handsomest of its family : at any rate,
it may safely be reckoned amongst the most beautiful kinds
from Sikkim-Himalaya.

K. TniBAUDioiDEs. — TWs species at first sight would not
appear to have any afltinity with the two previously described
plants. It is, nevertheless, a true Rhododendron, and an
extremely handsome one too. It is a small-growing plant,
producing its terminal umbels of blooms in the spring and
early summer. The flowers are tubular, with a slightly spread-
ing limb, the tube being bright waxy red and the limb greenish
yellow. It is a native of Bhotan.

E. FRAGRANTissiiinM. — One of the beautiful plants which
have been raised in this country. It is the offspring of seeds
produced by crossing E. Gibsouii with E. Edgworthii. It is
•of a compact and shrubby habit, forming a beautiful specimen
ander pot culture, and an abundant bloomer. The flowers are
large and fleshy, measuring about 5 inches in diameter. They
are pure snow-white, slightly spotted on the upper segments,
and tinged with rose upon the back of the petals, added to
■which they are delieiously fragrant, as its name implies.

E. PitiscEss Alexandra. — This is also a garden hybrid be-
longing to the E. jasmiuiflorum type. It is a charming pot
plant, being dwarf and compact in growth, and a profuse
bloomer. The flowers are tubular, pure white, with rosy pink
stamens.

B. Pbincess Hem;na, the result of a cross between the

former variety and E. jasminiflorum, is an exquisitely beauti-
ful plant, well deserving a place in every amateur's greenhouse.
The flowers are long and tubular, whilst the colour is soft
piuk or flesh streaked with rose ; they are produced during the
spring mouths in great abundance. — Exi>ekto Crede.

ROYAL HORTICULTUEAL SOCIETY.

The resolution of the Council of the Royal Horticultural
Society to vacate their office consequent on the non-adoption
of their Report at the adjourned meeting held last Tuesday
se'night is inoperative. The Council as a body cannot resign
according to the spu-it of the Charter ; and if any individual
members should take that course, then- places must be filled
by the existing Council without consent of the Fellows, leaving
the election to be confirmed at the next annual meeting in
February, 1874.

This being the case, the Council remain in statu quo, unless
some members, feeling personally aggrieved at the action that
has been taken by the Society in rejecting the Report, choose
to act in their individual capacity, and place their resignation
in the hands of the CouncU. This would give an opportunity
for an infusion of new blood, and probably the present uncom-
fortable state of affairs m.ay be got over. It would be no diffi-
cult matter, provided obstacles were not put in the way, to
construct a Council which would be acceptable to every inter-
est represented in the Society ; but the question which the
Council will have to face, be it composed of whomsoever it
may, is. What next ?

It is a notorious fact that, with the exception of two years
during the period in which the Society has been boimd nx)
with the Royal Commissioners, the expenditure has consider-
ably exceeded the income, and that, too, in face of the fact that
there were men on the Council during that period who were ac-
customed to large financial transactions, and to the control
of expenditure in great undertakings ; yet, notwithstanding
the vigilance which, we presume, these gentlemen gave in
virtue of their office to the financial state of the Society, the
result was in many instances greatly to the disadvantage of
the Society. There must, therefore, we presume, be some-
thing in the present relations of the Society which even dili-
gent oversight and skilful management cannot accomplish
for its benefit. Notwithstanding the taunts of dishonesty
which have been thrown by the Royal Commissioners at the
Society for not paying the sum of £2400 annually as rent,
we hold to the beUef that the Society has honourably ful-
filled every engagement it has ever made with the Com-
missioners. If there is any ambiguity in the clauses of the
first agreement with the Commissioners, there is none in the
Charter, and the date of the latter being a year subsequent to
the former, the Charter may fairly be taken to be the inter-
preter of whatever may be doubtful in the agreement. Seeing,
then, that the Society are bound by the Charter to pay to the
Commissioners the sum of £2400 every five years instead of
annually, it has been found by experience that even this is too
heavy a burden for it after paying necessary expenditure and
interest on debenture debt. To obviate and to meet this state
of things, the CouncU recently entered into negociations with
the Commissioners of the annual Exhibitions now being held
at South Kensington to give and receive mutual advantages
which it was thought would put the Society in funds to enable
it to meet all its liabilities. The propositions for this object
we have ah-eady laid before our readers (page l.'U), but they
were rejected by the annual Meeting held on the lltli inst.
An amended form of these propositions (see page 1.56) was
submitted by the Council to the Commissioners, which that
body rejected, and the attempt to improve the finances of the
Society failed, a largo and influential number of Fellows resi-
dent in the neighbourhood of the South Kensington Garden
disapproving of the terms of agreement with the Exhibition
authorities. So strong is the feeUng against these proposi-
tions, that an eminent Chancery barrister has been consulted
on their legality, and he has given the following opinion : —

" I have perused the accompanying Charter of the above-
mentioned Society, and the Bye-Laws made in pursuance of its
provisions, and also the agreement proposed to be entered into
between the Society and Her Majesty's Commissioners. It
ajjpears that the Society was incoi-porated for the purpose for
which the Horticultural Society of London was incorporated by
letters patent of the 17th April, in the 49 Geo. 3rd, and to carry
into effect the recited agreements with the Commissioners. A.
copy of those letters patent is not before me, but it would seem
from a recital in the Charter that that Society was inosrporated

182

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB.

[ February 27, 1873

" for the purpose of the improvement of horticulture in all its
brandies, ornamental as well as useful," and I assume that they
contain nothing "which can affect the present question.

"By the fifteenth clause of the existing Charter the Council are
authorised to make and establish such Bye-Laws as they shall
deem useful and necessary for the regulation of the Society, and
of the estate, goods, and business thereof, and for carrying into
effect the arrangement between the Commissioners and the
former Society, and the recited agreements and the affairs in
general of the Society, and all matters and things in any wise
relating thereto ; to vary, alter, or revoke such Bye^laws, and
make others as they shall think most useful and expedient, so
that the same be not repugnant to the now stating Charter or
laws of the realm. Arid Clause 16 requires all Bye-Laws to be
adopted and confirmed at a General Meeting of the Fellows at
large of the Society, and provides that in the case of open voting
the majority shall bind the minority, but that in case of a
ballot (which any five Fellow's may demand), the Bye-Laws, to
be binding, must be adopted and confirmed by two-thirds of the
Fellows voting.

" These powers are very large, but I am of opinion that they do
not enable the Council, even with the authority of a majority of
Fellows at a General Meeting, to enter into or carry into effect
the proposed agi-eement with the Commissioners. They may,
doubtless, alter' the existing Bye-Laws and make such other
regulations as to the admission of visitors to the Gardens as
they think fit, but they cannot lawfully pay or apply any of the
funds of the Society to any purposes other than those for which
the Society was incorporated. They are forbidden to do this by
the seventeenth of the existing Bye-Laws, but if that Bye-Law
were to be repealed they would remain under the same dis-
ability.

" I am also of opinion that the Council cannot delegate any of
their powers to the Conlmissioners, or to any other body ; but
this they would do if they were to agree not to alter the annual
subscription to the Society without the consent of the Com-
missioners, or if they were to agree not to accept any more
life members except by agreement with the Commissioners,
and to bind the Society to the proposed arrangements dur-
ing the whole term of the Society's lease nnless the Exhibition
cease.

" I am of opinion, therefore, that Clauses 3, 4, 6, 10, and 11 of
the proposed agreement are beyond the powers of the Council
even if they obtain the assent thereto of a majority of Fellows
at a General Meeting, and that upon a bill tiled on behaH of
the Fellows and Debenture Holders, the Court of Chancery
would restrain the CouncU and the Society from entering into
or acting upon any such agreement.

"William Speed, Lincoln's Inn.

" 19th February, 1873."

Supposing that the amended propositions had been adopted
there is every reason to believe that the Society would have made
a good financial bargain with the Eoyal Commissioners. But
this arrangement was limited to the continuance of these much-
abused annual International Exhibitions, and as the general
belief is that these cannot endure, or will not be endured
much longer, the prop the Society woiild receive would not be
long-lasting.

We repeat, of whomsoever the new Council is composed, it
will have to face the question. What next? Any arrange-
ment it may make with the Boyal Commissioners must be of
a temporary character, for apart from the failure of the annual
Exhibitions, our conviction is, that the Commission itself will
ere long cease to exist. Tlie Society will have to seek a home
some day, and the sooner this is set about the better.^

After having devoted great attention to the relations sub-
sisting between the Society and the Eoyal Commissioners, and
seeing the small benefits that have resulted to the Society by
such a connection, we have long been impressed with the con-
viction that the only safety for the Society is to sever the
bond and again become independent. There need be no
obstacle in the way of such a severance. We beUeve the Eoyal
Commissioners feel as much hampered by their connection
with the Society as the latter does with them ; and if the two
parties would consent to part company, the Society going back
to the old homestall at Chiswick and leaving the Eoyal Com-
missioners to deal with South Kensington as seems best to
them, an arrangement might be made on such a basis as the
following, and which would bo equitable for both parties — ■

To cancel all agreements existing between the Commissioners
and the Society.

In consideration of the enormous expenditure of upwards of
£70,000 which the Society has made on the Commissioners'
estate at South Kensington, the Commissioners to take the
whole of the Society's debentuie debt, for the haU of which it
is already responsible.

The Society to give up all connection with the South Ken-
sington garden and return to Chiswick.

The Commissioners to take possession of South Kensington
garden, and to grant to the Society accommodation and space
for holding its meetings and horticultural shows therein on
terms that may bo mutually agreed upon.

In this way the interests of the two bodies would be perfectly
distinct, and each might aid the other by united aud har-
monious action, instead of, as at present, prolonging a discord
which is both injurious and undignified.

Now that matters have reached their climax, it will be well
that all who have any interest in the future welfare of tho
Society should act cautiously and with moderation, and on no
point should they be more careful than in the selection of
those who are to form the Council. Men ought to be put upon'
it who have not only the desire of benefiting horticulture, hut
who are above all chque influences and who have time to
attend to its deliberations. I do not think Mr. Peach showei
his wisdom in selecting, as he did, Mr. Hole as one of his
nominees. Everyone who knows him admires his geniality
and kindness of heart, aud as a Eose-grower and writer he i&
well known ; but he lives at Newark, and it would not be fair
either to him or the Society that he should be expected to
attend what must be now the very frequent meetings of the
Council. Mr. Hole was placed on the Floral Committee in
recognition of his services as the founder of the National Eose
Show, and very justly so ; but I think I am not wrong la
saying that it attendances had been counted he would long
since have ceased to be a member. It is of little moment-
there, but would be a serious matter in the Council. There
are plenty of men in and about London who can well fill this
position, and by all means let such be chosen. — Not an F.E.H.S.

[Appended is the Report of the Professor of Botany, which,
from want of space, we were compelled to omit from our num-
ber of February 13th.]

DuniNG the past year I have endeavoured, as far as possible,
to carry out regularly the duties assigned to the Professor ol
Botany in the last Report of the Council.

In the months of AprU, May, and June I delivered a course of
six lectm-es on " Flowers aud Fruits." The average attendance
at each lecture was about fifty persons. I m.ay perhaps be per-
mitted to remark that it would add considerably to the comfort
of the audience if, on future occasions, access coidd be obtained
to the offices without the necessity of traversing the Council-
room while the lecture is proceeding. I have to thank Messrs..
Veitch for the loan of numerous plants for purposes of illustra-
tion, besides those which I obtained from the Society's own.
gardens.

During the Birmingham Show a Horticultural Congress was.
held on the afternoous of the 26th and 27th of June. Introduc-
tory addresses were delivered by myself aud Mr. Moore, aud ten.
papers were read. The want of time for adequate discussion
was, however, felt to be a great drawback to the practical use-
fulness of the meetings. It appears to me very desirable that, if
held at all, the Congress should continue to be under the
auspices of the Society ; but I am inclined to think that it would
be better to conflue it to a single evening meeting, at which ona
or two subjects ouly should be taken up.

The Journal of the Society wiU for the future be pubhshed
quarterly, under the joiut editorship of the Rev. M. J. Berkeley
and myself. Each number will coutaiu, iu addition to other
matter connected with the scientific work of the Society, a brief
resume of the Chiswick meteorological observations, with re-
spect to which further information will be found in the Report
of the Board of Direction. In exchange for the Chiswick meoeor-
ological observations, the Director of the Meteorological Office
has regularly sent to the Society the daily charts placed in tho
Council-room.

At the commencement of April the Council placed the charge
of the Liudley Library in my hands. Having to a considerable
extent re-arranged the books, I was able to suggest to the Trus-
tees the sale of seventy-six volumes which were cither duplicates
or iinconuectedwith botanical or horticultural subjects. During
the ])ast year 108 volumes have been added, aud seveuty-niue
volumes "bound. Access to this hbrary I have found of_ the
greatest possible importance in the performance of my official
work, more especially on the show days.

Ou the 18th of July I despatched to the Jardin des Plantes a
collection of forty-two species of Orchids from the Society's
collection. These, together with a collection from W. Marshall,
Esq., reached Paris in good condition, and during the summer
I had the satisfaction of personally seeing tlie appreciation in
which they were held. Besides engaging in a considerable and

February 27, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENKit.

183

increaRiug correspondence, I have determined the names of
189 plants sent to me for that purpose.

Tliere is one point which I wish in conclusion to take this
opportunity of more especially nrpinp. I am strongly impressed
with the inequality in value of the certificates awarded by the
Floral Committee. It appears to me that the enterprise and
expense of introducing an important new plant into the country
is ordinarily far f;reater than that involved in producing a new
florists' variety of an old-established species. I think, therefore,
that the two classes of cultivated plants should receive different
forms of certificate. The number of first-class varieties of the
Dahlia, for example, is endless. The result must be, I cannot
but think, to reduce the value of the flrst-class certificate. At
any rate it must make such a distinction appear inadequate
when a new plant of the importance of, say, Phaljcnopsis Schil-
leriana makes its appearance for the first time at the Society.
W. T. Thiselton Dyeb, Professor of Botany.

LEUCADENDEON ARGENTEUM.

Can you tell me the name of the tree of which tho enclosed
is a leaf ? It is a native of the Cape of Good Hope, and is
called there " a Pine." I should also like to know under what
treatment the seeds are most likely to germinate. The seeds
are hard, like the fruit of the Stone Pine, with very pretty
feathery awns attached, spirally twisted. — H. AV.

fThe leaf enclosed is one from a Witteboom, as tho Dutch
Cape settlers call it, Lcucadendron ar0cnteum,OT Silver Tree. At
the Cape the wood was generally and mercilessly used for fuel,
so that there it is almost extinct. It was introduced here as an
ornamental shrub as long since asl{)03,its bright silvery leaves
being very beautiful. Its flowers are yellow. The seeds will
sometimes remain in the ground six or eight months, and at
other times the plants will appear in six weeks ; therefore the
best way is to sow the seeds in small pots filled with sandy
loam, and plunge them in a moderate hotbed ; and if the plants
should not come up so soon as expected, the pots should re-
main in shelter till the following spring, when, it the seeds
remain sound, the plants will come up. The pots in which the
seeds are sown should have but little water, for moisture fre-
quently causes them to rot. When the plants appear they
should not be too tenderly treated, nor should they have much
water ; but in warm weather they must be exposed to the open
air in a sheltered situation, and in winter protected from frost.

The plant may be propagated by cuttings of the ripened
shoots in summer, in sand, under a glass, and kept cool until
the base of the cutting has callused, when extra heat may be
applied. The soil should be fibry loam and sandy peat, with
a few rough pieces of charcoal to keep the compost open.
Winter temperature, 38' to 45°.— Eds.]

RATING NURSERYMEN'S GLAZED
STRUCTURES.

I A5t a nurseryman and florist, and I took a piece of grass
land several years since, and now have placed a lot of green-
houses and pits on the same, which I have the right in my
lease at any time to remove, even to sell to anyone. I wish to
know if they are rateable to the poor ? I am told they are as
much my stock-in-trade as the pots and pans in a tinman's
shop, and are not subject to the poor rate ; indeed, how could
I carry on my business as a florist and nurseryman without
them ? — J. Williams.

[We have repeatedly expressed our opinion that a nursery-
man's and florist's greenhouses and hothouses are not rate-
able. They are mere shelters for his stock-in-trade, and are
on a large scale what the copings on his walls, and the frames
on his hotbeds are. Under certain circumstances stock-in-
trade is rateable, but as a farmer is not liable to be rated for
his stock-in-trade needed for carrying on his business, so even
if a nurseryman's glass houses were considered stock-in-trade
they are needed for carrying on his business. Nevertheless,
as opinions have for long differed upon the point, it is useless
to discuss them in any journal, and we strongly recommend
nurserymen, florists, and others interested in the final de-
cision of the dispute to subscribe and have the caso decided
by one of the superior courts. — Eds.J

Rose Marie BAnMANN.— I can fuUy endorse all that Mr.
Cant says in respect of Mario Baumann. From the beginning
it has been with me a great favourite, I have never failed on
going to that row to cut a perfect bloom, and as an amateur I

have been proud to show it. Tho only disadvantage is that
with me the stalk is weak, otherwise the flower and foliage are
all that I could wish. — T. W. Johnson, Uxbridge.

EVENING MUSINGS FOR PLAIN PEOPLE.— No. 2.

That the idea is common — too common , that a separate house
for Vines is a necessity is proved by the perplexity of those
contemplating the erection of a glass structure, and who hesi-
tate lest they should not be able to produce Grapes and plants
under the same roof, and by the same treatment as to heating
and airing. The best answers to doubts of this nature aro
facts. Excellent crops of Grapes arc, in places innumerable,
each year produced in houses that are crowded with bedding
plants six or eight months out of tho twelve. Indeed, in the
treatment of the two — Vines and other plants — there is nothing
really antagonistic under certain conditions. The same tem-
perature, a minimum of 40°, is suitable alike for flowering
plants and Vines during the winter months, and the higher
temperature of spring, necessary to tho Vines, is suited also
to the plants until the time arrives for their removal into
frames or sheltered places out of doors. The prime condition
to attend to in the combination is to keep the house as cool as
possible, and for as long as possible, in the spring, that is
until the Vines are determined to grow, as it were, naturally.
Black Hamburgh, Bncklaud Sweetwater, and other early and
good Grapes, will then ripen well during the summer with no
fire heat, unless tho season is singularly unfavourable, the
house much exposed, or the latitude beyond .53° N. The fact
is, that thousands of bedding plants can be preserved, and
abundance of excellent table Grapes can be had from even a
moderate-sized house at scarcely any cost at all as regards
firing. I can give a case in point, for under my charge is a
house closely staged for plants, and always crammed from
November till May, yet the Vines above them produce abun-
dantly and ripen their fruit perfectly, yet the cost of firing
does not amount to a shilling a mouth taking the year round.
During the year just ended it did not cost half that sum, in- ■
significant as it is. The secret lies in keeping tlie Vines back
in the spring, not forcing them to burst their buds until the
weather begins to be genial, and then economising and manag-
ing the sun heat. A fire, even at night, is then only very
seldom an absolute necessity.

I speak from actual and extended experience when I assert
that no harm will happen to a house of Black Hamburgh
Grapes at any stage whatever — blooming, setting, stoning, or
colouring, if the minimum temperature do not fall below
50°, and the enclosed sun heat will generally provide this if
the Vines are not forced into growth by fire heat early in
spring. The way, therefore, to have bedding plants and
Grapes, and have them cheap, and no fear about either not
being good useful stuff, is to use as little fire as possible, and
take care of tho sun. The way to begin is to retard tho break-
ing of the Vines until as late as can be done in tho spring.
The palate, the eye, and the pocket, difficult as each is to
satisfy,- are all here considered. The hint is specially recom-
mended to all (and these are the greatest number) whose
pockets are not well filled, and who yet wish to have Grapes
and plants of their own growing from the same house.

But there is a class, and a very large one withal, who have
room for a vinery adjoining their little villa and suburban
residences, but who have next to no flower garden to furnish.
Bedding plants here would be a superfluity — a misnomer.
What can they grow under the Vines ? An empty house — that
is, a house devoid of plants, would have, perhaps, no charms,
notwithstanding the Grapes. Can nothing attractive be grown
in the way of decorative plants ? Does Eclio answer "Nothing?"
Then Echo is at fault this time. What of bulbs, those
vernal gems, which burst their fetters, and in the liberty of
new-born beauty will diffuse their smiles and dispense their
fragrance, in spite of Vines or prejudice, wherever their simple
wants can be attended to ? What of many other spring-bloom-
ing plants, of Primulas and Cinerarias, for instance ? Can-
not they be reared in the spring, and nursed on in little pots
for awhile until transferred to cold frames to perfect their
growth, or, even lacking these, in shady places in the open air ?
Of course they can, and they will give a bright return in nine
months from the day of sowing. Cannot Chrysanthemums be
struck in the house to be grown out-doors, and bronght-ui in
autumn to give a feast of floral beauty ? Yes, these and many
other things are adapted for vinei-y occupation without really
doing any harm whatever to Vines or Grapes. Especially it is

m

JOURNAL OP HOETICtJLTtEE ANt) COttAGE GARDENEfe.

[ f obniary 37, 1873.

so, now that tho fact is established, that if the ripe Grapes
are not eaten they can be cut and kept with the shoots in
bottles of water as well as on the Vines.

But there is a family of plants of tho greatest possible value
and beauty, combined with easy c\ilture, that is perfectly at
home in conjunction with Vines. The progressive heat of the
vinery in spring and its attendant moisture are exactly suited
to the plants, and the dreaded shade of the Vines becomes an
actual advantage. It is something, that with a solitary glass
erection the finest of all the earth's fruits may be had hanging
overhead, while beneath may be enjoyed a family of plants
which, for variety, beauty, texture, and symmetry of bloom,
have few equals. It is sometliing — j'ea, it is a great deal, that
these great and acknowledged gifts of Flora and Pomona will
live so well in harmony together, both at home, and alike
happy in each other's company. The house-to-itself theory as
an absolute necessity is out of court the moment we mention
Vines and Camellias. — J. AV., Lincoln.

LABELS AND TALLIES.

OcE notice of the Gorrie ground-fast tally has induced two
other inventors to submit to us their patterns. In one case
the material of which the tallies are made is apparently 21-oz.
glass, and they are fashioned after the form of the ordinary
wooden tally used in flower-pots, the name of the plant being
scratched on the glass with a diamond. Another pattern of
the same material is a small rectangular piece with a hole
drilled near the upper edge to suspend it by a wh-e to the plant,
or to nail it against a wall or other support, the name also
being written on with a diamond. These are, no doubt, suffi-
ciently permanent, but the writing requires to be closely in-
spected to bo readable ; and those that are intended to be
inserted in the soil of the pot cannot fail to be liable to break-
age. They are certainly clean, neat, and imperishable.

The other design is tlie same as what is used very commonly
in France, and consists of strips of thin lead, mimbered or
named by impressing stamps on them. There is no doubt
that these will be sufficiently permanent, the only objection
being the trouble and labour of impressing such long names
as are usually found among plants and fruits. If these strips
were of zinc, and simply written on with ink, no labour would
be incurred. These are prepared by E. Vanes, 1.5, Baker
Street, Portmau Square. The same maker produces them in
strips of brass, impressed in the same way as the lead is.

To the amateur in gardening matters, I know of nothing
causing more annoyance than the question of labels and tallies ;
for mere bedding-out plants, and the entire class of the gaudy
ephemerals of the ribbon border, common white-leaded tallies
are quite good enough. But ther^ we have these gems, our
dear old herbaceous flowers, which year after year, at their
appointed season, come to greet us with their smiling counte-
nances, like so many old familiar friends, each of which has a
double history ; their addition to our collection, more probably
than from the nursei-y of a Ware or a Backhouse, the gift of a
neighbour, the memento of a visit, or the souvenir of some
departed friend ; and then that other history, full particulars of
nomenclature, derivation, and classiticatiou, the countries they
were natives of, year of introduction, etc., all faithfully gleaned
from our staunch ally " Johnson's Gardeners' Dictionary."

If we depend for the names of the niunerous yearly additions
to our stock, on the common tally, ere another blooming time
comes round, it is almost illegible, if not a total blank ; or, it
may be, a matted package arrives from Sawbridgeworth or
Worcester — be it miniature fruit trees or Rose bushes, how
very few months do the little pennants flutter in the breeze, till
again obliteration ensues ! But it is the merest tyro who would
depend on such ; we must have the best of all plans, our gar-
den book, and a clear record of name and position registered in
black and white. But then our book is not at hand the moment
it is wanted, it has to be sought for at the house, and possibly
by another spring some poor shrinking little Mrs. Ward has to
relinquish her jjosition to a freshly imported Mademoiselle or
Madame, who takes her place beside her more stalwart
English brother, John Hopper. Or some symmetrical pyramid
is ordered, like a Bon Chri'tien, to move into a more prominent
site from his old stance in the nursery row, and after this has
been repeated many times in all the bustle of a spring day,
while pushing on work, the memory is too apt to bo depended
upon for the changes, and tho book meanwhile overlooked.
Is it to be wondered at, that by-and-by comes the question,

Which is which ? And then how interest always languishes in
the anonyme, till at last, to solve the enigma, off goes the
basket of first fruits or first blooms to Fleet Street. The small
type of " our .Journal " bears ample evidence to the extent of
trouble our Editors must be subjected to, and I am at a loss
whether to admire the more the amount of their patience or
the extent of their knowledge.

To obviate all this, is it surprising we should "go in" for all
manner of indelible inks, and be found scratching away with
an old goose quill on a greasy zinc surface, to afterwards dis-
cover how exposure to the weather causes first the hair, and
then the down stroke to disappear, and such discovery is by
no means enviable ? Next we may invest largely in a whole
box of the neatest of terra cotta labels, and with a camel's hair
brush and japanner's ink, go again hopefully to work ; the
winter passes, and how consolatory after all our trouble to be
told by our seedsman that he could not guarantee them to
stand frost, but they did capitally for inside work.

The last summer found us as much as ever in quest of a
suitable and enduring tally. Some needful repairs induced
the substitution of plate for the common window glass, and
we parted with our old small panes and massive woodwork with
one regret — the numerous mementoes of " auld lang syne "
inscribed thereon. Here on one pane we had a row of ladies'
names in bold masculine characters, to which were archly linked
the names of the gentlemen writers opposite in sharp female
hand ; and but to think that the thoughtless amusement of a
passing hour, with a diamond ring, on possibly a wet day, in
a country house, dating far back into the last century, should
be so fixedly engraved long after that happy group were them-
selves mouldered into dust ! The same pane included, with
subsequent additions, the names of three generations of the
same family ; and we recognise the neat little caligraphy of
the moralist of fifty years ago, who aptly sums-up his cogita-
tions with " Ti'mpnx fiiiiil, niinqutim rci-i'ititiir." He, too, for
more than a score years has been numbered with the dead.
In the happy days of the writer's boyhood, when, awakened
from his slumbers by the cawing of the rooks or the cushat's
plaintive notes, he darted out of bed, on puUing up his
blind, ere he could drink in the full beauty of the landscape
and all the glories of the early summer's morn, the rising sun
made ah ! how plain, in the handwriting of a near relative,
alas ! too, passed away, the apropos line from Scott —

" Wake Tvhere'er he may,
Mau wakes to care and toil."

The full meaning of the words I could not so weU appreciate
then as now. But I forget the reader may very naturally ask,
What has all this to do with labels and tallies ? Simply this,
that thus the idea suggested itself ; here was what we are
searching for — indelible permanency ; that in our day glass
is marvellously cheap; and as for diamonds, why, the daily
press gives continuous quotations from the diamond fields.
So I forthwith procured a supply of labels and tallies in that
material of 21-oz. sheet and a wi-iting diamond, and set to
work again, with what success I will allow "our Editors" to
judge from the four specimens sent herewith, selected at random.
No. 1 I attach to fruit trees with a stout copper wire ; No. 2 to
octagon green-painted Rose poles. This is bevelled off at the
top, and a little below the bevel it is secured in its place with a
three-quarter-inch copper tack pressed with the thumb into a
hole previously bored with a little awl. Nos. 3 and 4 have their
place in the herbaceous borders, the smaller size for pot plants
and the more miniature varieties of the front rows. Both aro
inserted well into the soil and close to the plants, clear of
intruding foot and rake-head. The moist earth has the reverse
efl'ect on them that it has on the old tally — instead of re-
moving the inscription it enamels it into greater plainness.
The distinctness of the suspended labels is only temporarily
affected with hanging moisture or frost incrustations ; but no
sooner does the sun shine upon them than they reflect back
his rays, and glitter beautifully cleaned and as legible as ever.
I have thus detailed how a great gardening want has here
been satisfactorily supplied, in case any of your readers may
feel disposed to adopt the discovery of — A Renfeewsuibe

BEE-KEErF.U.

CHAM.EKOPS rOETUNEI.

Vorr, correspondent " Experto Cuede'' having pointed out

this plant as being hardy, I herewith beg to confirm all ho

has said in this respect, with a certain amount of qualification,

not as respects its hardiness, for I believe that has been fully

February 37, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

185

established, but as regards the position best suited for it.
Although the plaut will endure a great amount of cold, it does
not flourish everywhere, und where it does not, its appearance
is anything but what it ought to be. My experience with it
dates from some ten years ago, when I became possessed of a
few plants, not large ones. A part of them I brought forward
in pots, tho remainder I planted out in a cold pit where choice
Pinuses and the like were wintered. Thoy remained in that
pit about two years, when three or four of them were planted
out, two in small circular beds on the turf in a tolerably good
position, but not sheltered from winds, and I soon found the
tips of the foliage became browned and useless. Though this
has been by degrees replaced by other foliage, the plants still
present the same crippled appearance, only a portion of the
base of tho leaf remaining, and the points being all destroyed.
Of course the progress of the plant is slow ; but one plant
which has a more sheltered position, being planted upon a
south border amongst Yuccas and Irises where the wind has
hut little chance of injuring it, has flourished. Although we
have had two rather severe winters since it was placed in its
present position, it has never shown the least injury either
from wind or frost, and looks as well as other plants of a like
kind in pots iu the greenhouse. But it is a slow-growing plant,
and not likely to be a favourite with those who have tine-
foliaged plants to furnish by the hundred for the flower garden.
It must, however, be remembered that its appearance is good
at all times, and if grown at all it ought to occupy the favoured
position undisturbed for at least half a dozen years.

As a sort of oriental poetry attaches to the name of Palm, a
species that will survive an English winter must at all times
be interesting. Patience in its culture is the only requisite
to insure success ; for this plant cannot bo multiplied lilce
the ordinary occupants of a flower garden — indeed I am not
sure that it can be obtained by any other means than by seeds.
The quality of these ought not to be too hastily condemned,
for about a year ago I obtained some from a London seeds-
man, and knowing them to be very irregular in germinating, I
placed each seed in a separate pot. This was done at the end
of January or beginning of February, and I believe none of
the seedlings made theu' appearance till May. Some came up
at various times during the summer, the last one as late as
November, at least nine months after sowing, while some seeds
have not vegetated yet, although they have beea the whole
time in the Pine pit. It will, therefore, be seen that the plant
cannot well be hurried-on in any of its stages ; time must be
allowed it, and unless this can be afforded I would not recom-
mend its cultivation ; for its growth and fine appearance, as
with tree Ferns and some other plants, are not secured in
the short period aUotted to many of the other denizens of
tho plant houso and parterre, but brought about by years of
occupation of a suitable site, — J. Robson.

IMPERFECT HYBRIDITY.
Bv I. Anderson-Henht, Esq.

Among the same batch of seedlings from which I obtained
Veronica Andersonii — V. saHcifolia (syn. V. Lindleyana) x
V. speeiosa — came one which, to all appearance, was a repro-
duction of the male parent pure and simple. And deeming it
nothing else, I presented it to a friend, V. speeiosa being then
comparatively a new plant ; and he, when he flowered it, came
to tell me that it had come a very different thing in bloom to
the true V. speeiosa, having much longer flower-spikes and of
a much lighter colour than those in that species, being of a
light crimson instead of a dark purple, as in tho V. speeiosa.

A plant of this hybrid has since afforded a further illustra-
tion of a somewhat similar result.

Having obtained a suffruticose species of Veronica, under the
name of V. Daubeneyiana, with light-coloured flowers striated
with pink lines, in the way of V. fruticulosa, I crossed it on the
last-mentioned hybrid, which became the seed-bearer. From
this cross I succeeded in raising only two plants ; and one of
these I believe I have lost. But they seemed both alike in
foliage and habit ; but both so like the hybrid seed-bearers
that I felt doubtful whether the cross had taken. I cannot
speak with confidence as to their being identically alike, but
only of their general aspect. The plant I still possess flowered
for the first time this past season ; and the singularity of its
bloom drew my attention to it more particularly than before.
It had, like the seed-bearer, thick fleshy pyriform leaves, but
somewhat smaller and more closely set on the stem ; but
instead of being, like it, simply cruciform, they were obliquely

decussate, therein slightly approaching the male parent, a
creeping alpine species whose prostrate stems show stiU more
the same deflected arrangement of tho leaves. It was only on
a close examination of the part, however, that any resemblance
to the male, V. Daubeneyiana, could be observed. In fact I
looked upon it as another of the many failures I liad had in
my attempts to effect the inverse cross on it. When it at last
bloomed, my hopes of having effected a partial cross, if I may
use such a term, were strengthened. Like V. Daubeneyiana,
which has a spikelot with a few blooms, it came even short of
it, having had only two flowers, and these much lighter in
colour, and no nearer to the male than the hybrid female
parent ; but whether this is its true permanent character I
dare not assert, as it bore no more than this one spikelet of
two flowers.

In the first of the above instances the hybrid seemed, till it
flowered, a repetition of the male parent ; in the second it
seemed, till it bloomed, a repetition of the female parent, with
such slight difi'erences in tho arrangement and slightly smaller
size of the foliage as might occur in a purely normal seedling.
In fact, seldom have I ever seen two hybrids with so much of
one parent and so little of the other.

I have no doubt something of tho same kind occurs among
Rhododendrons. But I may only instance one case where I
crossed R. Edgworthii on R. caucasicum; tho seedlings, ever
few when the cross is a severe one (by which term I mean
such instances as where the species do not affect each other
kindly), were only two in number; and though now about ten
years old they show no indications of setting for flower. But
while they have both the glabrous foliage of the seed-bearer,
and even the ochreous tint underneath, they differ in having
pyriform instead of its lanceolate leaves. But though in these
particulars they depart from the normal state of R. caucasi-
cum, they have not one feature of B. Edgworthii, the male
parent. The other case is where I crossed the same R. Edg-
worthii on R. Jenkinsii. Here the seedlings, again only two
in number, were aU of the mother, except in having again the
pyriform foliage, in which, be it observed, it is a departure
from both parents, both having lanceolate leaves, those of
R. Jenkinsii being acutely so. The hybrid in this latter case
is budded for flower ; but the flowers of both parents are
white, and both sweet-scented, and among the largest of tho
genus, though the scent, texture, and forms of the flowers are
different ; so that I look for surer tests in the coming flowers,
though these may be more perplexing too than any that yet
appears. It is proper to observe that I take the utmost pre-
caution in all my crossing operations to prevent miscarriage in
any possible way.

While treating of my diSiculties with this R. Edgworthii,
one of the most peculiarly constituted, as it is one of the most
peculiarly featured of all the Rhododendron tribe, having its
rugose leaves densely pubescent on the upper while it is per-
fectly shaggy with tomentum on the under side, every stem
being clothed with the same tomentum, I have another most
singular peculiarity to note in regard to it — namely, that
while it will cross other species it will take on a cross from
none — that is to say, while it has been repeatedly made the
male, it has never with me, though I have tried it often, nor
with any other that I have heard of, submitted to become the
female parent. I have crossed it repeatedly on B. cUiatum,
one of the minor forms, too, of Dr. Hooker's Himalayan
species. It has been crossed, too, on R. formosum in this
neighbourhood, I believe, in tho Stanwell Nursery ; but I never
could get it to take on any cross whatever. R. Nuttalli
behaved with me iu the same manner ; it would cross but not
be crossed ; but I did not persevere with it as I did with
R. Edgworthii. Now, I do not assert absolutely that R. Edg-
worthii, in the numerous tribe of which it is a member, may
not be hybridised with some other of its kindred, but I could
never get it to reciprocate a cross. And this remarkable cir-
cumstance of non-reciprocity has perplexed and defied me in
innumerable instances throughout my long experience in these
pursuits. It occurred to me that the poUen of larger forms
might be of larger grains, and so might not pass through the
necessarily small ducts of the styles of smaller species; yet
R. ciUatum, a tiny species of 1 foot high, was crossed freely
by R. Edgworthii, as I have just noticed, a species of C feet
high. I even crossed this latter species on a pure Indian
Azalea, though, by pulling the seed-pod before it was ripe, I
raised no seeds of this latter cross.

In these hasty observations I merely wish to direct attention
to such instances of imperfect bybridity iu certain species, and

183

JOURNAL OP HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

[ February 27, 1873.

the non-reoiprooity iu others, as I have notiood, in the hope of
perhaps drawing out from others their experiences of such
matters, wliich I humbly thinlc are not unworthy the con-
sideration of the Scientifio Committee. — (Journal of Royal
Horticultural Socictij.)

A CENTURY OF ORCHIDS FOR AMATEUR
GROWERS.— No. 4.

LYCASTE.

As a genus this comes very near to Maxillaria, differing,
liowever, in some slight degree, in the arrangement or dis-
position of the pollen masses,
which to the amateur grower
is not of vital importance.
There are several good and
showy species well deserving
the attention of those with
EufBcient accommodation, but
the best of all is L. Skinneri,
and as this species breaks into
such a great variety, both in
the intensity of colour and dis-
position of the markings, the
amateur should endeavour to
find space for as many plants
asjiossible. The cultivation of
Lycaste is extremely simple.
The soil should be a mixture
of peat, sphagnum moss, and
a little sand. Water should
be given iu abundance during
the summer, and at no time
should it be entirely with-
held.

L. Skinneri. — This plant
(represented in the accompa-
nying illustration) has stout
pseudobulbs, and large, dark
green, plicate leaves. The
scape rises from the base of
the bulbs, and bears a single
very large flower, which lasts
a long time iu full beauty.
The colour of the flowers va-
ries from pure waxy white
tinged with rose, to rich crim-
son. They are produced iu
great profusion, and appear-
ing, as they do, all through
the winter and spring months,
they are doubly valuable. This
plant is very hardy in consti-
tution, and has a fine effect
in the boudoir when in flower ;
it may be kept there in full
beauty during winter for two
or three months without suf-
fering the slightest harm. It
is a native of the highland
regions of Guatemala.

L. Harrisoni.e. — This very fine old species is placed by some
authorities hi the genus Maxillaria, whilst others place it in
Bifrcuaria. The flowers are large, measuring upwards of
3 inches in diameter ; the sepals and petals are broad, fleshy,
and waxy white, whilst the lip, wliich is rich velvety purple and
lilac, forms a lovely contrast to them. The flowers remain in
full beauty for a great length of time, usually opening in May.
It comes from Brazil. — Expehto Cbede.

the surface of the water is good, when the plants have quite
filled their pots with roots. I have some Ferns which are
grown for exhibition, and must not be shifted into pots larger
than 12 inches in diameter ; tliey require watering twice or
thrice a day in summer, and often suffer from neglect when
standing on the stage with oiher plants, but when the pots are
placed bodily in saucers of water they are not a tithe of the
trouble, and seem to do well with the treatment. — J. Douglas.

Lyeaate Skinneri.

The

ADIANTUM FORMOSUM.
above-named Fern, noticed by your correspondent

" W. T. F. M. I.," is certainly an exceedingly useful variety. It
is very easily cultivated and can be propagated freely, the
mature fronds have also the good quality of keeping longer
after been cut than any other of the species ; but that it is
more beautiful than A. cuneatnm I cannot admit. It is quite
as easy to grow. I noticed it in an article on Ferns last year.
The method alluded to of inverting a small garden saucer in-
side a larger obo, so that the bottom of the pot just touches

THE COMMON BIRCH.
Vehy few hardy deciduous trees are equal in beauty or grace

to the common Birch, Betula
alba. Hardy and accommo-
dating in its nature, it thrives
perfectly well in situations
and soils where other trees
could barely exist. Many a
stern mountain side or rocky
glen, that would otherwise be
utterly bare, does it clothe
and make cheerful with its
pretty summer greenery, or
picturesque when in its winter
guise of pendulous spray, that
in its red-brown hue contrasts
so charmingly with the silvery
sheen of the glossy white
bark. It is, doubtless, most
liked in its old age, when
its pliant branches, drooping
with a graceful sweep from its
lofty top, yield to the influ-
ence of every breeze more
readily than the Aspen ; but
it also possesses so much
beauty in its infancy, long
before it has attained the dig-
nity of a tree, as to render it
worthy of a prominent posi-
tion among the choicest of our
shrubs. It is true that the
graceful air imparted to the
tree by its drooping branches
is not then present, but stiU
there is elegance of form with
that sprightly up-springing
air so peculiar to that tree. To
my mind very few objects in
plant life are more beautiful
than a Birch of ten or twelve
years' growth, as when on
some dull murky day of dreary
November the mass of slender
spray is seen laden with thou-
sands of liquid globules, im [
parting an air of life and ani-
mation that is most striking;
or iu spring, just when the
buds are expanding into fo-
liage of the most delicate
yet bright green shade, so different is it then to all other deci-
duous trees. To those who care most for evergreen shrubs —
to all I would say. If you have not yet introduced the Birch
into your shrubberies do so, and you will have an object that
is so beautiful in itself, and has such distinctive characteristics,
that it is a desirable subject for affording relief from tanieness
or monotony, and to contribute to the elegauco and finish of
pleasure grounds of the most refined or dignified aspect. —
Edwakd Luckhukst.

DARK-LEAVED BEET AS A WINTER-GARDEN
PLANT.
Three or four years ago, having a number of small plants of
dark-leaved ornamental Beet that were too small for culinary
purposes at the usual taking-up time, I tried them in the flower
beds for winter decoration. Although I found them not so
effective there as plants with a light-coloured foliage, they were,
nevertheless, useful in connection with others, and unless the
winter is very seyere, only the large outer leaves succumb to

Fobmary 37, 1873. )

JOURNAL OP HOBTIOULTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB.

187

the cold, while the young or smaller leaves form a tufty-look-
ing plant with the colour as good as in the best part of the
summer. No plant can be more convenient in regard to its
transplanting qualities, and when mixed with light-coloured
flowering bulbs, as Snowdrops, Crocuses, or with the still
earlier and more accommodating single white Primrose, Beet
becomes a great acquisition, its colour being so good that I once
thought of trying it for plant-house decoration. I find, how-
ever, it has one drawback which will prevent its holding a high
position ou the dinner-table, either as a plant entire or by
its foUage only, as an adjunct to the flower-stand. Its leaves
are not transparent Uke those of the Iresine; consequently
that rich tint which is seen in looking through the foliage
of the latter has no existsnce in the Beet, which, in fact,
appears dull with artificial light. For the winter decoration
of the flower beds it is well worthy of a place, and it is for
that purpose I now recommend it, feeling assured it wUl give
satisfaction. Its easy propagation is an additional merit,
for, as before stated, the small plants, unfit for the kitchen or
salads, are just those wanted for ornamental purposes. — J.

EOBSON.

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.
In the new Hoeticultukal Directory for 1873, just issued, a
valuable addition has been made by including the foresters or
woodreves in Great Britain and Ireland.

The value of Potatoes imported last month was

£282,303, and £15,987 in January last year ; while iu the same
month of 1871 the declared value was only £222.

We learn that the Council of the Koyal Society are

about to nominate Dr. Joseph D. Hooker as President of the
Society, in succession to Sir George Airy, who has announced
his intention of retiring from that office at the anniversai'y
meeting in November next.

At a Sale of Orchids and other plants which took

place last week at Mr. Stevens's Rooms, King Street, Covent
Garden, the following prices were realised — viz., Odonto-
glossum vexillarium, £3 12.s-. 6d., £4 10s., £5 5.5., £(j 10s., and
£9 9s. ; Odontoglossum Andersoni, £6 15s. ; Odontoglossum
crispum ( Alexandrie) , £2 10s. to £5 15s. Among Tree Ferns,
Dicksonia antarctica with stems from (i to 7 feet high, brought
from £i 10s. to £0 10s. ; Cyathea dealbata with stems
5 feet G inches to 7 feet 6 inches high, from £2 5s. to £3 10s.
Fine specimen CameUias also commanded prices ranging from
£2 7s. Od. to £10 10s. The total amount reahsed was nearly
£400.

"WOEK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN G.IBDEN.

The condition of the ground is still unfavourable for cropping.
No attempt should be made to get iu the main crops where the
soil is wet and heavy ; no time will be gained by so doing. Per-
manent beds of Asparagus should now be planted, and the old
ones fiUed-up ; two-year-old roots are to be preferred. Give air
freely to that in frames, and make other beds for succession.
If the weather permit plant out the Broad Beans in pots and
boxes ; earth them up after planting. Put in another crop of
Windsor or Lougpod Beans. Where there are more than three
Caidijluwers under each hand-glass they must be thinned-out
to that number and planted on a rich piece of ground; or if the
Celery trenches are opened and manured the Cauliflowers may
be planted iu them, as they will be ready to come off before the
trenches are required for the Celery. Add fresh soil as the
roots of the Cucumber plants appear on the outside of the hill,
lay it down close to the side of the frame for a few days before
it is required that it may become warm. Put iu more seed for
successional crops. Herbs should now be sown,^or propagated
by division of the roots. Plant-out the Peas in pots and boxes
on a south border ; plant them thinly in the rows, even should
it be necessary to shake the ■whole of the soil from their roots.
If the soil of the border should be stiff and wet lay a little leaf
mould over the roots. Successional crops should now be got
in. It is generally necessary to sow two or more crops at one
time, unless the quick-bearing kinds only are used. In plant-
ing the early crop of Potatoes it is of gi-eat advantage to draw
deep drills, partially fill them with leaf mould, then plant the
Potatoes and fill-up with the same. Whenever the produce of
Sea-kale is cut from the roots, and it is not likely there wiU be
more shoots from it fit for use, clear away the Utter and cut the
long straggling shoots nearly down to the ground ; this will
keep them within the compass of a pot or box.

FRUIT QARDEN.

See that recently transplanted trees are not suffering from

want of water, a circumstance which, however, will hai'dly
happen except iu very dry porous soil, and iu such cases the
grouud should be mulched with decayed leaves to preserve it
in a uniformly moist state. Get materials iu readiness for the
preservation of blossoms of fruit trees. Where nothing better
or more convenient can be obtained, Yew or Spruce branches
will be of service provided they are so fixed as not to be liable
to be blown against the blossoms. Remove the covering as fre-
quently as may be convenient on fine days, so as to fully expose
the trees to sun and air.

FLOWER G-UIDEN.

In the flower garden many of the spring bulbs will be now
showing bloom, it will, therefore, be necessary on a dry day to
hoe the beds over so as to freshen them up and make them a
little neat. After the late frost the lawn should be raked over
with the Daisy-rake to clear the grass of worm-casts and stones,
and to be rolled with a heavy roller at least once a-week. Where
the grass is coarse it is a good plan to have it mown, cutting it
close to the grouud at this season, and where the herbage is
thin or does not cut well, a little Dutch clover seed should be
sown and afterwards thinly covered with some rich soil. To
those parts of the lawn which soon burn-up in dry weather,
apply a dressing of wood ashes and soot with a httle sand, and
if more convenient give a good soaking of Uquid manure. Relay
or repair Box edgings and grass verges so as to have everything
ready for trimming the walks as soon as the weather becomes
favourable. Most of the hardy Roses being now pruned, the
beds may receive their spring dressing. Plants that were much
infested vrith green fly last season may be cleaned of the eggs of
that or any other insect by syringing them with water at the
temperature of ICO", or by painting them over with lime, soot,
and cowdung mixed to the consistency of thin paint with strong
soapsuds. This is a certain remedy. But Little progress has
been made during the past week in the florist's department
owing to the extreme variability of the weather, the very
fickleness of which requires great vigilance on the amateur's
part. Polyanthuses ought to be procured without delay. The
following may be reUed on as good show flowers : — Pearson's
Alexander, Buck's George IV., Bullock's Lancer, Huf ton's Early
Grey, Lord Rauchffe, and Crownshaw's Invincible. The seed of
Ranunculus must be kept moderately moist by dipping a brush
in tepid water and drawing the hand over it to cause the drops to
fall lightly so that the soil covering it may not be displaced.
Make ready for potting Carnations, get the compost imder cover
the first fine dry day, it being very injurious to the layers to put
them in soil that is too wet. Try to grow some Pinks in large
pots, mixing a little rough charcoal with the soil, they wiU
repay the trouble. Pinch off the leading shoots of Pansies to
make your plants stocky. Top-dress with rotten manure.

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY. «•

The time for potting plants has now arrived, and the greatest
care is necessary in the selection of proper composts for different
famiUes, good friable loam, fibrous turfy peat, leaf mould, and
sand are tUe proper materials from which compost for all kinds
of plants may easily be made. Oue-third peat, one-third leaf
mould, and the other third of loam and sand will make a suit-
able compost for young plants of nine-tenths of those in cul-
tivation. Older plants will require the proportion of peat
lessened, and that of the loam increased ; sandy peat alone is
used for Heaths, Epacrises, and such hke, but the more robust
of these and all the Chinese Azaleas ought to have one-third
leaf mould added to their compost. Two-thirds loam and one-
third leaf mould, charcoal, and sand form a good compost for
Orange trees, Neriums, and many other strong woody plants.
Old-estatiUshed plants in the conservatory need not be potted
for the next six weeks. Old plants in general do not require
to be so early potted as the young portion of the collection.

STOVE.

As many of the plants will now begin to grow, they will re-
quire an increase of heat aud moisture. Plants that have been
starved from want of water and pot room to cause them to
flower should now be potted aud plunged in a brisk bottom heat.
Syringe them frequently, but give them very little water at the
roots until they begin to grow. Keep the temperature at about
60" by night. It may be allowed to rise 10" to 15^ by day, but
give air at 70°.

PITS AND FR.^MES.

The plants here which hitherto have been kept quite dry may
now receive a gentle watering ou some sunny morning, and be
encouraged to grow a little. Give plenty of air in the daytime,
but cover securely at night. Proceed with the potting of the
autumn stock plants, and the pricking-out of tender annuals,
which should always be attended to before they become crowded
in the seed-pots, and encourage the plants afterwards in a close
gentle heat until they are estabhshed in the new soil. Pot
Tigridia pavonia and conchiflora in light turfy soil, putting two
bulbs into a 48-sized pot, and placing them iu a warm frame or
forcing house until they begin to grow. Make a sowing iu heat
of CEnothera maorocarpa and taraxaoifolia, two very useful

X88

JOUBNAL OF HOBTIOULTDBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

[ Februu-y 27, 1873.

plants which flower beautifully iu the autumn if sown at this
time. — W. Keane.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

Tee weather has been extremely changeable— mild, frosty,
snowy ; but we must be prepared for all contingencies. A loose
surface is always an advantage. For Cabbages, Lettuces, Cauli-
flowers, itc, we are sure that a httle surface stirring was of
great advantage. A small fork or hoe does wonders in these
matters. A loose surface of soU keeps cold and heat out. In
such weather as this, how important it is to keep the cold out !
How gi-eat is the advantage gained in the case of Broccolis
coming on, and in that of young Cauliflowers under glasses !
The looser the surface, the more independent the plants are of
the weather.

We are not at all surprised at the weather, we confidently
expected frost and snow, now we must act accordingly. Pota-
toes, &c., turned out must be taken care of, no frost allowed to
touch them, and yet not too much heat allowed to get near
them. Eead and reread what has been said lately as to pro-
tecting, covering, &c. We have given there the practice of a
lifetime, and we wish every reader to stand on the same vantage
ground as we do. Just see what we have said about Asparagus,
Piliubarb, Sea-kale, &c. Plenty of them make matters pleasant,
and we have never refrained from saying what is the best and
most economical mode of growing them.

FRUIT G.IBDEN.

Out of d'oors there cannot be too much done in the way of
pruning and naihug ; but iu houses, bear in mind, that in such
dull weather beware of haviugatoo high temperature. Nothing
will thrive in this dull weather if there be extra heat' giveu.
Bear iu mind that heat can do wonders, but that it cannot make
up for the sim's rays.

ORNAMENTAL DEPAKTMENT.

Just see that Calceolarias, iVc, are kept cool. They will stand
a httle frost, but the less the better.

Protection to Cold Pits and Fratnes.— On the 13th, the snow
having gone from the pits and frames with no artificial heat,
we uncovered for the first time since the evening of the 1st iust.,
thirteen days and nights, and Calceolarias looked as well as if
they had been shut up for a single night ; no air, no Ught had
been given to them for that time. All such trouble and labour
°* " u™i!^"^° ^^^ uncovering were saved, and the plants were
much better off than if presented with different extremes of
temperatm-e, &c. The only things to be cared for in such a
case, as already referred to, is to make sm-e that the cold inside
IS not so great as to injure, and then it should be so cold as to
present no stimulus to growth. The two longest periods we now
recollect of having such half-hardy plants covered up was once
for rather more than a month, and in the other case for fully
five weeks. In the first case, without an opening for air, &c.,
the plants were as fresh as the day they were covered up. The
only additional care was that the litter, &c., remained on for a
day after tlie thaw, and as it soon was followed by a fair amount
of sunshine, a little shade was left on for a day or two after air
was given at the back. The other case, in which the coveriug
was continued longer, would have been equally successful, only
we had a lot of small plants iujm-ed for a width of 8 inches from
the low back wall. Tliis had nothing to do with the length of
time of covering up, as the plants and cuttings, with the above
exception, were sate and sound. The covering, chiefly of Utter,
over the glass was sufficient; the dwarf wall and the ground
for 2 feet m front were so littered that frost could not enter,
ihe back wall had only a little Htter and straw shaken loosely
against it. The gi-ound close to it was frozen hard as adamant,
and the frost also penetrated the wall. With a base of 3 inches
at the gi-ound, and a fence of from 1 to 1 J inch of straw tied firmly
against the wall, we might have bid defiance to some '20" of
frost ; but iu protecting the glass and front wall we were compara-
tively too careless of the north back wall, aud the plants near it
suffered accordingly. We acted too well on the principle of lock-
ing and bolting the doors aud leaving the windows easy of access
to any intruder. We have known not a few cases where plants
in cold pits were more than amply protected as respects the
glass, and yet the frost did its work by passing easily through
the brick walls. Paradoxical though it seems, it is no less true
that a porous damp wall of n inches will scai-cely be such a safe-
guard against a severe continuous frost as a good-seasoned dry
boarding of 2 inches thick.

We shall not have written in vain if our readers will think
of the walls of their cold pits, if a severe frost should visit us.
A brick IS a good conductor of heat and cold alike. Once we
saw a cold pit full of young plants of Camellias and Indian
Azaleas irreparably injured, because, though the glass was pro-
tected, a temperature of •l-l" below freezing-point was allowed to
pass through a 4i-inch wall, with 9-inch piers every 4 feet, and
though tile tops uf the plants seemed to suffer little, the roots
were injured by the soil about them, rather damp, being frozen
as hard as a stone.

Of course, where there are the means of artificial heat such
care need not apply, though even then, in the case of pits, a pro-
tection to the walls would greatly ease the furnace-work and
the coal bill. Of course, also, it is clearly understood that where
artificial heat is given to keep up gi-owth, everything Uke con-
tinuous covering would be out of place, though in dark, stormy,
cold snowy days we have allowed such covering to remain on
for a day now and then. All the hght possible under such cir-
cumstances is generally indispensable, and therefore, besides
the requisite temperature, cleanness of the glass is the next
most important consideration.

I'iolets. — Singularly enough, we said lately that these lost
their aroma in frost, and we found it so time after time ; but the
other day we picked blooms under snow, and found them quite
sweet.

We find that much care is requisite to keep plants safe ; a
little litter will often do wonders. — B. F.

TRADE CATALOGUES EECEIVED.

J. T. Eofe, Broomfield Floral Nursery, Cecil Road, New Town,
Enfield. — Catalogue o/ New and Select Kitchen Garden, Agri-
cultural, and Flower Seeds.

George PoiUton, Fountain Nursery, Angel Road, Edmonton.
— Catalogue of Vegetable and Flower Seeds.

W. Montgomery, 365, Argyle Street, and Haghill Nursery,
Glasgow. — Catalogue of Vegetahh atid Flower Seeds, Bedding
Plants, dc.

EUwanger & Barry, Mount Hope xsursenes, Rochester, New
York. — Descriptive Catalogue of Fruits.

E. G. Henderson & Son, Welhngton Road, St. John's Wood,
London, N.W. — Catalogue of Flower, Vegetable, and Agricul-
tural Seeds.

George Yates, 29, Little Underbank, Stockport. — Descriptive '
Catalogue of Select Vegetable and Flower Seeds.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*,' We request that no one will -nTite privately to any of the
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gardeuer, and Country Gentleman." By so doing they
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble aud expense. All
communications should therefore be addressed solely to
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, dc. 111, Fleet
Street, London, E.G.

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
answered 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 next
week.

Books (Q. T.B.). — The work you name can be obtained through any book-
seller.

Fruit of C\t>onia japonica. — " In a foreifni catalo^e, the Japan Quince^
Chamomeles (Cydonia) japonica, is lecommended as yielding an excellent fruit
for preserving. Bo yuu know anything about it ? Some years a^'o the fruit of
Pyrus japonica was thus recommended. I tried it, and found it very bad. —
G. S." Any information in reply will obhge us, but as far as wo know it ia
not injui-ious, but veiy unpalatable.

BuLns, &c. i.i Young Beginner). — We cannot give botanical definitions,
Evary elementary book on botany contains them.

Sea-kale Blanxuiso (Peter). — The Sea-kale will come in naturally," or
very nearly so, byithe third week of JIarch; but we should at once put on the
pots, and cover at least enough for a fortnight's supply, using leaves or other
materials that would afford just a slight warmth. Without this we faor, if
the weather be cold, or frosty at night, yuu w ill be disappointed. For a later
supply cover the pots with litter of some kind, for though the sun would
wai-m the pots by day, a shai-p frost at night would destroy the tender shoots ;
besides, you must exclude the hght, and on that account tUone the pots should
bo covered up with litter, putting it on the pots so as to hang over them, aud
exclude the light. Ashes, sawdust, or any other non-heating material would
answer, but we prefer the long Utter just to cover the pots, leaving the mter-
voning spaces bare.

Salt for Kitchen Garden (i^f mo). — Over vacant [spaces you may sow at
the rate of twenty bushels per acre.

Herbaceous P.eonies (,J. T., Belfast).— Yon could obtain them of any of
the principal florists who advertise iu our columns.

Diagonal Cordon Training i.in AnuUeuy). — The more vigorous the trees,
the greater deflection of the branches is desirable.

Cucumbers in Greenhouse (P., Stafford). — Unless you keep your green
house closer aud warmer than is either usual or good for greenhouse plants
the Cucumbers in pots will not please you. Two good kinds are Volunteer
aud Telegruph. For out-door culture Stockwood iiidge is good. Potting
Ferns iu leaf mould without the admixture of sand is nut prudent : such soU
becomes too close. Sandy peat two parts, and one pai"t sandy fibrous loam,
with a fourth of silver sand, form a suitable mixture. We cannot name the
plant from the fragment you sent us.

Begonias from Seed (A Young Reoihr). — The seed of these being very
Bniali, we should attribute the failui'o last year to too deep covering. Drain

February 37, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

169

the pot to oue-third its depth with crocks, placing the roughest of the com-
post over the drainage, and fill to the rim with two parts li:,'ht fibrous loam,
one part sandy peat, half a part leaf soil, and a fourth of silver sand, well
muced, made fine, and sifted through a ijuarter-inch sieve. Make the surface
even, press it gently, and water moderately. Scatter the seeds cvmly. and
strew a little verj' fine soil over the seeds. Place the pot in a hoibed at 70 to
75-, keep just moist, and shade from bright sun, so as to lessen the necessity
for frequent watering, which should be done with a very tine-rosed watering-
pot. The seeds of the Echeveria may be sown in the same way. Keep them
in the hotbed near the glass, and admit a moderate amount of air ; take cai'c
that the soil do not become dry, nor, on the other hand, sodden T\ith wet ; and
when the seedlings can be handled pot-off singly in small pots and retuni to
the hotbed, shading and keeping close. When they arc growing freely admit
air. and when the Begonia roots reach the sides of the pots remove the plants
to a stove and encourage their growth. The Echeverias should be hardened
well off, and removed to a greenhouse or cold frame.

FiTTONiA CrLTURE (0. K. SJ.— They are propagated by cuttings, which
strike freely throughout the summer. They should be taken off with two joints
and the growing point, and the leaves should be removed from the lowest
point. Insert them romid the sides of a pot, or singly in the smallest size of
pot, in sandy fibrous peat two parts, one part fibrous loam, and half a part
each of crocks broken up small and silver sand. Insert up to the second
joint, and place in a bottom heat of 75^^, covering with a hand or bell-glass,
and keeping dose. They wiU soon root, and should ho shifted into larger
pots, or, if the plants arc put round the sides of a pot, pot them off singly.
T'ntil establisheil they should be kept rather warmer and closer for a time
than older plants. Fittonia argyroneura, like the Gymnostacliyums, is gi'own
well in pans about 6 inches deep, draining fully 2 inches deep, and spreading
over the drainage a thin layer of sphagnum or rough peat; then bring the
soil well up above the rim, nicely rounding it to the centre, and press gently,
but not very tightly. The soil should consist of two parts sandy fibrous peat
torn up roughly, one part fibrous sandy loam also torn up roughly, half a part
each charcoal, leaf soil, and crocks broken up rather small, and one-sixth of
silver sand, the whole well mixed. Put in the plants, several in a pan, train
the shoots over the surface, and keep regularly moist, sprinkling overhead
twice a-day, and affording a moist atmosphere, with shade from bright sun.
It succeeds in a stove.

Mignonette Bos {J. TK).— A very neat terra-cotta box 3 feet long, like

■/^^■M-JJJJj;sj n)^}S }JJ_

liiiliii^PMiiii{|i| i[||ii|pii{HMrini'iiiui

iir }}.^} ) \}.KV}.^$v^ " p'.? ^^?^,^J

that represented in the accompanying engi'aving, may be obtained for 10s. or
12x., and for little more you may purchase one of a still more ornate design.

HiPPEASTROi MACULATUM CULTURE [0. N. .?.).— Hippeastrums are pro-
pagated by offsets, which should be taken off abont this time, or when they
are beginning to grow, placed in small pots, and put in a gentle bottom heat
for a few weeks. In July, or when the pots are full of roots, shift the plants
into -l^-inch pots, and forward them in a brisk heat, with an abundiince of
moisture. The plant succeeds well in a compost of fibrous yellow loam two
part';, one part each leaf soil and sandy peat, with half a part of well-rotted
manure, and a sixth of silver sand. Kepot when the growth is at its height
in June or July, or before growth takes place, in the latter case placing in
a bottom heat of 75- to encourage the emission of fresh roots. Water mo-
derately at the commencement of growth, but as this increases water very
freely, and maintain a moist atmosphere, sprinkling overhead twice daily.
After August, reduce the moisture and place the plants on a shelf near the
glas.si, giving no more water than will keep them from flagging during the
winter. They ore stove plants. Should the leaves fall, give no water up to
Februaiy, then pot and place in a hotbed.

EfiG-TLANT Fruit (A Young iJ-'df^cr).— The fruit of the Egg-plant is not
eatable in a raw state, but is sometimes cooked. It is principahy groT\-n in
this countiy for curiosity or omanent. The seed should be sown in a hotbed
in March or April, and the plants treated as Vegetable Manows, planting
them out in a warm situation.

PELARGONirMS TO FLOWER II? JcNE (Forcst HUD.—Thcj should not be
stopped after the first week of April, but be careful about doing it then,
unless the plants ore very vigorous. A week earliei' would be better if the
plants are weak.

Tea Boses (Torquaj/). — The Summer Eosea on their own roots we should
not trouble about budding or grafting, for it is likely they would give you
endless trouble with suckers. We, therefore, advise your digging them up,
trenching the ground, and manming it well, and then planting with Per-
petuals and Tea-scented Koses. They will afford you far gieater satisfaction.

LxiAS AND Ranunculuses (Idi'jii). — The Ixias will succeed in a warm
border out of doors if protected from severe frosts by a mulching of leaves.
The border must be light and dry, but they must be well watered in dry
weather. They should in this case be planted 3 inches deep. The Eanuu-
culusew should be planted abont 2 inches deep in good ri'.h loamy soil about
4 inches apart, making a drill about 2 inches deep, putting some sand at the
bottom, and then placing the roots claws downwards, and pressing them
about half the depth of the claws into the ground. Place a little sand over
each root, and make level with soil. Water freely after they "button" or
show flower. Take up after the leaves turn yellow, and after di-j-ing stoie
away in dry sand in a cool place. The Kanunculuses should be planted at
once. They will succeed in the place where you wish to have them. The
Ixias should have been planted in October, or, better, potted and kept in a
cold frame or pit, with protection daring the winter. Both are very fine. It
is a pity they are so Uttle grown.

Mignonette and Stocks in Early Sumiier (Suh^crihrr'x Gardener). —
The Mignonette for May and June flowering should be sown in February on a
gentle hotbed; keep the plants near the glass, and when they are loi-ge
enough to handle they should be potted singly in small pots and replaced in
the hotbed until they become estabUshed and have filled the pots with roots,

when they should be shifted into 4J-inch pots, and be set in a cold frame.
Here they should bo kept moist, and have air moderately at first, increasing
it with warm weather, and hardening well off by planting-out time, when
they may be put out along with other bedding plants. Some sow the seed
about the middle of August in pans in a greenhouse or cold frame, potting-off
when large enough, and winter on shelves in the greenhouse or in a pit secure
from frost. The plants are jwtted in 44-inch pots in Febmarj'; in March, or
early in April, they are shifted into li-inch pots, and all the flower-spikes are
pinched-off up to May; they are then planted out the third week of that
month in a flowering state. The Large-flowering Pyramidal is the variety
mostly employed. Stocks for flowering at tho time you name should bo sown
out-doors at the middle of July, and in September should be taken up and
potted singly in 3-inch pots, to be plun;-'ed to the rim in coal ashes in a frame.
There they are to remain over the winter, picking-off all dead leaves or decay-
ing parts, civing air freely in mild weather by drawing-off the lights, but re-
placing them when it is cold and wet ; when rainy, though the lights are to
be on, they shoiUd be tilted at the back. Afford the protection of mats
over the hghts in severe weather. In February, or as soon afterwards as the
weather is favourable, shift into 4.J-inch pots, returning them to the frame,
but this time the plants are not to be plunged. Admit air freely, and plaut
out at the end of April, or earUer if mild. The Brompton in scarlet, purple,
and white varieties is good, also Emperor and Intermediate in various shades
of colours.

Garden Seat Varnish [M. H. ill".).— Varnishes are of various colours, and
are expensive to make. We advise you to buy a varnish from a painter.

Training Allamandas {E. ilf.).~It is preferable to train these plants on
balloon or other trellises, but they will succeed admirably trained to the roof,
or to a trellis against the back wall of the stove. They will not flower well
in the latter position if the wall be shaded much by climbers on the roof or
plants in front of the wall. If not shaded they will succeed very well. We
cannot tell the name of a plant from a leaf, there being so many alike.

Uses OF Glass House {A Nerv Beginner).— Yonr house, when finished
will be rather small for a vinery, but the time at which you complete it need
not interfere with your planting Vines. We suppose you will be able to
plant the Vines by the end of April, having the border and all ready for them
by that time. Until then we should keep the Vine^ plunged in sawdust or
ashes under the protection of a wall or fence, procuriug them now, and prun-
ing so that they will have length of cane sufficient to reach the rafters. They
will not have grown much, if at all before May, when we should
plant them out, and if they have shoots 2 inches long all the better.
It has been proved that Vines are quite as well planted after they have
commenced to grow as when they are dormant. On turning the Vines
out of the pots, disentangle the roots, spread theru out, and cover
with good rather fine soil, and give a moderate watering with water
at a temperature of 70 . The Vines will require a year to become
established. From the smallncss of the house we should prefer it for
Cucumber culture, and you can have plants in readiness to plant out
by the time the house is finished, rearing them in a hotbed. With
ordinary treatment you will have Cucumbers in ab^ut six weeks after
planting, and they will continue to bear throughout the summer, or
until they are replaced by plants for winter fruiting. If yuu have
Vines you will be able to grow plants under them, the house being available
for wintering bedding Geraniums and other plants. We should, however,
have Camellias. If you have Cucumbers you may grow some stove plants, but
as a vinei7 your house would be more useful for plants than if it were a Cu-
cumber house.

Haerothamnus Treatment (B. M. TF.).— The plaut should be cut down
soon after flowering, and kept rather dry until it make fresh shoots an inch
or two long, and then be shifted into a larger pot, and encouraged with
copious waterings and a moist atmosphere. If not flowering prune now. If
the parts removed are young shoots with firm wood, they will strike freely if
inserted in sandy soil and placed in a gentle hotbed, shading from bright sun.
The young shoots may be stopped to give a bushy habit, but the stopping
must not be practised after July, for the flowers are borne on last year's wood,
on the ripening of which depends the flowering. Propagation is best effected
by taking off the stubby side shoots after they become fii*m, but whUst the
plant is in growth, inserting in sandy soil, placing in a bottom heat of 75^,
either keeping close or coveiing with a bell-glass, and shading from bright
sun until rooted.

Erica h\-emaxis Treatttent {Idem).— The flowering over, cut the plant
back rather freely, but leave a number of yoimg shoots. It should be pruned
between the middle of March and the early part of April, and if it need a
t^hift it should be potted again about the middle of June. Any irregularities
of growth may be stopped up to the middle of July, but not afterwards. For
cuttings take the points of the young shoots after they become rather firm.
The short stubby shoots are the best, trim them of leaves to half the length
of the cuttings, and insert them in silver sand, the cutting-pots being half-
filled with diainage or crocks, and then to within half an inch of the rim with
sandy peat made very fine, placing the roughest over the drainage. Surface
with silver sand to the depth of fully half an inch, press firm, and give a
gentle watering. Let the pnis stand a few hours, then press gently, and
again water; after they have stood for a night insert the cuttings round tho
sides and place them in a close pit or frame, coveiing the cuttings with a hell-
glass resting on the sand just within the rim of the pot. Keep close and
shaded from sun until they are rooted — this you will know by their gi-owing
freely — then,adniit air gradually, and pot-off before winter.

Jargonelle Pear Tree Cankered (S.).— We believe the canker in your
tree has arisen from the roots being in unsuitable soil ; they may have pene-
trated into the subsoil. We would lift the tree very carefully next autumn
and replant in some decayed light turfy loam. Lime in the soil will some-
times cause the trees to canker. Cut away the cankered portion and aftei'-
wards dress the wound with grafting-wax.

White Cyclamen persicum (Carolus).—I{ you could obtain seeds from
pure white flowers, you would, doubtless, have some of the seedlings hke the
parent, but a large percentage would differ in colour. There have been some
exceedingly fine white varieties exhibited at the metropolitan meetings
recently. Snowflake exhibited last year had a first-class certificate from the
Royal Horticultural Society, and White Perfection, a most superb variety,
also received the highest award given by the same Society, on February 12th.
It was sent by filr. Little, of Twickenham. Any of the large se^Jimeu could
supply you with seed.

Dressing Vines (St. Brigid).— This may bo done any time when they are
at rest. A good dressiug Is composed of 1 oz. of soft soap, 4 ozs. of flowers

m

JOUEl^Aii OF HOEftctJL'ftJRE AND COTTAGfa dABDENEB.

[ Fobraary 27, 1873

of sulphur, and a small rortion of soot to a quart of soft water. Add a
httle clay to thicken it. Apply it to the Viue witli a brush, rubbing it well in.
TiiEH3i03iETEn (IT'. AM— Probably any mathematical instrument maker
could put it right. If not you must write to the maker.

Names of Plants (Old Suh.vribrr).—!, Janlidn. speciosn, Roxb.; 2, Gold'
fuBSia isophylla, Ni-rx; 3, Hibbertia stricta. (Siihsciiber).—!, Orchid, Ca-
lanthe vestUa; 2, Billbergia, probably B. Leopoldii, but synonymy is much
confused ; 3, Send when in llower ; 4, A Euscus or Myrsiphyllum, but flowers
are required. (.U. A. A'.).— We cannot name garden varieties of Croton, espe-
cially from a single leaf. (J. P.).— Leucopogon lanceolatus.

POULTET, BEE, AKD PIGEON OHEONICLE,

THE rOULTRY YARD AND THE PROFITS

DERIVED FROM IT.

Mh. Kinahd B. Edwakds, Sarn Fa-nT, Bridgend, South Wales
delivered an excellent lecture on this subject before the members
of the Breconshire Chamber of Agriculture. The whole lecture
is well worthy of perusal, as will be judged from the following
extracts : —

"That poultry is unprofitable stock I am quite ready to admit.
I will go so far as to say that comparatively few poultry-keepers
cau be said to realise any profit worth considering, and that a
large proportion keep them at a loss. But what I wish to show
you is, not that poultry must necessarily Ije profitable, but that
under certain conditions they may be made the most profitable
stock connected with the farmstead ; and that unless I can
satisfy you that uuder the conditions laid down, poultry is
capable of returning a very considerable profit, why then I can
only advise you to keep as few as possible and not stultifju your-
self by keeping a lot of hungi-y unprofitable birds which you are
ever ready to admit do not pay. An insufiicient number usually
is kept to make it worth the wliile of the farmer to give syste-
matic attention to them. Secondly, conscious that they don't
£ay, they are grudged their food and are neglected ; and we all
now that any stock wliich is neglected can't pay. Thirdly, the
breed of fowl kept has become degenerated by continual crossing
and breeding in-and-in. The size is too small and useless as a
meat-producer, and its degeneration has reduced the number of
its eggs to a minimum. Fourthly, chickens are hatched at all
seasons, late rather than early ; and fowls are allowed to live
past their profitable age, although it is well known that to pro-
duce good and profitable fowls they must be hatched early and
not allowed to live beyond that age at which their profit ceases.
" We want more eggs and better fowls, and we, the British
public, have a right to look to you (the farmers of Great Britain)
for the supply of the eggs and poultry we are at present obliged
to look abroad for. We are daily importing into this country
from abroad considerably over one million and a halt of eggs per
day or a total of 583,000,000 in the twelve months, and millions
of money are annually paid into the hands of foreigners for these
articles which the British public have a right to look to you for.
I have said that the degeneracy of fowls from continual crossing
and breeding in-and-in has reduced the size of our fowls and re-
duced their egg-produciug powers. In confirmation of what I
say I ask you to go to any country market and purchase an
average couple of fowls costing say 3s. Gd. or 4s. the couple ; put
them into the scales and you will find 5 lbs. will weigh down
your precious birds, and it is more than probable that these
birds have cost their owner every farthing he gets for them.
Now let me draw your attention to what I call a fowl— a bird
worthy the attention of the improving agriculturist, and one
that when tried in the Ijalance will not be found wanting. Here
we have the huge Brahma cocks, Houdan and Crcve hens, and
Muscovy Ducks. Let me ask you to weigh these birds, and you
wiU find the hens average 18 lbs. to 20 lbs. per couple, and the
Ducks 22 lbs. per couple. Now, I ask you, what such birds are
worth — honestly worth— in the market ? You may say, ' Oh,
5s. the couple ; ' a fowl is a fowl ' — shan't give more.' I may
also argue with you and say a sheep is a sheep, or a cow is a
cow, and I shan't give more ; and if I stubbornly refuse to give
way to reason, you will find it equally difficult to prove to me
that your improved breeds of sheep or oxen are better, or worth
more, than the little mountain sheep or cattle. I freely admit
that such large weighty fowls cost more to produce than small
ones, but I assert, without fear of contradiction, that in propor-
tion to their size and value they do not cost per lb. one-lialf what
the small scampering denizens of the farmyard cost. Up to the
age of two mouths the larger breeds cost but little more to rear
than the smaller, and the difference of cost afterwards up to the
time they are sold is not much greater. These larger breeds,
such as Cruves, Brahmas, and Houdans, grow far more rapidly
and fatten more freely than mongrel stock, and time is money in
the poultry business as in everything else. I am quite satisfied
that first-class poultry of the best improved breeds can be pro-
duced at a cost of about id. per lb., when everything is taken
into consideration, and such meat will readily command lOd. to
Is. per lb. in the market, and if this be so can it bo said there is
no profit to be realised from poultry ?

" We must now come to the more important consideration as to
profit from the production of eggs ; it is as egg-producers we
must look for the chief profit from fowls. I have said degeneracy
of breed lessens the egg-producing powers of the bird. I think
all will admit who have given any consideration to the subject,
that taking the number of fowls of aU ages kept in a farmstead,
the average number of eggs produced from each fowl does not
exceed eighty or ninety in the year. This is the usual estimate
given for mixed and crossbreeds of common fowl of all ages.
Now it is well known that certain breeds lay far more eggs than
other breeds ; for instance, Spanish are known to lay far more
than Dorkings, and Hamburghs far more than either. Keep
a breed that shall lay more eggs— in fact, keep those breeds
that lay most eggs. Now as egg-producers, in quantity no breed
has ever exceeded the Hamburgh, which will average 220 to 240
eggs from each bird in the year; Leghorns and Andalusiaus we
may average at 220 ; Houdans, 180 to 200 ; Spanish and Minorcas
200. When we compare this yield against the eighty or ninety
produced by the common fowl, you will readily admit the ad-
vantages and importance, in a profitable point of view, of keep-
ing a breed that is a known and acknowledged prolific egg-layer.
" Then again, as to the production of meat. The Houdan and
Cn've-Coeur are found to attain maturity very much quicker,
and upon less food, than our common fowls, and the flesh is
far superior. The Creve can be reared and fatted fit for table
at the age of ten or eleven weeks, and far surpasses all fowls for
the lightness of bone and the dehcacy of its flesh, combined
with considerable size, and in this respect the Houdan is little
inferior to it. The Houdan is the Dorking of France, highly
esteemed as a table bird, combining, as it does, considerable egg-
producing powers with excellency of flesh. The Brahma Pootra,
that huge Asiatic fowl, so hardy in constitution, and so well
suited to our variable climate, is fast becoming a great favourite
in this country, as shown by the thousands that are now annually
exliibited at out poultry shows. This huge fowl attains a weight
of 12 to 14 lbs. (each bird). Its chief value, however, is for cross-
ing purposes, as it imparts to other breeds size ■with great
constitutional powers. Such a large bird must necessarDy be
somewhat coarse in the bone, and owing to tliis it is much used
for crossing with more refined breeds ; by so doing its coarse-
ness is reduced, and a superb table bird produced, combining
size with quality of flesh, and plenty of it. Again, as -n-iuter
layers no breed can excel the Brahmas. They ai'e said actually
to lay more eggs in the winter than in summer, and we all know
the value of new laid eggs in mid-winter. Another advantage
the Brahma possesses is, that by being a winter layer the hen
becomes broody in the early spring, at which time chickens
should be hatched, and at this time broody hens are scarce, as
other breeds are then only commencing to lay, and become
broody too late in the season for hatching piillets to lay through
the following winter. The great size of the Brahma hen enables
her to cover fifteen or sixteen eggs, and she invariably proves
herself a good and careful mother.

" To make poultry really profitable, it is clearly necessary to
keep a breed that arrives quickly at maturity, is easily fattened,
and attains considerable size, when the production of meat is
the object sought, and to gain tliis end it will be well to set up
a stock of Creves, Houdans, and Brahmas, and by judicious
crossing you cannot fail to produce a large and profitable fowl,
very little inferior in size or weight to ordinary market Turkeys.
When the production of eggs is the object sought — and it is
from eggs the chief profit from poultry must be sought— it is
necessary that you set up a breed of prolific egg-layers, birds
worthy of the name of ' every-day layers ' or everlasting layers.'
Brahmas for winter eggs and hatching your early chickens,
Leghorns, Houdans, Andalusians, Minorcas, Spanish, and Ham-
burghs, all or any of them may be kept for the unfailing pro-
duction of eggs in any quantity— these breeds never desire to sit,
but lay continuously imtil their moult. The cost of rearing a
chick from the time it leaves the shell until it attains a market-
able age (say fourteen to sixteen weeks) does not exceed lid. to
the farmer, as it must be remembered that he obtains their
necessary food at wholesale prices. Well, at the age of sixteen
weeks, you have a foyl or cliicken weighing .51 lbs., or 11 lbs.
the couple ; such chickens will realise over 8s. at 'Jd. per lb.
There can be no difficulty in getting such a price, for you can
yourself see the market quoted weekly, and that fine, well-fatted
chickens command Is. per lb. in most of our large towns ; and
poulterers are always ready to give an extra '2d. per lb. for a
large well-fatted chicken in preference to smaller birds. It is,
however, necessary in keeping fowls for the production of meat,
to keep a suSicient number, as the trouble is much the same to
rear and send six or eight dozen to market, as to send one
dozen, and a small number wiU not pay the necessary trouble
and attention.

" The cost of rearing a chick to the average laying age, say
seven months, does not exceed Is. 6f?., she then commences to
return a profit for her food, and during the following two years
will produce : Hamburghs, 440 ; Houdans, Leghorns, and An-
dalusians, 400 eggs per bird. During these two years each bird

Febrnary 27, 1873 ]

JOUENAIi OF HOETICOLTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

191

■will cost yon on an a-rerage Id. per head per week, allowing them
to be well fed. Fowls that have a good grass run, as most
farmers' fowls have, can be kept in first-class condition at this
cost, for it must be remembered that fowls gather a consider-
able quantity of food for themselves at no cost to their owner ;
they consume quantities of green food, such as grass, also seeds,
waste grain, kernels, worms, slugs, grubs, tlies, &c. Such feed-
ing, added to the 1 lb. or 18 ozs. of grain per week, will be found
ample for the largest fowls. I piirchase nearly all the grain I
give to my fowls at retail prices, and I find that my fowls cost
me less than Id. per week per head. Now let us come to the
debtor and creditor account : Cost of rearing chick to egg-pro-
ducing age, Is. Gd. ; two years' feeding at Id. per week, 8s. 8(/.,
total cost, 10?. 2d. To set on tne credit side we have, say 440
eggs at 9a. per dozen, £1 Is. Gd. ; the value of the hen killed at
this age, at the rate of id. per lb., 2s. Gd. ; total, .£1 10s. ; add to
this the value of its manure during the two-and-a-half years
(and on the value of fowl dung I shall have to say more further
on), allow 1 oz. per day of dry dung to each fowl, will give 3s. id.,
at 5s. per cwt. This added to the ±'1 lOs. brings the total to
£1 13s. id., as the return from each fowl killed at the age of two
and a half years ; deduct expenses or costs incurred, 10s. 2d.,
and we have a nett profit frem each bird of £1 3s. '2d., or oyer
200 per cent.

" I may mention that careful esj)eriments have been made
more than once, and which have proved that the application of
1 cwt. of fowl dung, has equally beneficial effects upon certain
crops as 1 cwt. of best guano. Does not this point to the impor-
tance of economising and utilising the manure of fowls, and
especially in cases where large numbers are kept ? How seldom
do we find, the manure of fowls utilised as it should be ; as a
rule, they are allowed to roost about here and there, and even
when confined to a hen-roost, how seldom if ever is the manure
gathered and applied in any profitable way. Fowls should be
provided with a comfortable hen-roost and nesting-house, and
the bottom should be strewed with 2 or 3 inches of dry powdered

tarden mould. This is a very important matter, as the moist
roppings of the fowls fall upon the dry dusty mould the latter
has the effect of at once deodorising it, and keeping the house
Bweet.

"I beg to conclude, hoping that by drawing attention to this
important though neglected branch of agricultural industry, I
may induce you to give fowls a fair trial, and I also trust that I
have succeeded in convincing you that although it be true that
' fowls don't pay,' it is equally true that they do pay, and that
under certain specified conditions they not only pay but actually
return a larger profit than that realised from any other farm
stock."

BBAHMA CHAEACTEBISTICS.

"Will you or some one publish the right standard for judging
Brahmas ? Or can a subscription be raised amongst amateurs
to know what are the right points ? I am induced to trouble
you because I want to know what to breed this season, and be-
cause I, after sending birds to five shows this year, winning
first at Portsmouth, first at Swansea, second at Southampton,
and highly commended at Lowestoft and "Wolverhampton, am
now told at a sixth show that I am, so says the Rev. G. F.
Hodson, disqualified because of vulture hocks. What is vulture
hock ? and in the interest of the fancy do kindly insert this. —
Henky Fe.ist.

[We reprint from a former number an illustration of the
vulture hock. The vulture hock is the projection of feathers
behind the knee, and
inclining towards the
ground. Some judges
consider it a fatal defect,
and we have always la-
mented that conclu-
sion, for we admire such
feathering, and it ia
usually found on fine
specimens. It is very
deshable that three or
four absolutely re-
quired characteristics,
and three or four ab-
solutely fatal defects in
each variety of poultry should be agreed to by a committee of
our best judges. AH minor quahfications, and that most im-
portant one, good condition, must always be left to the judges
discretion. — Eds.]

POTJLTEY STANDAED CHAEACTEBISTICS.

I AM very glad to find that exhibitors are taking up the matter
of having a fixed "standard" of points, and I sincerely hope
they will succeed, as I am sure one is wanted, if not by the
judges, at all events by exhibitors. I for one shall be glad to

have such a standard established, and hope that secretaries and
committeemen will help us by not engaging the services of
those judges who decUne to award the prizes by the standard.
For instance, I will refer to Golden-pencilled Hamburghs, a
breed which is very much on the increase, and of which I am
and have been both a breeder and exhibitor. You wUl find
some judges awarding their prizes to cocks with a bright, deep,
and rich golden bay colour, and others to those of a rich deep
red. Now, which of these la correct, ancl which are we to breed
for ■? Next, with regard to the tails, some prefer black tails,
some black edged with bronze, and some bronze. Now^ what
are we to do ? I consider that it is now absolutely necessary
that soma fixed standard should be established. There is still
another point, but this does not concern Hamburghs alone, and
that is trimming, and more especially the combs. Are we to
trim birds' combs or not ? Do the judges intend to disqualify
comb-trimmers ? I hope they will. Now, I was at a show
lately, and both first and second-prize birds were trimmed in
comb, and the owners confessed it. — A H.iMBUBGH-BnEEDER.

"WHO WAS THE JUDGE AT HANLET SHO"W?

Do not imagine, 0 ye Judge, whoever you may be, from the-
above heading, that a disappointed exhibitor is about to blow
off his pent-up wrath through the columns of "our Journal.""
The question is asked for the following reasons : — There has
been a great deal of correspondence and talk respecting the
naming of the Judges in the prize list, so that people may
know beforehand who is going to decide on the merits of their
birds, and so enter or not as they think proper. "While con-
sidering this a matter of indifference as a rule, beUeving that at
all good shows the services of good judges will be secured, I do
think exhibitors have a right to know who the Judges were
after the Show is over. Upon receiving the catalogue of Hanley
Show aud finding I had won a prize, I naturally looked to see
whom I had to inwardly thank for the honour so obtained, for,
unfortunately, being in the fag-end of the prize list, I found
very httle besides the honour left by the time the birds got back
to Bristol. From beginning to end, however, I could not dis-
cover any official names but those of the Committee, &c., and
" "Veterinary Inspector." Now, why name the latter gentlemaiB
and not the Judges ? Thinking the information I wanted would
certainly appear after the report of the Show in the Journal,
I patiently waited a week for that invaluable paper, but was
again disappointed. Now, I do not suppose that the Committee
of the Hanley Show had any reason for this omission, and I
pen these few words more with the hope of drawing the atten-
tion of other committees to this important subject, than with
any intention of finding fault. Exhibitors are a sensitive race
of individuals, and everything should be avoided which would
be likely to raise suspicion. — E. Cambbldge.

[We have many complaints about this Show, the most seriona
is — " That Messrs. Hewitt and Teebay were appointed Judges,
but that they both received notice three days before the Show
that their services wo\ild not be required ; and that a party had
either all or part of his birds left in his hampers." — Eds.]

COLCHESTEE POULTEY SHO"^\

This Show was held on the 19th and 20th inst., at the Corn
Exchange and Public Hall, buildings well adapted for the pui"-
pose. A very attractive prize Ust brought out many birds which
we should have thought would have been now entirely devoted
to breeding purposes.

The Dorkings were very good classes. Among the Greys a,
good pen of Darks was first, they also secured the cup ; and a
pen of Silvers was justly second. The "White were all ex-
tremely good, the first-prize birds well deserving the admiratioB
they received. The Cochin entries were few in the Buffs ; the
third-prize pen of Lady Gwyder's contained some good-shaped
birds, but they were a little faulty in colour, otherwise they
would have secured the best position. Cochins, any other
variety, comprised only three entries. The first-prize pen, a pail*
of "Whites from Mr. "Woodgate were good, but the hen was a
httle out of condition. The Dark Brahmas contained twelve
entries. The first and second prizes went to some healthy-
looking birds, but we should have much preferred the third-
prize pen had the birds been in condition, but they showed such
signs of overwork, that we were pleased to see them superseded,
as we think they have brought sufficient honours to their owner's
yard to deserve a httle rest ; and if this warning is not accepted
the owner will have no right to complain, if, on the next occasion,
they are passed without notice. The Light Brahmas were a
miserable collection. Among the Spanish were some first-class
liirds, the winners being in fine condition. A good pen of Mr.
Jackson's arrived too late for competition, otherwise they would
probably have secured a place. The Game classes contained
some handsome birds, the lieds being shown together; all
the prizes went to the Browns. The first-prize pen of Mr.
Foster's we have before had occasion to notice, and the birds

192

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ February 27, 1873,

seem to have improved. The Duckwings ■were poor, and in
the " Any variety class," the winners, a pair of Piles, were the
only birds worthy of a prize. Now we come to the *' despised "
Malays; here they had a class to themselves, and out of the
twenty-five classes in which the schedule was divided, only five
secured a larger entry. The birds in quality were equal, and
many excellent judges thought them superior to any others in
the Show. There will be Httle doubt of their receiving the re-
cognition so many of then- breeders desire, if they be, when-
ever opportunities occur, as well represented as on this oc-
casion. The Eanibw) ghs^ with the exception of the Silver-
pencilled, were numerous and above the average. Game
Bantams were better in numbers than quality, two or three of
the best birds were sadly out of condition. In the class for
Bantams of any other variety, a charming pair of Blacks secured
the first prize. The French class did not contain an indifferent
pen, and the Judge must have been sorry he had not more
prizes to award them. The first prize for Aylesbury Ducks
went to a pair entered at A'S 35., a bargain that was eagerly
sought for.

The Pigeon entries were few and the exhibitors very select.
The "points cup" in lieu of increasing the attraction, appears
to have frightened all the small exhibitors, who are really the
sinews and backbone of a show, and without ^^rLshing to open
the question of principle with regard to " points cups," the
result of this Show proves a very strong prejudice exists against
them, and until this be removed committees would best study
the interests of their shows by declining such presents, however
tempting, until they become more popular; in this instance
only nineteen exhibitors with sixty-eight entries competed for
the forty-five prizes offered in the fifteen standard classes which
commence the Pigeons. Facts like these are stronger thafi any
arguments which can be adduced with regard to this subject.
In both classes of Carriers Mr. Fulton had an easy victory ; in
the first class the cock was a little spout-eyed, otherwise he was
a superior bird. The Pouters contained some fine specimens,
Mrs. Ladd here dividing the honours with Mr. Fulton. The
Tumblers were pretty, Mr. Ford showing an exquisite pair of
Mottles. The Owls cont^iined but two entries, the first-prize
birds alone were worthy of a prize. The Dragoons deserve
Special notice, the first, second, and third prizes going to birds
worthy of the breeders' reputation. The other classes were
very limited in numbers, but each contained two or three good
bii'ds.

The Babbits offered a very favourable contrast to the Pigeons,
all the classes being well filled, and the competition very close ;
the Himalayans were particularly strong, nineteen entries.

The classes for Cage Birds, &c., also received good support,
and commanded a full share of attention.

Dorkings.— CoZoxrcd.—l, Cup, and 3, F. Parlett. Grpat Bnddow. 2. Wren
and Piiee. Lowestoft, he, W. Jacobs. Greenstead, Colchester. White. — 1,
Mias Faulmrst, Onnskirk. 2 and he, J. Kobin&on, Garstantj. 3, O. E. Cress,
^ell, Bagshot.

CocBjys.— Cinnamon and Biif.—l and Cup, T. F. Anedpll. Cowley Mount,
St. Helen's. 2, Henry Linpwnod, Barking, Need ham Market. S. LadvGwydyr,
Ipswich. Any otlu.r vnrittii.—l, R. S. S. Woodgate, Pembury, TunbridEre
■Wells (White). 9 J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury.

BRXiiMAii.—Dark. — 1, Cup, nnd 2. Horace Linj^wnod. Creeting, Nffdham
Market. 3. T. F. Anadell. ?iC, Rev. J. G. B. Knight, Danburv. Chelmsford, c,
H. Dowsett, Pleshey. Cbehiisford: T. F. Hawkins, Smallbridge. Light.— 1,
Lady Gwydyr. 2, R. Fulton, New Cross, London. 3, H. Dowsett.

Spanish.— 1 and Cup, .1. Boulton, Bristol. 2, Nichols Bros , Camberwell. 3,
R. Newbitt. Epworth. he. F. Wallei-, Wood Green.

Ga:iif.— Black-breasted and other ifc/is.— 1 and Cop. W. Foster. Deal. 2, W,
V. Ashley. Worcester. 3. W. Adams. Ipswich, he. W. Foster; H. E. Martin,
Scnlthnrpe ; .T. Jeken, Eltham. D«cfci(;(;j7. and other Grei/x and Blues.— 1. J.
W. F. Fitch. Romford. 2, W. Foster. S, J. H. Salter, Tollesbunt d'Arcy. Any
other vanctu—l, J. H. Salter (Pile). 2 and 3. E. Swanc, Colchester (Black
and Streaky-breasted Yellow, and Black aud Brassy-wini^ed).

Malay —1. Rev. A. G. Brooke, Shrawardino. 2. J. Hinton, Warminster. 3,
Rev. G. F. Hodson, North Petherton. he, J. S. Kootb, Chesterfield; F. Hard-
ing, Clapion. c, J. S. Rooth.

UA^nuKGus.—Gold-spanglcd —1. W. A. Hyde, Ashton-undcr-Lvne 2, J. RoUin-
Bon. 8. L. Wren, he, T. Walker, jun., Denton; J. Robinson. Hilver-
8pangled.~l, J. B. Ely, Lowestoft. 2, J. RoHinson. 8. J. Wright, Norman-
stone, he, Ashton & Honth, Mottram. c, Mrs, W. Groom, Ipswich ; J. Robinson.

B.A}aBVRr,ns.—Ooldpencined.—l and Cup. C. J. N. Kow. Melford. 2, W. K,
Tichner, Ipswich. S. J. Ri binson. hc.W. Bearpark, Ainderby Steeple, c, J.
EoUinson. Silver-pencilled —1 and 2. B.Norton, Town Mailing. 3, J.Robinson.

Game B&^TAMfi.~Bluck-hreasted and other R<ds.—\ and Cup, R. Newbitt. 2,
W. Adams. 3. W. B. Jeffries, Ipswich, he, W. Boutcher. Notting Hill ; J.
Mayo. Gloucester; W. Adams ; W. S. Marsh, c. G. Garrod. Any other varietii.
~\, R. Newbitt. 2, W. Adams (Duckwing). 8, Miss B, P. Frew, Kirckaldy.
he, G. H. French, Hallow, Worcester.

Hantams.— Loctrf.— 1 and 2, G. F. Hodson. 3, J. Andrews. Southend. Anv
other variety.— \, J, Mayo (Black Rose-comb). 2. H. B. Smith. Broughton,
Preston. S, G. B. Francis, Romlord (Black), he, T. E. Thirtle, Lowostolt
(Black). c.R.H.Afihton. Mottram (Black).

French.— 1, W. Dring, Faversham. 2. Mrs. J. Cross, Appleby Vicarage,
Britrg. S.J. K. Fowler. /iC. Rev. N.J. Ridlev, Newbury; W- Cutlauk, jun.
Littleport; C.J. B. Mais Clift.m. Bristol; W. liurrows. Diss; W. Hnutcher.

PoLANDs.— 1 and 2, W. K. Patrick, West Winch. 3, W. Bearpark. he, C. J.
Ewen.

Any other Variety.— 1. T. Walker, jun. (Black Hamhurghs). 2. H. Allen,
Wood Green (Cuckoo Dorking). 3. Rev. N. J. Ridley (White Leghorn) he, R.
S. S. Woodgate; J. Watkins. Marden (Friesland); R. Loft, Woodmaneey
(Snltant,); G. Anderton. Accrington (Sultans): W.Day, Colchester (Breda).

Ducks.— ffoia/i.—l and 8, F. Parlett. 2, H. Dowaett. he, T. F. Upsher,
Sutton. Ely. Aylexhurii.—\ and 2, J. K. Fowler. 3, G. Kirby. Any other
i"triety.—i and 8, W. Boutcher (Mandarin and Carolinas). 2 and he, H. B.
Saiith.

Selling Class,— Cocfcs.—l, F. Parlett (Cohmrcd Dorking). 2, H. Dowaott
(Dark Brahma)- 3. J. H. Salter, he, W. K. Patrick (Polands); C. J. B. Maia
(Dark Brahma); Lieut. Button, Colchester (Buff Cochin); Lady Gwydyr; T.

Docwra, Colchester (Black Red Game); W. J. Mayell (Dark Brahma), c, W.
RajTier, Ipswich (Brown Red).

sVli-ino Class -/fciw. — 1, Rev. S. Phillips (Dark Brahma pul'ets). 2, F.
Parlett (Colourtd Dorking). S, H. Dowsett (Dark Brahmaj. he. Rev. S.
Phillips. Castle HedinLrham (Dorkintr Pullets) : W. i'utlack. jun. (Black Ham-
burgh Pullets); C J. Ewen (Cn-ve-Coeuri; J. Wright (Buff Cochins); J. Jekea
(Duckwing): T. Docwra (Black Red pullets) (2). c, E. Swan (Black-breasted
Game); C.J. Ewen (Bantams).

PIGEONS.

CARBrERS.— Cncfc —1 and 2, R. Fulton, New Cross. 3, H. Yardley, Birming-
ham, c, E. F. Wilson, Brighton Hen.—l and 2, R. Fult-m. S, E. F Wilson.

Pouters.— CocA-.—l and ■_•. R. Fulton. 8, H. Pratt. Lozella, Tiirmiogham. ?iC,
Mrs. Ladd. Calne ; H. Pratt. Hchs.— 1 and 2, Mrs. Ladd. 3. R. Folton.

TosinLKRS. — Almond. — 1 and 2, R. Fulton. 3, J. Ford, London. Any other
varieti/, Short-faeed.—l, J. Ford (Black Mottled). 2 and 3, R. Fulton (MottledJ.

Owls.— 1. R. Fulton. 2, J. T. Cater, Colchester.

Fantails.— 1, J. Walker, Newark. 2, O. E. Cresswell. 3, J. F. LoTersidffe,
Newark.

Jacobins —1, A. A. Vander Meersch. Tooting. 2 and 8. R. Fnlton.

Tdkbits.— 1. O. E. Cresswell. 2. J. T. Cater. 8, A. A. Vander Meersch.

Barbs.- 1. E. Fulton. 2. W. H. Tomlinson. 3, J. T Cater.

Nuns —1, Rev. A. G. Brooke. 2, H- Yardley, 3, R. Fnlton.

Trumpeters,— 1, R. Fulton. 2 and 3, C. Norman, Westeriield, Ipswich.

DEiGooNS.— 1, 2, and 8, F. Graham, Birkenhead. 7ic, S. Holroyd, Oldham; K
Fulton.

Magpies.— 1, H. Yardley. 2. J. T. Cater.

Any other Variety.— 1 and 2, A. A. Vander Meersch. S, E. A. Elea. South-
woid (Fire). hc,T. D.Green, Saffron Walden (Hunts); C. J. Ewen, Fulham
(Silver Runts) ; E. A. Eles (Silver Rants) ; J. H. Watkin, Hereford ; H. Yardley.

AyTWEHFs.— Working. — 1, J. W. Collinaou, Halifax. 2, J. J. Sparrow,
London. 3, J. T. Galey, Colchester.

Selling Class.-], J. Walker. 2, J. T. Cater. 3, C. Norman (Trompeters).

Distinct Varieties.— JSesf Pen of Three Pairs.— 1 and Cup, R. Fulton. 2, A.
A. Vander Meersch.

CAGE BIRDS.

Norwich.— C/<-nr rc^^ow.— 1 2, and 3, Collinson & Alden. Sprowston. lie, T.
Fenn. Ipswich.; J. Barwell, jun., Northampton; Lamplough & Bexson, Derby,
c, T. Fenn (2t. C^car BtiXT.—l, 2, and 3, Collinson & Alden. vhc, Lamplough
and Bexson {2). c. T. Fenn.

Nonwicu.— ilfnrfcfd or Variegated Yelloiv.—i. T. Fenn. 2, 3. and he, Collin-
son A Alden. c, J. Mann, Burtou-on-Trent. Marked or Variegated Bitff. — 1
and 2, Collinson & Alden. 3 and c, T. Fenn. he, Collinson li: Alden ; J. Goode,
Leicester.

Norwich.— Yellow Crested.— 1 and 3, T. Fenn. 2, he, and e, Collinson and
Alden. B'ff Crested.— I, Collinson & Alden. 2, J. Goode. 3, Lamplough and
Bexson. he, Collinson & Alden (2) : W. Holmes, Nottingham, c, R. Hawman
Middlesborough ; Wright & Middleton, Northampton.

Belgian.— 1 and 2, J N. Harrison, Belper. 3 and he, T. Fenn.

IjizARD.—GoldeJi-spangled —1. J. Taylor, Middlesbrough. 2. W. Watson, jnn.,
Darlington. 3, R. Peole. Maldon. he, W. Watson, ,iun. ; J. Taylor. Silver-
spangled.— J, J. Taylor. 2, W. Watson, jun. 3, J. N. Harrison, he, T. Fenn. C,
R. Poole ; R. Hawman.

Cinnajion.— 1 and 3, Collinson & Alden. 2, J. Taylor, he, R. Poole; R. Haw-
man: Lamplough & Bexson (2).

Any other Variety of Canary — 1, J. Brown, jun., Penrith (Coppy Crest).

2, Collinson iSt Alden (Crested Cmnamon). 3, J. N. Htrrison.

MuLEs.— C/cfir Goldfinch.— \, R. Hawman. Any other variety.— \ and 3, T,
Fenn (Variegated Buff Goldfinch Mule). 2, J. Gooile (Greenfinch and Canary).
he, J. J. Harding, Sudbary (Goldfinch).

Selling Class.— Pa/r.-Prir*' not to exceed 15s —1 and 2. Collinson & Alden.

3, he, and c, T. Fenn. Cock. — Price not to exceed 10s.— 1 and 3, Collinson and
Alden. 2 and he, T. Fenn. c, W. N. Cater.

Foreign Bihd or Birds.— I, E. A. Eles (Pennant Lory). 2, T. Fenn (Pair of
Australian Love Birds). 3. Collinson & Alden (Ked-headed Cardinal) he. Miss
H. Catchpool, Colchester (Grey Parrot); E. A. Ele;-, Colchester (Bulla Bulla):
G. Bensley, Colchester (Pair of Love Birda); Collins'in tt Alden (Australian
Parakei-ta). c, M Smith (Green Parakeet); H. Kent. Culchester (Green Parrot) :
P. Reilly (Australian Cockatoo) ; D. Gooding (Green Parrot) ; W. N. Cater (Pair
of Java Sparrows).

British Birds— 1, C. E. Cater (Great Spotted Woodpecker). 2, J. Fowles,
Colchester (Thrush) 3. J. N. Harrison, he, Collinson & Alden (Bullfinch), c
W.N. Cater (Blackbird).

RABBITS.

Lop-eared.— 1, J. Cranch, St. John's Wood. 2, F. Banks, London. 8, A. H.
Fasten, HuU. he, C. J. Bentall, Maldon ; J. & A. Weaver, Leominster; A. H.
Fasten.

Himalayan.— 1, S. Ball. Bradford. 2, G. C. Hutton, Bradford. 3. S. G. & A.
Hudson. Hall, he, S. Ball; W. H. Tomlinson, Birmingham; S. G. & A. Hud-
son, c, W. J. Mayell, ToMeshunt d'Arcy.

Any other Variety. — I, A. H. Easteu (Silver-Grey) 2, J. F. Farrow, Romford
(Angora). S. F. Banks (Dutch), he, A. B. Simpson, Waterbeach (Silver-Grey)
W. Donkin, Driffield (Angora) ; S. G. & A. Hudson.

Selling Cuss.— 1, J. F. Farrow (Lop-eared). 2, J. Cranch. 3, A. W. Woo
mor, Colchester, he, W. J. Mayell (Angora). ,

Judges. — Poultrij and Babbits : Mr. Teebay, Fullwood,
Preston. Pigeons : Mr. J. Percivall, Peckham. Cage Birds :
Mr. G. Moore, Park Street, Korthampton.

BRADFORD PIGEON SHOW.

This was held on the 25tb and 2Gtli inst., in the St. George's
Hali. The followiug is the list of awards : —

Carriers.- Coc/.:.— 1. G. J. Taylor. 2 and 8. R. Fulton, vhc, C. E. Duckworth ;
J. Thompson; R.Fulton, c, G. J. Taylor ; H. Yardley (2). iffn.—l,H. Yardley.
2 and 3, R. Fulton, vhc, C. L. Gilbert ; W. Harvev. c, H. Yardley ; R. Fulton,

Pouter.— CocAr.—l, 2, and 3. G. J. Taylor. vhc,W. Harvey; R. Fulton (2).
)ic, G.J. Taylor (2); Mrs. Ladd; W. Harvev (2); W.Ridley, c, G.J. Taylor (8);
R. Fulton ; H. Power. Hcn.—l, W. Harvey. 2, G. J. Taylor. 3, R. Fulton.
vhc, G. J. Taylor (2) ; R. Fulton (2) ; W. Harvey ; W. Ridley, he, G. J. Taylor ;
W. Harvey.

tnuBhi.Ra.Short-faeed.— Almonds.— I and 2. R. Fulton. 3, J. Ford, vhc, G.
J. Taylor; H. Adams, he, H. A-lnms. e, K. Fulton ; H. Yardley. Any other
imriety.-l and 2, R. Pulton. 3 and vhc, G. J. Taylor, he, H. Yardley ; G. J.
Taylar. c, R. Fulton ; G. J. Tavlor.

I'vyniL'ERs.—Long-faced.— Almonds or Mottled.— I, W. Harvey. 2, J. Ford.
3, G.J. Taylor. r/(C, W. Harvey (2l; D. Riddihnu;:rh. jun. ; J. Dye ; J.Ford; G.
J.Taylor; E.G. Stretch; H. Yardley (2), /ic, W. Harvey ; R. Fulton j D. Riddi-
hough, jun. (2). c, J. Watts ; G. J. Taylor (3| ; H B. Hanson (2) ; D. Riddihough,
jiin.; F. Mack. Am/ other variety.— [, .T . Widis. 2, D. Riddihough, jun. S, J.
Dye. t'/ic,D. RiddiliouRh, jun. he. R. Fulton ; («. J Taylor; J. W. Harlinj? ; A.
Beiiily ; W. Harvey ; J. Ford ; A. Jackson ; U. Yardley. c, J. Watts ; J. Ford;
W. Har\ey.

Oyvi.s.— Foreign.— 1, R. Fulton. 2 and 3. T. W. Townson. vhc. R. Fulton ; T.
W. Townson. he, G. J. Taylor (2). Enalish.—l, K, CUy 2. A. Manpnall. 3. A.
N. Doiids. vhc, R, Brierley ; M. E. Lee. he, J. Dye : A. Man^tnall; E. Rhodes ;
H.G.Poole, c WardA Bhodcs; H. Jennings ; S. E Kettlewell ; W. Harvey;
J. W. Edao; R. Clav(2); H. Yardley; G. E. Sawdon; T. Oddie: J. lu^am.

BARfis.—L R. Fnlton. 2, 3, and v/ic, K. Wade, /jc, J. Lister; R. Fnlton. c,K
FtUtuu C. L. QUbert.

February 27, 1873. 1

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

193

Trumpeters.— A'«f Type.~l,2, and c,H. Fulton. 3, C. L. Gilbert, vhc, J.
Bailey, jun. /ic, W. Harvey (2). 0/J ry;j<'.-l. W. Gamon. 2, K. Falton. 3, W.
Harvey, uftc, W. Harvey ; H. Yardley. /jc, W. Harvey; J. Armieiteati. c.G.J.
Taylor".

Jacubixs.—I and 2, R. Fulton. 3, R. Wade, r/ic, J. Thompson, ftc, R. Fulton;
R. Wade; G.J.Taylor, c, K. Fulton ; G. H. Greaves.

Fantails.— 1, H. Yardley. 2 and3, J. F. Loversidge. v/ic, J. W. Edge. /ic,W.
Br^duue. c, G. J. Taylor.

TtHBiTS.— 1, K. Fulton. 2, J. E. Mason. 3, W. Harvey, he, J. E. Mason ;
Clayton & Bairstow ; K. Fulton (2). c, G. J. Taylor ; G. Fletcher.

DB.AG0oss.~Blue or ailvcr.—l, W. H. Mitchell. 2. W. Gamon. 3. J. E.
Mason, vhc, G. J. Tavlor; K. Fulton; J. Watl8 ; E. C. Stretcli; W. Bishop,
he, J. Watts, c, Ward k Rhodes (2); W.H.Mitchell (2); G.J.Taylor; Clayton
and Bairstow : R. Bnerley ; H. G. Poole. Any other colour.— i and vhc, W.
Bishop, 2 and 3, F. Graham, c, G. J. Taylor ; H. Yardley.

AnTWEhFS.— Short-fuctd.—Cocks.—l, W. Gamon. 2 and 3, H. R. Wright, vhc,
H. R- Wright ('Al. he, D. i(iddihouKh, jun. ; W. Gamon (i) : J. W. Collinson. c,
K.Fulton: W. ilarvey; W. Gamon. Hens.—l, H. R. Wright. 2, C. F. Cope-
man. 3, W. Gamon. vhc, W. Gamon {2) ; H. Yardley.

AtiT-wEHPS.— Working, or Mesnerujer Pigeons. — Coeks. — 1, D. Riddihough, Jan.
2. H. Jennings. 3, A. Webster, jun. vhc, H. Jennings (2); D. Riddihough, jun.;
A. Webster, jun. (2); J. J. Sparrow; T. Foster U); J- W. Oollinaon (-JJ; E.
Beldon; 0. i. Englanil ; R. Ch;idwick. hc,'&. Pratt, c, i>. Riddihough, jun. ;
J. J. Sparrow; K Pntchard. liens.— I, H. Jennings. 2, J. Bishop. 3, D.
Riddihough, juo. vhc, D. Riddihough, jun. (2J; A. Webster, jun. he, H.
Jennings ; T. Foster, c, G. J. Taj lor ; H. VV. niiugworlh ; R. Pritchard ; J. W.
Collinson.

Anv uth'th VARiExr.— Cup, W. Harvey. 2, G. E. Sawdon. 3, J. Bailv, jun.
uhc, J. Bitily, jun. (2); J. Watts ( Den tell ette and Kun); W.Harvey; H. Yard-
ley (2). he. G. J. Tavlor; W. Harvey; H. Yardley. c, J. Baily. jun. (3); M.
Ord; W. Harvey; T. Gamon.

Selling Class.— -Price not to exceed £.2.— Single Birds.~l, J. H. Harland
(Carrierf. 2, H. B. Hans.m (Pouter). 3, H. Adams, vhe, li. tult"n iBarb);
HinchcUffe & Hull, he, W. Binns (Carrier); G. J. Taylor ; W. Harvey, e, R.
Fulton (Carrier) ; W. Harvey.

Selling Ci.a.ss.— Price not to exceed S3.~Pairs.~h W. Harvey. 2, J. W.
Townson (Uwla). 3, J.Walts (Carriers), vhc, E. Wade; H. Yardley. he, J.
Watts (Barbs); W. Harvt-y; H. B. Hanson; G. J. Taylor (lurbits). c, K.
Fulton (Pouteib); W.Harvey.

Judges. — Mr. H. Allsop, Spencer Street, Birmingham; Mr.
W. Caunan, Bradford ; Mr. J. Crosslaud, 1, Mark Street, "VVake-
field; Mr. H. Smith, Skiptou.

CARRIER AND SHORT-FACED PIGEONS.

Doubtless many of your readers will remember that in
March last year we drew attention to a private exhibition of
Carrier Pigeons, the property of a veteran fancier, Mr. Siddons,
sen., of Birmingham. The treat then aUorded, together with
the enjoyable reunion of the fanciers of the district, led to the
holding of a second Exhibition on Thursday last in the large
Club-room of the Victoria Inn, Lichfield Road, Aston, the
residence of Mr. John Siddons, and it was, if anything, even
more enjoyable than its predecessor. Nearly fifty birds of
Blacks, Duns, and Blues were caged, constituting one of the
finest displays of this noble variety we have seen for some time.
We pointed out last year that the chief characteristics of Mr.
Siddons' birds lay in their nearer approach to the type of the
fine old English bird than most strains. They were all of good
carriage, with long thin necks, good eye, and naiTow skulls.
They were all that could be desired, and were all shown iu
faultless condition. Mr. Siddons is, perhaps, the oldest Carrier-
fancier living, having exceeded three -score -and- ten years, and
has never been without his pets for upwards of half a century.
Hale and hearty on Thursday, he went over his feathered
favourites with his numerous visitors, evincing a zeal and love
for them which many a young fancier will long remember,
chatting of old times and celebrated fanciers now no more.

Mr. Siddons wishing once more to see the two extremes in the
fancy side by side, requested Mr. Hallam, of The Lozells, Bir-
mingham, to show a tew pens of Short-faces. Tiiis gentleman
complied by showing twenty such specimens, consisting of
Almonds, Agates, Wholefeatbers, and Kites, as are seldom
seen. They were all good in skull, beak, carriage, and marking,
and were shown in that faultless condition which can only be
obtained in this variety when they are not sent from exhibition
to exhibition.

We understand there was a wish expressed that this pleasant
gathering should be looked upon as annual amongst the fanciers
of this district. As there is every probability of such being the
case, Pouters will be represented from some well-iinown lofts,
then the thi-ee high-class and English manufactured varieties
will be brought together. It is only fair to add that Mr. Yardley,
of the Market Hall, gratuitously provided the cages.

PIGEON TOURNAMENT.

Manchester Columbarians throw down the ganntlet to
London Peristeronics. For some few years there has been a
Columbariau Society in Manchester entitled the Northern
Coimties Columbarian Society, and the Society has gone on in-
creasing tUl they have about forty members. Many of the mem-
bers never exhibit except at columbarian meetings, and now, as
a Society, have challenged the National Peristeronic Society —
not for money, but for honour. As the Columbarians have
thrown down the gauntlet, according to the courtesy of chivalry
the first year the Peristeronics must go to Manchester, after-
wards the Columbarians must come to London, and turn and
turn about. The Columbarians do_not stipulate conditions, but

merely issue the challenge. The conditions suggested are open
to revision. They are as follows : —
RULES.

1. That the competition be held in Manchester, and take placo during the
month of November.

2. That each Society appoint one judge, and a referee bo appointed by the
judges. Neither the referee uorjudyesto bo members of either Society, and
they must not reside within fifty miles of London or Manchester.

3. That the birds to compete be divided into the following classes: —

Classification.
Canier Cock, Blue.
„ Dun.
Black.

Ben, Blue.
„ Dun.
„ Black.
Tumblers (Short- faced), Cock, Any

variety except Balds or Beards.
Tumblers (Short-facedi, Hen, Any

variety except Balds or Beards.
Tumblers (Short-faced), Cock, Bald

or Beard.
Tumblers (Short-faced), Hen, Bold

or Beard.
Barbs, Cock, Black or Dan.

„ Any other Colonr.
Hen, Black or Dun.
„ Any other Colour.
Dragoons, Cock, Blue.

„ Bed or Yellow.
„ Any other Colour.
Hen, Blue.
„ Red or Yellow.
„ Any other colour.
Foreign Owls, Cock, White.

„ Any other colour.
Hen, WTiite.

,, Any other colour.
EngUsh Owls, Cock, Blue.
„ Silver.
„ Any other colonr.
Hen, Blue.
„ SUver.

„ Any other colour.
Fantails, Cock, White.

„ Any other colour.
Hen, White.
„ Any other coloor.
Jacobins, Cock, Black.
„ Bed.

Jacobins, Cock, Yellow.
Hen, Black.
„ Bed.
„ Yellow.
Turbits, Cock, Blue or Silver.
„ Bed or Yellow.
,, Any other colonr.
Hen, Blue or Silver.
„ Ked or Yellow.
„ Any other coloui*.
Antwerps (Short- faced). Cock, Blue.
Antwerps ( Short- faced), Cock, Silver

Dun.
Antwerps ( Short- faced), Cock, Any

other colour.
Antwerps (Shoi-t-faced), Hen, Blue.
Antwei-ps (bhort-facedj. Hen, Silver

Dun.
Antwerps (Short- faced), Hen, Any

other colour.
Antwerps (Long-faced), Cock, Blue.
Autwei-ps (Long-faced), Cock, Silver

Dun.
Antwerps (Long-faced), Cock, Any

other colour.
Antwerps (Long-faced), Hen, Blue.
Antwerps (Long-faced), Hen, Silver

Dun.
Antwerps (Long-faced), Hen, Any-
other colour.
Tumblers (Long-faced), Cock, Mottlea

or Self-coloiu-.
Tumblers (Long-faced), Cock, Balds

or Beards.
Tumblers iLong-faced), Hen, Mottles

or Self-colour.
Ttunblers (Long-faced), Hen, Balds

or Beards.
Any other variety, Cock.
Hen.

— (Signed), Ernest E. M. Eoyds, Fresident of the Society.

PORTSMOUTH ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S
SHOW.

The collection consisted not only of poultry and Pigeons, bufj
also Pheasants, Cage Birds, and Rabbits. There was likewisa
a show of Cats. The whole were exhibited in Billett's pens.

Game fowls headed the list, and mustered only ten pens in
two classes, eight being Reds. The Variety class contained ono
pen of Duckwings and one of "Whites, both the property of the
same exhibitor. If we except the first and second-prize pens
in the first-named class, there was no particular merit. Buff
Cochi?is mustered well ; the first-prize pens well deserved their
position. The Brahmas were certainly the best represented
varieties in the Show, the Light being partictilarly good. There
were two cups to compete for, one for the best pen of chickens,
the other for the adults. For the first-named Mrs. WiUiamson
was deservedly successful, Mr. Maynard carrying off that for old
birds with a grand pen. In Dorkings the first prize went to &
good pen of Whites. Andalusiayis, a breed strong in the locality,
were a capital class. The HambuTghs, with few exceptions,
were indifierent. Polands -v^ere unusually good, the first-prize
White-crested stock particularly so. French \VQxe weak. The
Variety class contained many birds of great merit, every pen
except one being noticed by the Judges. Bantams were for th©
most part not of first-rate quality. Rouens were certainly the
best of the Ducks, the other two classes containing only three
pens each. Geese, although a cup was offered specially for them,
were represented by two pens only. Turkeys were good. The
SeUing classes were strong, and many good pens were claimed.

Pigeons had only seven classes besides the Selling class ;
amongst them were some good Carriers, Barbs, Eantails, and
Tumblers. The Selling class also contained many good birds.

Every attention was paid to the comfort and safety of the
birds by the Committee.

Amongst the Babbits were many first-rate specimens, and tho
classes were well filled.

We published the prize list last week.

[We extract the following from a Portsmouth correspondent's
letter . — ]

" The general arrangements were tolerably good, but ono
thing, I think, must have occurred to any casual observer as
being decidedly wrong — namely, placing the Cats over the pens
of poultry, and these actually White Cochins and Light Brahmas.

194

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTDEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ February 27, 1873.

Doubtless some of the exhibitors will be woudering what is the
matter with their specimens when received home, but they will
no longer wonder when they learn their relative position to the
Cats at the Show. More injudicious placing it is scarcely
possible to conceive, as I think all will agree that if Cats are to
be Bhown with poultry at all, they ought never to be placed
above them. I contend that Cats have no right in a poultry ex-
hibition, and this opinion was considerably strengthened as I
passed up the tier of Cats, and to speak plainly I was glad to
get away from them again."

BEE-DOMICILES, AND BEE SYSTEMS OF
MANAGEMENT.

Tour esteemed correspondent, " A Eenfkewshiee Bee-
keeper," does not appear to be a bit more enlightened regard-
ing the views I incidentally expressed in a recent communica-
tion on the past bee season, notwithstanding that I again laid
J)efore him the entire passage for his reconsideration and reflec-
tion. I said it was a prevailing error among inexperienced
apiarians to look for honey results or amount of stores in virtue
of the kind of liivo used, instead of the productiveness of the
season and locality. In this I was borne out, not only by my
own experience, but by the testimony of most of our more
esteemed bee writers ; and it will not do for " A Renfrewshire
Bee-keeter " to ignore this testimony on the ground that some
crude theorists, with defective knowledge themselves, are apt to
repeat errors which, however, have no place in our standard
works. Whatever defects, therefore, there may be in oiir bee
literature, it is most assuredly not on the point disputed by your
correspondent.

I am still of opinion, however, that "A Renfrewshire Bee-
keeper" has, by some confusion of ideas, failed to interpret
aright the views I expressed so plainly in the paragraph referred
to, and that this failure, as it appears to me, arises chiefly by
his confounding two things as one and the same, which are
entirely distinct and different — namely, in speaking of bee-domi-
cUes and bee systems of management as synonj-mous. The
Stewarton hive surely is not synonymous with the Stewarton
system, the swiirming with the non-swarming system, or the
stDrifying system with the collateral system ; and with refer-
ence to modern and autitjuated hives and systems, I have still
to repeat the question put to " A Renerewshire Bee-keeper "
to explain to me what really constitutes in his estimation the
Stewarton system as a modern system, and as distinguished
from all other or former systems of bee-management.

In my remarks, to which exception was taken, I alluded to no
systems of bee mmagement whatever, far less did I pronounce
an opinion upon their respective merits. I did not even give
an opinion as to the comparative merits or utility of any hive as
a bee-domicile. I had no such objects in view. They were
foreign to my purpose. All I wished to show was that so far as
" honey results " or amount of stores were concerned, the hive,
qua the hive, had little or no influence. When " A Renfrew-
shire Bee-keeper," therefore, tells the readers of the Journal
that I consider all hives alike in utility, and all systems of bee-
management the same in value, it is an assertion as erroneous as
it is unwarrantable, for there is no ground for it in the para-
graph referred to.

A similar confusion of ideas appears to me to prevail in the
illustrations given by your correspondent in the number of the
ICth January in continuation of the same subject — regarding the
quality of honey in different hives. Preference is there made to
Ihe superior staples produced in certain manufactories, in virtue
of modern improvements introduced, and the skill of the manu-
facturers. I am aware it is even so, but neither the Manchester
cotton manufactory and manufacturers, nor the Clyde sugar re-
finery and refiners referred to, is an apt analogy to the bee hive
and its workers. The bee-domicile is neither the manufactory
nor the refinery, for the manufactories and manufacturers are
both extraneous to it. Both are far removed — away among the
sweet-scented pasture-leas of wliite clover, or by the sunny
slopes of the purpled heath-clad hiUs. It is there that the bee-
manufacturer.s and manufactories may be found, while the hive
itself , in whatsoever way improved by modern inventions, is but
the simple storehouse in which the completed production is
deposited. The whole arguments thus put forward by your
esteemed correspondent in support of his hypothesis dissipate
on close inspection like the baseless fabric ®f a vision, or topple
down like the unstable editicB of a castle of cards.

Now, let me take leave to draw the attention of your apiarian
readers to tlie proposition of Mr. Pettigrew — of testing the value
of diilerent kinds of hives. The method suggested by him is to
place a certain number of peopled hives in the same garden from
'" March till September — that is, during the season of honey
gathering, and all managed aUke on the swarming or non-swarm-
ing system," and the results would, according to his opinion and
belief, settle at once and for ever " fairly and satisfactorily " the
question, "Which kind of hive is best ? " and, as a consequence,
■" the country would be ultimately enriched." If such a happy

and beneficial result could in my opinion be obtained by Mr.
Pettigrew's proposition, I should wiUingly lend my helping
hand in carrying out all necessary arrangements ; but I quite
agree with your excellent contributor "B. & W.," that no satis-
factory results could possibly be obtained from such a method
of test ; indeed it would be no test at all, for the proposition
itself appears to me to be both wrong in its conception, and im-
practicable in its very nature. In the first place, Who is to
determine that these different kinds of peopled hives are all
started in March under equally favourable circumstances or
conditions as to stores, population, brood, and queen ? This
difficulty surmounted, the conditions of equality in March dis-
appear entirely, it may be, in April ; and ere the swarming or
honey season come round, the dissimilarity in point of pro-
sperity becomes every day only the more manifest ; and all this,
be it remembered, quite irrespective of any influence, it may
be, cf the particular kind of hive. It is evident that the results
in such a case, whatever they maybe, would determine nothing.
In short, it would require repeated trials or tests to establish
— I do not say a principle, but to approximate to a principle.
But what is the principle or object desiderated by the proposed
" test ? " Mr. Pettigrew answers, " The best hive." Best for
what? "Best for swarming, and best for non-swarming pur-
poses." Well, supposing the point gained, which is the best for
swarming, another question would still remain behind. Is the
best hive for swarming the " best hive '? " Is "best" applied
in reference to the multiplication of swarms only, and with no
reference to the increase of stores ? Again, Is the best hive for
non-swarming purposes the " best hive ? " Is " best " applied
to the prevention of swarms, and the increase of stores, but with
no reference to the increase of stocks ? Then again, should all
this be settled satisfactorily, a further question would crop up
— the old knotty question. Whether is the swarming or non-
swarming system the "best?" But now lam going "beyond
the record," I am getting into the consideration of the best
" systems," and not the best " hives ; " and I must pause.

In conclusion, let me be permitted, in illustration of my own
views in reference to this subject, especially as to the alleged
effect of hive influence on " honey results," to say a few words
in point for the benefit of all whom it may concern. Let us
suppose, however, we take a more practicable method than that
proposed by Mr. Pettigrew in endeavouring to set this question
at rest. Suppose, then, we send into the bee garden in any
given locality six different kinds of hives in swarming-time, all
peopled simultaneously by prime swarms of equal weight or
numbers. " A Renfrewshire Bee-keeper " will, I fancy, send
his contribution in the shape of an octagon Stewarton hive, on
the assumption, of course, that in virtue of something or other
in the form, construction, or material of the hive, the amount
of honey stored will at the close of the season be larger than in
any other hive. Mr. Pettigrew, on the same principle, sends in
his capacious straw, believing also, I reckon, upon the same
grounds, that he vrill have no difficulty in coming off victorious.
John Chinaman, the " Renfrewshire Bee-keeper's " acquaint-
ance, sends in his " old orthodox straw " (one of " proper dimen-
sions," however), nothing daunted by the ill-disguised smiles
of the " modern " competitors. Mr. C. N. Abbot, Bee-master,
Hanwell, also, we shall suppose, sends in his " moveable bar-
frame hive," alluded to in his communication in the numl>er of
the Journal for February 6th. Mr. Abbot does not say whether it
is a Dzierzon, a Baron von Berlepsch, a De Bouvois, a Bevan, a
Taylor, a Tegetmeier, a Woodbury, or even a Langstroth frame
hive, with its sixty-one points of excellence. .W\ minor differ-
ences are, 1 reckon, of little moment in his estimation, provided
it is a " moveable bar-frame hive." The whole virtue consists,
apparently, in the principle of bars and frames, and in \'irtue of
which he confidently beheves his hive will compete successfully
in point of honey stores, more particularly with hives such as
Mr. Pettigrew's straw, whose damaging point is the " fixity of
the combs." I also send in two hives to make up the six, and
by way of contrast, not, however, for competition, but for rea-
sons to be explained afterwards. Well, one of the hives I send
is what I dignify by the name of my " palace hive," it being a
most expensively-constructed octagon, made of polished ma-
hogany, with vertical frames in two divisions, also of mahogany;
so also are all its appurtenances, with its massive ornamental
octagon cover. In each of the eight panels is a glass window
with shutters, which have brass hinges and knobs, and which
are shut by brass catches. The hive altogether is most unique
and ornamental, and if cost of material and expense of con-
struction have any influence on " honey results," I should fancy
I have it here. Along with this beautiful and highly ornamental
" palace hive " I send also, by permission, a common " tea-chest,"
not of the largest size, but one of " proper dimensions." Now,
all these six hives (tea-chest included) are fairly peopled ahke
by prime swarms. The siart is made, we shall suppose, about
the end of May. So at it they all go, " A Renfrewshire Bee-
keeper's " Stewarton, with its bars, shdes, &c. ; Mr. Pettigrew's
capacious straw, 21 inches by 12; Mr. Chinaman's "old or-
thodox straw," not forgetting the "hackle;" Mr. C. N. Abbot's

FebrauT 27, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

195

moveable bar-frame hive, ** uneucumbered by all fixtures ;" autl
lastly, my splendid "palace hive" and the said "tea-chest."
■\VelJ, at they go, till the much-coveted golden-coloured turnip
flowers, the well-loved wild yellow mustard, the sweet-scented
white clover, and the rich purxjle heath, all in succession yield
up in no stinted measm-e their nectared stores ; and now Sep-
tember comes, the judges and competitors in due course con-
vene to know the " honey results." The different hives are
carefully examined, weighed, and tested, and their nett honoy-
gaius ascertained. There is a buzz within and a buzz without
the hives. The judges have decided, and the competitors are
anxiously waiting for the verdict. It is announced. Hear it,
ye incredulous ! Tlie tea-chest is declared the winner. No. 1 ;
John Chinaman's old orthodox, No. 2 ; Mr. Pettigrew's capacious
straw, No. 3; Mr. Abbot's "bar-frame," No. 4; "A Eenfbew-
SHiBE Bee-ivEepeb's " Stowarton and my palace hive are de-
clared equal.

Now, if such supposed results were to occur in a real trial of
the kind proposed, and the same duly chronicled as proposed in
the pages of The Journal of Hobticultube for the edification
of the whole bee world, what a rush, might we not imagine, of
apiarians to tea-dealers' warehouses for a supply for the " ne
.pius ultra hive " at last. No such thing. The idea is too pre-
posterous to entertain for a moment. If such a result, I repeat,
might occur in a real trial of the kind proposed, and there is no
proper reason to urge to the contrary, then I call upon intelli-
gent apiarians to say if any i)riuciple could be established by it,
so far as good, better, best hive is concerned. "Would it convince
even the competitors who relied upon it '? Certainly not. As
your excellent correspondent "B. &W." truly indicated, they
would be the first to demm", and to plead some reason or another
to account for it. The consequence would be that new trials
would be proposed aud carried out, only to give rise to new
enigmas and fresh complications in the shape of ever- varying
Tesults, until after repeated tests the most sceptical would come
to see that unimportant differences in the hive itself had no
perceptible or real influence on honey results. The truth of the
.matter is simply this : — First, that honey results are determined
by the season and locality, and not by the peculiar hive; and
second, that in the same season and locality differences in honey
results in different hives, as a rule, wUl be determined or ac-
counted for, not by the difference of hive, but by a difference in
the state and condition of its population. Aid further, we
must neither, on the one hand, ascribe the failure of honey sup-
plies in a bad season or locality to the kind of hive, nor, on the
other hand, ascribe to the same cause the merit of large honey
supplies in seasons and localities of an opposite or favourable
chai'acter. — J. Lowe.

HONEY HARVEST— UNITING SWARMS.

Youa readers may hke to hear what my honey harvest for
1872 has been, and the result of uniting swarms by the Scotch
plan, which I have practised successfully for more than a dozen
times without a failure, except in one case in which the matter
was complicated by the presence of brood.

In the autumn of 1871 I put up five depriving stocks, of which
one was a collateral hive, and two were common straw butts,
one of the latter being very weak. These lived through the
■winter. Supers were added in due course, but on the 21st of
June the strongest hive swarmed after having two-thirds filled
its box. On the same day one of the common hives swarmed.
Not to be done out of the super, I united the two swarms which
■were both very large. In five days the bees had nearly filled a
tolerably large stock-hive with combs. I then put on a 30-lb.
box and presently eked it, afterwards giving an eke with bars.

From the top division, on account of brood, I had to cut out
■what would have been 12 lbs. of comb, but obtained in the
barred eke enough to make a super of 4.5 lbs. nett; pretty well,
1[ think, from a stock hived on the 2l6t of June of the same year.
The stock hive was left Ught, it is true, but by giving just the
honey cut out of the top super, it was put up for the winter ■with
27 lbs. inside contents.

No. 2, a depriving hive, did not swarm, but was doing so little,
that when on the 11th of July the weak straw hive swarmed, I
joined the swarm to it. This set the bees to work with a will, so
that they nearly filled a 20-lb. super. I then removed the slides
in its top, and put on that large super that had been deserted by
the bees of No. 1, and which was two-thirds full. This they
finished, so that I obtained a super of 48 lbs. nett. weight, more
than half being their own work.

No. 3, depriving hive, after two-thirds filling a 20-lb. box
swarmed on the 19th July. Tliis swarm I joined with another
■which came two days after, and put them in an octagon box, and
although 80 late in the season the bees collected 28 lbs. inside
by the 7th of August. When the collateral hive swarmed, the
bees left 10 lbs. of sealed comb in a side box. A swarm from
.some hive, I forget which, was placed in a very large straw butt
some time in July, a second swarm being joined to it a day or
two after. An eke was given. This I broke up, aud includiiig

two large side combs fit for table, I obtained from it 3G lbs. of
honey.

Altogether results, after four out of five of the depriving hives
had swarmed, were 128 lbs. of comb, aud 50 lbs. of drained honey,
that not being included which was returned to the stock as be-
fore mentioned.

To explain my mode of manipulation, I may state in gene ral
terms that the Scotch plan of uniting bees is to have a box of
the same diameter as the stock hive, with bars aud shdes on the
top, large enough to contain a swarm. The latter being hived
in this, a little smoke is puffed into both at dusk, and the box
placed beneath the stock. The slides are then quietly ■with-
drawn, and the box left to form part of the stock hive, which
suits the Stewarton arrangement. I had used this plan for sonie
years with unvarying success either to unite weak stocks in
spring by joining together the upper boxes of each, or to unito
autumn-driven stocks to others, in which case the bos was
taken away at the end of t-wenty-four hours, without having
learned that it was ever used to join fresh swarms to obtain
supers the fijst year; and when I did learn the plan it appeared
to be useless for the hives I was then using, which were octagons,
9 inches in depth, containing about 1450 cubic inches, for I had
discarded the Ayrshire arrangement as being unsuitable for this
cormtry. South Wales. The method of uniting appeared to be
inapplicable for my hives, as they seemed incapable of holding
two strong swarms at once. Presently it occurred to me that by
a modification of the plan it might be made applicable to all
hives. I therefore left the uniting box below until the^ box
above, the permanent one, was filled with combs, then puffing a
little rag smoke into both boxes, the uniting box with the bees
in it was removed and placed on a stool on one side of the en-
trance, in such a way that the bees might have an easy path to
run in. A large super was at once put on. As the bees entered
the stock hive those above crowded into the super, which they
quickly filled. This year the results have been as I have de-
tailed. I find it to be desirable that before the lower box is
withdra^wn and a super placed on the stock, the latter should ba
quite full of combs.

In conclusion, I may state that I find myself to be the only
bee-keeper in this district who has had a good harvest. In all
cases but one it was an absolute failure. The exception was
owing altogether to the union of swarms. — A. B., Caermartlien-
shire.

WHICH KIND OF HIVE IS BEST?

I H.i-VE just now read Mr. Abbot's letter on this subject.
Readers of the Journal will remember my saying that a contest
between A and B would settle nothing, and that a contest, if it
could be arranged, should include five or six popular kinds of
hives. Hence proposals, fair and comprehensive, were offered
for consideration. Without finding fault with these proposals,
Mr. Abbot appears with a new set of tests— all his own. The
trials which he proposes must come off or take place near the
dwelling places of the ovmers of the hives. " No person to be
allowed to interfere or in any way assist the owner. Each party
to be at liberty to use all aud every means in his power to
develope the advantages of his hives." At the close of his letter
Mr. Abbot intimates his determination not to enter on a contest
if the full management of his hives be not left in his own hands.
Mr. Abbot appears to have far more confidence in his power of
management than he has in his hives. I myself would exclude
the o-wners from interfering with or going near their hives during
the season of trial ; for it is not a question of good management,
or good nursing, or clever trickery. If a hundred trials such as
Mr. Abbot has proposed were to come off, they would not touch
or settle the question at the top of this letter.

And now let me inform the reader that I once before met Mr.
Abbot ; and had he not come a long way out of his road to meet
me, I should probably never have had the good luck to know
anything at all about him. Some three months ago he made and
published in the pages of The Enrjlish Mechanic the following
remarks : — " Mr. P.'s last remark is not quite clear. What does
he mean by Mr. Pettigrew's system ? I never knew Mr. Petti-
grew had adopted anything new in bee-keeping to identify him
ivith any system at all, unless it be one of retrogression. Mr.
Pettigrew's book is simply a defence of everything that is old in
bee-keeping, and a railing against evei-ything that is new. If
that be a system, doubtless Mr. Pettigrew has many admirers.
If bee-keepers wiU get up a discussion on the relative merits of
the bar-frame hive and Ligurian bees— u la Langstroth, as against
the old black bees in straw skeps, and the sulphur pit— a la
Pettigrew, I shall be quite willing to enter the lists, and stand
by Langstroth — C. W. Ahbot, EanweU." A gentleman who is
guided in the management of his bees by my "Handy Book"
extracted the above from The Eiiglish Mechanic, and sent it to
me with a letter, in which he said it is "a tit bit," especially
" the sulphur pit— a la Pettigrew." If it would not vex our ex-
cellent friend Mr. Abbot too much, I would venture to tell him
that the book he so loudly condemns has already saved more bees
from the sulphur pit than all other works, ancient and modem,

lOG

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ February 27, 1873.

published in this country. Perhaps he ■was asleep when he
read the boob ; if not, methinks he would do well to cultivate
and develope the nobility, the generosity, and the manliuess of
his own nature, and for his own good acknowledge that he forgot
himself in publishing these misrepresentations. Such misrepre-
sentations never annoy me ; indeed I should not have noticed
them now, but for the hope that the readers of the Journal will
heartily excuse me if I decline to notice in future anything that
Mr. Abbot may say. — A. Pettigeew, Sale, Manchester.

OUB LETTER BOX.

St. Austell Pottltry Show [Three Correspondents). — We are indebted
to you all for in-ize-lists, but as it was not advertised we conclude that it was
merely a local show.

Hanley Show. — The second prize in the selling class was awarded to
" T. Sismey," not " T. Gismey," as stated.

Golden-pencilled Hameurghs (rortjMYjT/). — It is not always found that
tlie veiy high bred birds are the most prolific, but you should have eggs now.
Hamburgbs do not lay at five mouths old. It is rare for even the most pre-
cocious birds of breeds more celebrated lor early laying to do so. Cuchins and
Brahmas lay earlier than Hamburghs, and are both hartUer. They are far
more useful fowls than the others, ^^llere only one breed is kept we advise
Brahmas ; they are hardy, good layers, and good mothers. Cochins will do as
well, but they caimot be bred so exactly alike as the Brahmas. Birds at
liberty do not want chopped meat, scalded barley, or chopped mangold and
cabbage. You have taken unusual and unnecessary trouble and may well be
eick of them. Wbure fowls are kept entirely in an artificial state, lacking
many things that they find in a state of nature, pains must be taken to supply
that which they lack, but where they have a run on gi'ass, among trees, and in
a stable yard, all they requite is to be fed on meal morning and evening, with
a little whole com at mid-day. Do this, substitute Brahmas for Hamburghs,
and we will promise you plenty of eggs, and you shall not he sick of your
fowls. * •

Dubbing Game Cocks {N. B. T.).— The comb, gills, and deaf ears should
be removed in dubbing, and they cannot be cut too closely, but that causes no
dis-sight, and cannot by any lueans he called a multilation. There is one
accepted dubbing, it includes all that is necessary, taking away all spare skin
and flesh. It was originally done to give no hold for an adversary in the pit.
More than this is unnecessary, and would disfigmre the bird, nor can we uudei-
stand why more should be done.

VARiors (G. S2)ciicer].-~lt is too early in the year to complain that a hen
does not lay ; the weather has also been unfavourable for it. The non-pitting
breeds are all subject to disease of the egg organs, and do not last so long as
those that rest while they aie hatching and rearing a family. Spanish ai-e
especially subject to a disease which fills up and hardens the abdomen. In-
convenienced by this, they constantly run to the nest in hope of getting rid of
the load, but in vain. The disease is hopelessly incurable, and evei-y gi-ain such a
bird eats is wasted. Examine her carefully, there may be distention, but if it
yield to the pressure of a finger it i« not chronic disease, but may be a mere
patising indii-position ; if, however, it is filled m so hard as to resist close
pressure, there is no hope. You were too venturesome with your chickens.
They require shelter in such weather as we have had for a month. The
chicken died of chill and cramp, brought on by exposure. Keep them in-doors,
in some outhouse, and feed them we!l. Give them plenty of bread and ale, it
will stimulate them, and you will perhaps save the rest. It is a gieat con-
venience to have a bam or outhouse where you can put the hen under hei;rip,
and allow the chickens to run in and out through the bars. Supplied with
grit, fresh sods of glass, and well fed, she will rear all her chickens till the
weather permits of their being put out without injury. No one can be re-
plied to fully when they mix questions of various departments.

Aylesbury Drake (H. G. M.).— We fear your case is a bad one, a Duck has
no crop. It has a gullet that conveys food to the gizzard, and from your de-
scription we fear there is either inflammation or ulceration. Either will end
fatally. There is no method of physicking Ducks, nor are there known
remedies for then- disorders.

Soft Egg ij. Phillips). — Let the hen have a heap of dust, a mixture of brick-
layers' rubbish and coal ashes. Feed her on baileymeal instead of whole corn,
and give her grass and lettuce leaves.

Birdlihie (Jrfc7rt).— To make it from holly bark is tedious. Indiannibber
or giitta percha dissolved in naptha makes it speedily, and the German
method of preparing birdlime is by putting about 2 lbs. of linseed oil into a
pot, to simmer upon the fire for some time, after which it is taken off. and
lighted with a match. In this state of inflammation it continues about two
hours, when half the quantity will be consumed. By dipping, from time to
time, a stick into the oil, and trying the matter between the fingers, its proper
glutinous consistence may easily be ascertained ; on which the pot is covered,
and the flame extinguished.

DL'^ruTE ( G. if J. D. V. F. P.).— A County Com-t Judge would at once decide
that the full amount claimed by *' G. & J. D." should be paid to them by
**F.P." If "G.&J.D."' think the birds died without any neglect of "F.P.,"
or others in whose charge he left the Hambm-ghs, then *' G. & J. D." might
graciously allow a small deduction from the amount claimed.

Claiming Exhibited Fowls (C. J. M. 3/.).— As the rule of the Society
stipulates that no person be allowed to claim until four o'clock, we consider
that the Steward and Secretary were wrong in allowing letters claiming to
have precedence either before that hour, or before persons personally present.

Photoghai'Hino Pigeons (Y. S.).— Apply to a photogiapher.

Pigeons {J. H. B.). — There is no objection to letting-out the Tumblers.
As to other queries you must consult our "Pigeon Book." You can have it
free by post from our office if you enclose Is. Id. in postage stamps with your
address.

Ring Doves (A. F. J/.).— They are quite hai-dy enough to live in your dove-
cote. The same food as for the Pigeon is suf&cicnt, but unless brought up in
confinement we fear they will fail.

Hives (C. T. P.).— Write to Mr. Pettitt or Messrs. Neighbour for inform-
ation about Payne's hive. It is impossible to say which hive is " best,'' tastes
and needs ditTer.

Stewarton Hives.—" A Subscrihcr " will feel greatly obliged by a " Ren-
frewshirr Bee-keeper" describing in detail his mode of management of
the Stewarton hives.

Bottling Mead (Amateur).~It may be bottled at the end of six montlis
Irom the time of making. If drawn off carefully it ^vill not need lining.

Various (A New Subscriber). — You had better allow your stocks in the
common hives to swarm naturally, and hive the swarms in your boxes. Unless
you like to adopt the frame hive, we do not know that you can do better than
with the bar hiveti you have made, provided that you have adopted the proper
distance between the centre of each bar. The size of the boxes will do very
well. It will be of no use your attempting anything with nucleus boxes unless
you follow the system of frame hives in its entirety. Perhaps our little
manual, " Bee-keeping for the Many " (which may be obtained at our office for
five stamps) will supply you with much of the information you desii'e. How
long a queen bee will breed during the season depends on too many con-
tingencies to answer decidedly. Breeding sometimes commences in .Tanuary,
and may last till the end of September, but it is rare that a queen will breed
during the whole of this time.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Square, London.

Lat. 51° 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0° 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date.

A.M.

In the DAT.

i?.S

"tS

Shade Tem-

R adiation

1

1873.

Earorae
ter at S
and S
Level.

ter.

gis

ife

perature.

Temperature

rel).

In

On

Dry.

Wet.

Q°

Max.

Min.

Bun.

grass

Inches.

deff.

dee.

(Leg.

deff.

degr.

deg.

deg.

In.

We. 19

SI).72G

82.4

31.5

N.W.

37.3

35.2

31.8

37.9

31.8

—

Th. 21)

30.000

31.5

31.3

E.

37.2

86,8

•JS.9

40.2

29.5

0.015

Frl. 21

30.345

81.1

BO.O

K.E.

87.S

83.3

30.7

83.8

B0.5

Sat. 23

20.020

S4.S

82.0

S.W.

363

44.4

27.8

73 2

28 5

0.^85

Sun. 23

29 R93

32.6

Sl.S

N.E.

37.4

89.9

27.3

58 8

24.1

0.122

Mo. 24

20.811

29.4

29.4

N.E.

S7.0

37 8

29.4

43.2

29.8

0.45S

Tu. 25

20.686

33.7

32.7

N.E.

36.9

45.3

25.3

47.0

30.8

0.430

Means

30.141

32.2

31.2

37.0

89.0

28.8

47.7

29.2

1.102

REMARKS.
19th. — Dark and dull all day, and cold but not frosty.
20th. — A dull cold day, fair, but neither sun nor wind ; cold, but not a brist

frost.
2lEt. — Very dark in the moraing. and till near noon gas required ; the after

part better, but dull and dark.
22nd. — Still dull, but not dark ; fine in the fore paj-t of the day, getting gradu-
ally dull. Bain between 4 and 5 p.m. ; damp evening.
23rd. — Fine frosty morning; sUght snow shower at 1 p.m., then fine; heavy

rain for a short time at 4 p.m., dull and damp after.
24th. — Snow during the night 3 inches deep at 9 a.ji. Snow fell more or less

nearly all day, and another 3 inches was measured at 9 p.m.
25th. — Snow fell again during the night, but not nearly so deep as on tho

preceding one ; and by 9 a.m. a rapid thaw had commenced, which.

continued all day, though there was no sun — merely a change of wind

from N.E. to S.W.
With the exception of noon on Satm-day and tho morning of Sunday tho
week has been dull throughout. The fall of snow on the 24th remai-kably
heavy for London, and the thaw unusually rapid. Temperature lower in tho
air, though on the gi'ound and under the ground, owing to tho snow, the tem-
perature is much the same as last week. — G. <T. Symons.

P.S. — Wednesday morning. — The barometer fell rapidly during the thaw on
Tuesday, and throughout Tuesday night, when there was heavy rain and
some wind. This morning tho pressure is only 2S.93I inches, or nearly
2 inches less than this time last week. — G. J. S.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET. -Februaby 26.

Apples J sieve 3

Apricota doz. 0

Cherries perlb. 0

Chestnuts bushel 12

Currants j sieve

Black do .

Fics doz. 0

Filberts lb. 1

Cobs lb. 1

Gooseberries quart 0

Grapes, hothouse lb. 4

Lemons :i:> 100 6

Melons each 1

1. 8. d. I

Oto.5 0 j Mulberries Tj^ib.

0 0 01 Nectarines doz.

0 0 Ol Oranges ^-^100

0 20 0 I Peaches doz.

0 0 0' Pears, kitchen doz.

0 0 0 detjaert doz.

0 0 0 PineApplra lb.

0 16' Plums i sieve

6 2 0 Quinces doz.

0 0 0, Kaspberriea lb.

0 10 0 I Strawberries ^Ib.

0 10 0 I Walnuts bushel 15

« 3 ol ditto %»'100 3

1. B. d

OtoO 0

0 0 u

10 0

0 u

8 0

12 u

8 U

0 0

0 U

0 0

0 u

80 U

3 £

VEGETABLES.

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus ^\(I0

Beans. Kidney ^ 100

Broad bushel

Beet, Red doz.

BroccoU bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums Tt*' 100

Carrots bunch

Cauliflower doz.

Celery bundle

Coleworta.. doz. bunches
Cucumbers each

pickling doz.

EnrUve doz.

Fennel bunch

Garlic lb.

Herbs bunch

Horseradish bundle

Leeks bunch

Lettuce doz

0to6
0 10

Mushrooms pottle

Mustard & Cress. .punnet
Onions ^bushel

pickling quart

Parsley per doz.bnncheB

Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Round do.

Radishes., doz. bunches

Rhubarb bundle

Salsafy %*■ bundle

Savoys doz.

Scorzonera.... q,*>^ bundle

Sea-kale basket

Shallots lb.

Spinach bushel

Tomatoes doz.

Turnips bunch

Vegetable Marrows. .doz.

B. d. 8. d

1 0to2 0
0

POULTRY MARKET.— February 26.
The weather is not without its effect on the poultry, and our supply is small*
while tho demand is somewhat increased by the cessation of the Game supply
The consequence is an' inclination to stand out for higher prices.

March 6, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

l'J7

WEEKLY

CALENDAR.

Day 1 Day

Average Tempera-

Rain in

Snn

Snn

Moon

Moon

Moon'B

Clook J Day

Month

Week.

ture near Loudon.

43 years.

Rises.

Sets.

Rises.

Seta.

Age.

before of
Sun. Tear.

Day,

Night.

Mean.

Days.

m. h.

m. h.

m. h.

m. h.

Days.

m. s.

6

Th

48.6

32.2

40.4

18

.36af6

47af5

m 9

18 2

i

11 24 65

7

F

Day breals4.42 J.ji.

49.1

82.4

40.7

IS

34 e

49 5

41 10

24 3

8

11 10 66

8

S

Sir- W. Chambers died, 1796.

49.1

81.5

40.3

18

81 6

51 5

.S3 11

20 4

9

10 55 67

9

Son

2 Sunday in Lent.

49.2

81.1

40.1

12

29 6

52 5

after.

3 5

10

10 39

68

10

M

49.6

81.6

40.6

16

27 6

54 6

41 1

35 5

11

10 24

69

11

Tu

49.1

82.2

40.7

19

25 6

56 5

60 2

0 6

12

10 7

70

12

W

St. Gregory. '

50.4

33.2

41.3

21

22 B

57 5

1 4

19 6

18

9 51

71

From observations taJien near London during

forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 49.3^ ; and its night temperature

31.9°. The greatest heat was 61 \ on the 10th, 1820

and the lowest eold 7", on the loth, 1347. Tlie greatest fall of rain was 0.60 inch.

COKONILLA GLAUCA.

T is in many respects fortunate that the rage
for new plants does not entirely drive out of
cultivation old ones of merit ; still there is as
much honour in restorinij an old acquaint-
ance to the position it justly deserves as in
introducing a new comer to notice. Many
old neglected plants are being brought back
to do duty in the same way as our fore-
fathers made use of them, or, by a different
mode of treatment, they are dii'ected into
some other channel of usefulness, and are then found
better than some recently-introduced plant which is both
scarce and costly. I, for one, have a weakness for old
plants, and amongst those which I admire for their beauty
and utility is that to which I now call attention.

Coronilla glauca has long been known to the gardening
world, and had it been a stove plant, instead of one of the
hardiest of our greenhouse subjects, it is likely it would
have been oftener met with than it now is, but as it is
so easily cultivated, and all but perfectly hardy, I have
no hesitation in calling on all those who wish to have as
good a display as possible in the dead-winter months to
commence its cultivation. With ordinary care it wiU bloom
in the autumn, several months earlier than the Cytisus,
which it in some degi'ee resembles ; nay, the Coronilla
win in line sunny seasons set its flowers sufficiently early
in the season to expand into full bloom early in the
autumn. I think I have seen one growing out of doors
in full bloom by the middle of September, and I am not
sure if it was not much earlier than this ; the season,
however, was particularly warm and dry, alike favouring
early growth and the ripening of the wood, and also tend-
ing to hasten the embryo buds to expand into full blos-
som. The situation was sunny, but the ground in which
the Coronilla was grown was also occupied by neighbour-
ing plants and fruit trees. The Coronilla, checked in its
early progi'ess, finished its growth by well-ripened flower
buds, which quickly developed themselves into bright
clusters of rich yellow bloom wliich continued a long
time in perfection, and even wlien they were gone the
plant had not the bad appearance which many other flne-
flowering plants present when their flowering is over, for
its foliage is ornamental at all tunes.

Perhajis the best way to manage this plant is to strike
a number of cuttings every year, and assuming them to
be in small pots at the end of the season, let them be put
into larger ones about the time they begin to grow, using
a good proportion of sand in the mixture. If it be con-
sidered necessary to repot a part of the stock again, it
should be remembered that the earlier in the summer
the growth is completed the sooner tho plants will be in
bloom. To potbound plants standing in the full sun, and
in a position where their roots are not tempted to run
into the ground below, water must, of course, be given
in sufiicient quantities to prevent flagging. Let them
have as much sun as possible, and, unless the latter part
of the summer be very dull and sunless, you wUl be

No. 623.— Vol. XXIV., New Series.

rewarded by weU-foi-med plants obtained without any
training, and loaded with flowers, wliich will come in at
times when bloom of any kind is acceptable. With good
management a succession of bloom may bo kept up till
the middle of February, after which the Cytisus and other
plants take their place. I may add that the Coronilla
will survive moderately-mild winters when gi'owing in
a favourable position, and in such places will bloom also
in autumn after a hot dry summer, but the chances of
its doing so are not sufficiently gi-eat to render in-door
culture altogether unnecessary. — J. Kobson.

LOBD LONDESBOROUGH'S GAEDEN AT
COOMBE.

All who have frequented the meetings of the Eoyal
Horticultural Society know how indebted they are for
some of their attractions to the very beautiful Orchids
which Lord Londesborough never fails to send up, and
which his able gardener, Mr. Denning, so successfully
cultivates. Hitherto they have been sent up a very long
distance — from Grimston Hall, near Tadcaster; but as
last year Grimston was sold, and his lordship had no
garden near London, it became necessary to obtain some
X)lace, and hence the origin of the garden at Coombe.

Having been called up to London on a very sad duty,
and not caring to spend the day in the bustle of the gi'eat
city, I (although the weather was most wretched, a cold
raw easterly fog prevailingl, determined on making my
way into tho subm-bs, and so went down to Twickenham,
where I saw Mr. Little's Cyclamens, of which more another
time. What a quaint old stragghng village it is ! By-
the-by, let me recommend to all who wish a most read-
able book descriptive of English scenery to read " The
Strange Adventures of a Phoston," which gives charming
details of a drive through England, not the less readable
because a little romance runs through it all. On from
Twickenham I walked to Richmond, then went by rail
to Kingston, saw Mr. Looker's pottery, and then walked
on to Norbiton, taking Lord Londesborough's garden in
my way.

I am not aware that it has as yet any distinctive name,
for really it is simply a garden and nothing more, and
your first idea on visiting it is that you have lighted on
some new mu-sery establishment. House there is none,
save that for the gardener; and in fact in August last the
place, which wUl, no doubt, make for itself a name, was
simply a Wheat field. Nay, £00 was given as compensation
to the farmer for getting off the Wheat, so as to enable the
workmen to commence their operations. There are no
shrubberies, avenues, parterres — nothing, indeed, of orna-
ment about it ; it is simply a plain garden, winch, how-
ever, by the excellence of its products, wfll make for itself a
name. The neighbom-hood is classic in horticultm-e. Not
far ofl' is Jackson's old-established nursery at Kingston, and
Mr. Veitch's place at Coombe Wood is about a mile dis-
tant. Since August last, then. Lord Londesborough has
erected on this piece of ground, or will have erected when
finished, about 1200 feet in length of glass, on an average

No. 1276.— Vol. XLIX., Old Series.

198

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March G, 1873.

of about IG feet wide. There is no attempt at graudeur in their
arrangement, utihty being the one thing needed. There are
therefore, no grand conservatories or blooming bouses, but
plain simple structures. Many horticultural traditions have
been broken through ; none of our great horticultural builders
have erected the houses, they have all been erected by an ordi-
nary builder. Ford, of Rochester. In the same way none of
the old-established systems of heating have been adopted, but
one of the most recent introductions, Stevens's Trentham
boiler. Of these boilers there will be four, all placed together.
One of these heats the vineries 250 feet in length; another will
heat the Peach, Fig, and Strawberry houses, together with
the^egetable forcing pits, making a total of about 500 feet ;
another heats the range of Orchid houses, 250 feet by 22 feet ;
and the fourth heats the pits, 250 feet long. ■

The Orchid houses contain the splendid collection Lord
Londesborough has been for some years forming at Grimston,
and of which it is needless to particularise the names. All
the various families are thoroughly well represented, and the
Council-room at South Kensington bears witness to the skill with
which they are cultivated. All looked in excellent health and
gave promise of future triumph. The forcing pits were admir-
ably contrived, and from these there have to be suppUed every
week twenty dozen of forced plants in pots, besides cut flowers
for room and table-decoration; it will not be surprising then to
hear, that for this purpose alone 20,000 plants are required annu-
ally. From these pits also come French Beans, Cucumbers,
Asparagus, and the various delicate vegetables which modern
luxury demands at seasons when Nature in her ordinary course
will not produce them for us. For the same purpose Mr. Den-
ning has a large number of the Grimston plant-protector. This
is of wood and glass, and portable, so that it can be removed in
a few minutes to any part of the garden, and is economical, for
800 feet of these have been made for £23 ; but although they
are thus light and easily moved, I think I prefer the Acme
Frame of Mr. Looker for these purposes. Outside, the ground
is being brought into order, so as to form a vegetable and fruit
garden, and as the land is good, it wUl, no doubt, prove by-
and-by productive.

The expenditure already made on this ground cannot be
less than from £8000 to £10,000, and when we recollect the
purposes for which it is done, betokening all through a real
love of flowers, it cannot but be conceded that Lord Londes-
borough is a munificent patron of horticulture, and that
among the many names so freely canvassed at late meetings,
none would be more popular than his to be connected in some
way, not involving much labour, with the Royal Horticultural
Society, whose meetings he does so much to make attractive.
— D., Deal.

FLOWERS FOK OUR BOKDEES.— No. 1.

MncH do we rejoice to notice throughout the gardens of the
three United Kingdoms a revival of the taste for border
flowers. We have not a word to pen against bedding-out and
ribbon borders, but we have many words to pen in favour of
mixed flower borders. They " admit a profusion of ornament,
are fit for the reception of every elegance, and require the
nicest preservation." They may be arranged so as to be
attractive at all seasons of the year, and we now commence
pubUshing a series of drawings, descriptions, and details of
culture that will assist our readers in the good work.

OX.VLIS CEr.NDA— DROopraci Wood Sokeel.

In the very pretty genus Oxahs we have an extensive assem-
blage of plants of so interesting a character, that it cannot
but excite surprise that of more than one hundred species
known to botanists, so few should be seen in general cultiva-
tion. The habit of the whole is remarkably neat and dwarf,
their colours comprise nearly every imaginable shade, and the
simplicity of their culture is such, that the veriest novice can
hardly fail in their successful treatment. A few only of the
species are perfectly hardy, but a considerable number may be
grown in the open borders during the summer and autumn ;
of many, however, the flowers are produced at so early a
season of the year, that they are chiefly cultivated in pots,
for which all of them are admirably suited, and it is from
tills section of the genus that our illustration is taken.

The Oxalis ccrnua possesses in a high degree the quahlJcations
we have attributed to the whole genus ; its flowers are of the
purest yellow, of a delicious .Tasmine-liko fragrance, and
produced in greater abundance than in any other species of
our acquaintance. On a bright sunny morning a pot of this

plant will present up to noon a perfect blaze of beauty ; but, as
in the case of the rest of the genus, its flowers remain closed
in cloudy weather, or where no direct sunshine penetrates.

As in most of the other species, the root is a small bulb,
from which arises a very short underground stem or stipe, to
which the leaf-stalks are articulated. The leaflets, sprinkled
with russet brown spots, are so broadly heart-shaped that they
may be termed two-lobed, which, with its many-flowered umbel,
serves to distinguish it among the stemless species. WhOe
young the leaflets are, at the approach of evening, folded back
against the petiole, expanding with the return of the morning
light ; but the older leaves appear to lose gradually this sensi-
bility to the solar radiations, and remain folded under all cir-
cumstances.

Oxalis cei-nua.

The umbel of flowers, consisting of eight to twelve blossoms
sometimes more, is supported on a smooth peduncle, or, to
speak more correctly, scape, 6 or 8 inches long ; and as each
bulb throws uji at least half-a-dozen scapes in succession, the
flowering season of the plant may be fairly said to extend
over a period of two months.

Cultivation. — After blooming the plants should be exposed
in a sunny corner out of doors, water being gradually with-
held. By degrees the leaves will assume a yellow tint, and
finally fall off ; and in this condition the pots containing the
bulbs should be placed aside, and kept perfectly dry uutil the
season arrives for repotting them. If the ball of earth be
now examined, a strong fibre may be traced from the surface-
bulb quite to the bottom of the pot, and usually terminated
by a cluster of young bulbs, each of the size of a nut. A pot
planted originally with three bulbs will often contain, after
flowering, a dozen or more full-sized roots, so that abundant
facilities are offered for its propagation. At the base of the
old bulb, which perishes, and also upon the short stipe pro-
ceeding from it, small ofi'sets are often produced ; but they are
too minute to be available for the ready increase of the plant.
At the end of September, about which time the roots will
begin to gi'ow, they may be repotted iu sandy loam, with a
httle peat or leaf mould, planting them, if large, singly iu a
4-inch pot about an inch below the surface ; but it is preferable
to place from three to five or six bulbs in one of rather larger
diameter, a good drainage of potsherds or fragments of char-
coal being indispensable. If the weather is mild the pots may
remain in a warm nook out of doors, due precaution being
taken to protect the plants from those pests of the gardener —
slugs, siiuils, and wonns ; but on the approach of frosts they
should Vte removed either to a cold frame, or, in the absence
of this, to a cool window of south aspect, where plenty of air
can be admitted in mild weather. A dry hot atmosphere is
injurious to the plant; it should, therefore, be grown at a com-
paratively low temperature, and be removed to the sitting-room

Jta-oli 6, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OF HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

199

only -when about to flower. If potted at the period named it
usually begins to blossom about the end of March ; but this
d-epends in some degree on the temperature in which it has
been kept. If the roots were preserved in a dry state untU
January or February, we think it highly probable that they
might be planted in the open borders with the protection of a
hand-Ught, and would then flo\j-er in May and June, but without
this covering it would be imprudent to risk the bulbs. The
treatment of all the winter and spring-flowering species may
be assimilated to that of the O. cernua.

Our plant is not a recent introduction, having been brought,
as long since as the year 17G7, from the Cape of Good Hope,
of which country nearly one-half the species are natives. The
trivial name of the plant is by no means distinctive, for there
are many species the flowers of which droop before expansion ;
nor is the term more applicable to the leaves.

The genus derives its name from the Greek word o.rys, sour
•or sharp, in allusion to the acid properties of many of the
species, due to the presence in their tissues of oxalic acid,
usually combined with potash. It is scarcely necessary for us
to oba^rve in these days of diffused chemical knowledge that
the potash is the only constituent of the combination thus
formed (termed by chemists the binoxalate of potash) that is
derived from the soil, the oxalic acid being elaborated in the
plant through the agency of the carbonic acid of the atmo-
sphere, that grand store-house from which are drawn the
elements of every vegetable product. Formerly the expressed
juice of the Oxalis AoetoseUa was employed in the preparation
•of this salt — the salts of sorrel of commerce — but the re-
sources of modern science have long since led to the substitu-
tion of more certain and cheaper methods of procuring it.

Nor is the genus Oxalis the only one in which this acid
occurs, for it is constantly present in the common Sorrel,
Bumex Acetosa, in the roots of the Gentian family, and also
in some species of Saponaria ; in combination with lime it
exists in the Rhubarb stalks ; and in several kinds of Lichen,
such as Parmelia and Variolaria, the oxalate of lime is so
abundant, that it forms a hard skeleton or crust. — | W. Thomi'-
Son's English Flower Garden.)

CHOICE GREENHOUSE EHODODENDEONS.
No. 2.

Ehododendkon Pkincess Royal. — A. dwarf compact plant
of great beauty. The umbels of bloom are long and funnel-
shaped, and rich rose in colour. This I have seen bloom twice
an the year. A garden variety.

R. Princess Alice. — Most of our Royal Princesses would
seem to have one of these beautiful hybrids dedicated to them,
and this is a perfect gem. It would seem to belong to the
group of which E. ciliatum is the type; dwarf in growth, with
small foliage, it becomes perfectly covered with its bell-
shaped flowers, which are pure white within, the outside of
the petals being suffused with rosy pink ; added to this, they
are deliciously sweet.

R. Princess Mary. — This is a beautiful hybrid, of compact
growth and profuse blooming habit. The flowers are produced
in terminal umbels, and are pure white within, but suffused on
the outside of the petals with rosy carmine. A very desirable
variety.

R. Countess of Haddington. — A hybrid of robust habit of
growth, forming a much-branched handsome shrub or small
tree. The foliage is ample and dark green, the umbels of
bloom are numerous, and the individual flowers large, often
measuring :■! inches in diameter, with a spreading Umb, pure
white, softly tinged with blush, and deliciously fragrant. It
is the result of a cross between K. ciliatum and E. Dalhousie-
anum, and blooms during March, April, and May.

R. .Tenkinsii. — This is a fine species, forming a handsome
much-branched shrub, or, perhaps, it may better be called a
small tree, as it attains a lieight of 0 or 7 feet. The leaves
are oblong-lanceolate, coriaceous in texture, slightly waved at
the margins, and bright dark green in colour. Flowers large,
snow white, measuring between 3 and i inches in diameter, of
fleshy substance, and lasting long in beauty. It is a native of
Bhootan.

E. BooTHii. — Another of the fine Bhootan kinds, growing
some 5 or 0 feet in height. The leaves are somewhat small,
oblong, or inclining to ovate, with a rounded base ; they are
coriaceous in texture, furnished at the edges with a few brown
hairs, the upper side bright shining green, paler below. The
young shoots are also clothed with a brown woolly tomentum.

which, however, disappears with age. Trusses terminal, bear-
ing from six to nine medium-sized, clear, soft yellow flowers
of good substance and great beauty.

E. Henkvanusi. — A garden hybrid, produced between R. Ses-
terianum and R. Dalhousieauum. It is a plant well meriting
a place in every greenhouse. The flowers are large and of
good form, pure snow white, and deliciously sweet.

R. WiNDSom. — This is a beautiful species, but one which is
too seldom seen in our conservatories. It forms a very hand-
some much-branched shrub or small tree. The foliage is
somewhat small and dense, oblong-lanceolate in shape, and
acuminate, deep green above, paler below. The trusses of
bloom are very compact, the flowers themselves being glowing
deep crimson in colour. Native of Bhootan.

E. WiNDSORi leucanthum. — A variety of the preceding, but
it does not owe its origin to the skill of the cultivator, having
originated in its native country. It differs from the normal
form in its smaU lanceolate-acuminate leaves, which are deep
green above and glaucous below, and in the flowers themselves
being pure white. In habit of growth it resembles the species,
and attains to about the same dimensions.

E. Dennisonii. — A compact-growing, much-branched plant.
Leaves ample, medium-sized, bright dark green on the upper
surface, but paler beneath. It blooms very freely, the flowers
being large, pure white, saving the upper petals, which are
stained with soft sulphur yellow. It is a garden hybrid of
great beauty, the result of a cross between E. Dalhousieauum
and E. Edgworthii.

E. javaniccm. — A very fine species, of dwarf compact habit.
Leaves some 4 inches long, and nearly 2 broad, ovate-lanceo-
late in shape, and acuminate, fleshy in texture, deep, almost
bronzy, green on the upper side, hght green beneath. Flowers
large, of good substance, and bright orange in colour. It is a
charming plant. Native of the mountains of Java.

E. jAVANicrM angustifolu'm. — A variety of the preceding,
often called Veitch's variety to distinguish it from the preced-
ing, which is called RoUisson's, the respective forms having
been introduced by these firms. In this plant the leaves are
somewhat narrower, and the flowers are rich dark orange in
colour, rendering it both attractive and desirable. Native of
Java.

E. NuTT-iLLii. — We now come to a magnificent species. Al-
though, perhaps, not one of the most compact-growing kinds,
it is, nevertheless, well deserving a place in every conservatory.
The foliage is large, being from 9 to 12 inches in length, and
4 or 5 in breadth, ovate-oblong in shape, thick and leathery
in texture, the upper surface being deep green and much cor-
rugated, the under side suffused with reddish pink whUe
the leaves are young, which changes to hght green with age.
The trusses of bloom are very large, frequently bearing eight
or nine flowers each, measuring G inches in diameter ; these
are of good substance, pure white within, reUeved by a golden
centre, suffused with lilac rose without, and very fragrant.
This noble species is a native of Bhootan.

R. HoDGSONii. — This, although a most beautiful species,
still remains amongst the rarer kinds of the genus. It forms
a compact and handsome shrub or smaU tree. The leaves
vary from 6 to 12 inches in length, and are bluntly obovate,
coriaceous, and dark green, but the under side of the leaf is
clothed with a white tomentum. The trusses of bloom are
large, round, and termiual ; the flowers are campauulate and
of tine form, the prevailing colour rose and white, more or
less suffused with purple. It is a lovely ornament to the
gi-eenhous^. Native of Sikkim Himalaya.

E. Maddeni. — A compact dwarf-growing shrub, seldom, as
far as my own observation goes, exceeding 4 feet in height,
and as it blooms freely even when quite small, it is well suited
to the requirements of those with very limited space. The
leaves are lanceolate and acute, medium-sized, smooth and
dark green on the upper side, whilst beneath they are clothed
with a short ferruginous tomentum. The flowers are large
and freely produced, tubular, with somewhat pointed lobes at
the spreading bell-shaped mouth, where they measure upwards
of 3 inches in diameter. Colour pure white, tinged with rosy
pink on the upper segment. In addition the flowers are very
fragrant. It blooms during April and May, lasting many weeks
in full beauty. Native of Sikkim Himalaya.

R. Falcoxeri.— Although this species is only suitable for
those possessed of large conservatories, the plant is of such
noble aspect, that it seems worse than sacrilege to omit it
from an enumeration of this kind ; moreover, it is sulliciently
hardy to stand in the open ah, but unless it is placed in some

200

JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t Maich 6, 1873.

very sheltered situation it presents a woe-begone appearance,
on account of the wind breaking and tearing its large leaves
into ribbons, and therefore where so grown it must be protected
from the wind. In a state of nature it attains the height of a
tree. The leaves are upwards of a foot long, and about
G inches broad, bluntly obovate in shape, and coriaceous in
texture ; the upper side is deep green, but clothed below with
a deep brown tomentum. The heads of bloom are very large
and terminal, flowers large, campanulate, and snowy white,
saving the upper lobes, which are suffused with rosy purple.
It is a superb species, but I warn amateurs that it will not
hloom in a young state. Native of the mouutain of Tonglo,
at 10,000 feet elevation in Silskim Himalaya. — Expeeto Ceede.

KOYAL HOETICULTUKAL SOCIETY.

Nothing has yet been definitely settled by the Council as to
the course they intend to pursue. Their desh-e is to resign in
a body, and to enable them to do so we beheve it is con-
templated to summon a special meeting of the Fellows to pass
a bye-law to that effect. We are further informed that this is
the only way by which they can take power to themselves to
resign. Without professing to be sufficiently well informed on
the subject, we doubt if the Council can take the course they
have indicated. We conceive that the Council having been
elected, and having voluntarily accepted office for a year, they
are in the position of Trustees of the Society, and cannot re-
sign as _ a body. The Charter, although it provides for the
resignation of individual members under certain conditions,,
makes no provision for the resignation of the whole body, and
we doubt very much if any bye-law especially framed to meet
the case is legal, being contrary to the spirit of the Charter.

It is very proper that the Council having voluntarily ac-
cepted the trust for a year, should not be permitted to abandon
the Society and to leave it without a head. Supposing the
Council to resign, who is qualified to take the initiative ? No
individual Fellow can do so, and certainly no body of Fellows,
which must be self-constituted can do so, because any meeting
which is not called by a Council must be an uncoustitutional
body, and if no Council exists there cannot be a constitutional
meeting. We do not see how the Council can resign under
any arrangement that is contemplated, except by an appli-
cation to the Court of Chancery.

A\Tiether they remain, or whether they retire and are suc-
ceeded by a new body, we sincerely trust that the poUey we
indicated in our last to separate from the Royal Commission-
ers will be carried out. Year after year the relationship be-
tween the two bodies becomes more embittered and action
more difficult. The Royal Commissioners have schemes of
their own they wish to develope, and the Royal Horticultural
Society stands in the way, and, being treated as the little
brother or small boy of the party, has to yield and make con-
cessions that are adverse to its independence and humiliating
to its position. It is no gain to the Society to remain in the
close connection with the Royal Commissioners as these are
now constituted, and with the policy they act upon. Had the
lamented Prince Consort been spared to carry out his enlight-
ened views in his own way, the Royal Horticultural Society
would have found a friend to lu'oteet and a wise counsellor to
direct it ; but since his death the Society has been forced to
fight against aggression on all hands. This being the state of
matters, would it not be better for all parties that a separation
took place ? There need be no difficulty provided both sides
agree, and the terms upon which it is carried out could easily
be settled by those who are experienced in cases of arbitration.
The Society has expended on the estate of the Commissioners
a sum of upwards of £70,000. It owes a debenture debt of
£50,000, for the half of which the Commissioners are liable.
There is an unexpired term of eighteen years of the lease still
to run, and at the expiration of the lease the Commissioners
have to pay the Society .1:15,000 in the event of non-renewal.
Taking these facts into consideration, it is a question to be
settled as to what compensation the Society is to receive for
the surrender of the lease. It is only those who are profession-
ally accustomed to the settlement of these questions who are
competent to say what compensation is due to the Society ;
and no doubt, if such a negotiation is entered upon, the solu-
tion will be easily arrived at. But there are certain stipulations
in the arrangement we should not like to be lost sight of.
The Society on going back to the old home should reserve the
right to hold the fortnightly meetings at South Kensington,
an office and a room for the reception of the Lindley Library ;

and as regards the great summer shows, these may be matter.?
of arrangement with the Commissioners, who, in oui' opinion,,
would find it theh' interest to subsidise the Society to hold,
their great shows in the garden at South Kensington. We
cannot imagine any attraction that will be more effeciive than
these flower shows ; and there is always this alternative with
the Society — if the Commissiooers decline to receive them,
there are other public bodies who are willing to do so.

If the Council insist on retiring, and they succeed in doing
so by any arrangement whatever, then it will be the duty of
the Fellows to elect their successors ; and we fervently hops
that they, whoever they may be, will be pledged on accepting
office to enter into immediate negotiations with the Royal
Commissioners to bring about a separation between the two-
bodies.

Since the above was in type we are informed that the Council
will submit new Bye-laws to a General Meeting about the 26tlt
of March, enabling them to resign in a body.

I WAS sorry to see the objection raised by "A Yeuy Old-
F.R.H.S." to the nomination of Lord Alfred Churchill on the
CouncU of the Royal Horticultural Society. It could only
have been on the ground that titled members of the Council
habitually neglect the duties of their office, and that as a
matter of course Lord Alfred would do so likewise. I have
been a co-director with him on four different public companies,
and I can say that I know of few who give more scrupulous
attention to the interest he represents than his Lordship ; and
as regards practical interest in horticulture, I know that in
his large garden at St. Helen's, Sandhurst, he is truly a prac-
tical horticulturist. — A. A. C.

Will "Not a F.R.H.S.," kindly name some. Fellows in
and about London — good horticulturists, who will have the
welfare of the gardening community at heart, and competent
men of business who will be able to attend the Council of the
Royal Horticultural Society if nominated and elected ? Those
who will step forward to put their shoulders manfully to the
wheel to help on the horticultural waggon will be doing good
service. 'I named Mr. Hole as one whom most horticulturists
would rally round, my object being to break down the system
by which the Council elected themselves ; the Fellows — i.e.,
the Society, virtually having no voice in the matter. If I had
known what I do now it would have been an easy matter, I
think, to have elected the first day whom we choose. As,,
however, the CouncU has since broken-up, it does not much-
matter, but many men have said to me privately, and some
have written publicly to say, there are plenty of competent
horticulturists about London. I say pray let us have the names.
If we want to win our cause do not dehay. — C. P. Peach.

A MEETING of the Committees of the Society was held at
Charing Cross Hotel, on the '24th of Febrnaiy, when it was re-
solved that a HoKTicuLiDiiAL Defence Committee should be
appointed, consisting of three members from the Fruit, Floral,
and Scientific Committees respectively, as follows : — Fruit
Committee : G. F. Wilson, F.R.S. ; J. Lee, Dr. Hogg. Floral
Committee : J. Fraser, B. S. Williams, T. Baines. Scientific-
Committee : R. Fortune, T. Moore, Dr. Masters, F.R.S. Hon.
Sec, H. J. Yeitch.

BOSES LA FRANCE AND MARIE BAUMANN.

Regaeding La France and Marie Baumanu from a gardener's-
point of view, that is in respect to their general utility, I would
assign both of them a high position in the first class. Marie
Baumann is certainly not a rampant grower, under good treat-
ment its growth is sufficiently robust for all practical purposes.
The whole of the plants of it under my care have thriven well,
and some of them produced last autumn stout shoots upwards
of "2 feet long, and then its possession of fine form and gorgeous
colour no one can deny ; even its disparagers in your columns
are prudently silent on these points.

The merits of La France in every point are so great that
when repeatedly admiring it, and hearing others unanimously
loud in its praises, one never contemplates the possibility of
having to defend it. Of an extensive collection embracing
most of the best kinds. La France certainly took the leading
position last season, every plant of it producing a profusion of
fine, full, and very sweet-scented flowers. Baroness Roths-
child is a bold, striking, and very beautiful variety, but it is

March C, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HOETICULTURK AND COTTAGE GARDENEK.

201

not equal to La France in form, fulness, colour, or scent.
The liist-uamed property of La France is especially noteworthy
and renders it an especial favourite with the ladies, after which
conclusive argument nothing more need be said, for, depend
upon it, when a Kose has the benefit of such patronage it will
•continue a favourite in spite of adverse criticisms. — ^Edwakd

JJUCKHUHST.

James also sent fine potfuls, and from the same exhibitors like-
wise came groups of six. Mr. Goddard was first in the two
classes, Mr. James second.

The next class was for six pots of Lily of the Valley. There
were only two exhibitors — viz., Mr. James and Mr. George, who
had each very good pots. Mr. James was first, Mr. George
second.

EOYAL HOETICULTURAL SOCIETY'S SHOW
AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS.

Makch 5th.
NoTwiTHSTAMDiSG the present crisis in the aft'airs of the
Society — a crisis more serious than has ever before occurred,
many as its vicissitudes have been, it was evident from the
manner in which horticulturists came forward on this occasion,
irom the truly splendid display which they produced on a
■day when such could be least expected, and from the strong
numbers in which they mustered from all quarters, that they
are thoroughly determined to support the Society in its legiti-
mate direction, " the promotion of horticulture in all its
branches, ornamental as well as useful." It was further evident,
that whatever changes may take place, these changes, if for
the advancement of horticulture, will have a large and influ-
ential support — a support that will insure the most beautiful
products of our gardens being abundantly represented in per-
fection at all seasons, and which, too, must carry on a tide of
success that body which is so fortunate to secure it. With its
many successes, and despite of many failures, the Society has
■ done great things for Britain and British horticulture, and not
for British horticulture only, but the horticulture of the world.
It has brought before the world great things and great men ;
and on whomsoever the mantle of Josiah Wedgwood and Sir
-Joseph Banks, Sabine and Lindlej% and many others, all de-
parted, may fall, we doubt not that among those living there
■are plenty to carry out the great work they so well and com-
:prehensively began. The Eoyal Horticultural Society is an
institution which neither our o%\'u nor other countries can
spare; it has the wide world for its sphere of usefulness, but
England alone should be sufficient to maintain it first among
the horticultural institutions of the world. If they but unite
as one, they will effect that object without extraneous aid ;
■and if they have to effect it alone, to them be the honour, to
•others the shame.

Passing now to the Show, which was held partly in the en-
"trance hall, partly in the Council-room, it was, as already ob-
■served, unusually extensive for the time of year, and it must
also be remarked unusually brilUaut. The Cyclamens were an
-exhibition of themselves, and the Orchids were even more
gorgeous, if less numerous, than at a summer show, whilst
Messrs. Veitch's and Mr. Paul's CamelUas — the first as large
plants, the second as small ones — were a most beautiful
■feature.

In former years, at corresponding shows. Camellias in pots
have been represented either by small or poor specimens. On
this occasion, however, Messrs. Veitch sent an excellent half-
dozen, consisting of bushy specimens, about i\ feet high, of
Bonomiana, Leon Leguay, and Teutouia alba, full of bloom and
"buds, together with smaller plants of Donckelaari, Fimbriata,
and Augustina superba. A first prize was awarded.

In Classes 2 and 3, for twelve and six cut blooms respectively,
Mr. George, gardener to Miss Nicholson, Putney Heath, had
good stands, includiugElegans.Albaplena, Mathotiana, Countess
■of Orkney, and Donckelaari. Mr. Grant, gardener to J. B. Glegg,
Esq., Withingtou Hall, Congleton, sent very good specimens of
Countess of Orkney, Miss Glegg, Storyii, Mrs. Abbey Wilder,
taking first for six, and second for twelve blooms. Mr. William
Paul, Waltham Cross, sent three magnificent stands containing
tweuty-one varieties, thi-ee blooms of each. These were not for
■competiticn.

In Class 4, six forced shrubs, Mr. George, gardener to Miss
Nicholson, was first with good specimens of Azaleas, Rhododen-
drons, and Andromeda floribunda, the last very fine.

The next ^lass, for collections of Cyclamens, formed a splen-
■did exhibition of itself. Mr. Goddard, gardener to H. Little,
Esq., Cambridge Villa, Twickenham, had a magnificent collec-
■tion consisting of pots extremely full of bloom, and very brilliant
in colour. On one plant there was a liower which had a cock's-
■comb-shaped flower with more than twice the usual number of
segments. Mr. James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., Isle-
worth, also sent a numerous and very good collection. Mr. Smith,
Ealing Dean Nursery, also sent one consisting of smaller plants.
Mr. Goddard was first, Mr, James second, and Mr. Smith third.
In groups of twelve Mr. Goddard again exhibited magnificent
specimens, most of which had a hundred or more flowers ; Mr.

Fkuit CoinnTTEE. — G. P. Wilson, Esq., F.K.S., in the chair •
Mr. Bannerman, gardener to Lord Bagot, sent thi-ee bunches of
Lady Downe's Grapes in excellent preservation, but deficient in
colour. Mr. John Eade, gardener to Dr. Bennett, The Grove,
Weybridge, sent a specimen of the Horned Orange, which is
distinguished by the carpels being developed beyond the surface,
and forming projecting horns on the fruit, tn the specimen
exhibited there was only one horn developed. Mr. Francis
Dancer, of Chiswick, sent specimens of Reinette de Caux, a
French Apple, which is said to be a great bearer. It was of
good flavour for so late in the season. He also sent fine ex-
amples of Northern Greening and Dumelow's Seedling. A fine
bundle of Asparagus was sent by Mr. Miles, The Gardens,
Wycombe Abbey, to which a cultural certificate was awarded.

Mr. Picirillo, of Wigmore Street, sent a collection of Nea-
politan vegetables, consisting of the BroccoHs CavoU Romani
and Naples Champion, Finocchi Naples Flat Endive, Cabbage
Lettuce, early Peas, Nocera Carrots, White Radish, spring
Onions, and Lemons. A letter of thanks was awarded to the
exhibitor.

Prizes were oiJered for single bunches of early Grapes, also
for single dishes of Asparagus, Sea-kale, and h hubarb, but no
one came forward to claim them. For late Graphs, Mr. Banner-
man, gardener to Lord Bagot, Blithfield, was first with a fine
bunch of Black Alicante, showing also two others almost equally
good, not for competition, likewise six bunches of Lady Downe's.
Mr. Sage, gardener to Earl Brownlow, Ashridge, was second with
the same kind ; and Mr. A. Parsons, gardener to W. J. Blake,
Esq., Danesbury, third.

FL0E.ii, Committee. — W. Marshall, Esq. in the chair. Messrs.
Veitch, of King's Road, Chelsea, exhibited a collection of thirty-
six pot Roses beautifully flowered, the fohage and flowers fresh
and clean. The best sorts were Dr. Andry, Madame Fillion,
John Hopper, Beauty of Waltham, Mdlle. Marie Eady, Pierre
Netting, Madame 'Willermoz (Tea), very beautiful, Duke of
Wellington, dark velvety crimson, besides which there were
other popular varieties. The same firm had a fine bank of
Orchids backed with Palms. The beautiful Dendrobium Wardi-
anum had two flowering spikes with seventeen and ten flowers
on the spike. A cultural certificate was awarded for this. Odon-
toglossum Andersonianum was shown with a fine spike; one
peculiarity of this kind is that the flowers open pale yeUow,
and change with age to a creamy white ; both characteristics
were to be observed at this meeting, an excellent spike with
newly-opened flowers being exhibited in Lord Londesborough's
collection. Odontoglossum nebulosuni pardinum, a form having
the sepals and petals deusely covered w*ith large brown spots,
had a first-class certificate. The same award was given to a
Lfelia, but with the growths quite distinct from L. ciunabarina.
A first-class certificate was likewise given for Asplenium longis-
simum. An extra prize was given to Messrs. Veitch for this
collection.

Mr. W. Bull, of Chelsea, sent a nice collection of exotic plants,
amongst them a remarkable Aroid, Amorphophallus Rivieri,
with a finely-developed spathe. There were, besides, an ex-
cellent Palm for table decoration, Diemonorops pericantha, and
Odontoglossum Pescatorei superbum, a very fine form of the
species. An extra prize was given to the collection.

Mr. C. May, gardener to J. S. Brockett, Esq., Muswell Hill,
sent a fine group of Orchids, comprising a large specimen of
Ccelogyne cristata, the magnificent large yellow Oncidium ma-
cranthum, Cypripedium niveum and its variety superbum, Odon-
toglossum Andersoni, a fine Cattleya Warsoewiczii, the pure
white Masdevallia tovarensis, excellent examples of Odonto-
glossum Alexandra;, Ladia anceps, and Oncidium cucullatum,
also a species of Odontoglossum with large pale yellow and brown
flowers, which received a first-class certificate. A cultural cer-
tificate was awarded for the collection.

From Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord Londesborough, came
a magnificent collection of Orchids, which received a cultural
commendation. It comprised remarkably fine examples of the
beautiful white and yellow Cymbidium eburneum, a variety
of Ccelogyne cristata with lemon colour instead of orange in the
lip, Cattleya Triaufe Ruckeri, Lycaste Skinneri, and Odonto-
glossum Andersoni, together with Vanda gigantea and Bolbo-
phyUum siamense.

Messrs. EolUsson it Sons also sent a group of Orchids, com-
prising very good examples of Vanda suavis, Phabenopsis Schil-
leriana, Cypripedium vUlosum, and Dendrobium Wardianum
the last-named especiaU}- striking.

202

JOUENAIi OP HORTICDLTDBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t March 6, 187S.

From Mr. Williams came a splendid gronp of Palms, Orchids,
and ether plants, notable amonf? which were a line Imanto-
phyllum miuiatum, the splendid blue Tillandsia Lindeui, Tri-
chopilia suavis, and Vanda insignis. Mr. Laurence, gardener to
Bishop Sumner, Farnham Castle, had a cultural certificate for
a specimen of Dendrochilum glumaceum measuring more than
a yard in diameter.

Mr. William Paul, of Waltham Cross, sent a superb coUec-
•tion of Camellias in 5 and (j-inch pots, with large and extremely
beautiful flowers, and remarkably healthy foliage ; Ukewise a
fine gi'oup of his large pure white Primula, Waltham White,
which had before received a certificate. From Mr. James, of
Isleworth, came also a very fine group of Primulas. From Mr.
H. Herbst, Nurseryman, Richmond, came a small group of
young Palms, and the neat little white-flowered Spiraea Thun-
bergi ; also a group of Palms and forced shrubs, such as Lilacs,
Deutzias, Spirfea japonica, and Indian Azaleas, as well as a box
of forced LUy of the Valley, Mr. Ware, Hale Farm Nursery,
Tottenham, contributed an interesting gi'oup of hardy flowering
and ornamental fohage plants. Mr. R. Dean, Eahug and Bed-
font, had a first-class certificate for a very pretty hardy Primula,
called Violet Gem, having beautiful violet purple flowers, and a
like award for Primula vulgaris auricula-flora with maroon
crimson flowers.

Mr. Croucher, gardener to J. Peacock, Esq., Sudbury House,
Hammersmith, had first-class certificates for Agave Kerchovii,
A. Baxterii, and A. perbella. Mr. Green, gardener to W. Wilson
Saunders, Esq., had a like award for a more handsome example
of the last-named. Messrs. Standish & Co., of Ascot, exhibited
a branch of Clematis indi\nsa lobata, a charming cool greenhouse
climber, which withstands several degrees of frost, and which
forms, we understand, quite a feature on the roof of one of th©ir
houses at Ascot.

GLASS EOOFS.

I PEESU5IE that other horticulturists besides myself have
had good reason to complain of the effects of atmospheric
changes on the paint and putty of their glass roofs. We have
12,000 feet of glass roofing, 7000 of which are painted and
glazed with putty on the old and unsatisfactory jjlan, and
5000 on the plan I am about to describe, and for which I took
out a patent a few years since, and which, after completing
my invention, I allowed to be used by the public. As it is
difficult to give correct ideas of this mode of glazing without
drawings, I will merely draw attention to the most important
features of this imperishable roof. The rafters are grooved
half an inch deep on one side and one-thh'd ou the other
side. This, in case of breakage, allows of a sheet of glass being
inserted without interfering with the other glass. After the
rafters have been fixed, the glass is slipped down, and lapped
a quarter of an inch ; in order to make each lap fit well, every
sheet of glass is matched on a plane board before it is slipped
into the grooves, then every flat sheet is matched to a flat
one, and every curved one to a curved one. This, if properly
done, will make the laps almost airtight; but if it is necessary
to make the work more complete, then Hoare's varnish, kept
liquid by hot water, may be applied to the inner part of the
lap, as oil is applied to the sewing machine. This causes the
laps to be thoronghly airtight and watertight. After the glass
has been inserted putty is used to till up the grooves; this
makes very solid work, and the putty is never affected by frost,
as I have proved by experience. The rafters are not painted,
they are prepared by placing them in a trough, where boiling
creosote is poured on them ; here they are allowed to remain
two hours, the creosote is then drawn-off and boiled again,
and again poured on : if it be drawn-off in about half an hour,
and the rafters then taken out, they will be dry in a day, and
fit for use. In six months afterwards they may be painted,
hut the brown colour of the creosoted wood has not an un-
pleasant appearance ; at all events you have the pleasant re-
flection that it will not cost you anything more for putty
or paint. — Observer.

and should be kept near the glass, or the plants will be likely t©
damp-off. — 0. Oepet.

Lobelia pumil.^ graxdifloe.^. — I used this Lobelia last season
for beddiug-out, and I can most strongly recommend it for
small beds. It does not come true from seed, but it is easily
propagated by cuttings. I obtained a small plant in the month
of June, from whic^h I took about a hundred cuttings, and put
them in a cold frame. They made nice plants by tlae autumn.
I let them remain in the cutting-pans until the following
spring, then divided them, and had enough and to spare. I
gave some to my neighbours, and they were delighted with it.
It will do best in a warm place through the winter moutbs^^

POLYANTHUS CULTUEE.

I SEND you the method by which I grow my PolyanthusGB
in beds. I take the soil out of the bed 18 inches deep, and I
put a thick layer of old horse dung at the bottom. Then I
mix the soil from the bed with old turf, leaf mould, and good
sharp sand, well mixed together in equal proportions, and I
put it on the horse dung on the bed where the plants are to
flower. I put the horse dung at the bottom of the bed, be-
cause I find the plants always strike down to it, and they
flower much stronger. The situation that I always find the
best is a shady border under a hedge, where they are screened
from the hot sun. The Polyanthus is often killed by red
spider : to avoid which, as soon as possible, 1 lift them from'
the frame with a good ball of earth, and take care not to break
the young roots off them. I plant them 10 inches apart.
When in flower I shade them from the hot sun, and the
flowers consequently keep fresh much longer. Crossing for
seed should be done from twelve to two o'clock. Impregnation
is more effectual when done at this time. The plants that I
save seed from are those that I bloom in pote in a frame, and
from which bees are kept. The best-marked flowers, with the
best tubes — such as Lord Lincoln, Beauty, George IV., King-
fisher, C. Allsebrook, and President — are good to breed from,
as they seed freely. I am sure if any of my Polyanthus friends
will try those sorts, they will find them excellent. I have my-
self two thousand plants of seedlings to flower this spring, and
something like forty kinds to plant out to try again, that were
very promising last spring. Some of them I expect to be fine.

To raise a good stock I make up a hotbed in my large frame,,
and put C inches of leaf mould in it. Twelve days after, when the-
heat has subsided, I take my plants up and ilivide them. The
latter end of July is the best time for this operation. Take
care that there are no old roots left to them, as they are often
cankered, and do the plants no good. It does not matter if
there be no roots to them at all, as they soon make new roots
when put in heat. I give them a good soaking with water,,
and keep them close for about twelve or fourteen days ; then
I give a little air for a few days, afterwards I take the lights
off altogether till the end of September, and then put the
lights on for the winter. I generally sow my seed the first
week of March in well-drained pans. Fill the pan with leaf
mould and turf, and a little sand on the top. In this I sow
my seed, just covering it over, and give it a good watering,
and put it in the frame till it comes up. As soon as the young
plants form rough leaves, I put them out of doors till the latter
end of June, then I plant them in beds, where they remain
till they flower. Inferior sorts I pull up as they flower. If
any of my Polyanthus friends will send to me in -Vpril, I shall
be glad to send them a box of flowers of named kinds, and
some of my seedlings to look at. — Willia.m Aelseeeook (ju
I'lie Gardener.)

THE SELECTION OF EOSES.
The letters by Mr. K. W. Beachey are a perfect delight, tar
he puts so clearly and forcibly the exact sentiments of real
Eose-growing amateurs, and I, as well as many others, have
had to pay much to find out what ho so admirably tells. In
the absence of some such table of different cpialities as he sets
forth, most of the lists sent in are short of their greatest
value ; if they had those different qualities appended, each
grower might select Roses for the exact qualities he most pre-
fers. The Rose merchants themselves would be the most
benefited, I believe, by such unmistakeable and well-defined
qualities being clearly set forth, for then all would get what
they wish, and many would be saved the disappointment that
leads to their giving up growing Roses at all. I speak from
costly experience, and am confident this is the truth, and hope
you will work this matter to an issue a.s pointed out by Mr.
Beachey ; for this course would certainly lead to a very large
additional growth and demand for the queen of flowers. —
S. S.

CHAJLEEOPS FOETUNEI.

YorR correspondent Mr. J. Robson, in writing upon the non-
advisability of planting this Palm in the open air, does not, I
think, make out a case against either the hardiness or tho

Morcti e, 1878 ]

JODENAL OP HORTICDLTWRE AND COTTAGE GAKDENER.

20B

beauty of the Chinese Chamajrops ; indeed, if a case of any
liind is made out against anything, the verdict would seem to
bo unfavourable to your correspondent, who planted the Palms
out of doors without at first protecting them from rude storms,
and still persisted in subjecting them t) cutting winds, thus
disfiguring every fresh leaf that was made, in spite of the facts
before his eyes proving that a Uttle shelter from neighbouring
shrubs was all that they required to maintain theu- pristine
. beauty.

Again, in my estimation there exists no plausible reason
why both amateurs and gardeners should not be urged to plant
this Chamierops extensively, instead of being dissuaded from
it. To refuse to plant it on account of its slow growth is, to
say the least, a very selfish reason. Our forefathers did not
argue thus when planting small Cedars of Lebanon, Oaks, and
many other slow-growing trees, otherwise we should lack the
fine specimens which now adorn the parks and gardens through-
out the length and breadth of the land.

The late Dr. Lindley was very sanguine as to the future of
this plant, and I well remember his words on the subject
delivered in the old Eegent Street rooms. He said, " I would
advise everyone to plant this newly introduced Palm exten-
sively; for I am fully convinced, if this be done, that in the
course of some twenty years the distinctness of its habit com-
bined with its thoroughly tropical aspect will quite alter our
park and woodland scenery, and render it a general favourite."
Had this advice been taken in the spirit in which it was
given, numerous fine examples would in this year of grace be
objects in the land, but in those days English plant-growers
had no love for Palms as a rule. Now that the scales have
fallen from our eyes, and we can appreciate then- beauty, we
should endeavour to make all the amends in our power for
former shortcomings.

I wish it, however, to be perfectly understood that I do not
advise Chamajrops Fortunei to be planted in the open ground
in the small state in which your correspondent seems to have
done it, and this, too, because I acknowledge the slow progress
the plants make under these circumstances and the little effect
they produce in that stage. I mtich prefer growing them in pots
and tubs for some time, using them as ornaments in the green-
house and conservatory until they attain considerable dimen-
sions, so that when finally planted in the open air they may
produce an immediate effect.

Plants intended for planting-out in spring should be kept
during the preceding winter in some structure with a northern
aspect, and in as low a temperature as possible, so that when
exposed to the sunny balmy days of spring they may burst
quickly and vigorously into growth. If, on the other hand,
they are wintered in a warm spot, the probability is the summer
will be nearly past before any growth is made, and this will be
injured during the first winter. Of course they require some
temporary shelter at first — in fact, a naturally sheltered spot
should be selected. We do as much for many other plants
which adorn our gardens, and why not for this? In winter a
little short litter laid across the crowns between the petioles
will serve to keep the snow or too much moisture from running
into the heart.

Chamasrops Fortunei is only increased by seeds, so also are
the majority of our finest Conifers, but I never heard this
raised as an objection to theu' culture. The plant annually
produces a quantity of seeds in the South of Europe, and they
come up freely ; and anyone who visits the nurseries in Hol-
land, Germany, and Belgium, may see thousands of these
plants growing in various stages, from those with but a single
leaf up to good plants fit for planting out or using as summer
adornments in the subtropical garden. These are distributed
throughout the whole of Europe, great numbers finding their
way to Russia, and are used for window plants and for the
decoration of dweUing-rooms and vestibules in winter, and for
terraces, &c. , diu'ing summer, so that there is no dearth of the
species ; and had Dr. Lindley 's adrice been taken, there is not
the slightest doubt that, in our southern and western counties
especially, wo might now have possessed many fruit-bearing
trees also.

In conclusion I may add, that having had considerable expe-
rience with Palm seeds, I have found as a rule that if kept
dry very few kinds retain their vitaUty for any lengthened
period ; for however large the seed, the germ itself is usually
but a mere speck, and if this becomes shrivelled so as to leave
however small a cavity between it and the nut, vitality is
gone. This can easily be ascertained before planting by caro-
luUy paring the nut down first having found the position of

the germ. On the other hand, if kept moist and cool they
will remain a long time, but it is a dangerous practice, because
they are apt to decay ; and therefore I recommend Palm seeds
of all kinds to be put at once into strong moist heat, although
I have found this not always effectual in getting them up
quickly ; the most remarkable case which occurred with me
being some seeds of West African Raphias, which continued
starting into growth a few now and again, extending over a
period of three years and seven months. — Expekto Crede.

POBTBAITS OF PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND
FRUITS.

Bellis KOTUNDiroLi.i cSRULESCENS. Niit. onl., ComposittB.
Linn, arr., Syngenesia Superflua. — The Blue Daisy of the Atlas
Mountains. Leaves with a petiole of about 3 inches long ;
blade about an inch in length, ovate, orbicular or subcordate,
sinuate-toothed, three-nerved. Disk florets yellow ; ray florets
varying from white to pale blue. — {Dot. Mag., t. 6015.)

Ellbanthus xanthocomus. Nut. iird., OrchidacefK. Linn,
arr., Gynandria Monandria. — A native of Peru. Leaves sub-
erect, 5 to 7 inches long, lanceolate, acuminate, about ten-
nerved. Bracts yellow, tinged with green. Flowers crowded,
bright yeUow, sessile. Lip panduriform, strongly incurved. —
{Ibid., t. 6016.)

Alsomitba saecophylla. Nat. ord., Cucurbitacea:. Linn.
arc, MonceciaPentandria. — A climbing evergreen plant, native
of Burmah and Siam. Foliage fleshy, bright green. Flowers
small, very numerous. Panicles slender, axillary, pendulous,
many-flowered, greenish yellow. Flowers dioecious, ebracteate,
pale straw-coloured. — {Ibid., t. 6017.)

Beachyotum confebium. Nat. ord., Melastomaceffi. Linn,
arr., Octandria Monogynia. — Native of the Andes of Peru and
Ecuador. Flowers pendulous, each with two opposite, spread-
ing, leaf-like bracts and four decussating, orbicular, concave, ap-
pressed coriaceous ones. Four inner bracts pale yellow-green ;
outer pair suffused with red. Corolla tubular, deep violet
purple.— {Ibid., t. 6018.)

Zingiber Paeishii. Nat. ord., ScitamineK. Linn, arr.,
Monandria Monogynia. — Native of Moulmein. Stems leafing,
3 feet high, thick as a swan's quill, almost cylindrical. Leaves
with a glabrous terete sheath, and an eUiptical-oblong or lance-
olate acute blade, dark green above, paler beneath. Bracts
closely imbricated, green, with broad scarlet margins. Flow-
ers pale straw-coloirred ; the lip reticulated in squares, with
brown purple veins. — {Ibid., t. 6019.)

Cotyledon MAjiiLLAKis. Wa(. ord., Crassulacese. Linn, arr.,
Decandria Pentagynia. Stems sparingly branched, pale red-
brown, thick as the middle finger, fleshy, covered with close
prominent scars of fallen leaves. Lips recurved. Leaves
spindle-shaped, pointed, contracted at the base, quite cylin-
drical on a transverse section, smooth, glaucous green, nerve-
less. Spike a foot long, rachis dark chestnut brown. Corolla
tube dull red-brown, with five-ribbed angles, contracted at the
mouth ; hmb duU red-brown, spreading, reflexed, five-lobed. —
{Ibid f. 6020).

Iris iberica Peekvana. — " One of the most striking and
curious plants of its extensive family, and one which sooner
or later will find a place in every garden, is the Iris iberica, of
which one form is represented. Its gigantic flowers and curious
combination of colour, together with its neat dwarf habit
render it as striking as it is pretty. This plant was introduced
to English gardens by Mr. T. S. Ware, of the Hale Farm
Nursery, Tottenham, who has already bloomed several distinct
varieties. The subject of these remarks flowered during the
past season in the open ground. It is a native of the Cau-
casian Mountains, and is found growing at an elevation of
from 6000 to 7000 feet. It forms a tuft of glaucous, shghtly
recurved Unear-ensiform leaves, 3 inches to 4 inches long, and
produces a stem 4 inches to 6 inches high, surmounted by a
large sohtary flower. It has proved perfectly hardy, having
stood the past three winters without any protection whatever.
It seems to prefer a hght sandy soil, in which it grows very
freely ; and it is admirably adapted for almost any position,
either on rockwork or in the borders ; moreover, it succeeds
well as a pot plant. This vaiiety differs from the tyjie form
(as figured in the 'Botanical Magazine,' t. 5847), both in
colour and size of flower, the true I. iberica being larger, with
the outer perianth segments more erect, and the spots at the
base of a deeper colour, while the inner segments are of a
yellowish-green colour, covered with wrinkled dark purple

204

Journal of horticultuee and cottage gardener.

I March 6, 1878.

reticulatoj bauds, and the disk is much larger and of a glossy
black coloiu-. There are many varieties of this remarkable
species ; and no doubt others will flower during the coming
summer."— (/'Vori's J and Pomolocjist, 3 series, vol. vi., p. 25.)

NEW BOOK.

Handbook of Hardy Trees, Shnih.-<, and Herbaceous Plants ;
containing Descriptions, Native Countries, &c.,of a selection
of the best Species in Cultivation, together with Cultural
Details, Comparative Hardiness, Suitability for Different
Situations, ifcc. Based on the French work of Messrs. De-
caisne & Naudin (Members of the Institute of France),
entitled " Manuel de I'Amateur des Jardins," and including
the original Woodcuts by Eiocreux & Leblanc. By W. B.
Hemsley, formerly Assistant at the Herbarium of the Koyal
Gardens, Kew. London : Longman & Co.
This very full and not very grammatical title page renders
any further epitome of the contents unnecessary, but we may
add, that this useful book is rendered more useful by a glossary
of terms and a copious alphabetical index. The genera are
arranged in the body of the volume according to the natural
system. The descriptions are sufficient to enable the cul-
tivator to identify each species, and in a large number of
instances the descriptions are aided by good woodcuts. The
concluding part of the volume is entitled " Practical Garden-
ing," and is its weakest part, for in endeavouring to include a
multitude of subjects within a few pages, it does not give the
full information on any one which the amateur needs. Vege-
table physiology, climate, soUs, classification of plants accord-
ing to size and colour, and ornamental gardening are aU in-
cluded, but only twenty-six pages are devoted to that which
the amateur most needs, " cultural directions." It would
have been a far more highly-prized work, would have com-
manded a wider circulation, if separate directions for cul-
ture had been appended to each genus. We are aware that
this would involve slight repetitions, but references to other
genera requiring similar treatment where the culture was de-
tailed would avoid much tautology, and the space would be
well spent in securing to the amateur, what he loves to have,
specially appUed directions.

ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S MEETINGS.

The Anniversary Meeting of this Society was held on the
26th of .January at Burlington House, Piccadilly, for the election
of Council and officers for the ensuing year. Professor West-
wood was re-elected President, Mr. McLachlan, Treasurer, Messrs.
Grut and Verrall, Secretaries, and Mr. lanson, Librarian. A very
satisfactory statement of the Society's finances and proceedings
was read ; and the President delivered an address, giving an
elaborate account of the progress of the science during the past
year, in which he especially dwelt upon the necessity for inves-
tigating the fossil Arthropoda, with a view to their positions in
the general system of the animal kingdom, as well as the higher
branches of the science, such as the embryology, development,
metamorphoses, physiology, and economy of insects. A cordial
vote of thanks was given to the President for his address, which
was requested to be published. The following gentlemen were
nominated to act as Vice-Presidents — namely, Messrs. A. W.
Bates, S. S. Saunders, and Stainton.

The first February Meeting was held on the 3rd of that month,
Henry W. Bates, Esq., Vice-President, in the chair. Mr. F.
Smith exhibited a collection of Hymenopterous insects collected
about eighty mUes from Calcutta, containing a fine new species
of Astata and several species of Nomia. There was, however,
no new genus in the collection. Mr. McLachlan exhibited some
srnaU quadrangular cases found in the river Dove, in Derbyshire,
formed by the larvie of a species of Caddice Fly, which he had
supposed might belong to the genus Coenis, but which Mr.
Eaton thought could not belong to that group, as he had not
found it in the neighbourhood where the cases were met with.
Mr. Champion exhibited a large species of Pulex taken in a
mouse's nest in the island of Sheppey. Mr. Meldola exhibited
a living specimen of a Myriapod belonging to the genus Spira-
bolus sent to him from San Francisco, also specimens of the
large and curious eggs of one of the leaf insects (Phyllum pul-
chrifoUum) from Java. A specimen was exhibited of a Moth
belonging to the family Noctuidae, which was found impaled
upon a thorn, most probably by a strike. Mr. A. Miiller made
some remarks upon some pouch-like galls found on the leaves
of Cinnamon plants in Bombay. The Rev. Mr. Eaton read a
paper " on the HydroptiUdse, a famOy of Trichoptera " (Caddice
Fhes). He also exhibited a Mite of the genus Trombidium from
Spitzbergen. Mr. A. G. Butler communicated a monograph of
the genus Gasteracantha, a remarkable exotic group of Spiders

with hard horny coverings to their bodies, armed with singular
spines, often much longer than the whole body.

The second February Meeting was held on the 17th ult., the
President being in the chair. Dr. Herman Burmeister, the dis-
tinguished entomologist, and now Director of the Museum of
Buenos Ayres, was elected a member of the Society. A new
part of Mr. Hewitson's beautiful work on the Lycsenidie, and
several memoirs on the Ichneumonidre of Finland, by H. Wold-
stedt, were presented to the Society. Mr. Bond exhibited a long
series of bred specimens of the two closely allied species ^E rony eta
Psi and tridens, pointing out some distinctions between them
in the perfect state. The larvie of the latter had been fed on
Pear leaves, those of the former fed on different plants. Of the
former species he had obtained no dark-coloured specimens such
as occurred in JE. tridens. Mr. A. Miiller exhibited some cases
formed of short bits of sticks cut of equal length and arranged
spirally, being probably made by the caterpillars of a species of
Psyche; also the egg-case of a species of Montidre. The Presi-
dent exhibited some white cylindrical dipterous larvae, nearly
half an inch long, which had been discharged by a patient in a
clot of phlegm. He had referred them to the smaU fly Psila
Rosa% the grubs of which are found in Carrots, and he' subse-
quently found that that vegetable had been eaten by the patient.
He also exhibited drawings of a bulb infested with three large
grubs, which he had no doubt would prove to be those of Me-
rodon clavipes ; likewise drawings of the large excrescences
upon Vines and the Coleopterous larvie found therein, recently
descrilied in our pages ; also drawings of the roots of Vines
asserted to have been destroyed by PhyUoxera. Mr. Miiller
stated that Mr. Riley had discovered that galls upon the roots
of a species of Vine in North America had been formed by a
weevil of the genus Baridius. Mr. Briggs exhibited two series
of specimens of the common moth Anaitis plagiata taken at the
same place in June in different years, the one being of the
ordinary summer, and the other of the later autumnal form.

Mr. H. W. Bates read a memoir on the predaceous beetles of
Japan collected by Mr. Lewis, by whom an extensive series of
insects had been formed in that countrj', the descriptions of the
various famiUes of which have been xmdertaken by different
entomologists. Two hundred and forty-one species of these
predaceous beetles were described, of which 118 were quite new.
They belonged to eighty-four genera, the geographical distribu-
tion of which offered some interesting particulars. Nine genera
only (including the singular Damaster), were peculiar to Japan.
Of the ninety-six genera of these insects occurring in western
Europe forty-four occurred also in Japan, whilst fifty-two were
unknown in Japan, and thirty-eight of the Japanese genera were
unknown in western Europe. The aculeated Hymenoptera con-
tained in Mr. Lewis's collection formed the subjects of another
paper by Mr. F. Smith, in which seventy-three species were
described, of which forty-nine were new. Twenty-four of them
were also found in .Japan and China, three only in Eirrope, and
two in North America. Amongst the bees were specimens of
the species of honey bee which Mr. Smith had previ'nisly
named Apis nigro-fasciata, which had not been acknowledged
as a distinct species by Gerstaecker, but which Mr. Smith felt
convinced was quite distinct. Mr. A. Miiller contributed a series
of bibliographical notices of entomological papers published
previously to 1862, omitted in Dr. Hagen's work.

Mr. F. Smith communicated a notice of the recent researches
of Drs. Von Schneider and Von Siebold on artificial honey ob-
tained by feeding bees exclusively with malt. The question
had been raised whether the substance thus obtained was real
honey, and whether, consequently, the bee was able to change
malt sugar into honey in its stomach. Dr. Von Schneider having
taken up the physiologico-chemical portion of the question,
arrived at the conclusion that the carbo-hydrates, sucrose and
dextrose, contained in the malt are actually changed by the bee
into honey-sugar, and that the malt-honey differs only from
ordinary honey in wanting the specific aroma given to the latter
by the flowers on which the bees had been gathering. The
observation is one of much interest to bee-keepers, as the malt
nutriment given to the bees serves for their support as well as
for the production of the honey. With regard to the wax. Dr.
Von Schneider is of opinion that it is undoubtedly a secretion
of the honey bee formed chiefly at the expense of different kinds
of sugar, with which, however, a supply of nitrogen was neces-
sary. After these results had been obtained. Professor Von
Siebold made a special investigation of the secreting organs of
the bee, and discovered three entirely distinct and very com-
plicated systems of salivary glands, two of which are situated in
the head, an I the third in the anterior part of the thorax, which
bad liceu erroneously regarded by Fischer as a lung. Each of
tbeni has separate excretory ducts, and is distinguished by a
specifically different form of the vesicles secreting the saliva.
The minute details of these structures are represented in a plate
accompanying Von Siebold's memoir in the " Bienenzeitung,"
No. 2:i, 1872. These organs are, however, found only in the
workers ; the queen possessing only a rudiment of the lower
system in the head in the form of the two orifices of the ducts.

March 6, 187S. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

205

while the ducts themselves as well as tho glands are absent, and
the other two systems are mnoh less developed than in the
workers. In the drones, or male bees, not even the orifices of
the lower cephalic system could be found.

THE BEAUTIFUL AND USEFUL INSECTS OF
OUR GAKDENS.— No. I.

True is it, as a certain poet not unknown to fame wrote
long ago, that you can by no means grasp burning coals, even
if you think of tho iciest mountain to bo found on our globe,
or on any other. Tho actual will unquestionably overpower
the imaginative, still it must be conceded that in some cases
the faculty of the imagination helps to dispel or lighten our
troubles. It would be as unreasonable, in the instance of
the horticulturist, to expect him to bear with patience or in-
difference the annoying or seriously injurious attacks of some
members of the realm of insects by portraying for his con-
sideration and admiration the beauties of form and colouring
which many others display, and, indeed, in some instances
the very species which give cause for complaint ; but one is
glad to find that with the growing intelligence that is spreading
amongst gardeners now-a-days, and, let us say it sotto voce,
among amateur gardeners also (for tho amount of scientific
knowledge a man possesses is in nowiso regulated by the
weight of his purse), has come a more tolerant feeling towards
the insect world generally ; and aU the orders, genera, and
species of this large division of animal life are no longer,
except by the very ignorant, comprehended under one common
anathema. Investigation has fuUy proved that the number
of insects hurtful to man's person, his produce, or his stores,
if large, is but an insignificant moiety of the whole. Even
for the injury we sustain from these, there are certain com-
pensations oftentimes which tend to soften down our indigna-
tion or vexation ; moreover, we are still finding out that we
have ourselves to blame in not a few instances, and the de-
structive ravages of some insect pest are found to have been
ushered in by neglect or inattention on the part of the horti-
culturist. Even as weeds seem to be sent to spur the gardener
to activity, so is it with many insects, they come as warnings
to us to take various precautions.

Apart from the interest which may be awakened by insects
when we subject them to au individual examination, did it
ever occur to the reader how much, not only the rural scene,
but the garden, owes to insects from their imparting thereto
during the greater part of the year the element of life '? If we
conld sweep away the bees, the butterflies, and all the host of
insects which delight in the sunshine of a summer's day, what
a coldness and dulness would seem to prevaO ! Amongst
the purposes for which these were created (or evolved ?) must
surely be reckoned the benefit and gratification of man; and
surely he who is employed frequently or habitually in fruit
and vegetable culture ought not to lack sensibility to the in-
fluences of Nature. " But," says one, " most gardeners have
neither time nor inchnation to cultivate aesthetic tastes."
More 's the pity, were this true of the majority, but I scarcely
think that it is. From what I have noted of the manner in
which they regard their favourite flowers and fruits, I infer
that their admh'ation of Nature, iji a general sense, only needs
to be cultivated. I have been giving in these pages for some
mouths past a " black catalogue," discoursing in as agreeable
a way as I could upon some of the enemies of the horticul-
turist amongst the insect tribes, and it seems only fah' that
I should say somewhat about other species which are in no
way injurious to the garden. There is not much danger of
malcing gardeners foohshly sentimental, even though they
should be led to look upon insects generally with rather dif-
ferent eyes than they have hitherto. Opposed as I am to all
wanton destruction of insect life, whether these creatures are
endued with acute sensibilities or not, it must be unquestion-
ably lawful to kill and to take measures to check the increase
of those species that we find harmful.

A host of insects, as we all know, are to be seen in motion
in gardens (liowever they may be laid-out, for flower, vegetable,
or fruit-culture) during six or seven months of the year. Some
of these have undergone their transformations within tho
limits or in close proximity to the cultivated ground, and even
of these only a moiety are prejudicial. Numerous species
which resort to gardens by day or night are not bred there,
but visit these places in search of the honey of flowers, are
attracted thither by fragrant odours, or come to prey upon
other species. It must be admitted that when we speak of

"beautiful insects" we must, were it done comprehensively,
include in the list some that are harmful in our gardens ; but
one could hardly expect to win over the horticulturist to give
these hearty praise. An abundance, however, remains, with-
out alluding to these, upon which one may comment, and con-
vince any who are as yet sceptics, that in itself the name " insect "
is not expressive of what is ugly or disgusting, though largely
deemed so in popular parlance. Of course, subjected to micro-
scopical examination, it is true that there is no insect which
does not display beauty in some part of its structure ; for our
consideration, however, we must select such as exhibit it more
obviously to the unassisted eye, or with the help of a hand
magnifier, an article, by the way, which every gardener should
have in his pocket, as it would enable him to destroy many a
batch of insect eggs — au act which the most sensitive of aU
philosophers could not deem a cruel one, though be might
grieve over the extinction of tho germs of life.

The order Lepidoptera, comprehending the butterflies and
moths, though it contains a preponderance of beautiful forms,
owing to the wings being adorned with scales, is not the only
order of insects which furnishes our gardens with objects worthy
of admiration. It is, nevertheless, the order that is likely
ever to bo the most attractive to collectors of insects, partly,
no doubt, because the transformations of the different species
furnish much amusement. The splendour of many of those
brought from exotic lands, surpasses all that the artist can
depict, and even in the muster-roU of our "true-born Britons"
are included some that the eye is never tired of gazing upon.
Amongst the smaller species, known to entomologists col-
lectively as the Tineina, we have examples of colouring which
prove that beauty and magnitude do not necessarily go to-
gether ; and in some instances the wings are bespangled with
brilliant markings resembling gold or silver.

Hosts of insects of the Dipterous order are seen on the wing
in gardens, mostly during the day, and we find these almost
universally remarkable for the gracefulness of their structure.
In many species the bodies are banded with bright colours,
and sometimes the wings are more or less variegated. In the
order Hymenoptera are comprehended not only the bees, wasps,
and ants, but other species which are commonly known as
"flies," as for instance the Gall-flies (in part), and many
parasitic species called "ichneumons," the larva; of which
feed on other living insects. The latter are often of great
utility, and the images developed from them are wonderfully
active, and very elegantly formed. In the same order the
various Saw-flies are placed, and though we find some singular
shapes amongst these, as a large proportion of them are inimi-
cal to the gardener, we can scarcely expect him to view them
with favour.

Beetles are to be observed in flight both during day and at
eventide, and we are constantly seeing species of the Coleop-
terous order running or walking upon leaves and twigs, and
others as busily engaged upon the surface of the ground, while
the spade, rake, or hoe brings to hght some subterranean indi-
viduals. Bright colours are only found here and there amongst
beetles, but many of them excite our interest on other grounds.
Then again, amongst the Neuroptera, we find the Dragon-flies
resorting to gardens, especially those near streams or ponds,
and the number of insects they destroy is unquestionably
large, including some that are noxious to the gardener. Most
of these are very beautiful in their perfect state, though after
death much of their beauty disappears. The Caddice-flies, also to
be observed in gardens occasionally, have very delicately-formed
wings, and in some the antenna) are curiously ringed ; these
are frequently mistaken for moths. Even in the less-favoured
orders, Orthoptera and Hemiptera, we might enumerate many
beautiful insects. All bugs are not disgusting, for amongst
the vegetarians are some as handsome as they are harmless,
especially in the genus Pentatoma. Still it must be admitted
that the odour of some is not recherche, though in the case of
one or two it has been said to be agreeable. A few of the
Hemipterous insects destroy other insects. In this tribe, how-
ever, is the aphis, and several others, well-known as foes to
various plants in and out-of-doors ; and, as observed, in the
Orthopterous order (leaf-insects, grasshoppers, crickets, lo-
custs), where we have some of the strangest shapes there is
beauty also to be seen, as for instance in that splendid fellow
the great green grasshopper, which we have known to skip
from the fields to the adjacent garden, and lead a youngster a
long and fruitless chase among shrubs and banks of flowers.

I shall venture here to remind the reader of the fact,
iUustratjopB of which wUl crop up from time to time as we

206

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE.

[ llaioli 0, 1873.

proceed, that many insects are useful to the gardener, besides
those species which prey upon other insects. Even in the
LepidopterouB order we might point to various species amongst
the smaller moths, which feed upon fallen and decaying leaves,
towards the disintegration of which they assist, and thus help
to supply leaf manure. In the Dipterous order, also, many
instances might he adduced, where the larvas or maggots in-
duce decomposition in the substances on which they feed,
and these then evolve different gaseous products than they
would have done had they been undisturbed ; the result is that
much which might have been injurious to vegetation through
its effects on the atmosphere is thus disposed of. Both bees
and flies play an active part in assisting in the fertilisation of
flowers, and the maturing of fruits. As Mr. Walker justly
observes — " Diptera generally being more quick-witted, sharp-
sighted, or impulsive than any other insects, take the lead in
migration, and in extending their influence over new regions.
A large proportion of them are especially useful in the develop-
ment^ of flowers, and thus advancing vegetation." This, in
fact, is like skirmishers in an army ; while the bustling noisy
bees are rather to be compared to the soldiers in the heavy
regiments, though indeed some of the Hymenoptera are as agUe
and slender as thek Dipterous relatives.— J. E. S. C.

gretit advantage, as many fruit trees suffer on a south wall
during hot weather from the sun falling on their unprotected
stems. The bole of a tree growing iu a state of nature is always
shaded — at any rate whilst young.

Having seen the success which has followed this mode of
culture, I am convinced the Apricot finds in such a glass shed
as mine all it requires — ^plenty of air , indeed plenty of wind ,
protection from rain and snow, or rather, I should say, from
ice and snow, for I beUeve ice formed on its branches is often
fatal ; and lastly, plenty of light and sun for its leaves and
fruit. As its roots will extend outside it will also find plenty
of food and moisture.— J. E. Pe.irson, ChilivcU.

APBICOT SHEDS.

As requested, I send you two views ( /hjg I and 2) of my new
shed for the growth of Apricots. Though shown open at the

ACACIAS.

The Acacias are a genus of fine-habited greenhouse shrubs,
and for the most part yellow-flowering. Very free iu flowering,
and producing their golden balls or brushes, in the winter and
spring months they are deserving of a place in most green-
houses, in fact no greenhouse is so small but it ought to possess
at least three kinds, iu order that this family may be repre-
sented from the commencement of winter to the close of
spring.

Acacias are among the most easily cultivated of greenhouse
plants, requiring a compost of light fibrous loam three parts,
and one part sandy peat and leaf soil, with a sixth of silver
sand. Good drainage i^ necessary, but it need not be more
than one-sixth th'J dep:h of the pots employed. The best

Fi;;. 1. — Ainicut £liccl.

Fir- 2.— Aprioot Sl.ea— Euil View.

ends, both are boarded as high as the sides, the gables being
glazed like the roof, the front only being open. As it is in-
tended for a pot shed alone, it will be seen the boles of the
trees are guarded to prevent injury to them. All the pillars
are of iron, those at the back being Foster's patent standards
(./;.'/. 3). The round pillars in front are let into blocks of stone
below the soil. Iron spouts on both sides catch the rain water,
and the whole forms as strong, light, and durable a structure
as could well be built. It is ojicn to the east, wliich is, I think,
the proper aspect. East winds do no harm to tlio Apricot,
whilst the tree's roots are the better nf n, warm border. Again,
thus situated, the tree boles are shaded from the hot sun, a

-Foster's Patent Stondai-d.

time to repot is in spring or when the floweiiug is over, and
the plants are beginning to make fresh growths. If, however,
any pruning be required it should be done when the plants
are going out of bloom, and as they will bear pruning well
there can be no excuse for keeping straggling specimens. It is
better, however, not to allow a plant to become badly fur-
nished, and then seek to bring it into form by severe pruning.
At its best, severe pruning is bad practice, and on old plants it
is attended with risk. The training should commence with
the early stages of the plant's growth, and be continued
throngliout. The pruning needed ought only to consist in
.shortening iri'egularity of growth, which may be done after
flowering, and afterwards during growth, in stopping any
shoots disposed to grow too straggling. In this way good well-
furnifhol plants may be formed, and when they become old,

irarch 0, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

207

ill-formed, and weak it is better to replace them with young
and vigorous subjects than to seek by any severe manipula-
tions to restore an old plant to good form. It is better to
raise fresh plants from seed than to grow on weakly plants
from cuttings, or seek to renew an old one by cutting back.

The seeds should be sown, it they are home-saved, as soon
as they are ripe in pots filled with equal parts of light loam
and sandy peat, with one-fourth of silver sand ; drain well,
placing the rougher parts of tha compost over the drainage,
and fill to within half an inch of the rim with sifted soil.
Make the surface even, press it gently, scatter the seeds thinly,
and cover them a quarter of an inch deep with flue soil ; then
water gently, and place the pots on a shelf in the greenhouse.
In a few weeks the plants will appear, and should be potted-otf
singly iu 3-inch pots when they show the first leaves, in addi-
tion to the seed leaves, to which last they should not be potted
nearer than half an inch, and in the compost named before.
Place the pots on a sheU in the greenhouse, and keep the soil
just moist. By the following spring the plants will be thriving
young stock, and should be encouraged to grow by more co-
pious supplies of water, and sprinkUngs overhead morning and
evening. When the roots become matted round the sides of
the pots shift the plants into ij-inch pots, which will be re-
quired by May, and in July they may have C-iuch pots. The
seedlings should have the leading shoot stopped when it has
grown a foot, and the side shoots when they are 6 inches long.
Keep them well stopped, and so secure a well-branched plant
from the commencement ; but do not stop the shoots after
July. If a pyramid be desired the shoots resulting from the
stopping must be regulated, tying them out where they are
crowded in the direction in which they are required, and select-
ing the best as leader, train it erect. In this way the plants
may be kept iu good form. Whether it be bush or pyramid is
desired, judicious pruning after flowering, with stopping irre-
gular growths afterwards, will enable us to produce good
specimens.

If the seeds are not sown untU spring, March being the best
tune, they should be soaked twenty-four hours in water at a
temperature of 90° to 100°, placed in a hotbed, and treated
like those sown when ripe, only they must bo potted-off
singly, and retained in the hotbed until established, hardening-
off before placing iu the greenhouse. The young plants suc-
ceed better in cold jiits during the summer months than in a
greenhouse. Being subject to red spider, free syringing is
beneflcial during summer. I do not advocate placing them
out of doors iu summer, but I have found doing so conduces to
the destruction of white scale, to which these plants are liable.
I imagine the benefit derived from rains in a great measure
arises from the ammonia and nitric acid so brought down in-
vigorating the plants. My plants, however, have no scale ;
therefore they are kept constantly under glass.

The following species and vaiieties are especially worthy of
cultivation — viz :

* -Icacut oleifulia elfgans. — The leaves simple, pale glossy
green. The plant is of strong free growth when young and
rather straggUug, but when it becomes older — say three or four
years — is not strong-growing, producing numbers of fine pendant
shoots, giving it when trained with a stem 0 feet high a very
fine appearance, a drooping head reaching almost to the pot. It
is a very desirable plant for pillars or for the rafters of the green-
house or conservatory. The flowers are in globose heads, very
abundantly produced, sometimes in September and on through
the winter, attaining its best generally in February. It is in my
opinion the fijiest of all.

* .-1. h>n(]ilio)-ii iiiar/nifica. — Leaves, long and pointed; habit,
stiff and erect, but well branched, forming a good iJyramid. The
flowers are borne in long spikes of a bright clear yellow, about
February or March. This is probably the most^noble of
Acacias.

* A. pnlcheUa. — The leaves are fine but not large, giving the
plant a very elegant appeai'ance. It is of free growth and erect,
forming a good pyramid or bush, and is armed with thorns.
Flowers in globose heads, produced in April, earlier or later
according to the temperature and condition of growth. When
iu flower it is a mass of bright j'ellow.

* A. Drninynondi. — Leaves slightly divided; habit rather
slender, and well branched, forming a good bush. The flowers
are in cylindrical spikes, short, and numerous, of a bright yellow.
It flowers iu March and April.

* A. armata. — Leaves entire, thickly set on the branches with
bundles of hair-like spikes. Flowers in globose heads, very
abundantly produced in March and April. It is one of the best.
Pyramid or bush.

.4. hijhrida. — Leaves entire, longer and farther apart than iu
A. armata; flowers in globose heads, bright clear yellow, pro-

duced iu February and March. Of diffuse habit, it is better
suited for a bush than pyramid.

A. lophantka, — Leaves large and very finely divided ; habit
stiU and erect, the plant making several feet of growth in a sea-
son. If kept potbound its growth is checked, and it then flowers
freely in clusters of a pale straw colour.

* A. platijptera. — Leaves included in the stem or shoots, having
a Cactus-like habit. Flowers very abundant iu globose heads in
November and December. It is a mass of bloom in its season,
and forms a fine spreading bush.

A. grantlis. — Leaves finely divided, rather small; habit stiff
and erect, forming a good pyramid or bush. Flowers globose,
bright deep yeUow iu March or April.

A. asparaauidea. — Leaves simple; habit graceful and Aspa-
ragus-hke. Flowers globose, profusely produced in March or
April.

A. floribimda. — Leaves very fine and abundant, the flowers
not less so, of a bright yellow colour, produced iu spikes in April
or May.

A. ciiltri/orinis. — Leaves knife-shaped and silvery, of strong
habit, requiring abundant room. Flowers yellow in April.

A great many other Acacias are worthy of cultivation. Of
those named, such as are distinguished by an asterisk are the
best in my estimation.

I may state that I have three plants of A. Cunninghami from
seed received through a correspondent of this Journal two
years ago, which have large, bright green, entire leaves, the
habit erect. It is very distinct in foliage, but as I have not
seen the flowers, I am unable to say what it will prove as a
flowering plant. — Cr. Abbey.

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.
At a recent meeting of the Eot.vl Bohnic Society, it was
decided to erect a new range of houses for the collection of
economic plants.

The post of Sopeeintexdext of HLimpton Couet Gau-

DENS is still vacant. The salary is £130 per annum, with
apartments in Hampton Court Palace. Candidates, who must
be between the ages of 30 and 45, should apply to the Secre-
tary, Her Majesty's Office of Works, 12, WhitchaU Place, S.W.
It was currently believed that Mr. Carmichael, late of San-
driugham, would have been appointed, but we understand
that though accepted by the Board of Works, the Civil Service
Commissioners, while quite satisfied with his recommenda-
tions and abilities, refused him, as he somewhat exceeded their
Umits as regards age.

At a recent sale of Oechids, on Thursday last, at Mr.

Stevens's Booms, King Street, Coveut Garden, a sum of £430
was realised for the owner, Mr. W. C. Dixon, of Beverley, who
parted with them to make room for other subjects. The fol-
lowing prices were realised : — -Vanda gigantea, £3 3s. ; Vanda
Dennisoniana, twenty-one leaves, £8 ; Angrmcum sesquipe-
dale, five flower-spikes, eight blooms, 2 feet high, thirty-eight
leaves, £14 14s.; Cielogyne oristata, 2 feet 0 inches across,
finely flowered, £13 13s. ; Cattleya maxima, fine variety, £2
to £3 3s. ; Oncidium maoranthum, £2 4s. to £3 ; Odonto-
glossum Andersonii, fine variety iu flower, £11 lis. ; Dick-
sonia antarctiea, 7 feet stem, £0 Os. The next, several thou-
sands of flne bulbs of Lihum auratum were sold at the same
place, together with other Lilies and seeds of Conifers, bring-
ing altogether £359.

Messes. Tehtschel & Co., Colchester, have a sale at

Messrs. Stevens's on the 10th, of a New Feuit Tkee from Japan,
the Pebsimmon, in eight varieties. It is the first time this tree
has been oft'ered in Europe. There have to be sold 10.5 trees
received from Mr. Kramer, also some new and rare LiUes,
Wilsoni and Krameri from Japan, Michauxii, Humboldtii,
Puberulum, and Washingtonianum from North America, with
Colochortus and Erythronium. The fruit tree is a Diospyros,
respecting the proper name of which there has been some con-
troversy ; M. Carriere calling it at first Diospyros Kaki, after-
wards D. costata ; and M. Decaisne, who objects to both of these
names, D. Schi-tse. It is a native of Eastern Asia, and has
bright orange-coloured fruit, which, iu the climate of Paris are
from 2 to 2^ inches in diameter, and have an Apricot flavour,
blended with that of the Medlar. It will probably succeed
against a wall in the warmer parts of this country.

The Phylloxeea continues to attract much attention

iu France. M. Marc mentioned a few days ago iu the Paris
Academy that, having kept during some of the winter months
roots taken from a Vine which had been attacked, he had ascer-
tained that the Phylloxera may easily be developed, even iu

208

JOUBNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March 6, 1873.

winter, at a temperature comparatively low (9° or 12° Cent.,
was that of the apartment) ou weak and dying roots which
have already been covered with mould. In connection with
this subject, M. de Luca also called attention to the fact that
in the neighbourhood of Naples, the volcanic earth from the
Solfatara of Pozzuolo has of late been used with vei-y good
results against the old Vine disease — oidium. It contains
sulphur, crystalUue and amorphous, a little salphuret of
arsenic, and porous volcanic matters. Placed in moderate
quantity about the Vine stock it makes the vegetation more
vigorous, kills insects attached to the roots and external parts,
and improves the Grapes, both iu quantity and quality. The
Phylloxera has not yet appeared in Italy. With reference to
destroying the insects by submersion, M. Faucon thinks it
would be necessai-y to keep the ground covered with a layer of
water without interruption from fifteen to twenty days in
September or October, whUe the insect is yet in its' period of
active life, or from thirty to forty days from the early part of
November after the winter torpor has commenced. A canal
from the Rhone has been projected by M. Dumont for the
object referred to. — {Enylinh Mechanic.)

WOBK FOE THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GiUiDEN.

Thin-out the old stools of Arlicltokes and make new plant-
ations. Plant the suckers triangularly at a foot apart, the
stools to be 4 feet from each other. If the weather will permit,
sow the main crops of Beet, plant old roots for seed. The
present state of the weather precludes all possibility of gettiug-
in the main crop of Carrots, but the first opportunity should "be
taken to do so. Thin-out those iu frames. Make a sowing
of Celeri/ on a sUght hotbed for the main crop. When the early-
sowing is up give it air at every favourable opportunity. Apply
linings to the beds of Cucumbers before a great declination of
heat takes place. Keep them made-up to the top of the frame
so as to dry the atmosphere of the inside, which is usually too
damp for the young plants. Let the weather be what it may,
give a Uttle ah- diiily ; if ^ windy and cold tack a piece of thin
canvas over the frame when open to prevent the ingress of rough
winds. Give abundance of air to young Lettuce plants in
frames, to prepare them for planting out ; loosen the earth be-
tween the autumn-planted ones. Where Mushrooms are gi-swu
by fire heat, a constant moist atmosphere should be kept-up by
pouring water ou the paths and placing pans of water on the
dues. Heat the house when in bearing to about 60°. Take an early
opportunity of sowing the main crop of Onions. Plant-out the
autumn-sowing iu rows at U inches or a foot apart. Get the
main crop of Parsnips sown as soon as the soU is suflioiently
dry to work well. A few rows of Spinach should now be sown.
Clean and loosen the earth about the autumn-sown if con-
venient. Avoid getting on the gi-ound while in a wet state, par-
ticularly for the purpose of sowing seed. Clean all the Cabbage
tribe from dead leaves, and where slugs are very niunerous hme
the whole garden diu-iug damp weather.

FRUIT GARDEN.

Take care that all newly-planted fruit trees are securely
staked and mulched, and that the blossoms of the early kinds
are protected in due time. Take advantage of dry weather to
draw away the soil from the stems of Gooseberries with a hoe
for 2 inches in depth and 2 or 3 feet in diameter, for about this
time the black army, or what is generally termed the Goose-
berry caterpillar, will begin to be on the alert. Sprinkle the
space cleared with soot and wood ashes, returning the earth
quickly with the back of the hoe or rake. This is not only a
preventive against such troublesome vermin, but acts as a very
stimulating manure to the trees, and the extent to which it has
been apphed is very perceptible throughout the season.

FLOWER GARDEN.

Need I ask if you have decided upon what plants the beds
in the flower garden are to be planted with this season ? if not,
the sooner the decision is made the better, or you will be too
late. Autumn-sown annuals may now be removed to their
blooming places, planting three or five in a patch according to
the kinds and size. For beds intended to be planted with half-
hardy plants a line of annuals may bo planted round the outside,
and, being pegged down or chpped into shape, they form a neat
and gay edging in the early part of the season, and leave the
centre of the beds to be thickly planted with such plants as are
intended for summer and autumn decoration. Califoruiau
annuals, such as Clarkias, Collinsias, Leptosiphons, Nemophilas,
&c., sown now will bloom almost as soon as those sown in the
autumn ; indeed, it is a good plan to sow a few seeds at the time
of planting, as they will fill-up all vacancies and prolong the
season of bloom. Herbaceous borders, if not dressed-over in the
autumn, must bo attended to immediately, and either freoh com-
post or manure must be added to all plants that are weakly.
Proceed with the planting-out of biennials of aU kiads, and

prepare a good-sized piece of ground for a sowing of Anemone
corouaria, hortensis, and vitifoha. Anemones deUght in a strong
rich soil and a rather shady situation in the summer. Sow
the seed after being well rubbed in sand in shallow drills
9 inches apart, and cover with rich soil from the compost yard.
A sowing of Ten-week Stocks must also be made on a warm
border, cover with litter or mats at night until the seed begin to
vegetate. Auricula seed may now be sown ; the best compost
is sandy peat and leaf soil. Shallow boxes or pans should be
fiUed nearly full and watered well to settle it weU, when the
seed may be thinly sown on the surface, covering very slightly.
The blooms are now rising ; mind that the trusses are not drawn
by keeping the hghts on too much. StiU have a sharp look-out
for snails among Polyanthuses. With a very small hand-fork
keep the surface of the bed loose, taking care not to disturb the
fibres. If growm in pots the soil must be occasionally stirred,
keeping them moderately moist. In purchasing Polyanthuses
it must be borne in mind that Hufton's Earl Grey and Clegg'a
Lord John Bussell are one and the same flower, the former
being the proper name. The Tulip beds must be earef ally gone
over and the cracks in tlie soil filled-up. A blunt stick is a
simple though eflectual instrument to loosen the soil between
the rows. Carnations are now beginning to move, and diseased
plants which have struggled through the winter thus far are
dying-off.

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY.

As the present unfavourable weather must prevent out-of-
door operations being proceeded with, it offers a good oppor-
tunity for the employment of a few extra hands in examining
the roots of the majority of large specimen plants usually de-
posited in the conservatory during the winter months. Wherever
it appears necessary let them be pruned and shifted, but as
many of them may already be in pots or boxes quite as large as
it is perfectly convenient to move about, or suitable to their
summer stations, they may be beneficially treated by having as
much of the old soil carefully removed from the sides of the
pots or boxes as the state of the roots will allow, and afterwards
fiUiug-up the cavity made with fresh and suitable compost.
Many plants after arriving at a mature state of growth may be
kept in health for years by a judicious application of this mode
of treatment. Large plants of Geraniums, Calceolarias, Cine-
rarias, with a host of similar specimens intended either for ex-
hibition or early May flowering, will now require every attention ;
let them be frequently turned round that all sides may derive
the same advantage from the light, and appear when in full
bloom to have received equal treatment.

STOVE.

Cuttings of all fi-ee-growing softwooded stove plants, Euoh as
the different showy varieties of Justicia, Begonia, .\phelandra,
Poinsettia, &c., will now strike root readily in a brisk bottom
heat. They make useful and handsome plants if well managed
for autumn and winter flowering.

PITS AND FR.\MES.

Here the work needs no j>ointing out ; the means of providing
room after the pkants are potted is the greatest difficulty in
most places. Calico dressed with Whitney's composition, at a
cost of 5d. per yard, is a material required for plants after they
are first potted-off. Choice annuals such as Brachycome iberidi-
folia, Viscaria occulata, Mesembryanthemum tricolor, Portu-
laca, Clintonia, and the like, should always be potted-off as soon
as they are sufficiently large to handle, and afterwards be placed
in a warm moist atmosphere, with plenty of air in mild weather,
until they are properly established. Sow in a brisk heat Mar-
tynia fragrans and diandra, the different varieties of Thunber-
gias and Ipoma-as, Convolvulus major and minor, and, where
they are admired, the common yellow and other Lupins. —
W. Keane.

DOINGS OP THE LAST WEEK.

KITCHEN GARDEN.

Little work could be done outside. Owing to heavy snows
and drenching rains our ground is like so mauy Sloughs of
Despond, into which a man's foot enters only to sink.

Celery that has been remarkably good is now for the first
time beginning to give way and show signs of rotting. Of
course it is an easy matter to be wise behindhand. Had we
known the great features of the winter we would not have
earthed or littered our later Celery so much. Without that
care it would have been injured by frost if the weather had been
at aU severe. To secure early Celery requires a considerable
amount of care, and unless the Celery is valued we would not
advise the trouble. We have had it very fine at the beginning
of July, but after aU the labour we found it was seldom esti-
mated in jjroportiou to the labour bestowed on it. Do what you
may with it Celery never grows so freely as after the beginning
of Sejitemlier, so that good winter Celery can be had with but
Uttle trouble — a fact we have helped to make known to farmers
and numbers of readers, who care little for Celery imtil the first
frosts of November have made their appearance. Like Scotch

March 6, 18?3. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

200

Kale and Savoys, country readers will persist in the notion that
Celery, too, is all the sweeter and more tender after having had
a breeze of frosty air over it. Wo wonld not like to dispel a
simple illusion if that tended to convey happiness; but on the
whole we must say that we have never partaken of sweeter,
more nut-like Celery than we have done in July and August.
To have it line so early the seed must be sown at latest in the
beginning of March, and the plants should never be allowed to
stand still, but be encouraged with heat until May. When
planted-out finally they should have a little shade in bright sun-
shine, such as thinly-wattled hurdles placed over them, to re-
semble somewhat the natural advantages early plants would
receive when protected by the sides of a hedge bank. Accord-
ing to circumstances we must modify our arrangements, but we
have had finer blanched Celery in the first days of July than
we have had in September and October. The great drawback
of huge early heads is that the water finds its way iu, cannot
easily escape, and rottenness or discoloration at the core is apt
to take place — one of the reasons that led us to give up growing
Celery like a man's thigh for size, and to rest thankful with
compact heads half the size. Such large early Celery can only
be obtained when the plants can have mild hotbed treatment
from February to the middle of May.

We have sown in January, February, and March ; nay, when
anxious to be forward, which we are not now, we have sown in
December iu a mild heat, say 50'' to 55'', and it mattered very
little as to the produce, if simple matters to which we have
previously referred, such as avoiding checks, were observed.
From seeds sown in December and onwards to March, we have
had fine plants without a run or stalked head. From seeds
sown from March to May we have seen plenty of stalked heads
quite unfit for anything where better could be got, just because
the nature of the plant and the precautions necessary to insure
success were lost sight of.

Our chief reliance, except on hardy vegetables, aa Brussels
Sprouts, Cottagers' Kale, Curly Scotch Kale, the Cabbaging and
Veitch's varieties. Savoys, &c., all benefited by a little frost, has
been our Sea-kale, Rhubarb, Asparagus, and Mushrooms ; but
we have said so much on these lately that we must refrain for
the present, merely noticing that successions must be regulated
by the demands of an cstahlishineiit. Complaints are often
made that these vegetables are supplied in quantities greater
than can be used without waste, and then when there is a
sudden access of company, there is not enough to meet re-
quirements. No gardener can meet such extremes, as respects
Mushrooms, &c. We have often had flue crops to supply the
wants of a company expected, but when the company came
three weeks after the time specified, the cream of the crops was
over. Under such circumstances, when ladies and gentlemen
complain that thoy might as well go to London market at once,
we say, " Let them try." We say advisedly, that no private
establishment, unless the means are ample, can equal the supply
of Covent Garden. If that acknowledgment should lead to
results that many would deprecate, that is not our fault. The
true balance will come in its own time. The illusion we wish
to dispel is simply this; that of a lady or gentleman iu the
country expecting to get from a garden at a notice of a day or
two, what can be obtained from Covent Garden Market, which
has the whole country to depend on. We know of numerous
cases where proprietors of gardens have resolved largely to
curtail them, not because they do not have plenty of produce,
but because they do not get the abundance at the right time.
" Here are Mushrooms, Sea-kale, Rhubarb, and Asparagus
which we care nothing for, and in excess, and in a fortnight,
when we could not have too much, there is less than is needed.
Why should we not pretty well shut-up our gardens, deprive
oni'selves of these luxuries, and send to Covent Garden when we
have company?" We state the matter broadly, it is of no use
bUnking this great matter. We believe when rightly used the
home garden will be found more beneficial than ever ; but then
the time will have arrived when it will be found as essential to
teU the gardener of contemplated visitors, as the housekeeper,
steward, or cook; in fact, much more so, as each of these can
soon prepare, as the matters of preparation are more within
reach.

Meanwhile, we recognise the fact, that if the heads of esta-
blishments, either really or truly, affect a disregard for all such
luxuries as we have indicated, and care nothing at all for them
except when there is company, the best plan is to secure these
things from Covent Garden, or some other general market at
once, and not attempt to grow them at home at all. For the
benefit of all parties we wish clearly to indicate two facts. First,
Such things in a private establishment cannot be had at a day's
notice ; and secondly, the gardener should not be left to glean
information of contemplated visiting parties how and where he
can. A man really worth anything will be too independent for
such underhand knowledge. The gardener is the last person
whom it is deemed proper to consult. Theoretically and practi-
cally, we know that many things might be considerably ad-
vanced or retarded if due notice had previously been given, and

without it the gardener is working in the dark. One great fact
we must record with pleasure is, that if in some large places
there is a tendency to depreciate an abundant supply, except on
a few occasions, there are scores of little places where the owners
feel a great pride in having everything of a gardening nature
brought from their own garden.

FKUIT O.iRDEN.

As opportunity offered went on with pruning. Out of doors
we do not care about being too early, as we like as well to see
how the birds treat us. Orchard houses are now mostly pruned
and cleaned, though the walls partly want limewashing, owing
to a press of out-door work when it could be got at. This extra
out-door work is often a great drawback, and is not enough
considered in many places. With hardly a gleam of sun early
Peaches seem to have set very fairly, much, we believe, owing
to giving them a low temperature, and allowing the heat to
rise when there was a gleam of sunshine.

ORNAMENT.U, DEPARTMENT.

Hotbeds will now be necessary in order, within a fortnight, to
sow lots of small and tender annuals, and for striking myriads
of cuttings. If these be ready by the 10th inst. most things will
come in ample time, as it is much better that the plants should
be reared, pricked-ofE, and receive little check until they are
turned out iuto warm soil than if sown earlier, and allowed to be
chilled and stunted by standing about for weeks as specimens of
neglect.

We have endless inquiries as to raising tender seedlings. Of
course where there is hot water, or even nice dung beds, we
need give but few hints. Even in such cases, however, we have
found it to be a great advantage to use 4 and 6-inch pots, fairly
drained, then filled to within 1 or IJ inch of the top with rough,
finer, and then the finest soil. Water, and allow the water to
di'ain well until the surface is dryish ; then sow, slightly cover,
put over the top a square of glass, and shade until the seedlings
appear. Now, this principle can be acted on where there is no
hotbed, but a Uttle window, a fireplace, and a teakettle. Put
2 or 3 inches of drainage in a B-inch pot, prepare the pot as
above, sow and cover with a square of glass, then set the pot in
a saucer, and about twice iu the day fill the saucer with hot
water, but not to reach so high as the drainage inside of the pot.
Try, as we did years ago, aud many will be surprised how nice
and genial, and even rather equable, heat may thus be obtained.
Tie a sheet of whitish-coloured paper round the pot and saucer,
and the heat from the saucer will be maintained much longer.
We have iised 12-inch pots with saacers to suit, but then we
put small pots inside, placing these 2 inches from the rim of the
large pot, and covering the rim over with a square of glass,
which we could move or reverse at will.

For a person much interested, it is not much labour to empty
out the cold water of the saucer or plate and renew with fresh.
In this case too, a covering of whitish paper, or calico, is an ad-
vantage, as preventing radiation of heat. These are the simplest
modes we know, aud may be adopted in any cottage or work-
shop. The next simplest and best is to have a box, as alluded
to lately, and have a vessel for water underneath, on the table-
drawer principle. Where there is anything like free access to
hot water, in the shape of a good-sized teakettle, twice and in
extreme cases three times in twenty-four hours, we consider the
plan simpler in every way than heating such little vessels with
candles, oil, or gas, though a gas jet with a pipe passing through
into the open air is also very simple. The worst of gas is, that
without this care no plants, old or ysrmg, will flourish where its
fumes escape.

For general treatment of plants see previous numbers, — R. F.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Sutton & Sons, Reading. — Buttons' Desciijitii'c List of Grass
and Farui Seeds.

Teutschel & Co., Colchester.— 'itst of Jajtanese Lilies, Or-
chids, d}c.

F. & A. Dickson & Sons, 106, Bastgate Street, Chester.—
Catalogue of New and Select 'Parm Seeds.

Isaac Brunning, 1, Market Place, Great Yarmouth. — General
Seed Catalogue.

J. Coombs, The Ferns, ^En&elA.-^Catalogiie of OitUings of
Geraniums.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered untU next
week.

Books (Jirnoi-nmiis).— Om- "Ctai-don M,anual" will suit you. You can have
it free by poat from this oflicd if you enclose twenty postage Btamps with your
aildi-css.

Gbebnhocse Plants (Mrs. Little).— To go through all you re^uu-e would
fill a volume. Keane's "In-door Gardening " probably would suit you.

CvcLAMEN CuLTCitE. — .\t page 179, aud in tho sixth lino in second para-
graph, in speaking of pricking out tho plants into boxes, read—" I prefer thera
to Bcpai'ate pots as reijuiring less space ;" and I m'ay here observe that I prefer
boxes also on account of their requiring loss water, and being more quickly

510

JOURNAL OF SORTICUMURS AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March 6, 167lt.

moved from place to place if necessai-y. Later in the season the plants ai-e
potted off singly, and treated as described.— J. Bobson.
Removing Partixions, &c. (C. r.).— You cannot legally remove them.

LAnELri.— No charge is made for writing the names of plants by the maker
of Vane's labels.

Seeds Retaining Vitality (A Norwich I<irtonmus). — In Johnson's
" Science and Practice of Gaidening " are very full details. You can have the
volume from our office by post if you enclose '.in. 4(7. In stamps with yonr
address. The following is a brief extract:— " The seed of the Coffee siuub
loses all power to grow, unless sown within a few weeks after it has been
gathered, whilst that of the Melon improves by being stored for one or two
ycEU-s, and Celeiy remains capable of germinating for five times the last-named
period. These and some other instances within our knowledge demonstrate
that the more starchy and other matters, into which nitrogen does not enter
as a constituent, that a seed contains, the longer, usually, will it retain its
power to grow ; and two instances are, common Rice and the Kidney Boau.
Rice contains 85 per cent, of starch, and will retain its vej^'etative powers for
many yeai-s ; whilst Kidney Beans, which contain one-third their weight of
animo- vegetable matter and other constituents, of which nitrogen is a com-
ponent, will not vegetate healthily a second season. The following list,
furnished by the late Mr. Loudon, shows the greatest age at which some of
our common garden seeds germinate freely; and this result of exiierience is
quite concmTeut mth our knowledge of their chemical constitution:— 0;i''
*/^ar.— Peas. Beans, Kidney Beans, CaiTot, Parsnip, Oraches, Herb-patience
Rhubarb. Elm, Poplar, and AVillow. Two i/rars.- Radish, Salsafy. Scor-
zonera, Pmslane, the Allinms, Cardoon, Rampion, AHsander, Love Apple,
Capsicum, Egg Plant. Thirc f/^'o?;*.— Sea-kale, Artichoke, Lettuce, Mai-igold,
Rue, Rosemai-y. Four i/f^a?-.-;.- Brassicas, Skii-ret, Spinach, Aspaiagus, Endive,
Mustard, Tarragon, Borage. Fire and six y.f(i(s.— Burnet, Sonel, Parsley,
Dill, Fennel, Chervil, Hyssop. Ten years. — Beet, Celery, Pompiou, Cucum-
ber, Melon."

Variegated Ivy Culture {W. S.).— The plant should be grown in light
rich soil, and if in a pot the latter must be well di-ained. The plant ought
to be kept well supphed with water when growing, the soil being kept moist
at all times. Part of the shoots may be allowed to grow over the sides of the
pot, and others be trained to a stake fixed in the pot. It thrives better
planted out against a wall, or in a box. vase, or basket, disposing the shoots
over the surface. Sprinkle overhead with water twice a-day in hot diy weather.
A parti ally- shaded position is more suitable for Ivies than a hot sunny one.

Evergreen for Arbour (P. J. D.).— We do not k low of any evergi-cen
clinibiug plant except Ivy, and the best kinds for your pm-poso are the Irish
(Hedera canai-iensisl, common English (Hedera Helix), Finger-leaved (Hedera
digitata} and Rfpgner's (Hedera Rcegneriana). Ivy is unquestionably the
finest of all evergi-een hardy climbers. The only other plant of an ever-
gicen ctai-acter we can advise is Cotoneaster microphylla. It has white
flowers in May, followed by bright red hemes, which are very ornamental in
winter. We should prefer the Ivy. The Ivies should be planted 3 feet apart,
and the Cotoneaster at the same distance, digging the groimd well, and
mixing with it some rich compost, or well-decayed manure and leaf soil. Add
some sand if the soil is strong. Plant now or during Maixh.

Red Climbing Roses (/(km).— These are climbing Roses. Ayrshire-
Queen, purplish crimson; Boursault — Amadis, pm-plish crimson; Gracilis,
rosy red ; Hybrid Climbing— Queen of Prairies, rosy red ; Mult itlora— Rubra,
red : Russelliana, cnmson ; Sempervii-ens- Adelaide d'Orleaus. pinkish rose,
and Reine des Franrais, Uesh-tinged rose. Many of the Hybrid Peipetuals
are free-giowing, and are fine for pillars or treUises, but, as a rule, they do not
succeed well against wai'm walls.

Peach-tree Aphis (Hampshire). — The out-door trees which are sub-
ject to attacks of aphis we should have thoroughly protected from cold by
projecting coping boai'ds. and canvas coverings to bo let down at night and
on frosty days, but to be withdiawn whenever the weather is mild. The
. coping boards should be put on at once, and the covering ought to be in
readiness to put on when the flowers expand. Continue to keep them over
the trees dm-ing frost until the end of May. When the aphis appears we
would sjTinge the trees on a mild evening with tobacco watoi-. made by pour-
ing one gallon of boiling water over 2 ozs. of the strongest tobacco, covering
closely, and straining the liquor when cool ; then add 2 ozs. of soft soap to
every gallon. \Vlien the soap is quite dissolved apply the liquid to the trees,
wetting every part. It may be needful to repeat the application. As your
soil is light we should manure liberally with cow dung, syringe well in hot
weather, and water copiously in dry weather from the end of May until the
fruit was ripening.

Cyclamen Culture {.Y. 5'.). — We gi-ow om* Cyclamens in a compost of
two parts light turfy loam, one part leaf soil, half a part sandy peat, and half
a pai't of very old manure, the whole chopped up and made rather Ime, adding
a lifth pai*t each of pots broken vciy small and silver sand. Drain the pots
well, say to one-fomih their depth, and cover the corms entirely with soil.
The plants should be kept in a greenhouse or pit near the glass, and be well,
but not excessively supplied with water up to the end of May ; they should
then be placed in a cold frame, and have no more water than enough to keep
tho leaves fresh. Repot early in August, return to the cold frame, and keep
moist, but admit air freely. At the end of September remove them to a
house or pit wheie they can be accommodated near* the glass, and have a tem-
peratm-e of 45" to 50- at night and in dull days, allowing a rise of 10=^ to 15^
on clear days, whilst admitting air freely.

Cutting Down Hedges \ [dan).— The best time to cut down a Holly
hedge is eai-ly in April. The Quick hedge should be cut down at once.

Platycerium GRANDE FROM Spores {Ah Old Suh!<crihvr).—U will Ri-ow
from seed. The spores should be sown now, or as soon as they ai-e ripe.
Theii- ripening is indicated by theii- falling from tho frond when it is touched.
Fill a pot or pan to tlu-ee- fourths its depth with crocks, then till it to the i-im
with a compost of equal parts sandy fibrous peat and sandstonr in pieces
between the sizes of peas and ha?.el nuts, and a quarter of a part of silver
sand. Press tirm, and raise it in the centre rather high, coveruig the auriace
with a quarter of an inch thick of the above compost sifted, pressing tii-m .
and watering well. Let the pot stand a few hours, then press again and
water, and whilst wet dust the sm-face with tho Fern spores, brusliing them
off the frond with the hand. Cover with a bell-glass just tittmg within the
rim of the pot, which should then be set on a wet or moist bottom. The
parts round the pot should be sprinkled with water frequently, in order to
lesseu tho necessity for repeated waterings. A shaded position should be
afforded, and a temperature of 65'^ to 75^ given the plants, which may be
placed ia the stove. The surface must be kept regularly moist, and this
without watpxing on the surface so as to remove tho spores. Water should,

thdi-eforc, he only applied tlirough a very fine rose. When tho plants appear
air may be given by tilting tho glass, and when they can be handled pot them
off singly, and place them in a close moist frame in the stove, or cover them
with a hand-glass until estabhshed; then admit air, and place them on
blocks of wood, or plant in baskets, inverting them when the plants become
established, or^ilant out in rockwork.

Franciscea Propagation (r'i^m).— Take the points of the growing shoots
when their base is rather firm, and cut them over below a joint, removing
the leaves from two-thirds the length of the cutting, which may be 3 or
4 inches long, and insert them to that depth in equal parts of sandy peat,
loam, and leaf soil, with silver sand, surfacing the pot with half an inch of
silver snnd. Water gently, press firm, and ha\'ing put in the cuttings round
the si '. -J of the pot. cover them with a bell-glass fitting just within th« rim
of tht.: 'i.>t. Plunge the pot to the rim in a bottom heat of 75". Keep it
close, Moist, and shaded, but examine the cuttings fi-equently, and if they
are veiy wet admit a little air by tilting the glass, so as to allow of the
moisture passing off. AMjen they are rooted, as they will be in about four
or six weeks, admit air freely and harden them off. Pot singly in 3-iuch pots,
and place them in the hotbed for a few days, then remove them to the stove,
potting ihem as requued.

Melons in Greenhouse (P. 0.}.— Unless you can convert youi- greenhouso
into a stove the prospect of your gi-owing Melons is not great. It is useless to
try to gi-ow Melons unless you can command a night temperature of 60° to 65^,
70^ to 75" by day without sun, or with a small amount only, and 80- to 85° or
90 ~ with sun and an abundance of air. Those temperatures you will command
easily enough during June, July, and August, but so far from your house being
a gi-eenhouse it would be a stove, and the greenhouse plants would be much
injured if subjected to so liigh a temperature. It will be different if you can
clear- out the plants. In that case we should sow the seeds in the third week
of April in a hotbed, pot the plants singly when their rough leaves were just
visible, grow them in the hotbed, stop at the second rough leaf, and when two
shoots appeared select the strongest and cut the other away. The plants
should be shifted into lai-ger pots as necessary, and before the i-oots are vei-y
much matted around the sides. The shoot should bo supported by a small
stick, and should not be stopped untilit has grown to the desired extent, which
may he -i to 6 feet, more or less as requhed. If tho plant is trained to a stake
we should stop it after it had made six leaves, and the side shoots, as they
show fruit to one joint beyond it. The pots should not be less than 11 inches,
and need not exceed 13 inches; they should be moderately but efficiently
drained, and filled with strong rich loam. Pot the plants when they are placed
in the house, at the end of Jlay or early in June. Water copiously, maintain-
ing a moist atmosphere. The kinds we advise are Golden Gem and Little
Heath, the former a whitish gi-een, and tho latter scarlet-fleshed. If you wish
to gi'ow Melons amongst plants in a greenhouse you wiU raise the plants in a
hotbed, sowing the seed early in April, growing on and removing to the gi-eeu-
house at the close of May. The kind we advise for this purpose is the ridge
kind, Achapesnorrischer, probably the new Melon Little Heath would also
answer.

Alocasias LOSING LEAVES (TT. J.}.— The Alocasias do in part lose their*
leaves. A. metallica does not, only losing its old leaves, but if kept cold and
damp they I'Ot off. A. macrorhiza vaiiegata loses them entirely, being dormant
in winter. We presume yom- plant is A. mctaUica. In winter the tempera-
ture should be 60'' at night, and 65" to 70<^ by day, with a rise of 10- or more
from sun heat. In very cold weather 5^ less at night will do no harm. The
plant should be potted now in a compost of two poits fibrous but sandy browu
peat turaed up roughly, fibrous loam broken up roughly, one part leaf soil,
half a poi't of old di-y cow dung, and a quarter part each of charcoal in
lumps from the size of a pea to that of a walnut, crocks broken up rather
small, and silver sand, the whole well mixed and incoi-poiated. A half part
of cocoa-nut fibre refuse may be added advantageously in lieu of sphagnam
moss, which some growers employ. Drain well, and pot with the plant well
elevated, but just bmying the roots in the compost. A deep pan is better
than a pot. Water moderately for a time until the plant is gi-owing freely,
and then water copiously, sprinkling overhead twice daily ; maintain a moist
atmosphere, and afford slight shade from bright sun. Increase the tempera-
ture from now, gradually raising it by May to 65= or 70^^ at night, and
75'^ by day, with a rise from sun heat to 85^ or 90", admitting ah moderately.
After August the heat will be gi-adually lowered to the winter temperature by
October. Keep the plants moderately moist in winter.

Vines Starting (/(/cm). — The temperature you have given Vines is suit-
able, but to have had Grapes in May the temperature should have been some-
what more speedily increased. However, as they have broken weakly it is all
the better for them. We should now keep the temperature up to between
60- and G5- at night, and 70- to 75'^ by day, with a rise of 10" by sun heat, ad-
mitting at the same time plenty of air. In very cold weather S*^ less than the
night and day temperatures will be better than those mentioned. You will be
little behind; talvo advantage of bright mild weather, but proceed cautiously
when it is dull and cold.

Plants for Flowering in August (M. A. B. B. L.).— Vollota pm-piirea,
to flower in August, should now be placed in a \Tnei-y or other house whero it
will be stai'ted into gi-owth. It should bo continued there until June, when it
may bo placed in a greenhouse near the glass. It will flower at the time you
wish. Amarylhs marginata conspicua you must keep at rest until the middle
of June, then stoit in a gentle hotbed. Lihum auratum pot now if not already
done, and place it in a cold pit, keeping only safe from frost ; keep it as cool as
possible, exposing it fully after the middle of May, and if likely to bo too for-
wai'd retai'd it by placing it under a north wall. Eucharis amazonica pot now,
place it in a bottom heat of 70° to 75^, encoiuragc it with a brisk heat and
moist atmosphere, and continue this treatment up to the end of May, then
withdraw the plant fiom the liotbed placing it in a light, aiiy position, giving
water only to keep the loaves fresh, and six weeks before you wish it to bloom
place it in bottom heat again and it will probably go to flower. Crassula
coccinea you will need to retard as it will flower long before that time, thcrc-
foi-e keep it in a cold pit safe from frost up to June, and then place it on the
north side of a wall or other fence, i-emoving it to a cold pit some time before
you T\"ish it to flower. Considerable judgment is needful to have plants in
flower at a given time, as they sometimes need to be forwarded or rotai'ded.

Ribbon Border {W. G. S.). — Wo think five rows would suit better than
nine, and, provided the scailet Geraniums are rather stroug-gi-owing, W6
wiiuld. beginning at the back, have scai'let Geranium, Perilla nipped, yellow
Calceolaria, blue Lobelia, Cerastium tomentosum. The Perilla may be sowai
in March in heat, pricked-off, and hardened-off, Cerastiums do best divided.

(rEEi'iiNiiousE CHANGED TO A CucuMBER HousE (FftrMdr//). — By tho plan
pruposed you will succeed vci-y well, moro especially as you have the flags to
place over your pipes. But for that, after enclosing the pipes with the brick

March 6, 1873. ]

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

211

■wall, we wnuUl have filled the space round and over the pipes with stones,
clinkerB. or brickbats, lininhiDt: with a layer of clean-washed gravel on which to
lay the soil. By the upright drain pipes yon speak of going into the rubble,
you could ditipense with evaporatiot'^P^i^s beneath your bi:d. and yet have
plenty of moisture. The plan of training the Cucumbers is also gnod, and
the stems should be brought up not lesa than 16 inches from the glass, and
18 inches apart ; but frequently when we do this, and not to lose time, and
yet make as much as possible of the space, besides these main plants wo
have other plants in 7-inch pots near the back, from which we cut fruit tiret,
and remove them as the others till the space.

Double Glazino [T. C. S.).—Vie would put the glass of your double-
roofed house some few inches apart. The outside sashes should be moveable,
so that the inner glass may be cleaned when necessary-. Then we have no
fear as to the obstruction of light. We are not prepared to enter into minute
details, but we think it would make a difference of from -1" to 10-; whilst the
house would be warmer in winter, it would bo a little cooler in summer.

Throttlk Val\'es {AJpJuf). — "What are caUed throttle valves are generally
effective, but even with them, if the water is hot in the pipes, and you only
want a httle heat in another place, you must move the valve just a little.
The sixteenth of an inch may enable you to do all you want, and if that be
too much, give less, or shut it off for a time. We have some connections
with 1-inch pipes, and a strong brass tap to turn, but frequently we find that
not turning the tap, but just moving it a little, gives us all the heat wo want.

HoT-WATEU Piping {Bob. S.).— To keep up the heat you want, you will need
four pipes ibstead of three, and in the gi'eenhouse part you had better have
4 instead of 3-inch pipes.

Heating b\ a Stove (Old Indian). — We do not think you wiU incur any
danger by having your healing apparatus inside of the stove, as at a, pro-
vided you prevent all smoke and secure enough of moisture. We should
carry the wire outside the buttresses if they do not project beyond the wall
more than 3 or 4 inches.

Flue-heating {Tho^i. Nicol). — We have not the least doubt that your pro-
posed plan will answer, and that you will have plenty of heat. See what is
said to-day to another correspondent about whitening the sides of the wall
that bounds such a trench as your flue is placed in.

Heating iiv Lamps (Abel). — We do not know the lamp you refer to, but
we have seen pai-affin lamps do well iu small places. A little more caie
should be taken that the gases from the combustion may be carried out of
the house. We should say two good paraffin lamps would be required for
your house, 12 feet by 10 feet. We cannot give you a rule as to the point of
safety when the lamps may go out. If you had a temperature of 4;")^ the
lamps might go out at bed-time in a mild night, but in a cold frosty night
they should bura all night. There is something nice in heating with lamps,
but in practice we would coutine theii* use to small places. Even in such a
place as yours, we believe a small iron stove, with a flat top for an evaporating
basin, would be better and cheaper. Like the lamps, that need not be seen
from the middle of March to November. We have no doubt that Barr and
Sugden's propagating case will answer its purpose. Lately we gave an account
of a simple box that could be placed in a window or a greenhouse, and bottom
heat given by pouring in hot water in a box beneath the bed for cuttings.

Tree Onion (Irftfm).— This is much liked by some for pickling. It is the
Allium proliferum. The little offsets may be planted in autuion or spring,
though old bulbs make the strongest plants. Those planted in September and
October will be lit to gather in June and July ; those planted in spring will
come in a mouth or two later. They may be planted in rows a foot apart, and
2 or 3 inches deep. Some people think they are super- excellent, others care
nothing for them. The bulbs that form on the stem must be dried in a
shady niace.

Pipes under Pathways and Borders (Inqub-cr). — We think you should
not have above 55'^ to GO^ of heat in the narrow border for Vlunbers. We do
not think you will gain much by bricking the bottom of this trench in which
the pipes are placed, but it might just tell a little were you to floor it with
tiles and keep these tiles white in winter. Slates whitened would answer
just as well. In the next place, your chief rehance must be to make the
bricks on the side of the chamber non-conductive by well Umewashing them
every autumn. They will then thiow the heat into the house, instead of ab-
sorbing it and carrying it into the soil. Fourthly, we believe this simple plan
will answer best, but if even this should not answer, though we are next to
absolutely sure it will do so — then we would put down a thin slate 1^ inch
from the back wall next the soil, leaving that width of cavity, and then with
mortar or cement and chips make it air-tight at the top. Of course, you
understand this cavity is to be between the bricks and the soil. Try lirst
the lime or whitewash on the bricks iu the trench in which the pipes aie
placed, and let us know the result. We believe you will need nothing else,
and will save much fuel besides. The bricks will then reflect instead of
absorb heat. That we have proved over and over again.

Select Gekaniums for Pot Culture (H., Fromf). — Jean Sislcy, Koso
Eendatler, Vii-go Marie, Madame Mczard, Clipper, and Gloire de Corbeny.

Glazing.— In reply to "H. G., Oldham" I do not know of any plan for
putting glass in grooves at the ends of plant houses, same as the design iu
January 4th, 1872, except to nail ribs on the glass after putting them into
their position. If the same plan of horizontal grooves as at the side is con-
tinued, it necessitates two or three tiers one above the other at the end, which
would practically be inconvenient. I have tried nailing or screwing ribs on
after, and it answers fairly well so long as the ribs are not too light. A pro-
jection must be made in the sashbar the thickness of the glass. I am more
than ever an advocate for little or no putty.— C. P. P.

Pruning P\"ramid Apple Trees {G. Stevens). — The trees should not
have been cut-in quite so closely last season; close cuttiug-in in winter in-
vai-iably produces an abundance of unfruitful young shoots. Were you to
prune-in closely again you would aggravate the evil you wish to avoid. Prune
the trees at once into the jjyramid form. On some of them the young wood
will be more thickly placed than it is on others ; the shoots nearest the base
of these should be cut back to two-thirds of their length, gradually cutting-iu
closer as you near the apex of the tree so as to insure the pyramid form. The
trees that have fewer branches should be cut-in rather more closely. We
also advise you to practise summer pruning, which is the best method of in-
ducing fruitfulness.

Painting Fruit Walls to Prevent Insects {A Regular Subscriber). —
We have not seen paraffin used for this pm-pose, but we think it would have
some effect. We advise you to try it on a portion of the wall lirst, and watch
the result, comparing it with the portion that was not done in the same
manner.

Thinning Peach-Tree Blossosis (Bloomer). — Allowing all the blossoms
to open will not have any injurious effect on the trees. Wo thin the fruit &t^
soon as it is fairly set, but we make two more thinnings afterwards; the last
thinning should take place at the commencement of stoning. Allowing too
many fruits to ripen on the trees exhausts them.

Pruning Fruit Trees (W. W. G.).— We prefer to have aU our fruit trees
pruned before Christmas, excepting Peach trees, which may be pruned in
March. The other trees you name should be pruned at once, lea\'ing the
Peaches to the last.

Gros Colman Grape for Forcing (J. A. W.). — This is an excellent lata-
keeping Grape, and like all of that class it is not desirable to force it. We
have, however, seen examples of it colom-ed jet black early in July. There is-
no Black Grape at all equal to Black Hamburgh for eaily forcing. Should
you still desire a plant of Gros Colman, it ought to have the warmest end ol
the house.

Starting Vine (A'i(/iV).— There would be no gain by starting your Vines
artificially in a house not intended to be heated subsequently.

Names of Plant.s (7. W. C.).— We cannot name plants from their leaves
only. (J. F. S. ). — Pittosporum Tobira, an evergi-een shrub. It is propai^ated by
cuttings of the shoots in. sand, under a bell-glass, in April, and kept iu a close
frame, without bottom-heat ; sandy, fibry loam and a fev/ nodules of fibrj*
peat. Winter temperature, 38'' to 48= ; summer, 60^ to 70-. It has delight-
fully-scented flowers, and has stood against walls, in the climate of London,
with alittle protection. (0. 0.).— Clianthus DampieriandAdiantumtenerum.
(J. Proffit and others). — We have repeatetUy stated we cannot name plants
from leaves only. (Young Ganlener). — Acacia (Albizzia) lophantha. (F. iV. H.).
— 1, Thyrsacanthus Schomburgkianus ; 2, Indeterminable. (J. E.). — 1, Dick-
sonia authriscifolia (Mauritius); 2, Probably a Nephrodium, but immatui-e.
{A. E. A.). — Named Fern currect. Unnamed one perhaps Lumaria discolor,,
but too young. {Jan. Luck). — Pteris longiiolia and Davallia (toxoacapheii
gibberosa.

POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHEOMOLE.

TO ALL TO WHOM these PBESENTS SHALL COME,
AN EXHIBITION COCHIN SENDS GKEETING.
I'm not going to give a history of my life, which began in one
of the midland counties of England in the year 1871, but will
just state, that I became the property of my present owner, after
passing through two or three other hands, before the close of
that year. My master is a very humane and generous man (that
is as far as my wife and myself are concerned), although when he
purchased us I thought him very stingy, as I heard him say to
my former owner. What a large sum of money ten guineas to
give for two fowls ! We were brought by him to a small town,
in the south, and well cared for. I might write a great deal
about the care, &c., but that is not the object of my writing, so
I will at once enter on the subject of my, or, as I may say, of our
grievance.
I remember our master one day saying, as he looked admiringly

on las, " They're two very beautiful birds, I'll send them to

exhibition and see if they'll (meaning the judges of coui'se) give
them a prize." So, soon after, we had a great change in our fare
and care, for all the delicacies that coiild be found or bought
were obtained for us, and to use a common phrase we lived like
fighting cocks, and a great improvement was made in my wife
and myself. After a few days of this superior living, and the
night before we were sent off to the show, we had sucli a wash-
ing of face, comb, wattles, feet, boots, &o., and such brushing
and smoothing of plumage as we never experienced before, and
then we were placed on some of the very cleanest straw so that
we might not be soiled in getting dry. As soon as we were
alone I said to my wife, " Now, old dame, if we are to win a prize
at this show we must put on our very best appearance and com-
plete what our master has begun, and jjlume ourselves as beauti-
fully as we possibly can." Well, we set to work at once, kept
on for most of the night, and I'm sure when I looked at my wife
in the morning I thought she never looked half so lovely before,
and I could not help giving just two or three turns round with
my wing on my heel iu admiration of her. I felt very proud of
myself too, thought I looked quite grand, and was sure that if
there should be a cup in competition we must win it. Well, the
next thing for us was to be put in a capital hamper lined with
cloth, and straw at the bottom as cosy and comfortable as
possible, and then delivered to the carter of the railway company

for transmission, as labelled "Live birds, with care. Mr. Hon.

Sec. Exhibition." I remembered hearing my master say

to the rough fellow that took hold of our basket as though it con-
tained nothing of value, and swung it round so suddenly that we
were both thrown down, " Mind what you're about, there's two
very valuable fowls iu that basket." " Oh I'll take care on 'em,
sir," said he as ^N'ith another swing that sent me back on my
tail, he Hung us in his waggon and soon drove us ofi for the
station. As we were rattled along I tried to stand up and just take
a look at myself, and oh, my poor tail and wings and all my
plumage were in dreadful disorder. My wife was so fat and
heavy ihat she could not stand up, but I could see she was
suffering severly from the cruel shaking of the careless carter.
We stopped two or three times on the road to receive additions
to our load, and among other things several baskets of poults for
the same exhibition as oui'selves.

212

JOUBNAL OF HOETICULTURB AND COTTAGE GARDENEK.

[ March 6, 1873.

And now the station is reached and we are bundled down
from the waggon on to the platform, hiirried along to the
weighing machine, and thrown on it with all possible violence.

** lbs. weight, paid through to Exhibition," and again

with a violeut jerk enough to smash all our bones we are
thrown on the platform, and finally flung with great force in-
to a dark luggage van which is being piled up ■with similar
baskets. I hear one or two cocks crowing away heartily, one a
Game ; he seems not to have had such rough treatment as we
were subjected to, or else he can bear the knocking-about better.
The other seems to be a Hamburgh by his shrill crow, and the
strut and chat that he makes. However, they soon become
silent, for the heat is stifling. We were placed at bottom, being
heavy, yet the top birds must have suffered fearfully ; but I hear
the whistle, and find we are to stop at some station. .Our door
is opened, a nice fresh breeze comes in and qiiite revives us, more
hampers are now piled on, the van quite tilled up. I hear the
kind guard give orders to open the ventilator to give the fowls a
little air, but the surly fellow says with an oath there's plenty
of air for them things, and so we are left in the dark and
suffocating van, while two or three stations are passed ; we
find it dillicult to breathe, our throats distended, our bodies
all in sweat — it seems a matter of life or death for us.

The whistle sounds again, and again the train stops, and this
time the door of our dungeon is opened, and we are all as quickly
and as roughly as possible thrown out on the platform to wait for
the train that is to take us to our destination ; here for twenty
minutes we are kept exposed to a horrid north-east wind that
rushes through the station and threatens to blow us away,
baskets and all together. Our position was XJretty good, there
were several baskets to windward of us, and one (I think it con-
tained the Hamburghs, although the crow and chuckla were
hoth gone) on the top, so I said to my wife, " Our place is bad
enough, but the poor fellows outside must suffer most awfuUy
after the heat of the prison van in which we were brought,"
but she poor thing was quite down in her luck and had nothing
to say, and truly we were in a sorry plight, totally different
from our prim apiJearauce in the morning, all the brushing
and touching and pluming disarranged, and many feathers
broken ; the cold wind made us shiver, and we were (to use a
slang phrase) quite used up. But the train arrives on the other
side of the station, and we are all pitched from one porter to
another across the line; we were all terribly shaken and bruised,
but the poor Hamburghs suffered most, for one fellow missed his
catch of them, and down they went rolling end over end. I'm
sure I wonder they were not killed outright. We have a little
better van in this train, there are two windows, and the guard
opens one for air. We all feel grateful to him for it, and my
Game friend actually crows out his thanks. I try to shout out
my cock-a-leary-do, but failed ; I'm so shaken and bruised that
I really can't.

Away we go again, and station after station, some five or six,
are passed, and at the next we are again removed, I must say
with much more care (and the reason is they say it is a small line
and the servants are better looked after). I'm beginning to hope
our troubles are over, there is much less shaking and no pitch-
ing. We are placed on a trollie and taken round to a large
waggon in waiting, kindly sent for our special use by the secre-
tary of the show, and piled on it until I get afraid that some
accident of a fearful character will happen. We are soon moved
away from the station, and along a rough street ; the baskets
creak, the wind howls, and it seems sometimes as though we
should topple over, and we should but for the ropes by which
we are bound.

However, we reach the show-room in safety, and soon are
placed in the pens to await the decision of the judges. We have
plenty of light here, and I and my old lady set to work to re-
pair the damage to our plumage on the journey ; she straightened
out the feathers of my tail and helped me to adjust the whole of
my plumage, and I did the same for her, so that we greatly im-
proved our appearance. In the morning the judges come round
and take at first a cursory glance at each pen, and I could see
that we were favourably considered. Again and again they
come, not able to determine our merits as compared with some
other pen. At last a man with hammer and nails comes and
fixes a card on the top ledge of our pen. " I knew it would be
so " said he, " they are the best pen in the show." First and
cup is heard from each person on passing after. My wife looks up
highly pleased to be sure, and as to myself I declare I spread
out as large as I possibly could, and looked as grand as my Lord
Mayor on the banquet day. I felt very proud too, I assure you,
to be so successful on my first exhibit. Our poor friends the
Hamburghs were put in pen No. (J37, exactly opposite ours, and
lie poor fellow looked queer indeed, his beautiful tail on which
lie prided himself was all a smash, and all his fine feathering
■wretchedly bedragled, not even commended. " All the fault
o'them railway chaps" said our friend of the hammer and nails,
"they be good birds, but smashed to pieces by the rough hand-
ling on the journey." " Bight you are," said I.
But our troubles ai-e not yet over, for although we do not

object to a real fancier turning us round to inspect the qualifica-
tion we are supposed to have, we do feel hurt and annoyed at
every booby and donkey stirring us round with his walking stick
"Without any object but "mischievous interference with what he
knows nothing about. Well, we had plenty of poldng the first
day, my poor hocks and sides were made quite sore, but the
second day was dreadful indeed. I was grateful to hear oui'
friend of the hammer and nails often calling out, " Now keep out
that stick, I'm sure the birds don't want you stirring 'em up so,"
and two or three times he saved us from some severe poking.
My wife was so gratified by the care he took of us, that she said
she would lay him an egg for breakfast, and she duly deposited
one in the corner of our pen, nor did she stop shouting until he
came and took it away. I intended, being a representative bird,
to have called a meeling of all the birds, but that being im-
practicable I communicated my wish to each, and have got them
each and every one to enter a solemn protest, first against the
railway officials for the careless and reckless manner with which
they treat us in transit, and secondly, against the public for the
like treatment of us when in the show pen. — C. China.

HANLEY POULTRY SHOW.

Pekmit me to explain away a misapprehension that appears iu
last week's Journal. On January the 9th last, I received a letter
from the Secretai'y of the Hanley Show requesting me to act as
one of the Judges of poultry. I was, however, compelled to de-
cline this invitation, as unfortunately I have been in more than
a score similar cases since my accident. On January the 21st,
I again heard from the Secretary, stating, " The Committee
were extremely sorry at not being able to secure my ser"vioes
this year, but trusted they should be more fortunate another
season." These two letters are the only communications of a.uy
kind I have had from Hanley, consequently I did not " receive
notice three days before the Show that my services would not
be required." I will simply add, I am not cognisant of any
correspondence with Mr. Teebay, nor am I aware who were the
Judges eventually appointed for the Hanley Show. — Edwaed
Hewitt.

A coERESPONDENT informed you that Messrs. Hewitt and
Teebay were engaged as Judges, and were written to a few days
before the Show saying their services were not required. I have
asked Mr. Hewitt to kindly reply for himself ; and on om- behalf,
with respect to the engaging of Mr. Teebay, I wrote to him
asking his terms, and this Committee, thinking they could not
entertain them, there was no more said nor done in the matter,
not thinking Mr. Teebay would consider it an engagement, he
not being formally engaged. I was informed a few days before
our Show that Mr. Teebay had told several exhibitors he was
coming to Hanley as Judge, I immediately wrote to him and
told him what had been told to me, and reminding him that no
engagement had been entered into with him.

Then it was stated that several hampers of poultry were left
unpacked during the Exhibition : allow me to tell you that three
hampers of poultry were sent here by the railway company iu
mistake ; they belonged to Mr. GilUver, he having left them at
the parcel office, as he was going to call for them on his way
home from Hanley. Some of the servants, not knowing this,
sent them tons, and they only remained in their hampers during
the judging; and then myself and Mr. Fielding, of Trentham,
put them iu some spare pens and fed them. Mr. Gilliver having
gone away, and expecting him to return, they remained in our
charge until the close of the Exhibition, and were then forwarded
to their proper destination by Mr. S. Fielding, of Trentham ;
and the o^wner of the birds, Mr. Gilliver, will write to you and
tell you so.

The names of the Judges ha-ving been omitted was entirely
an error of the printer, which I had not noticed through pressure
of other business connected ■with the Show. — F. Coofku, Hon.
Secretary.

At the last Hanley Show Messrs. Douglas and Martin were
Judges for poultry, Mr. Eidpeth for Pigeons, and Mr. Eaysou
for Rabbits. The Show was a decided success in every sense,
and I am sure there was not a pen of birds in the Show that
were not unpacked when the judging commenced. — T. Eidpeth.

COLCHESTER AND BRADFORD PIGEON SHOWS.
In reading the report of the Colchester Show I find your
correspondent alludes to cups for points for Pigeons, and says,
in lieu of iucreasing the attraction such a cup appears to frighten
all small exhibitors, etc., and says the result "proves" a very
strong prejudice exists against them. He goes on further to say
that committees would do better without them, or words to that
effect, and that only nineteen exhibitors competed for the forty
prizes; but he does not state the amount the Colchester Com-
mittee held out as a tempting bait to induce Pigeon exhibitors
I to send there, and my only wonder is that so many as nineteen

March 6, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

213

Pigeon exliibitors could be found to compete for such paltry
prizes as were offered at Colchester.

I then read the report of the next Show, which is "Bradford,"
and I compared both schedules and catalogues, and what do I
hud is the result? I see that Colchester otfers the magnificent
sum of 15s. as a first prize, and that tliere are two cups to com-
pete ior. But what do I see on the Bradford schedule '? First,
a cup, value ten guineas, for the winner of the greatest number
of points ; second, a cup, value five guineas, for the winner of
the second greatest niimber of x^oiuts ; and then follows a list of
fourteen more three-guiuea cups — almost a cup to each class in
the Show, besides a first prize of 20s. Well, what was the
difference of the two Shows ? Wliy, Bradford, by offering these
point cups, besides a liberal amount of money prizes, had 112
exhibitors and G34 entries. Did these cujds frighten the small
exhibitors ? Not a bit of it, for I see that amoug the large ex-
hibitors, of which ten exhibited teu pens and above, numbered
349, and the small exhibitors 102, whose entries were under ten
pens numbered 285, which is rather less than three each.

Thus it is proved by this show that it cannot be the point
cups that frighten the exhibitor of one or two pens of birds. I
also see that one of these small exhibitors, who, as your corre-
spondent says, are the sinews and backbone of a show, only
exhibited one pen, and obtained a three-guiuea cup for it;
another with two entries won another three-guiuea cup ; and a
third with three entries another ; so I really cannot see how
anyone can be so prejudiced as to lay the blame on the point
cups. I maintain if committees who do not want to make a
fortune out of their shows, and want to get up a show of really
good birds (as was the case at Bradford), they must offer a
liberal amount of both money and cups to induce the sinews
and backbones to send their birds to compete along with the
lu'ofessional exhibitors or point-cup winners. — J. Toed.

BRADFORD PIGEON SHOW.

This Show was held on February 25th and 2Gth, in the large
room and corridor of St. George's Hall, and must be pronounced
a great success ; iu fact, we may say it was the best exhibition
of Pigeons we have seen since the Aston Summer Show. There
were twenty-four classes of single birds, which produced 604
entries ; and a Selling class for pairs of birds, with thirty entries.
The Committee are to be congratulated for their liberal list, in
addition to which, when they found their entries so numerous,
they gave an additional five-guinea cup to the exhibitor obtain-
ing the second highest number of points in the Show.

Carrier cocks were represented by fourteen specimens. The
first prize and cup were taken by a Black; second and third Dun
and Black respectivfely. In the opinion of many fanciers the
second-prize bird was the best in the class. Of Carrier hens
were fourteen fair specimens ; still they were not so good as a
lot as the cocks, and strange too Dims winning all three prizes.
In this class certainly the best bird won. Pouters had two
classes assigned to them, and were represented by forty-one
pens of all known colours. We never remember to have seen
so good a lot before for only two classes. The prize birds were
Red, Blue, and White. In the hen class the first was a very
nice Red ; second a good Blue ; third a good Yellow. Almond
Tumblers -were represented by eighteen good specimens. The
first was a grand bird, which won the cup for the best bird in
Classes 5, 0, 9, and afterwards obtained the ±'5 5s., in lieu of
that which had previously taken for the best bird in the Show.
The second bird was very little inferior to the former. Any
other variety of Short-faces had twenty-six entries. First and
second were a Red Agate and Black Mottle respectively. The
third, a bird of the best carriage (Red whole-feather) we have
seen for some time. Long-faced Tumblers (Almond or Mottles).
— First was a Red Rosewing, a good bird too ; second a grand
Black Mottle ; third a Black Mottle also. Any other variety of
Toy-faced Tumblers. — A Blue Bald-head obtained first and cup
for the best bird in this and the preceding class ; second a
Yellow Bald ; third a Black Beard. These two classes mustered
seventy entries. Foreign Owls consisted of thirteen pens, all
good liirds. First a Blue ; second and third a White and Black
respective!}'. Barbs were the best class we have seen of this
variety for a long time. First a good Red ; second and third a
good Black and Dun respectively. Trumpeters, new type, had
ten jieus ; the hood and rose of all them were grand, in fact we
may say the only difference in the lot were their markings.
First and cup for the best bird in this and the iJrevious class
was a Black Mottle; second a good Black; and third a good
Black. Trumpeters, old type, had eighteen entries, and a good
class they were ; the difference in the two classes was notable in
the extreme. First a Black Mottle; second a Red; third a
Black. Jacobins, as a lot, were grand, several old fanciers re-
marking that the competition in this variety is getting so severe
that many good birds have to be left out in the cold. First and
second a Yellow aud Red; third a Red. Fantails ■were not so
good as they might have been. First a Blue ; second and third
large-tailed Whites, rather deficient in carriage. Turhits were

represented by twenty-seven pens of all colours. First a
Y'ellow ; second a Silver; third a Red. English Owls had
thirty-six pens of all colours. First aud cup a Blue, and cup for
the best bird in this and the Turbit class ; second a good SUver ;
third a Blue. Dragoons were divided in two classes — Blue or
Silver, and Any other colour. All the winners in this class were
Blues. Any other colour was first with a good White ; second
aud third Red and I'ellow respectively. Short-faced Antwerps
had two classes assigned to them — cock and hen, also a cup for the
best bird in the two classes, which was won by the bird whose
portrait appeared in our Journal some time ago; second and
third were Red Checjuers. Short-faced hen. — First was the btst
Red Chequer hen living; second a Dun; third, with the best
Blue hen we have seen for some time. These two classes had
sixty-two entries. Working Antwerps, or Messenger Pigeons,
had, Uke their Short-faced brethren, two classes assigned to
them ; also a cup. These two classes had seventy-two entries.
Perhaps some of our readers will inform us how a judge can tell
whether a Working Antwerp can fly his one hundred miles in a
show pen. Any other variety had a three-guinea cup assigned to
them, which was won by a Y^ellow Nun ; second a Brunette ;
third an imported bu'd. This was a strong aud good class ;
doubtless the best bird in the class was shown by Mr. Y'ardley,
and received a very high commendation. Selling Class, single
birds ; Dun Carrier cock was first ; second a Blue Pouter ; third,
a nice Almond. Selling Class, pair; first and cup for the best
pair in the two SelHng classes was a pair of Red Jacks ; second,
a pair of White Foreign Owls ; third. Black Carriers. These
two classes had fifty-nine entries.

In conclusion, we will say the Committee did all that lay in
their power for the comfort of the birds ; these were well fed
and watered, and considering the weather, which was very
severe, we never saw a lot look so well. Mr. AUsop judged
Classes 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 24 ; Mr. Cannon 3, 4, Y, 8, 15, 23 ;
Mr. Smith 1, 2, 16, 17, 18; Mr. Crossiand 19, 20, 21, 22.

The following are the awards of cups ; — Carrier cocks and
Carrier hens. — G. J. Taylor, 13, Fitzwilliam Street, Hudders-
field (cock). Pouter cocks and Pouter hens. — G. J. Taylor (cock).
Almond Tumblers, Any other Short-faces, and Foreign Owls. —
R. Fulton (Almond). Long-faced Tumblers, Mottles or Al-
monds, and Any other Long-faced Tumblers. — J. Watts, Hazle-
well Hall, King's Heath (Bald). Barbs and Trumpeters, new
type. — R. Fulton (Trumpeter). Trumpeters (old type), Jaeo-
bius, and Fantails. — R. Fulton (Jacobin). Turbits and English-
Owls. — B. Clay, Audenshaw. Dragoons, Blue or SUver, and
Any other colour. — W. H. Mitchell, Bank House, Moseley (Blue).
Short-faced Antwerp cocks, aud Short-faced Antwerp hens. — W.
Gamon, Hoole Cottage, Chester (cock). Working Antwerp
cocks, and Working Antwerp hens. — D. Riddihough, jun., Brad-
ford (cock). Any other variety. — W. Harvey (Yellow Nun).
Selling class, single, and Selling class, pairs. — W. Harvey (pair
of Jacobins). Ten-guinea cup for the greatest number of points.
— R. Fulton. Five-guinea cup for the second greatest number
of points. — G. J. Taylor. Two-guinea cup for the greatest num-
ber of points in the Long-faced Tumbler and Antwerp classes. — -
D. Riddihough, jun.

THE KING OP OUDE'S FLYING PIGEONS.

It will be known to most of your readers that after the Indian
mutiny of 1857 the King of Oude was removed by the Govern-
ment to Calcutta, where he still remains as a state prisoner. In
olden times, and till lately. Garden Reach was one of the most
pleasant suburbs of Calcutta. There the rich merchants and
civilians had their residences on the banks of the river, and
many a stately house and well-laid-out compound met the eye
of the new arrival as he sailed for the first time up the Hooghly.
The character of the place is now greatly changed, and it i&
sometimes called Little Oude from the King of Oude having
bought-up a great part of it. He is allowed a liberal pension,,
which he spends on a well-kept menagerie and a host of human
parasites from his former dominions. He has bought from time*
to time a great many of the best houses contiguous to where he
was first settled down, which was in the southern part of Garden
Reach ; and as he buys one he adds it to his former property by
enclosing it with a high wall. The houses there are not hmli
closely together, but each stands in its own grounds of from one
to twenty acres. In this way he has acquired half of Garden
Reach, and what he owns is kept strictly private, none but his
own people being allowed within his walls. Having little else
to do besides attending to his menagerie and Pigeons, all the
Mussulman festivals are kept with the greatest regularity, and
the fearful noise created by tom-toms and all manner of noisy
instruments at these times, which recur with alarming fre-
quency, has had the effect of depreciating the value of the re-
maining part of Garden Reach, so that people do not now prefer
it as a residence. Houses are at a discount, many of the best
are untenanted, and not a few falling to ruins.

It was in January, 1865, that I first arrived in Calcutta by the
P. and O. Co.'s Steamer " Simla." As we passed Budye Budye

214

JODBNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Marcli G, 1873.

and turned the bend of the river, -^-hich brought us in sight of
Garden Reach, it was near sunset. By-and-by we were abreast
of the King of Oude's houses, fancifully coloured blue, yellow,
and red. The Calcutta houses are built of brick and covered
with plaster, which is repaired about every third year and white-
washed, and the King has a fancy for tinting "the whitewash
with gay colours, leaving the mouldings of the doors and wiudows
either white or a different sliade of colour. I observed a great
many boxes on poles scattered about the grounds for the accom-
modation of a host of monkeys. On inquiry I was disappointed
to learn that no European was ever admitted within the walls
to see the large collec^n of birds and beasts ; but some years
afterwards, in the colcf weather of lSG8-fjU, I noticed an ad-
vertisement in the newspapers, saying that His Majesty would
throw open his grounds on a certain dayto all Europeans whose
names were on the Government House list, so I lost no time in
applying to Moonshee Ameer Ali, the Grand Vizier, for a ticket,
and in due course I availed myself of it.

Ou arriving at the principal gateway I was received by a num-
ber of gaudily dressed officials, who greeted me with courtesy ;
and on entering I was surprised to see the care and taste dis-
played in the laying-out of the grounds, and the many beautiful
and rare animals and birds located in them. It is said that the
King has spent upwards of a quarter of a million sterling on his
menagerie, and I knew a dealer in Calcutta who assured me that
he sometimes made sales to him amounting to 30,UUU rupees at
a time. From the bargaiued-for amount, however, about half
has generally to be returned to iinderstrappers, no business
being done without their interference. It is impossible to ap-
proach a great man direct in eastern climes ; the underlings
would soon put a stop to such a proceeding unless sweating dus-
tooree was handed over to them. This will give your readers
an idea how good a thing His Majesty's taste for live stock'has
been for his oflicials.

As my object is to give an account of His Majesty's flying
Pigeons, I shall be very brief in dealing with the rest of what I
saw. In one part of the grounds is a small mosque-shaped
building surmounted by a gilded dome, the apartments of which
are floored with marble iu inlaid designs, and hung round with
pretty cages containing beautifully coloured birds. What struck
me most was the cleanliness they were kept in ; and this applies
to all the birds and beasts about the place. Of course they
m,ight have had extra attention on such a show-day, but, from
the healthy-looking appearance of them all, I think they are well
attended to. In the cenire room of the building the floor was
hoUowed-out to contain water, iu which were a number of small
gold, silver, and other fish, all so tame as to eat from the hand.
I was told that the King takes great delight in feeding them,
and does so almost every day. In front of the building is an
oblong marble tank, measuring, as far as I can remember, about
40 by lUU feet, and containing a great assortment of aquatic
birds, many of them of gi'eat rarity and brought from great dis-
tances, i^ot far from the tank is a place devoted to the larger
feline animals — a lion, tigers, leopards (spotted and black),
hyenas, Sec. I noticed three jackals, one of the usual colour, a
second pure white with red eyes, and a third a melanoid jet
black. For any freak of nature of this kind the King will pay a
good price. A cat-fancier would have been delighted with the
assortment of Persian and Affghan cats. The usual colour
of those brought down hy the Cabul fruit-sellers, every cold
weather, is pure white, but I saw pure black aud tortoiseshell
ones of great size aud length of hair. Among the l^arrots, of
which there is a splendid collection, especially of Australian,
Bornean, and Sumatran kinds, I saw two albinos of the common
ring-necked Bengal Parroquet. They were of the most lovely
canary yellow with red eyes.

I must now come to the Pigeons. His Majesty's fancy Pigeons
are kept in some of his best houses, the lofty verandahs of which
are enclosed by wire netting. They were not ou view, so I can-
not describe them. He has recently acquired a good many
European varieties, and his taste for them lies chiefly iu Kunts
and Jacobins, both kinds being entirely different from anything
to be found in India. He had some very fair Jacobins, which
were shown in cages on tables laid along some of the garden
walks. They came from France ; and besides having birds of
the colours and markings known here, I saw very good Bhxe and
Black self-coloured ones, Baldpated ones with feathered legs,
and one pair of Reds with both feathered legs aud a Trumpeter's
moustache or rose above the beak. This x)air was very good in
hood and chain. I must now come to the flyers, of which, I
daresay, the King has four of the largest trained flocks in the
world. Each flock contains about a thousand birds, and is kept
in a separate house, aud at a distance of *2U0 or 300 yards from
each other. I have no doubt these birds, which I shall en-
deavour to describe, have been bred for generations for flying.
The first thing which strikes a fancier about them is the won-
derful hardness and close-lying appearance of their feathers,
and the bold upstanding look of the birds. In this respect
there is a gi-eat deal of the character of the highly-bred Carrier
about them ; but they differ in the head and beak, which is some-

thing like that of an Archangel, being long and thin. And with
reference to the Archangel, as I have seen it stated somewhere
that it originated in Germany, where it is called the Bullfinch,
I may correct this opinion by saying that it is well known iu
India, having been bred there for generations, and I believe
many more of the German Toys originated in the same country,
where a gi-eat many wonderfully feathered birds are bred.

But to return to the flyer. In colour it is invariably pied, aud
almost always the head and neck as far down as a Nun are
coloured, the other pieces of colour being disposed without re-
gularity over the body. The colour is never in mottles but iu
splashes, and the eye is orange. Of these birds the Kiug has,
as I said, four great thghts, one each of Blue, Black, lied, and
Yellow Pieds. For beauty of colour — a deep metallic shining
black, clear blue, rich mahogany red, and bright yellow — they
are worth going far to see. Attached to each flight there is a
keeper, whose duty it is to feed and fly them ; and for the latter
purpose he keeps beside him a jar of some small seeds, of which
the birds are extremely fond, and a long bamboo with a small
red flag attached to it. Throwing a small quantity of the seed
on the ground, and at the same time uttering a peculiar call,
the keeper of the flight I watched brought his birds out of the
house iu a heap, and in a few secouds the seed was gone, when
he began to diive them on a large wooden rack, shaped like a
greenhouse rack for flower-pots standing on, which stood near
the house. They evidently iinderstood him, for in a short time
they all rose from the gi'ouud and settled on the rack, which,
though by no means small, was so crowded with birds that
there seemed no room for one more. All of a sudden, placing
his first and second fin^rs in his mouth, the keeper gave a
shi-ill whistle, and at the same time waving his flag, the great
flight rose iu the air. They neither flew very high nor very far
away, but they kept together iu a compact mass with scarcely a
straggler, so that each time they passed over the house they cast
a great shadow on the ground, aud the noise of their many
wings was like music to my Pigeon-fancier's ears. At the time
I saw them flying the other three flocks were going through the
same performance to the amusement, I daresay, of some of the
other visitors, and more than once the flock I was watching
mingled with another in their flight and separated again. They
were evidently lazy, being well fed and ready to come down when
wanted ; but the keeper had them well under command, aud by
the motions of his flag kept them going as long as he liked. At
length I asked him to bring them down, which he did by lower-
ing his flag and throwing a small quantity of the small seed on
the ground, uttering his peculiar call as he did so. They seemed
to stop instantaneously in their flight, and with a rush "like
Doves to their windows," the whole mass settled at my feet,
moving the air vrith the fluttering of their many wings. As
soon as they were on the ground I noticed the man dart at and
catch up one, which he shook and tossed up. It was a Yellow
which had got into the Blue flock as they mingled in their
flight, and I daresay a young one not yet educated. — B.vLnrATE,
Monijiethf Dundee.

CANARIES AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE BIRD
SHOW.

"Why the usual critique on the judgment of the Canaries and
Mules, ferming the larger portion uf the Bird Show attbe Palace,
has this year been omitted from the Journal I cannot under-
stand, especially as the exhibition fully equalled any previously
held as regards the quality and condition of the birds, and so
far as the entire arrangements were concerned. That the Show
was a large one may be ascertained from the fact of the catalogue
containing the number of 10(13 entries.

The first ten classes, confined to Norwich birds alone, were
furnished with 290 specimens, giving an average of twenty-nine
birds for each class. The Norwich birds, which were much
admired for their gay plumage, formed the principal feature of
the Exhibition, the Clear and Even-marked birds iu many
instances being rich in blootn aud in beautiful condition.
Classes 5 and 0, Ticked or Unevenly-marked Norwich, were
well represented, many very showy birds being exhibited. In
these two classes a couple of birds (Nos. 187 aud 21(3), caused
quite a seusation, owing to the very unnatural appearance they
bore as regards their colour. On this account the Judges de-
clined to entertain them as proper sxjecimens for competition,
which opinion was backed generally by fanciers from various
parts of England after the Exhibition was opened to the public.

The four Belgian classes were represented by forty-six birds,
nearly the whole of which were of high-class quality. There
was a goodly array of London Fancies, the prizewinners in each
of the two classes showing evidence of much time and trouble
having been devoted to the bringing of them out. There were
also several fii'st-class Lizard birds, rich inquahty, with faultless
caps, and "kreeled" to perfection. The two classes of Cinna-
mon birds (numbering sixty-four in the whole), occupied the
attention of the Judges for some time iu selecting seven of the
number for prize--^. A new feature in the Palace Show was the

March 6, 1873. ]

jourx.Uj of horticultobe and cottage gardener.

215

Yorkshire breed of birds : suffice it to say there were several
excellent specimens shown. In future years no doubt there will
be more entered.

The Mules above all were worth seeing. The eight classes
had in them 126 comi>etitors, and some care had to be exercised
in selecting the winning birds. The two Even-marked Mealy
specimens were in splendid condition, and fully earned the
remark attached to them as being " exceptionally good." The
markings on the wings and eyes were all that could be desired,
the entire body being clear, with the tail feathers all told.
Amongst the Mules, not excepting the cross betwixt the Canary
and Linnet, there were many champion birds.

The whole of the Canary and Mule classes contained 680 birds,
the remainder of the classes being set apart for the British and
foreign specimens, of which a report has already appeared in
the Joomal.

[Our reporter faUed to send us notes on the Canaries, and the
above has been sent to us. — ^Eds.]

BEE-DOMICILES, AND SYSTEMS OF
MANAGEMENT.

The coiTespondence upon this subject increases, and the con-
troversy grows warmer, but as yet nothing practical has been
suggested by which the on-lookers have been benefited, and I
ana beginning to think that we shall see the opening of the bee
season of 1873 without being one whit wiser as to which is the
•best hive. That the hive itself, be it straw, wood, or a com-
bination of both, with moveable combs or without, round, octa-
gonal, or square, has a direct influence upon the nett result of
boney to be obtained in one season, I for one do not believe.
The size is of more importance than the shape, because in a
good and abundant season a moderately large hive would yield
more produce than one too small to admit the storing of all the
honey the bees could collect if they had space sufficient for
their want '-. "What we want is a hive that can be managed upon
the swarming or the non-swarming system as may be desired,
one in which the space could be curtailed or added to, so that it
could be altered to suit the requirements of any season — bad or
good, and in which the bees are so completely under our control
that a thorough examination of the contents of the hive can be
made at any time when necessary (not whenever the curiosity
of tlie amateur would tempt him to do so) ; in short, a hive that
would admit of the best system of management. Good manage-
ment with unsuitable hives would be almost as bad as suitable
hives and bad management. The hive and the system must go
hand-in-hand — the one dependant upon the other, and then
tJrere is a probability of the greatest results following.

The hive that to my mind nearest approaches to perfection is
that described by Mr. Abbot in the columns of 2'he English
Mfihanic, and which I presume he would have used had Mr.
Pettigrew accepted his challenge. I must own to feeUng greatly
disappointed that Mr. Pettigrew has not accepted Mr. Abbot's
challenge, because, from the exhaustive nature of the trial pro-
posed, I had hoped that the resvilt would have been very con-
clusive as to the merits of the moveable comb hive over any other
form of hive in which the combs are fixed ; and I am compelled
to the opinion that the reasons given by Mr. Pettigrew for his
refusal are not in accordance with his previously-expressed
desire for a trial that should be beneficial in its results to the
bee-keeping community generally. He appears greatly offended
with Mr. Abbot for his strictures upon " the Pettigrew system,"
which he published in The English Mechanic some few months
back, and allows his personal feeUngs to interfere with his desire
for the public good. I have had the pleasure of reading his
*' Handy Book," and if my memory does not play me false,
although he does not positively advocate the sulphur pit, still
he defends its use, and I beHeve makes use of this observation ;
— " As well might we condemn the butcher who kills the sheep
that we may obtain the mutton, as condemn the killing of the
bees to secure the honey." He also, I believe, mentions a kettle
of boiling water to give the coiij} de grace. He finds fault with
the conditions proposed by Mr. Abbot, but does not avail himself
of his consent to any reasonable variation. He objects to the
interference with the hives by the owner, because, he says, " it
is not a question of good management." I thought the " let-
-aJone " system was athing of the past, but it appears it still has an
advocate in Mr. Pettigrew. Oh 1 Mr. Pettigx-ew, your withdrawal
may be dignified, but your conduct is not the least bit plucky.

I had a good laugh over Mr. Lowe's fancied contest, and the
championship of the tea-chest. John Chinaman came to the
fore, and proved himself the best hive-maker after all. There
is no doubt that such a result might follow, and the tea-chest
might distance all competitors in a single trial from May to
September; but many conditions might arise even during that
short time, which on the " let-alone " system would totally
extinguish John Chinaman's chance without a remedy being
practicable, whilst the same circumstances could be success-
fully combated if they occurred in Mr. Abbot's bar-frame.

In the concluding portion of Mr. Lowe's letter he says, " Se-

cond, that in the same season and locality differences in honey
results in different hives, as a rule, will be determined or ac-
counted for, not by the difference of hive, but by a difference in
the state and condition of its population." Surely, no better
argument than this can be used in favour of a hive in which
that condition and state can be so readily ascertained, and so
promptly remedied, as in the bar-frame hive. Suppose, as most
bee-keepers know to their cost is often the case, the queen dies,
or ceases to be fertile, the hive, if closed against inspection,
would graduaDy go to the bad. In a bar-frame hive, however,
the introduction of a comb of y»ung brood from another hive at
once changes the aspect of affairs ; hope springs up, queen cells
are started, and soon, where all was desolation, activity prevails,
the colony is again in possession of a ruler, and becomes flourish-
ing and proUfic. The present spring affords a strong proof of
the advantage of being able to make a careful examination of
the interior of the hive. The open winter has led to great con-
sumption of stores and very early breeding, and I have already
seen several instances where the hives were judged by weight
in the middle of January, and appeared quite heavy enough to
weather the coming time of trial. Had an internal examination
been made, the weight would have been better understood, as it
was caused chiefly by brood in all stages. Of food there must
have been a short supply, for upon the departure of the frost
which set in so soon after, the hives had perished of starvation,
and presented a sorry sight. Had their true condition been
known, a few pounds of food woidd have saved them. I had
several bar-fram« hives in the same state, and am happy to say
that by prompt attention at the right time they are still alive
and prosperous, and I owe their preservation to the knowledge
that I obtained of their condition by an inspection of their con-
tents in the first week of January.

In conclusion, I hope that we shall have more individual
opinion and less personal controversy in the correspondence
upon this subject, as it is only by the comparison of opinions
and experience that we are likely to benefit. "We have a
champion in the field for the straw skep, the Stewarton hive,
and the bar-frame. What particular form Mr. Lowe favours I
do not gather, but from the way in which he handles his subject
his opinion would be valuable, even if he took his stand on the
tea-chest ; and I hope he will favour ua with his opinion as to
which is the best hive, and, what is of equal importance, how it
should be managed. — B. Symingtox.

THE BEST-HIVE QUESTION— UNITING SWARMS.

YotTR number of the Journal for February 27th contained a
good deal that was both amusing and interesting to bee-keepers.
Hot waxes the strife on the subject of the " best hive." It is
the old story, " when doctors differ, ttc," only aggravated in this
case, because the doctors do not merely differ but fight. How-
ever, the question is shelvedj)!'0 tern., as the combatants decline
the encoimter, and the hive controversy passes again into com-
parative obscurity. Mr. Lowe's valuable monograph on the
subject, happily corroborative of my own opinion, puts the ques-
tion in its true Ught. You might as well ask which is the best
house for the genus homo, as inquire which is the best hive for
bees. Neither question can be settled off-hand, and in spite of
Mr. Pettigrew's undoubted reliance on the superlative merit of
his beloved straw skep I feel sure it never will be settled at all.
It all depends on the circumstances and wants of the families,
whether human or apian that are to occupy the several tene-
ments. So of the controversy we may say, requiescat in pace.

But your other correspondent "A. B." has given us a valuable
addition to our practical experience in bee-management, in
his repprt of the method he adopts for uniting swarms, and in-
deed families of bees in every case of need. Nothing can be
simpler or more likely to succeed. I wish to draw particular at-
tention to it, and hope that it will be largely adopted in the_ en-
suing summer. The only case of difficulty will be where it is
desired to preserve alive a particular queen — say one which has
proved herself a fertile mother, or possibly an Italian queen of
value ; because obviously in every case where swarms, &c., are
united iu this way, the queens would probably fight out the
battle between themselves, and in any case one of them must be
sacrificed. I should hke to know whether " A. B.'s " plan would
answer iu the fui-ther case of uniting one stock to another, with-
out recourse to driving in the case of one of them. Has he ever
tried such a union of stocks '? I should be particularly glad to
know that this has been tried successfully, because I have four
or five weakish stocks I should much like to unite together at
this present time. They have so far survived the winter in good
health, but they wiU do nothing, save perhaps growing into
strong stocks by the autumn. By the way, I may observe that
I often find my weak hives of one year become the strong stocks
of the next, owing to their not swarming as the others do, often
to excess. — B. & W.

OUR LETTER BOX.
Light Beahjias {St. Edmund).— Yoa may safely purchase i om any two of
the liTe you name.

216

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March G, 1873.

Books {C. A. J.).~W6 know of no other than Brent's " Canary and Biitish
Finches," which you can havo by pobt from our otlice if you enclose Is. Id. in
stamxjs with your address.

Hamecrgh Eggs {M. H.).— Wait until the sitting is concluded. We
cannot give an opinion on surmises.

Spanish Fonvls Partly Featherless {E. Dumvillc). — If the Spanish
pnllet is quite bare, it is in consequence of the others pecking out and eating
her feathers. If it is only ragged from broken feathers, it is from friction
somewhere, or from roosting close to a ragged wall. In the first case she
wants no medicine; it would be too bad to' dose her with pills because the
othejs pick her feathers. Put her away by herself, and rub the bare spots
with compound^sulphur ointment. Rub it in with youi- hand. Any chemist
will supply you with it. If it is only a case of broken feathers you have tho
choice, either to go on, never minding the look, and to leave the quills in the
sldn, or to pull them out, that new feathers may grow. If it were our case,
we should leave the stubs.

Animal Food for Fowls (7. A. /.). — The question of animal food for
poultry is not a new one. A German Prince (quoting from memory, not hav-
ing notes at hand), we believe the Prince of Tour and Taxis, kept many
thousands in that manner. "We have known it tried in England. \Ve have
tried it ourselves; as a rule it is a failm-e. Tour "unlimited grass range" is
your safety valve. We sh&uld not like to eat the eggs laid in hot weather.
Those who collect animal substance for converting into manure are not par-
ticular in their selection, and if the birds feed on it the eggs must taste.
Meat may be tried as a change, and in conjunction with other things very
beneficially in cold and trying weather, but as a food it is worse than useless.
It causes extreme fat, serious fever of the egg passages, hinders the formation
of feathers during the moulting season, and shortens life. There is a theory
to which we adhere ; that whether you get all the eggs in one year by over-
feeding lite your's, or spread them over their natural peiiod, you get only
your number. The moderately- fed healthy fowl will lay a good average num-
ber year after yeai-, and still remain a healthy good-looking bird. The laying
yon mention is very good, but we have known a Hamburgh lay 240 eggs in a
year, and only motlerateiy fed. It was an exceptional case. Xou began
keeping fowls in IHTU, and we ore now at the beginning of 1873. You have
six hens, and your deaths have been thi-ee. That is a large proportion com-
pared with your stock. Meat food is unnatural for fowls. ^Vhen at hberty,
as you describe your's to be, they find worms, and enough of animal food to
serve them. You need not complain that your fowls do not lay till sefen
months. It is early enough, and better than you might expect Ii-oni cross-
bred birds. Quackei-y is getting too much a-head in poultry, and people who
keep a few fowls in confinement become poultry correspondents, and detail
their experiences without having the candoui* to say they were failures,
and that with them the poultry fit had long since been at an end. It is like
a man who details his farming knowledge at an agricultural dinner ; speaks
learnedly of swedes, roots, and white crops, till a common- sense man puts
him down by asking where his farm is, and gets for answer — he has rathei-
less than an acre of laud. Throw horse flesh to the dogs, bhut the fowls as
much as possible from the filthy heap. Keep them ta the clean honest gi-ass.
They will lay earlier, they will moult natmaUy, and last as long again as they
do now. We offer you one gratuitous piece of advice — keep true-bred fowls.

Feeding Poultry {Begi7mcr]. — Begin again, and feed more natui-ally.
"We have now more than a thousand hens, all in perfect health. We eschew
half the rubbish you name altogether. We have no faith in any foods. Rice
is worse than nothing. Pepper is injurious rather than othenvise. Fowls
dislike oats. They waste, but do not eat buck^'heat. Feed with barleymeal
or gi'ound oats slaked morning and evening. Give Indian com mid-day. If
you can substitute kitchen or table scraps for some of the mid-day me^s, do
so. Give nothing else. It is an additional expense, laid out to purchase dis-
appointment. Coal ashes are very bad things for a bottom or flooring to a
house. If you have no gi-avel, you can get wood ashes, or chalk, or road
grit, or all thiee together. (I. M. G.). — You are another victnn to quackei-y,
and the ignorance of some teachers. You multiply expense, and diminish
success. Half yoiu: food is waste, and the whole cannot accomplish any
result. Out of the eleven foods you name, we advise you to eschew all but
four. Feed morning and evening on barleymeal or ground oats slaked ; mid-
day with Indian corn or kitchen or house scraps. Take up your brick walk ;
nothing is so bad for fowls. Coal ashes are not good. Have you no chalk, no
road grit, no clay, no wood ashes ? Whatever the nature of the flooring or
ground of the run may be, supply the fowls daily with a large sod of growing
grass cut with plenty of earth to it. The fowls will eat it all. Lettuces
when you have them. Follow this, and you will have eggs.

Pencilled HLuiburgh Feathers (.4. B. C). — 1 is a bad feather, and
indicates mossy x>lumage; 2 is a good feather, and should come from a good
bird; S is a bad feather, and should not make part of an exhibition fowl.

Br.uima's Mouth Ulcerated (Glevum). — In all such cases as you describe
we use caustic, rubbing it in without dilution or solution of any kind. It is
probable the small swelling is intimately connected witli the opening below.
Place your thumb above the swelling, squeeze the contents (probably fatty or
cheesy matter), until they aic discharged into the mouth. With a syi-inge
inject into the emptied sac first warm water till it is cleansed, then soma
solution of caustic ; afterwards take your stick caustic, and use it freely on the
fimgus. Examine it every two or three days, and suffer no formation to tako
place. Pullets are laying, but hens have not yet begim.

BTTiTNG Pigeons ( M. J. S. W.). — Prevention is far preferable to having to
straggle for a remedy. Do not pay for the buds until after you havo seen
them. If Pigeons liy back to the vendor after you have pmchased them you
are entitled to reclaim them. Tho ditficulty is in identifying them.

Cheltenham Bird Show(G. J. Bameshy). — Having seen your letters to
Mr. Blakston on this Show, and the effort made to screen one delinquent, we
decline inserting your irrelevant note.

Brahma Pootras < T. A'.). — If you refer to our advertising columns, yon
will see many offered for sale.

Mottled Tumbler [T, itfooiT).— The best colourtd pictnre of a Short-
faced Mottled Tumbler is that in Eaton's work. The white should only be at
the shoulders of the wings, not on the back. They easily-enough breed too
light.

What Variety of Pigeons to Keep {A. H. Mom-ison). — This is a diffi-
cult question to answer. If you have a distinct taste for one variety have
that, or be guided by your place for keeping the birds. Pouters please many, and
are not, out of Scotland, as numerous at shows as many other varieties. We
long to see more of them. You would have a good chance of winning with
them, as at many ehows they are sadly wanting in numbers. We do not re-
commend dealers ; but for the best see our weekly advertising colunms.

Hives {M. J.).— We find it difficult to advise you in the matter oi hives.
Yon have doubtless read what has passed between rival bee-keepers in our

pages on the question of which is the best hive. Fiery are the tempers of
tho rivals, and a broken head may yet result to anyone who ventmes to speak
fx cathedra on such a subject. Still, we think we may safely say that all
hives are good if not too small, and if well managed ; but if you ai-e a beginnei*
wo should advise you to adopt a plain hive of wood or straw with windows
such as you desire, with or without bai-s, according to your own fancy and
skill in bee-manayement. Why not try the bar hive with super, which you
*' rather hke V" We make ourselves, or get made, our own hives of wood at
much less cost than the prices you mention. As to bee-books, besides " Bee-
keeping for the Many," you will find Bevan excellent, if you can get the
author's original work. Taylor's is good as far as it goes; and you will find
some useful hints in " Profitable Bee-keeping "' pubhshed for Grf. by the Society
for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge. We fear your overturned bees are
destroyed.

meteoeologicaIj observations,

Camden Square, London.
Lat. 51° 32' 40" N. ; Loug, 0' 8' 0" W, ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date.

A.H.

In the Day.

1873.

.&«

„

a^

Shade Tem-

Radiation

.a

t4

Feb.
und

Barome
ter at 8
and Se
Level.

Hygrome-
ter.

perature.

Temperature

In 1 On
sun. grass

March.

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

Inches.

ieg.

deg.

deg.

deff.

deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

We.SQ

28.931

47.8

46.2

S.W.

37^

50.1

33.5

62.9

81.8

0.(j70

Th. 27

2a.32C

40.6

88.3

N.

89.0

45.3

S9.6

81.6

88.3

Fri. 28

29.737

33.8

31.5

N.

39.1

43.0

30.6

8S.3

27.1

Sat. 1

29.419

30.5

35.2

S.E.

38.3

45.7

S0.6

49.5

28.8

0.22&

Sun. 2

29.584

42.8

39.4

N.W.

39.4

50.1

35.3

91.8

83.0

0.02O

Mo. 3

29.895

41.5

40.3

S.W.

39.4

49 2

34.1

48.5

30.1

0.097

Ta. 4

29.761

48.9

48.1

N.W.

41.2

59.1

40.8

102.9

40.2

—

Means

29.620

41.7

39.9

39.1

49.0

84.9

75.9

32.3

0.413

bemakks.

26th- — All the snow melted during the ni-ht, very rapid thaw ; rain about;

IIa.m; quite bright in the early pait of the afternoon j wind rather

high in the evening; and night,
27th. — Fair in caily morning, then clouded for a time; an outburst of bright

sunshine about 1 p.m., followed by more and more cloud till 4 p.m.,

when, for about ten minutes, it was awfully dark and stormlike, but

scarce any rain fell ; here a starlight night.
2Sth. — Snow on the giound in eaily morning, but the bright sun soon melted

it ; a very fine day tlnoughout.
1st. — Fine in eaily morning, hut rain commenced about 11 A.3I., and fell at

inteiwals all day; cloudy and damp evening.
2nd. — Wind rather strong and cold, but the sun bright, and the day as a whole

very pleasant.
3rd. — Wet eaily and late, and cloudy all between; heavy rain at 10 p.m.
■1th.— The finest day we have had for some weeks ; bright, dry, and pleasantly

wai*m.
The wai-mest week since the middle of January, the mean of the five pre-
ceediug weeks being only 34^.1, while this has been 41'-. 7. The maximum in
sun has been, as might be expected fiom the sensible power of the bimwhen
visible, much higher than at any time this year. The disappearance of the
snow at the beginning of the week nas extremely rapid. — G. J. Svmons.

COYENT GAKDEN MARKET. -Makch 5.
A FAm amount of business doing, and moderate supply of rough produce.
Cornish Broccoh stills keeps good and abundant. New Potatoes ai-e from Malta ,
Lisbon, and the West Inches ; prices range from 2rf. to 4</. lb. Hothouse Grapes
are ample for the trade, remaining at former quotations.

FRUIT,

Apples i sieve

Apricots iloz. 0

Cherries per lb. 0

Chestnuts bushel 12

B. d. e. d. :

Currants j siove 0

Black do. 0

Figs doz . 0

Filberts lb, 0

Cobs lb. 0

Gooseberries quart 0

Grapes, hothouse lb. 4

Lemons ^100 6 0

Melons each X &

20 0
0 0

d. B. d.
OtoO 0
0 0
0 10
0

10 0
3 0

Mulberries ^Ib. 0

Nectarines doz. 0

Oranges ^100 4

Peaches doz, 0 0

Pears, kitchen doz, 1 0

dessert doz. 8 0 12

PmeApples lb. 0 0 10

Plums 4 sieve 0 0 0

Quinces doz. 0 0 0

Kaspberries lb. 0 0 0

Strawberries V'Z. 10 2

Walnuts bushel 16 0 So

ditto %^100 a 0 3

VEGETABLES.

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus %*■ 100

French

Beans. Kidney T^*- 100

Beet, Red doz.

Broccoh bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums i:*- 100

Carrots bunch

Cauhtiower doz.

Celery bundle

Coleworta.. doz. bunches
Cucumbers each

pickJuig doz.

Endjvo doz.

Funnel bunch

Garlic lb.

ticrbs bunch

Hortirradish bimdle

Leoks bunch

Luttuoe doz

B. d. s. d.

3 Oto6 0

5 0 10 0

0 80 0

Mushrooms pottle

Mustard & Cress. .punnet
Onions ^bushel

pickling quart

Parsley per doz. bunches

Parsni'ps doz .

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Round do.

Radishes., doz. bunches

Rhubarb bundle

Salsaf y ^ bundle

Savoys doz,

Scorzonera.... ^ buiuUe

Sea-kale basket

Shallots lb.

Spinach bushel

Tomatoes doz.

Turnips bunch

Vegetable Marrows.,

s. d. B. d.

POULTRY MARKET.— March 5.
Opr supply is much below the average, but tho trade is worso.
were the usual demand, poiUtry of good quaUty would be very dear.

If there

March 13, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICDLTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

217

WEEKLY

CALENDAR.

Day D«y

Average Tempera-

Clock Day

Month Week.

MABCH 1»-19, 1873.

tare near London.

iS years.

Rises.

Seta.

Rises.

Sets.

Age.

Snn. Tear.

Day.

Night.

Mean.

Days.

m. h.

m. h.

m. h.

m. h.

Days.

m. B.

13

Th

Meeting of Koyal Society, 8.30 P.M.

50.4

34.0

42.2

15

20af6

69af5

11 5

6 35

14

9 34 72

14

P

50.8

34.4

42.6

20

18 6

1 6

21 6

6 48

o

9 17 78

15

8

50.6

83.6

42.1

21

IG 6

3 6

31 7

0 7

16

9 0 74

16

Sun

8 Sunday rs Lent.

51.0

34.0

42.5

U

13 6

4 6

42 8

14 7

17

8 43

75

17

M

Meeting of Entomological Society, 7 P.M.

52.0

32.5

42.8

18

11 6

6 6

5a 9

28 7

18

8 25

76

18

Tn

Meeting of Zoological Societv, a30 P.M.

49.9

33.0

41.5

IS

9 6

8 6

13 11

43 7

19

8 8

77

19

W

Eoyal Horticultural Society, Fruit, Floral, and
['General Meeting. Hyacinth Show opens.

50.9

33.0

41.9

15

G G

9 6

mom.

2 8

20

7 60

78

From observations taken near London daring forty-three years, the average day temperature of the vee^ is 50.8^ ; and its night temperature

S3.5^ The greatest heat was 69% on the 19th, 1836 ; and the lowest eold 17°, on the 17th,

1845. The greatest fall of rain was 0.70 inch.

1

SELECTION OF PEAS.

AM much interested witli the tiial of Peas,
as published in " The Gardeners' Year-
Book." Allow me to express thanks for so
valuable a trial being brought before the
gardening world.

I wish the varieties had been reduced to
ahout a dozen, and divided into tliree sec-
tions— say first, second, and late sorts. I
think the trade would have more readily
copied the decision. My meaning is, that if
a short list of the best varieties were published I think
the trade and the public would copy the list. That would
be, perhaps, the way to reduce the so-called varieties.

I am sui-prised that Paradise Slarrow is not more
grown ; it would be a first-class Pea for market gardeners,
as it comes in at one time, and the ground would be
ready for other crops.

I made the trial of eighty-one varieties last year, and
the following hst may be of interest to those who like
kinds that bear a second crop about three weeks after the
first is gathered : — British Queen, Carter's Leviathan,
Huntingdonian, Imperial Wonder, .Jersey Hero, King of
the Man-ows, Laston's Supreme, Prizetaker, Ne Plus
Ultra, Laxton's Prolific Longpod, Laxton's Quality,
Laxtou's Evergreen, Premier, Mimstead MaiTow, Vic-
toria Marrow, and Sutton's No. 1 AVrinkled Man-ow. —
K. H. D., Sealiam.

FEBTILISING CYCLAMEN ELQ-WEES.

I HAD some thoughts of sending you a few notes on my
•way of setting the flowers of Cyclamen persicum, and
should have confined myself to these, had I not seen
Mr. Fiobson's question (page 179), as to whether others
were troubled with a large white grub. Last year at
this time I had a most beautiful lot of plants which
bloomed from Christmas tiU May in a most satisfactory
manner, many of the plants having fi'om thirty to forty
open flowers at a time for weeks together. This year I
have no bloom, and half the plants are dying.

My treatment of Cyclamens from seed is similar to
Mr. Robson's. The older plants after blooming I place in
a vinery till about .July, when they are set on the floor
of a late Peach house, and receive but httle water tiU
early in September ; they are then taken to a greenhouse,
and have regular waterings as required. Last year they
looked promising, and were bristling with buds till
October, when some of the plants began to flag and look
yellow. On taking hold of the corms they were loose,
and the roots eaten through, though the pots were full
of healthy roots, and the grubs (then small) were eating
into the corm. In some pots I found as many as ten
grubs, in others less. Prom that time I persevered in
trying if the corms were fast to the soil, and I had weekly
to take some of the plants to the potting.bench. In
November I took some of those that looked sti-ongest to
the forcing-pit, but that only hastened their failiu-e. So

No. 624.— Vol. XXTV., New Seeies.

in January I detei-mined to risk all bloom, and try to
save the conns, so I shook the lot out, and I do not think
I found tliree of them without grubs, '^■hen I had
finished I counted in the flower saucer into v.'hich I had
put them, seventy-nine grubs, these I tlu-ew into the fire.
One-half of the plants wiU die, and the others are
worthless.

I think Mr. Eohson's plan of turning the plants out
of the pots, or at least repotting them in autumn, will
be the best safeguard, as then, though the gi'ubs will be
young, they may be seen and picked out. My plants
were not disturbed in any way at that time, as I think
they do not bloom so well as when the pots are quite
full of roots, an occasional dose of Hquid manure being
afforded.

I never could succeed in setting more than an occa-
sional bloom by the ordinary method of fertflising flowers ;
but last year, having noticed how readily the pollen feU
from the flowers on a fine day, I took the stalk of a flower
low down between the finger and thumb of the right hand,
tapped the front of the side of the flower against the left-
hand thumb-nail, and soon had tliis covered with the
white and yellow pollen. It was then only necessary to
take the flowers and dip the stigma of each in the pollen,
selecting an occasional flower from which to get more
poUen. The hybridist has in this way facilities of cross-
ing for the colours he wants by carrying pollen from dark
flowers on his thumb-nail, fi'om spotted ones on the first
finger, and so on ; and two small labels in the pot will
tell, if he desires it, the colour of the fcrtflised flower and
that of the poUen-plant's flower. At the time of gather-
ing the seed I went over the flowers every few days, and
the proportion of seed-pods was veiy satisfactory. —
EiCHARD Casson, Aslifield Garden.

CULTUEAL NOTES ON PLANTS EXHIBITED

AT SOUTH KENSINGTON.
The subjects most worthy of extended notice at the
Meeting of March 5th were Camellias, Cyclamens, and
Eoses. Of the first-named there was an excellent dis-
play. Mr. "W. Paul's collection was very beautiful indeed.
The plants were well fm'nished with healthy foUage and
large finely-developed flowers, which showed that the
treatment they receive is of the right kind. The potting
material recommended by Mr. Paul is sandy loam three
parts, one part fibrous peat, and leaf mould in equal pro-
portions, and to this compost he adds " a few small lumps
of charcoal and a few pieces of crushed bones." It was
pleasant to see such an excellent exliibition of this grand
winter flower, as with me the blooms are very late this
year ; they are just now coming in, and the reason of this
is evident : last season was a very unfavourable one for
maturing the wood, and I did not place any of the plants
in heat, but kept them throughout the season in a ccol
gi-eenhouse. Now, in order to have early flowers the
plants must be placed in a warm moist atmosphere as
soon as the flowers are removed, so that the plants may
j make their young wood, and mature it early. They may

No.1276.— V0L.XLIX. Ou) Sebtes.

218

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March 13, 1873.

be removed from this temperature (from GO' to 65' at night),
when the flower buds are set and in a forward state, to the
greenhouse, and plants thus treated will come into flower
before the others not subjected to a forcing temperature. The
Camellia should not be forced to open its flowers in the winter ;
much lire heat wUl cause the flower buds to drop-off. It is
not so well to flower this plant in March, as the flowers do
not last long in that month ; sunny days accompanied with
the usual drying winds soon destroy the flowers.

The Cyclamen was also shown in splendid condition. Mr.
Goddard, gai-deuer to H. Little, Esq., of Twickenham, an
ardent amateur cultivator, has got well ahead of all compe-
titors ; his collection is worth a long journey to sec. Many of
the varieties raised and cultivated by him have been honoured
with first-class certificates from the Royal Horticultural So-
ciety. The aim has been to produce new and decided colour's,
but in doing this, shape and substance in the petals have not
been lost sight of. C. persicum purpureum, exhibited by him
more than twelve months ago, is not only new in colour, but it
is also a flower of good shape. White Perfection is of snowy
whiteness ; the petals are of great substance, and it is one of
the most perfect-shaped flowers. In the large coUectiou ex-
hibited at this meeting was a flower splendid in colour ; it was
of a very bright carmine, but wanting in shape, the segments
being too narrow. This plant will no doubt be improved by
selection. It is not necessary to say much about culture after
the articles which have recently appeared in these pages. All
who wish to be successful I advise to keep the plants near the
glass, and I find the flowers do not open well when the tem-
perature is too low; from 45" to 50' suits them, with the
atmosphere moderately dry. '

A very prominent feature at the early Shows is the Eoses in
pots. Roses are welcome at all seasons, but doubly welcome are
they at this time, with the handsome foliage so fresh and green;
and the half-opened flowers, so rich and satiny in their different
shades of colour, are treasures indeed. But in order to obtain
such Roses as those exhibited by Messrs. Veitch on this occa-
sion the plants must be well treated, not placed under Vines or
under the back wall of a Cucumber house far from the glass in a
high temperature, and where the sun's rays seldom faU upon
them. If forced lioses are to be grown satisfactorily, the pots
must be placed in a house where there is a low temperature to
start with — 45' to 50° wiU be quite high enough ; the plants
should be as near the glass as possible, and so much the better
if the pots can be plunged in a gentle bottom heat, say 85',
although this is not absolutely necessary. The temperature
of the house may be gradually increased until it reaches 55°
or 60° at night. The Rose does not succeed in a high night
temperature early in the season, the flowers produced are
wanting in colour and flimsy in character. It does very well
to force a few pots of Roses in an early vinery if the Roses are
introduced at the time the Vines are started, as the syringing
which the dormant canes receive just suits the Roses; but
when the night temperature of the vinery is over 00°, and Vine
leaves are shading the roof, the Roses must be removed to
another house, as the shade and high temperature are both
injurious to them. Green fly is the most inveterate enemy of
forced Roses ; it should be destroyed on its first appearance
by fumigating. The " worm i' the bud " also requires a quick
eye and a sharp pin to pick it out, otherwise the best buds are
sometimes destroyed. As soon as the first buds open remove
the plants to the greenhouse, so that the flowers may be
prolonged. — J. Douglas.

He had been gardener to the late John Smith Entwisle, Esq.,
and his father for many years. He procured the seed of the
Pine Apple through Miss Entwisle, who saved it whenever she
found any in the Pines at dessert, and the supposition is, that
the two sjjlendid Pines are a cross between the Enville and
Montserrat. Mr. .Tames Foden, of Lees Street, Accrington, the
eldest sou of the late Joseph Foden, I have no doubt could
furnish you with all the particulars if applied to. — J. Weight.

PRINCE ALBERT OR PRINCE ALFRED
PINE APPLE.
In your issue of February 20th, there is a short article from
" J. M. C," respecting what he calls the Prince Albert Pine
Apple and its unknown origin. In the first place it is Prince
Alfred, and not Prince Albert; and as to its origin, I was
personally acquainted with the raiser, having fruited some of
the seedlings which were not sold when the others were, and
the best two seedlings were Prince Alfred and Ulack Prince.
They were very similar in appearance, but Black Prince was
the larger and better of the two. They are now quite con-
lounded, and which is Black Prince or Prince Alfred I could
not say. The first time I saw them they were truly mag-
nificent, several of them about 11 lbs. weight. Most of them
went to Wales. The name of tho raiser was Mr. Joseph Foden,
Foxholes, Rochdale, Lancashire ; he died February 12th, 1857.

CARRIAGE AND OTHER ROADS AND DRIVES.
No. 1.

Many years before the raO had taken the first place as a
medium for travelling, good roads were regarded by an emi-
nent geographer as one of the best tokens of a country's pro-
gress. As changes in the manner of making roads have been
and stiU are going on, it may not be amiss to glance at least
at such as relate to carriage roads and other thoroughfares
within the sphere of a gardener's operations, in order to guide
ourselves under any circumstances which may occur.

First of all, it must be confessed that although in the pre-
sent century much has been done to improve our thoroughfares,
there are works yet remaining, executed by the earliest con-
querors of Britain, proving that many hundreds of years ago
roads of a very substantial character had been formed by them
in a way that cannot, even at the present day, bo improved
upon, and it is marvellous how they accomplished the arduous
task of making these roads with the limited supply of tools
they had to work with. Iron and steel were not plentiful in
the second and third centuries of the Christian era, and of
wheeled carriages there were but few ; yet the causeways of
the Romans were of an enduring character, and their waUs
and pavements equally so. Although in the present state of
things the adoption of the primitive causeway cannot be re-
commended, yet there are cases where it may be necessary to
resort to it, and in some parts of England these roads still
exist, for such, kept up at the expense of rural parishes, are
common enough in the north-west ; and although twenty years
or more ago they were threatened with destruction by the
introduction of what is called the McAdam system, they have
since gained favour in high quarters, and are again coming
into fashion, as they have been found more economical ;
even on the score of general utility they have as many ad-
mu-ers as the more smooth and tempting modern highways.
The turnpike road from Bolton to Preston was only a few
years ago, and I believe is now, one side paved and the other
side macadamised, with a division up the middle. The drivers
of light vehicles on springs prefer the macadam road, while
those of heavy-laden carriages prefer the other ; and in dis-
tricts where hard stones have to be brought from a distance,
and where softer ones abound, the latter are better adapted for
a paved road than for one which is macadamised, and jjaved
roads of the latter kind of stone are met with that have done
duty, with very little repair, for scores of years. Such roads,
however, for ■various reasons, are not to be recommended, ex-
cept in special cases where a courtyard or other limited space
has to be operated upon. I will, therefore, for the present
dismiss them. In no case would I adWse their formation
where pebbles from the river or seashore have to be used for
the purpose, for nothing is more uncomfortable to walk upon,
and their smooth sides and rounded form render them difficult
to fix in position, so that they are always getting loose and
out of order. Very small pebbles may be better, but the
labour of laying them down is too great to allow of their
general adoption on a large scale ; consequently, except for
water channels and fancy purposes, they cannot be said to
come into competition with the more common modes of road-
making.

It would appear that for several centuries subsequent to the
Roman evacuation of this country no advance was made
in road-making, although bridges were built, and, doubtless,
by degrees the mode of making roads as now adopted was
established. A few stones thrown into some hollow in a horse
track, and the same into the furrows made by wheels, when this
mode of locomotion became more common, laid the founda-
tion of many a road, the scrub of the forest through which it
passed being eventually converted into a fence or hedge. This
primitive mode of road-making had, no doubt, also its counter-
part in wooden trackways, common in Russia and Canada at
the preseut day, where stone is scarce and timber plentiful ;
but the value of the latter has risen so much of late years,

Maroli 18, 1873. ]

JODBNAIi OP HORTIOULTUKE AND COTTAGE GAEDEXER.

219

and the transport of stone has also been so much facilitated
during the same time, that it is not likely that timber-laid
trackways will ever be established in England again, excepting
in special cases where a morass or some similar place has to
be crossed. But as such roads are not likely to be wanted in
the immediate vicinity of a mansion, I will pass over these
and other primitive roads.

Assuming that a carriage road or an ornamental walk is re-
quired between two places that are seen from each other, and
the ground between them is such as to present no difficulties
to a straight line, let the road be a straight one. However
agreeable to the eye a curve may be, it ought only to exist
where a straight line is impracticable ; but there are many
cases where a curve is indispensable, in consequence of some
impediment. In this case let the curve be as easy and as
graceful as possible, avoiding all short turnings, especially at
the bottom of a descent, for a carriage driven briskly down an
incline and turned sharplj' to one side at the bottom, is .apt to
be thrown over. Let, therefore, curves at such a place be as
easy as possible. Further, let it always be a rule to avoid
right and left curves near to each other, if possible, unless the
reasons for such be very urgent, as some immoveable object
in the way, for in general use it will be found that the traffic
will lean to both the opposing courses, and tend to make
such a place straight, certainly a most natural conclusion, for,
to use an expression not Hibernian altogether, " two crooks
make a straight." However, there are occasions in which it
is necessary to adopt a serpentine course, as where there is a
tree, pond, embankment, or precipice in the way; then let the
curves be as easy as practicable, having due regard to the
safety and convenience of the road. One further observation,
however, it is necessary to make with regard to curves, and
that is not to approach a gate or a hedge on a curve ; rather
let the curve be made before you face either of these objects,
so that there may be a few yards of straight line on each side
if possible. Of course, this cannot be done where a gate
opens upon a highway ; but in such places it is often more
convenient to set the gate back, so as to allow ample room to
turn before entering or after passing through. Other conditions
bearing upon curves will, of course, present themselves accord-
ing to the character of the ground; for instance, it may be
more prudent to skirt'the base of a hill than to go right over
it ; but the zigzags, common in very hilly districts, as I re-
member witnessing in Derbyshire and Cumberland, are seldom
needful in private places.

Certainly more important to the animal that draws the load
than the curve above alluded to is the inclination of the road,
and a due regard to this is perhaps the main requisite in road-
designing, as it is in most cases better to lengthen the journey
than have a roadway too steep. Assuming that an elevation
of 400 feet has to be attained, and that the question is whether
that would be better spread over a mile or a mile and a half
of ground, I believe most people would prefer the longer jour-
ney; although steeper gradients than either are occasionally
met with, the one being a rise of 1 in a little over 13, and the
other being 1 in about 20, the latter a very easy rise for country
roads, where 1 in 10 is not uncommon. It is better to lengthen
a road for wheel carriages rather than have it steeper than
i in 15, though the latter inclination may be allowed, but
ought not, if avoidable, to be exceeded. Sometimes a little
tact and management can reduce the gradient to the desired
extent by a slight excavation in one place and filling up in
another, and it is in matters of this kind that the skUl of the
designer is brought fully into play ; for, be it observed, I am
no advocate for deep and expensive excavations, but if slight
ones can accomplish what is wanted, by all means let them be
executed.

I will now assume that the line of intended roadway has
been determined, and that excavations sufficient to fill up
hollows have been commenced. Calculations of this kind have
to be made in designing and laying-out roads. In making
them, remember that if 100 cubic yards of earth have to be
removed, it wUl, in the loose state in which it is broken up
to be filled into vehicles, occupy 120 or ISO cubic yards of
space, and even more than that at first, but the settlement
during the first two years wiU bring it down to that ; so if
25 per cent, be added to the quantity cut away, a rough guess
may be made of how far it will fill up a hollow. This being
duly attended to and a beginning made, trees and other under-
growth on the part to be excavated should be taken down as
the work goes on if only a limited number of hands are em-
ployed, but if there are a great number, the trees should be

removed first, as they impede progress ; this, however, may be
arranged as thought proper.

For removing earth, wheelbarrows are thought to be best and
cheapest for distances of 60 yards or under, and carts beyond ;
but of course the rate of wages or horse hire will vary this
rule one way or the other, and also the custom and habits of
the workmen employed. Farm labourers will often prefer
tilling a cart to a barrow, while the professional navvy is at
home with either, or rather he can either fill a truck or a
barrow. For wheeling purposes iron planks are often better
than wooden ones where they have merely to rest on the
ground, and they wear much longer. Where the ground is
very soft, and the weather wet, something of the kind is wanted.
Care must also be taken in the excavation not to go too deep,
and in the filling-up of the hoUows not to go too high at first ;
it is better to add a little more material in the hoUows, and to
take off a little more from the heights, rather than have work
to do twice over.

The beginning of a cutting is usually made where the exca-
vation and embankment meet, or if the roadway leads along
the side of a hill, it is not bad practice to cut notches out at
regular distances all along the side of the road at the intended
level. This, of course, applies to places where the excavation
of one side forms the embankment of the other ; and assuming
the hill side to be irregular, with probably a ravine to cross
now and then, some judgment is required in Laying it out so
that the excavation and embankments may balance each other,
and the curve and gradients be also in accordance with what
is aimed at. Assuming this to be done and the work pro-
gressing, it would be well to consider whether any of the
materials found in the excavation can be turned to account.
It often happens that stone for the making of the road is
found in such places. Where this is the case it is, of course,
advisable to preserve the stone. It may also happen, as it
very often does in gravelly neighbourhoods, that the only stone
for such purpose is met with in the vaUeys. When this is the
ease it is well to ascertain if there be any on the hue that is
operated upon, and if so, to dig it out before the place is
covered up, and in such a case some additional fiUiug-up will
be required ; and it can generally be managed. It is well to
ascertain before the job is commenced where gravel is found,
especially in a district where such material is not abundant. —

J. BOBSON.

TOWN ROSES.
I LIVE within a mUe of the centre of a large manufacturing
town in the West Eiding of Yorkshire, but in a comparatively
open situation — say a house and garden every 50 yards. Cirass
grows well without being renewed ; and I have an old Blairii
No. 2 Rose which has bloomed well for several years in ordi-
nary garden soil and on a south wall. Wishing to grow Hoses
to peg down in a bed, I have had an open border dug out
from 15 to 18 inches deep, and fiUed-in with small chopped
sods from an old loamy pasture (about four tons of sods mixed
with two tons of very good, weU-rotted, stable manure). I
propose planting Provence, Moss, common Cabbage, Charles
Lefebvre, John Hopper, La France, Senateur Vaisse, Duke of
Edinburgh, Devoniensis, Victor Verdier, Beauty of Waltham,
Mrs. Charles Wood, Madame Vidot, Due de Bohan, Baronne
Prevost, General .Jacqueminot, Gloh-e de Dijon, Alfred Colomb,
Louis Van Houtte, Eugene Appert, Prince Camille de Bohan,
Pierre Netting, .Jules Margottin, Madame Knorr, Triomphe de
Bennes, Anna Alexiefi', Niphetos, Xavier OUbo, Abel Grand,
Souvenir de la Malmaison, Duchess of Sutherland, Common
White Moss, Safrano, and Boule de Niege. I shall be glad if
you will criticise the above and suggest any alterations you
think desirable. Next autumn I intend making a second bed
if this succeed, and should like a further list of suitable Eoses
for the purpose. — Town Bose.

[We fear Devoniensis, Triomphe de Bennes, Madame Vidot,
and Niphetos would not do so near a large town with a west-
of-England cUmate ; and Due de Bohan, Pierre Netting, and
Xavier Ohbo would be doubtful, though all three beautiful
Boses if they succeed. We should recommend, amongst others
you have omitted, Madame Clemence Joigne.aux, Fisher Holmes,
Countess of Oxford, Madame Eugenie Verdier, Madame Caillat,
Marguerite de St. Amand, Baronne de Maynard, Madame Victor
Verdier, Emilie Hausburg, Dupuy Jamaiu, M. de Montigny,
Gloire de Vitry, and Berthe Baron. If you make another
Bose bed next year, and wUl send us the size and number of
Eoses you intend to plant, we shall be happy to furnish you

220

JOURNAL OP HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAUDENEE.

[ March 13, 1873.

witli further names, as there are several good Eoses coming
on that only want another season's trial for us to be able to
recommend them. In your position none but the healthier and
stronger-growing Eoses will succeed ; they ought to be on the
Manetti stock and planted deep, so as to peg well.]

CHOICE GEEENHOUSE EHODODENDEONS.

No. 3.

E. FULGENS. — This seldom exceeds 3 or 4 feet, and is therefore
quite within the range of an ordinary greenhouse. It is a
compact-growing plant ; the leaves are somewhat small, ob-
tusely ovate, and dark green ; flowers numerous, bell-shaped,
and of a rich-glowing crimson. Native of the Eastern Hima-
layas, at an elevation of some 13,000 feet. .;ii'>H;»

E. CAI.OPHVLLUM. — Another dwarf-growing species, seldom
exceeding 4 or 5 feet in height, and forming a much-branched
and handsome plant. Leaves medium-sized, obloug-lanceo-
late and acuminate in shape, coriaceous in texture, and shining
deep green in colour, which, however, is somewhat obscured
in the young leaves by a loose short tomentum. The blooms
are produced in lax corymbs, each flower upwards of 3 inches
in diameter, pure white, sometimes suffused with rosy lilac on
the outside, and always deliciously fragrant. It blooms dming
AprO and May. Native of Bhotan.

H. TDBiFLORUM. — This is an elegant and most singular
species, attaining a height of 3 or 4 feet. The foliage is
medium-sized, somewhat lanceolate, about 3 inches long by
1 inch in breadth ; colour rich bronze, shaded with golden yellow
while young, but changing with age to deep green. Flowers
" tubular, resembling an jEschynauthus, and reddish purpfe
in colour." It blooms late in spring and early in summer.
Native of the high mountains of Java.

E. Macn'abian.\. — This is a dwarf, dense, much-branched
plant of garden origin, the result of a cross between E. cUiatum
and E. Edgworthii. It is abundantly furnished with medium-
sized rich dark green leaves. The flowers are freely produced,
large, of good substance, very showy, and soft blush white. It
blooms during the spring months.

E. EximuM. — In its natui'al habitats this species forms a
splendid tree, but as it condescends to produce its lovely
flowers when of a medium size, it will become a noble object
for the decoration of the conservatory. The leaves are v^ry
large, measuring from 12 to 15 or more inches in length ; they
are very blunt at the apex, and so broad as to appear almost
round, especially upon young plants ; they are coriaceous in
texture. When they are in a young state the upper surface is
covered with a loose tomentum, which falls off with age,
leaving it bright green above ; the under side is clothed with a
close Eoft chestnut brown tomentum. It seems to resemble
E. Falconeri very much, and the large white flowers are also
similar ; the flowers are upwards of 2 inches in diameter, and
borne in large loose corymbs of from twelve to eighteen.
Native of Sikkim Himalaya.

K. Keysii. — A slender shrub, seldom exceeding 4 feet in
height ; it is tolerably compact in habit, and clothed with
narrow lanceolate dark green leaves. The clusters of flowers
are produced from the axils of the leaves ; they are long and
tubular, reddish scarlet in colour. It is a native of Bhotan,
and is often found in the snowy regions.

E. WiGHTii. — This species when mature attains a height of
9 or 10 feet. The leaves are some 4 inches long, lanceolate in
shape, rich shining green on the upper side, lighter below,
sometimes ferruginous. Flowers large, campanulate, pale
yellow in colour, having in addition a blotch of chestnut
brown on the upper segments, and freckled with small rosy-
pink dots. It is slightly fragrant, and blooms about the
month of May. Native of Sikkim Himalaya.

E. MOULMEiNENSE. — A species which requires the warm end
of the greenhouse. It is a compact shrub, furnished with
broadly lanceolate-acuminate leaves, which are smooth, cori-
aceous, dark green on the upper side, paler below. Flowers in
terminal umbels, pure white saving the upper lobes, which are
tinted pale yellow. It blooms during midwinter. Native of
the Gerai Mountains, Moulmein, at 5000 feet elevation.

E. Kendkickii. — This is a rare plant, but well deserves the
attention of plant-growers both on account of its beauty and
hardy constitution. It attains a height of about G feet in its
native habitats, but blooms under cultivation in a young state.
In habit it is bushy and compact. Leaves verticillate, lanceo-
late in shape, with slightly undulated edges. The clusters of
bloom are terminal; tlje indindual flowers are large, and deep

reddish crimson in colour. It blooms during April and May.
Native of Bhotan.

E. AEEOEEUM. — TMs forms a noble tree for a large conser-
vatory, but although it flowers freely when of medium size, it
can only be recommended where ample space can be afforded
it. The leaves are lanceolate-acute, from 4 to G inches in
length, deep green on the upper side, silvery white beneath.
It is a remarkably showy species ; flowers large, rich bright
scarlet, dotted with black on the upper segments. It blooms
during February and March. Native of Nepaul.

K. F0B3I0SUM. — An elegant much-branched shrub, densely
clothed with dark green lanceolate-acute leaves, which are
about l.J inch in length. The flowers are freely produced, and
are medium-sized, white tinged with reddish pink. It blooms
during the months of March and AprU, lasting a long time in
full beauty. This species is also known in gardens by the
name of E. Gibsoni. Native of Nepaul.

E. Sesteria.num. — This is a most desirable hybrid of compact
growth. The flov?ers are large, pure white saving the upper
segments, which are spotted with yellow, and in addition deli-
ciously fragrant. It is a profuse bloomer, coming into flower
about the month of April. This variety is the result of a
cross between E. Edgworthii and E. formosum.

E. LoBEii. — I have some little diffidence about introducing
this amongst my list of greenhouse species and varieties, as it
requires almost the heat of an intermediate house. If its
cultm-e be therefore attempted in the greenhouse, it must have
the snuggest corner, and be protected from cold draughts. It is
a dwarf, compact, free-blooming species, producing a dense
truss of flowers, each of which measures upwards of 3 inches
in diameter. They are tubular, with a spreading hmb, the
tube beiug curved and of an intense glowing crimson colour,
rendering it very attractive. It blooms during October.
Native of Borneo.

E. Blandfokdi.eflokcii. — This species does not usually form
a handsome specimen, but its flowers are so distincT; and beau-
tiful that I feel that it must be included in this enumeration.
It grows along the ridges of the mountains in Sikkim and
Eastern Nepaul, frequently being found at elevations of from
10 to 12,000 feet, where its maximum height seems to be
about G or 8 feet. The leaves are about 2J inches long, lan-
ceolate-acute, and coriaceous in texture. Flowers about the
same length as the leaves, pendulous, and in the best varieties
rich red, iu others there is a considerable admixture of green.
It blooms during spring and early summer.

E. CAMPANULATUM, — A bcautlf ul but Variable plant. It attains
a height of some 5 feet or more. The leaves are eUiptic-oblong,
deep green above, but clothed beneath with a dense white or
ferruginous tomentum. The flowers ai'e large, produced in
great profusion, and disposed in corymbose clusters, soft pink,
changing to white, and having the upper segments spotted
with purple. It blooms in AprU and May. Native of Nepaul.
E. cAMPANULATDM Wallichii. — lu general habit this plant
resembles the species. It differs, however, in the dense tomen-
tum of the leaves being entirely wanting, and also iu its
flowers being destitute of the purple spots which are so con-
spicuous upon the upper segments of the type. It is a very
handsome form, which blooms during May.

E. Pkisce of Wales. — This is a hybrid of great beauty,
produced between E. retusum and E. javanicum. The colour
is rich bright orange, in this respect resembling E. javanicum,
whilst its long tubular blooms show its affinity to E. retusum.
It is a compact-habited shrub, clothed with glaucous leaves,
and blooming in great profusion during the spring months.

With the above variety I shall close my enumeration, and I
trust these brief notes may have the effect desired, for amateurs
who discard or neglect the culture of greenhouse Ehododen-
drons are banishing some of the brightest gems of the floral
world from their houses.

In addition to the kinds named there are some very hand-
some-flowered hybrids, which are now, however, rarely to be
met with. They were produced by a very intimate friend of the
wi'iter, and named by him E. aureum ; there is a considerable
number of varieties all extremely beautiful, then- flowers vary-
ing between yellow, buff, and orange ; they are the results of
crossbreeding between Azalea sinensis and a Ehododendron,
but with what species of the latter genus we are left totally in
the dark, my friend having carried the secret to the grave with
him. This is much to be regretted, as the particular strain
was a break in quite a new direction, and would have doubt-
less led to the origin of a fine class of flowers for green-
house or conservatory decoration, and, singular to relate, no

Mateh 13, 187S. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

221

liybridisers np to the present time have been able to produce
a similar variety, or to discover the missing link. — Expebio
Cbede.

NEW BOOK.

The Gladiolus; its History, Cultivation, and Exhibition. By

the Eev. H. Hont^-ood Domerain, B.A., &o. London :

£1. Reeve & Co.

When we were young — that 's a few years since — an expe-
lienced publisher, just gone to his rest, said to us, " If you
want a thing well done, get a parson whose hobby it is to do
it." Experience has confirmed the soundness of our friend's
advice; we rejoice in having the aid of many " parsons," and
not one of them but makes us feel the aid is powerful. The
book before us is another proof. We have for some years,
amongst other subjects, had the benefit of Mr. Dombrain's
knowledge and judgment on the Gladiolus, and in the little
volume before us is gathered together and concentrated his
information relative to his favourite flower. It is brief, prac-
tical, and trustworthy, and we recommend it to every reader
"who wishes to grow the Gladiolus well.

The preface begins with —

It is impossible to be poetical in writing on the Gladiolus, for
it would be as difiicalt to find a rhyme for it as for porringer. I
carmot be seutimeutal — no lover could call his inamorata. My
Gladiolus. To be learned is out of the qviestion ; the ancients did
not know it, and so I cannot cog a list of fxuotations from Homer
■downwards ; I have, therefore, only aimed to be practical.

We must pause to object, that it is true no male lover would
compare his chosen one to this flower, but the chosen one
might be jn-oud to call her " young man " " My Gladiolus."
Tall, stately, brilliant, warlike, how we should be exhilirated
by being called, even now. The Gladioli. But we must recover
our equanimity, and we will quote only the history of the
flower from Mr. Dombrain's pages, and cordially recommend
•them to our readers for the details of culture and exhibition.

No flower has so rapidly gained for itself a promineut position
in the florist's estimation as the Gladiolus. While the grower
of Auriculas can win prizes with flowers that were in growth
seventy or eighty years ago, aud the Rose-grower can gaze on
ihe as yet unsurpassed form of Coupe d'Hubu, or Charles Law-
son ; nay, can revel in the fragrance of the old Cabbage, which
was introduced three centuries ago, the growth of the Gladiolus
as a florists' flower is a matter of about twenty years; while so
great is the improvement that has been of late years made in it,
that if we were to take the names of the flowers in the winning
stands at our great metropolitan shows, we should not find on
them any flowers of more than seven or eight years' standing.
In the '* Flower Garden," a very complete repository of florists'
flowers, to which I now often myself refer, — pubUshed in 1860,
— no mention whatever is made of the Gladiolus save as a border
ilower; yet so rapidly has it improved, indeed I may also say
through the exertions of one man. Mens. Souchet, of Fontaine-
bleau, that it has acquired a size, completeness of form, and
grandeur of appearance, that make it a formidable rival of all
other autumnal flowers ; occupying less space than the Dahlia
or Hollyhock, it rivals them both in the briUiancy and variety
of its colouring, and on an exhibition table is by most persons
preferred to either.

The Gladiolus has a corm, similar in form to that of the
Crocus, and as far as the individual corm is concerned, is an
annual, that which is planted dying every year, and new ones
being formed above the old corm, from which they have to be
separated at the time of taking up. It might seem to be super-
fluous to mention this, but that I have met with at least two
growers who seemed to be in happy ignorance of this fact, al-
though how they could have ever taken up a number aud not
seen it I cannot understand. For a number of years some
species have been grown as border flowers, notably G. cardi-
naUs, introduced about 1789, and G. ramosus, about 1840. But
the present race is the offspring of varied and repeated inter-
crossing between natalensis or psittacinus, and oppositiflorus,
and especially of Gandavensis. Gaudaveusis was a seedling
"from psittacinus, and originated at Ghent, in the same way that
that very handsome border flower Brenchleyensis was origi-
nated some twenty-eight years ago at Brenchley, in Kent, by
Mr. Hooker, whose son I had the pleasure of meeting at the
Crystal Palace lately. I asked him if he coidd tell me when it
was raised, but he could not. I remember, however, very dis-
tinctly obtaining a bulb of it in 1847, at Canterbury.

So lately as the year 1850 hardly any mention is made in the
^* Florist " of any varieties save those of the ramosus section ;
and in an article on them in that work for 1851, wliere one of
the ramosus section. Von Gagern, is figured, the writer says
three of the most beautiful are those now sold by the trade

under the names of floribundus, Gandavensis, and Brenchley-
ensis. Coming on to the year 1859, about which period I think
Mr. Standish became a grower of them at Bagshot (at any rata
in that year he exhibited a good stand of them at the Crystal
Palace), Berthe Eabourdin was selected for illustration as being
one of the best then in cultivation ; and in a Ust taken from his
catalogue I find recommended as amongst the best, such kinds
as Madame Binder, Vesta, Don Juan, Dr. Andre, &c. It must
be borne in mind that this was only thirteen years ago ; and let
anyone take these varieties and compare them with such kinds
as Madame Desportes, Norma, Horace Vernet, Phcebus, &c.,
and can he resist the conclusion that the advance of late years
has gone at an accelerated pace ? People oftentimes complain
when new varieties of florists' flowers are brought out, that
there is great sameness ; in fact, no improvement whatever ;
but I have always found that the best way to answer such state-
ments is to give up the point, so far as any individual flower is
concerned, but at the same time to ask the objectors how it
comes to pass that, although such things are said, yet when an
exhibitor desires to select the most taking varieties , he so fre-
quently has to select the varieties of the last few years ; and
that when we come to compare the drawings by the same artist,
the difference is so very striking between those figured a dozen
years ago and those figured now. The improvement in each
year may not be so very remarkable, but it'is appreciable, and
in the course of three or four years the strides made strike us
very forcibly.

The proper pronunciation of the word is always a puzzle. I
have heard of a horticultural society which always kept it, as
the Frenchman did his one snipe, to afford sport when other
subjects of conversation flagged. By right it ought to be, I
think. Gladiolus, all short, as if spelt Gladjo'us ; perhaps the
next most correct form would be Gladiolus, and the one which
it, I suppose, retains, is the worst of three. Gladiolus.

The one person to whom we are indebted for the many valu-
able varieties of the Gladiolus at present in cultivation is
M. Souchet, of Fontainebleau. It is now, I beUeve, forty-five
years since he first attempted their cultivation, and it is not too
much to say that the progi-ess made by him during the last ten
years has been greater than that of the previous thirty-five. I
well remember, many years ago, a friend coming to me with a
number of a gardening journal in his hand, and pointing to a
figure of a new Gladiolus, " Don Juan," which had been just
then introduced, asking me if it was possible to imagine anything
finer than it — and yet what a poor thing it is now. The extent
to which M. Souchet cultivates them may be gathered from the
fact, that not only are all or nearly all the new varieties which
come to us from France, his seedlings, but nearly all the bulbs
also are grown by him. The French growers find that it
answers their purpose better to obtain them from him, and
hence the whole of his growth passes into their hands. Messrs.
Vilmorin & Co., Messrs. Charles Verdier, fils, Eugene Verdier,
and Loise, are, I believe, the houses to which they are sup]>lied.
His chief cultivations are not now at Fontainebleau ; the hotness
of the soil, and the vicinity to the forest, which subjects him to
the attacks of the grub of the cockchafer, the " ver blanc "
which French nurserymen dread so. much, has led him to re-
move them chiefly to Montereau, and there many acres are
devoted to their culture. M. Souchet does not, I believe, hybri-
dise to any extent, but trusts to the operation being performed
by insects.

The example set by M. Souchet was, about the year 18.59,
followed by that most active and persevering hybridiser, Mr.
Standish, then living at Bagshot, aud was foUowed-up bv him
on thoroughly scientific principles for some years ; when, finding
the soil of his nursery not suitable for their growth, and being
then intent on removing to his present nursery at Ascot, he
abandoned their culture for other and larger matters, not before,
however, he had raised some fine seedlings. I well remember a
" John Standish," which for brilliancy of colour has never been
surpassed, but which was unfortunately lost ; while others, such
as Eleanor Norman (very like Eurydice), Eandle Jackson, and
John Davis were flowers of good form and character. They
were, however, never widely distributed, and with the excep-
tion of one or two which I retain for *' auld lang syne," I do not
think any of them now remain in cultivation. Of late Mr. Stan-
dish's jDredilection for them has revived, and he hopes by the
infusion of the blood of G. cruentus, a species introduced by Mr.
William Bull, of Chelsea, to originate anew race. The largest
English raiser, however, is Mr. Kelway, of Langport, in Somer-
set, who may be called the Souchet of England. In his exhibi-
tion beds last season he planted :3500 bulbs, and in his store beds
800,000 ! AU who have attended our metropoUtan and many of
our provincial shows know what splendid stands of Gladiolus he
exhibits, most of them being his own seedUngs. A pubUshed
catalogue of them which I have now before me contains, I should
imagine, names and descriptions of at least five hundred seed-
lings, and there can be but one opinion of the excellence of very
many of them. Mr. Douglas, the intelligent gardener of F. Whit-
bourn, Esq., of Loxford Hall, Ilford, has also exhibited some

222

JOUENAIi OP HORTICULTtJKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Marcli 13, 1873.

fine Beedliugs, which have gained first-class certificates ; and
my excellent friend Mr. Banks, of Sholden, well-known as the
raiser of the finest Fuchsias in cirltivatiou, has also produced
some fine seedlings, of which I hope to know more anon.

A CENTUEY OF ORCHIDS FOR AMATEUR
GROWERS.— No. .5.

MAXELLARIA.

This genus, although now relieved of many of the species
that formerly swelled its ranks, is still a large one as regards
both the number of the species and of the varieties. Unfortu-
nately the majority produce
only small flowers, and con-
sequently cannot be recom-
mended to the notice of an
amateur in such a limited
number as here selected.
Some, nevertheless, deserve
to be in every collection ; and
when the fine kinds which
are still unknown in our
plant houses shall have been
brought home in a living
state, the genus will, I am
sure, become much more pop-
ular amongst Orchid-gi-owers
than it has hitherto been.

Maxillarias are extremely
easy to grow. They should
be potted in fibrous peat and
sphagnum moss, in about
equal parts, and require an
abundant supply of moisture
both to the roots and in the
atmosphere during the grow-
ing season, but less wDl be
required afterwards. They
should not, however, be sub-
jected to a severe period of
drought.

M. vExnsTA. — "Who does
not love white flowers during
the winter ? None of my
fair readers will answer in the
negative, I am sure. Well,
in this plant you have a
perfect gem. The flowers
are borne singly upon long
scapes ; they are very large,
pure snowy white, bearing
two blotches of crimson on
the lip. The flowers ap-
pear about November, and
continue to grow up from the
base of the psendobulbs for
about two months ; and as
they last in their full beauty
either upon the plant or
when placed in a vase in the
drawing-room, they cannot
fail to please even the most fastidious.
of New Grenada.

M. LUTEo-ALBA. — A fine, handsome, evergreen plant, with
stout pseudobulbs and broad dark green leaves. The flowers
in the best variety are veiy large ; they stand erect upon short
scapes, the ground colour being creamy white suffused with
blotches of tawny orange. Its flowers are produced in great
abundance during spring and early in summer, and frequently
again towards autumn. — Expekto Crede.

Mn,\illai-ia venusta. — {Bot, Mag.,

The plant is a native

VERBENA CULTURE.
It is much to be regretted that] of late years the Verbena
has almost entirely lost the proud position which it once held
amongst bedding plants ; in this neighbourhood it has all but
disappeared. Notwithstanding the many arguments against
its culture as a useful bedder, I stUl think Purple King worthy
of a prominent place in our flower gardens. It is an old pro-
verb, and no doubt a true one, that a burned chUd dreads the
fire, but until Purple King deceive me I will always advocate
its causD, and will not even discard it for a season's failure,

should such occur. I am aware that a great many gardeners
discarded the Verbena a few years ago, when what is well
known as the Verbena disease was so prevalent all over the
country. I am equally well aware that many more people
have discarded it when the whole fault rested with their own
inattention or improper treatment. The remark of an old
gardener a short time ago strikes me at the present moment^
" that people get tu'ed even of a good thing."

I will endeavour in the first place to point out what I think
to be the principal cause of failure, and in the next place I
shall describe my own mode of treatment, by which any
number of plants may be raised with very humble means.

I shall begin with autumn
propagation, say September,
which is a favourite time
with most people. A hotbed
is made for the purpose of
striking the required number
of cuttings. The pots or
pans are drained, and a soil
consisting of leaf mould and
sand, very often two parts
of the latter to one of the
former, is used. The cuttings
are inserted and strike freely
enough, and are rapidly hard-
ened off and placed on the
cool shelf of a greenhouse for
their winter quarters. Such
treatment seldom turns out
well. The cuttings have too
short a time to establish
themselves in their pots be-
fore winter ; they have hun-
gry soil to live in ; their wood
has no chauee of being ma-
tured owing to late jsropaga-
tion, and consequently they
are liable to be attacked by
mildew, green fly, &c., before
the following spring. If they
even do outlive the winter,
we cannot expect a healthy
offspring from an unhealthy
parent.

I will now describe my own
system, which is as foUows.-
Not later than the first or
second week of August have
a slight hotbed prepared, and
in it place the pots or pans
containing the cuttings : in
eight or ten days the latter
wUl be struck. I then have
a number of earthenware
pans properly drained, and
a good strong compost con-
sisting of loam, a little leaf
mould and sand, and some
horse droppings (a spent
Mushroom bed is capital),
thoroughly mixed together, and of the same heat as tho bed
in which the plants have been growing ; the rooted cuttings
are transplanted into those earthenware pane, the soil pressed
rather firmly, and they are returned to the bed from which
they were taken. A slight sprinkling of water, and shade in
case of sun, will be all that is necessary ; and in a few days the
plants will be found to be growing weU, and may be gradually
hardened off and placed full in the sun to benefit by exposure
to light and air. When housing time arrives they will be
found to be sturdy little fellows, hard as nails, and capable of
standing any winter in a Peach house or greenhouse. Thfr
advantage of ])lauts so treated will be evident enough to anyone
having the slightest notion of raising a few plants for their
flower garden.

About the middle of February it will be time to re-introduce
the plants to heat, say an early vinery. When the plants
begin ti> make fresh growth give manure water twice a-week,.
it will greatly invigorate them. Pots or pans, and material
for propagating, should be put in heat at the same time, so
that the cuttings may receive no check. I always grow my
Verbenas in boxes, and find I can manage to keep clean plants-

March ia, lara. ]

JOUBNAIi 0& riORTICULTORE AND COTTAGE GARDENEli.

223

with more oaso tbau when growa in small pots. I have as yet
Baiil iiotbinv; about the hotbed or propagating pit. The former
is my own favourite, but a rather dangerous playmate for
amateurs to attempt early work with. I have seen whole
batches destroyed, when a Uttle pebble under each sash, to
allow the .superfluous steam to escape, or perhaps the ])ots raised
out of the plunging material when the heat was too strong,
might have saved them. Drooping leaves with a stewed ap-
pearance denote the latter evil.

One more remark before concluding. Do not waste hours
listlessly in making cuttings ; when cut-off the plants they arc
ready for insertion, without stripping of leaves and cutting at
joints. The great secretin Verbena culture is to guard against
sudden checks ; it is neglecting these little things which ruins
many promising lots, and which ends in complete or comparative
failure. Verbenas may also be grown to great advantage for
greenhouse decoration. For out-door work I only grow Purple
King, Crimson King, and llrs. HolforJ. The former two are
BO well known for their bedding qualities as to need no com-
ment.— The G-iiiDEyuE, Bobij Hull, Licerpoul.

LOW NIGHT TEMPEEATURE IN HOTHOUSES.

Wk have only to go to the school of Nature to learn most
unmistakeably, from the nocturnal fall of temperature, how
erroneous is the practice of hard firing to maintain high night
temperature, even in the case of those plants which in theii'
native halntats are subject to the most intense sun and the
highest degree of tropical heat, and where the variation between
the sweltering heat of day and the chilliness of night is most
forcibly experienced. Some may jierhaps be inclined to tell
lis that Nature is not now marching according to primeval law
and order in tins as well as in other respects. This, however,
would be " drawing the subject a little too line" in reference
to the case in point. True, the most successful horticultural
practice does not invariably homologate the teachings of Nature,
but it does corroborate what we are taught in these nocturnal
variations ; and surely it is not nccess.ary, at this era of horti-
culture, to jioint out how erroneous is the artificial applica-
tion in excess of the stimulating power of heat throughout the
long hours of darkness of a British winter night. The ex-
perienced cultivator, at any rate, knows well that such a com-
bination of circumstances is productive only of debility, and
the utter want of that stamina in plants which is only attain-
able under a corresponding amount of light and sunshine, with
which we are never favoured in this country during our season
of early forcing.

If plants arc kept continuously at a high pitch of excitability
by the stimulating agency of heat, irrespective of the variations
of day and night — of light and darkness — their whole system
becomes impaired ; and Nature has provided against such a
result, not only by the less sudden variation of summer and
winter, rainy seasons and dry ones, when a long season of
activity is following by a long repose, but by the more sudden
variation from a high temperature by day with light, to com-
parative coolness by night with darkness. Were it possible to
reverse this order of things for a single mouth, when plants
are in full tide of growth — could we have light and a low tem-
perature, darkness and excessive heat — we should learn a lesson
from the appearance of the vegetable world that would impress
us with the beneficence and wisdom of Nature's order of things,
and would teach us a great and lasting lesson in early forcing
if in nought else.

It is no part of our present intention to enter into the nature
and results of the distinct functional operations of plant-hfo
by day and night. Our object, and all that is possible for us,
is to throw out a few hints which we hope may stimulate our
young and inexperienced readers to study vegetable physiology
— the structure and functions of plants ; and we are not aware
that we can direct them to a better authority than Dr. Liud-
ley, in his " Theory of Horticulture." Suffice it here to say,
that in the absence of sunshine at night, there is a cessation
in plants of that evaporating and decomposing process by
which plant food is perfected and rendered fit for augmenting
in a proper manner the growth of plants and trees ; and that
all excess of heat at night, iu the absence of these processes,
which are dependant on light, only tends to gorge the system
with an overdose of crude sap, producing a mere attenuation
of imperfect and unfruitful growth, which by day does not
bear the strain of sunshine iu a manner so as to result in the
production of wood and foliage, flowers and fruits, of which
plants are capable when subject to that nocturnal repose which

is as necessary to plants as it is to animal hfg. Hence all ex-
perienced forcers of early flowers and fruits avoid high night
temperatures when the days are short and dull, and endeavour,
on the contrary, to do the — what may be termed — hard forc-
ing by day with light. Experience has taught that the growth
that is squeezed out in midwinter with a high temperature is
soft and flabby to a degree that will not Lear with impunity
that sunshine which is absolutely necessary to restore it to a
proper state of tissue.

The too common practice of fixing rigidly any given tempe-
rature in hothouses, irrespective of the state of the external
atmosjiherc, we regard as bad practice, and, so far as we are
concerned ourselves, we invariably fix the range of temperature
over at least .5 ' or 7 , according to the coldness or mildness of
the weather. This not only saves fuel, but it is better for tha
plants than highly-heated surfaces. Moreover, we have cause
to regard the lluctuation of the thermometer, even in steady
weather, with much more complacency than we did at one
time. And wc are at a loss to know from whence such rigid
lessons as to heat have been learned. We have several corre-
spondents in the tropics who have remarked to us that if cul-
tivators of tropical Orchids at home saw how amazingly they
luxuriate with the night temperature frequently below 40",
they would not be so careful about high night temperatures.
There is, however, another side to this question. We know
that the Teach sometimes gets killed with a British frost,
while it stands that of the United States with impunity, owing
to the more thorough maturity that the wood attains under an
American sun. The same may no doubt be applicable to even
many Orchids. This, however, teaches us that it is not from
wide differences of temperatures in the twenty-four hours that
plants suffer, but that it is much more from unnatural growth
in the absence of light.

There can be no doubt that this is a question well worthy of
discussion while we are face to face with the price of coal
nearly tripled within the last two years, and that the hours of
darkness are those in which most money can be saved or
wasted in connection with our practice in maintaining night
temperatures. It is therefore from this, as well as from other
points of view, that we would invite further discussion on the
subject. The tendency of the present generation of gardeners
has been to recede from the night temperatures advocated by
those who have gone before them ; and our conviction is, that
there are yet some steps, not only within the limits of safety,
but to be attended with improved culture in many things.
The subject has many sides in practice, and a change in this
calls for change more or less in other conditions as well. —
(TIic Ganhncr.)

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

At a meeting of the Veitcii MEMor.i.iL Trustees, held on the
•ith inst., it was resolved " That the Veitch Memorial Prize be
offered trienuially, commencing with the present year'; and
that until the fund reaches the amount of XIOOO, the interest
accruing in the two intervening years be added thereto." It
was also resolved " That steps be taken to procure designs for
a Veitch Memorial Medal, with the view of having the same
executed for use, if possible, at the forthcoming Show of the
Koyal Horticultural Society at Bath," it being an instruction
to the Trustees that an inexpensive medal should accompany
the money prizes distributed.

The sale of Orchids, Palms, and other plants, which

is to take place at Blanley Hall, near Manchester, next month,
is one of the largest and most noteworthy that has recently
occurred. It will continue for seven davs, and there are more
than ICOO lots.

• We learn from the Journal of Bottunj that Dr. Ebnsi,

of Caracas, has been named by the Government of Venezuela
to fill the chair of botany in the University of Caracas, where
natural history has hitherto never been taught. He is like-
wise commissioned with the foundation and management of a
small botanic garden and the correspondent botanic museum.
For the garden he will have the two large yards of the Uni-
versity building, both together 1300 square metres large, which
will give about 800 square metres available ground for planting.

On Thursday last an important sale or Oechids,

chiefly the property of Messrs. Backhouse, of York, took place
at Mr. Stevens's rooms. The total amount realised was £933.
A fine plant of Cattleya Mendelii brought £10, Oncidium
tigrinum from £-1 to £20, Odontoglossum llossLi majus, with
thirty-five bulbs, £5 15s. ; Adiantum farleyense, with thirty

224

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March 13, 1873.

fronds, belouging to a well-known exhibitor, brought £10; and
the splendid Oncidium macranthum, £9.

A cATALo-iTE is printed b}' M. Kodembourg, head-gar-
dener, and M. K. Morren, Director of the Botanic Garden
belonging to the University of Lit'ge, of upwards two hundred
species of the interesting order Buomkliace.'E cultivated in it—
an evideuco of the /.eal with which scientific botany is pursued
in Home quarters on the Continent. — {Nature.)

ON THE RELATIVE VALUE OF CLARIFIED
AND UNCLARIFIED SEWAGE.

The following j^apor by Mr. William Paul, F.K.H.S., Wal-
tham Cross, was road before the Biitish Association for the
Advancement of i^oience attheiiieetiug at Brighton last year; —

I TAKE it as a good sign of the times that the sewage question
is engaging the attention of some of the first and most earnest,
minds in the country. Every individual in England is interested
in iL fromasanitary 2"oiut of view, and to householders of limited
means it is a question of vita] imporLance from a monetary point
of view. Our sewage mutit be effectually got rid of at whatever
cost. "We live by breathing as well as by eating and drinking,
and our sewage cannot any longer be allowed to pollute the air
we breathe and the water we drink, thereby increasing the
death-rate among the weakly and enervating tlie strong. If wc
can dispose of it at small cost, ratepayers will be charged low
rates ; if only at great cost, high rates ; and the difference be-
tween high rates and low rates is equivalent to the difference
between ease and anxiety, comfort and hardships, in thousands
of English homes.

Bui I am not here to-day to enter into all the bearings of this
wide aud diflicuH question, but merely to state my views of the
value of " claritied " and '* unclaritied" sewage as manures,
and I contend that tlie vegetable physiologist and practical hor-
ticulturist should be able t*) throw some light on this branch of
the subject. I may. perliai>s, be permitted to state that I have
looked long and earnestly at this (piestion, both from the theo-
retical and practical point of view, and from numerous experi-
ments have arrived at the conclusion that sewage, when " clari-
fied," is a most valuable manure for porous or well-drained
soils, even when cultivated according to the recognised systems.
On the other hand I have no faith in the value of sewage of any
kind, or for any land, if used in an "unclarified" or sludgy
state, unless accompanied with a laborious and costly system of
cultivation.

In order to show clearly the grounds of my preference for
( larified over unclarified sewage, it would seem necessary to
advert briefly to the sources whence plants derive their food,
aud to the conditions favourable to the free use of this food.
Plants feed on the air through their leaves, aud on water
through their roots. Aud here it is important to bear in mind
that the roots of plants can no more absorb solids from the soil
than the leaves can absorb solids from the air; water and ^ases
are their food, thej^ cannot eat like animals, they live by breath-
ing and drinking. Whatever earthy or metallic compnunds
may be found in the ashe.sof plants after ineiueration must have
been introduced there in a state of solution, or have been manu-
factured within the plants tliemselves. " The water absorbed
by the roots contains matters held in solution ; thcbe are de-
posited in the plant, and remain there with about a third part
of the water, the rest escaping almost as pure as distilled water.''
~(De Candolle " Physiologio Veg^tale," tome I. p. 11 •.) Now our
best vegetable physiulogists are of opinion that carbuuie acid
enters tlie plant both in the water and the air ; the oxygen is
afterwards set free by the agency of solar light, the carbon re-
maining behind in a solid state. I need not enlarge on the
manner in which plants feed tiirough their leaves because,
practically speaking', wo cannot influence them through this
channel; in out-of-door culture at least we can only iufiueneo
them through their roots. To this end — 1st, we pub on or into
the soil such manures as wo judge likely, or have found liy ex-
}>erience, to promote the development of certain parts of plants ;
and '2nd, we keep the soil loose or open by ploughing, harrow-
ing, hoeing, digging, and the like, that the air and sun heat may
freely enter the soil and render these manures readily available.
This embraces the theory and practice of cultivatiou.

Now, highly important as is> the use of appropriate, manures
to aid in the development of our growing crops, as a cultivator
I attach more importance than is commonly attached to the
physical conditions of the soil, especially to keeping the surface
loose aud the soil porous that the water may get away, and that
the air and s\ni heat may follow wherever L!ie water or clarified
sewage goes. The clarified sewage is food placed within reach
of the roots ; the presence of air renders this food more plentiful,
and tlie sun heat stimulates the roots to feed. The fertility of
the soil is, therefore, largely influenced by the amount of air aud
heat which it contains. This brings me to the principal oh-
jection which I liavo to urge against putting sewage on the land

in an unclarified or sludgy state. I am free to admit that the
sewage clarifies in its passage downwards, presenting to the
roots the same food as if the sewage had been previously clari-
fied ; but the surface of the earth is thereby made to act as a filter,
and the physical conditions of the soil are altered. The un-
clarified sewage in jiassing through the soil has become clarified'
but the pores of the soil are more or less closed against the
passage of air, and a solid or half-liquid glutinous mass rests on
the surface of the earth, thi'owing back the sun heat. The food
is there, but the stimulants of air and sun heat are shut out or
greatly diminished, and the fertility of the soil is impaired in a
corresponding degree. Horticulturists know well the import-
ance of earth-heat, as many of their highest efforts depend on it.
The greatest authority on this subject (Lindley in the " Theory
of Horticulture," p. l-JOl, thus alludes to it: —

"Itmayhenco be cou-^iderccl an axiom in horticulture that all plants re*
quire the tioil as well as the iitmoapheio iu which they grow to corre.spoiiil in
temperature with that of the countries in which thoy ai-e imtives. It has also
been already shown that the mean temperatuio of the soil should be above
that of the atraoyphore."'
Again (page loH) —

" As scarcely any of our cultivated crops are natives of countries so cold a'i
our own, it is manifest that they all require to have the earth wormed for them,
or are much the better for it.''

The free access of air to the soil in which plants grow ia not less
important than that of heat.

" The x-oots of plants. nntwith>stauding their underground position, are suh-
ject to the action of the iiii' which permeates the eai'th. We ha\ e lonr: known
tliat trees suffer if we inter the base of the stem in such manner as to ex-
clude the ail- from theh roots. The roots suffer more from contact with
stagnant water, even when rich in nutritive matters, than when in contact with
runnin;;; water, because the latter brink's them a constant supply of o\yj;en.
M. Th. de Saussure found that plants whose roots were placed in j,'as deprived
of free oxygen died at the end of a few days, whilst those placed in contact
with the atmosphere lived and prospered." — ('' Physiologic V( j^.tale,'' tome 1.,
pages l;J6-7.)

Many years ago I used unchu*ificd sewage extensively, aud
for a lengthened period. The lesults were not satisfactory until
I adopted the ^jractice of stirring the surface of the soil after
every application of the sewage. The results then exceeded my
expectations, but when estimated were not foimd equivalent to
the largely increased cost of labour. Afterwards the sewage was
clarified by the use of quicklime and used for a lengthened
period in this state ; this was jtidged better than the use of tin-
clarified sewage without labour, but not equal to its use witli
frequent hoeings. At present I have two large cesspools into
which the sewage is diverted aud allowed to settle, becomiu"
almost clear by subsidence, in which state it is freely used aud
found most valuable.* In conclusion, I would say that I am of
opiuion that the sludge iu sewage is valuable as a maiuire. Bnl
I object to its application to the surface of the soil in a semi-liquid
state. If so ai^plied the surface of the soil should be constantly
stirred and broken, which, of course, involves considerable ex-
pense. It then becomes a question whether it is not more
economical in separate the sludge, employing it as a solid ma-
nure or for other purposes, leaving a clarified liquid behind for
irrigation.

VEGETATION AND GARDENING IN EGYPT.

Ei.vn has no woods or thickets. It would hardly possess a
single tree without the care of man. From this dearth of wood
follow several obvious consequences, which may he worth noting.
First, all the houses of the lower class — that is, of the great
mass of the people of l-jgypt, must be built of crude, or sun-
dried luick. There is no wood for jiosts and planks, or to burn
brick for such folk as they. This obliges them to live iu houses
that are singularlj' mean; and, accordiug to our ideas, in-
sulficient for their p\u*pose. They can only have a ground-floor,
for no ceilings can be made without wood. Nor, for the same
reason, can they have any roofs, there is no wood for rafters.
Nor, if they could manage to get the rafters, would they be able
to get the fuel for burning the tiles. It follows tliat only a part
of what ought to be the roof can be covered-in, and that in the
rudest way, for protection against what Heaven may send in the
way of heat, or cold, or wet. This partial covering is very in-
effectual. It consists of a few Palm leaves, or of the stalks of
the Millet and Maize, laid horizontally from wall to wall ; upon
this Wheat and Barley straw is generally piled till it has been
consumed by the donkeys, and goats, and camels, and buffaloes.
Such is the rule ; a real serviceable roof being the exception.
These roofless ground-floors, which arc the house, must also be
flooiieas, for there is no wood either for flooring or for burning
floor-In-icks. Then the floor must be dust. This makes every
houbc a flea-preserve.

A further consequence is, that within these floorless, roofless,
windowless, doorless mud enclosures there can be no such thing
as furniture— nothing to sit upon, nothing to stow imything

■^ From esporimonta not completed when this paper was read, I found a
marked differeuce in GeraniumB watered with sewage claritied by simple sub-
sidence, and with eewage clarified by lime, iu every case iu favour of the
f jrmtr.— W. P.

March 13, lOT. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

225

away in, nothing to put anything upon ; not a cupboard, a chair,
or a tahie. But this matters little to a people who can always
sit and sleep on the dry ground ; and who have nothing to Btow
away. Kverywhere I saw men, and sometimes even women,
sleeping out of doors, even in mid-winter.

.\mong tlie trees of ICgypt, tlie lirst place is held by the Palm.
f)u landiug at Alexandria you find it around the city in ahnn-
dauce, and throughout the country you are never long mU of
sight of it. It is seen to most advantage from the river against
the sky. It appears must iu place when, in sutticient numbers
to form a grove, it overshadows some river-side \illage. \ an
tliere look upon it as the henelkent friend and coadjutor of the
poor villagers. You know that it gives them much they could
not get elsewhere, and which they could ill spare — shade, boxes,
baskets, cordage, thatch, timber, and the chief of their humble
luxuries, in return for the protection and water they have given
to it. We often hear it spoken of as the queen of the vegetable
world. I had rather say that it is a form of gi'ace and beauty
of which the eye never tires.

The tree usually employed in forming avenues, where shade
is the tirst object, is the broad-podded Acacia. The distinguish-
ing feature iu this is the largeness and abundance of its singu-
larly dark green leaves. Its foliage, indeed, is so dense, that no
ray of suuhglit can penetrate through it. The effect of this is
very striking. In one of these avenues that has been well kept
you will tind yourself in a cool gloom, l)oth the coolness and the
gloom being such that you cannot hut feel them, while yon see
the sun bla^^ing outside. The road from Eoulak to the Pyramids
of (Jizeli is planted tlie whole way with these trees. For the
Urst two or tliree miles they are of some age, and having now
met overhead above the road, the slielter, even at midday, is
complete. For the rest of the way the trees are not older tlian
the Prince of Wales's visit, they having been planted along the
sides of the road that was on that occasion made for him. No
tree more easily establishes itself, or grows more rapidlj', if
sufficiently watered. All that is required is to cut olf a limb,
iiu matter how large, or from how old a tree, and to set it in the
ground. If it be supplied with water it grows without fail. This
Acacia is the Lebekli of the natives.

Another tree used in avenues, and which gi-ows to a greater
height and witli larger limbs than the Lebekh, is the Egyptian
Sycamore. It is a species of the Indian Fig. It has large limbs,
which enable you to see the whole of its skeleton. The skeleton
of the Lebekh is concealed by the multiplicity of its branches,
and the density of its foliage. Tiiere is a fine siiecimen of this
Sycamore in the lirst Nubian village, on the way from Assouan
to PhiUe, and another equally good on the bank of the river just
opposite Phibe. Trees of this kind have more of the appear-
ance of age than others in Egypt. Their bark is of a whitish
colour, and their large branches are covered witli little leafless
i-ipur-like twigs, of a diug}^ black, on wliich are produced their
round green fruit, about as big as liantams' eggs. These spur-
like processes on the In-auches are, I suppose, the homologues of
the descending aerial roots of its congener, the Banyan tree of
India, of which latter also I saw one or two good specimens in
gardens in Kgypt. It was from the imperishable wood of the
Sycamore that the ancieno Egj'ptians made tlieir mummy
cases. The fine old avenue from Cairo to Shoobra, three miles
in length, is composed of generally good specimens of this tree,
intermingled with the Acacia Leliekh, and here and there a few
Tamarisks.

The tree •which approaches nearest to the ability to support
itself in Egypt without man's aid is the Tamarisk. It is a tree
that drinks very little, and takes a great deal of killing. You
see it growing, as a stunted shrub, in the nitre-encrusted de-
pressions of the desert in the neighbourhood of Ismailia, and
elsewhere, where it can only very occasionally be refreshed by
a stray shower. Wherever it can get the little moisture with
which it is satisfied it becomes a gi-aceful tree.

The thorny small-leaved Acacia gives but little shade. It
produces a small yellow flower, which is a complete globe, and
has a sweet scent. It is in flower at Christmas. If this is the
Acanthus of Herodotus its wood must have been largely used
when he was in Egypt for the construction of the river boats,
which were often of very great capacity.

The Dum Palm is occassionally seen in Upper Egypt. The
first I fell iu with was at Minieh. That, I believe, is the most
northerly point at which it is found. Its peculiarity is that,
when the stem has reached a few feet above the ground, it
bifurcates. It then his two stems and two heads. When these
two stems have grown out to the length of a few feet they, too,
each of them bifurcate, following the example of the parent
stem. There are now four stems with heads. Another repe-
tition of the process gives eight, and so on. In fact, it is a
branching Palm, and every branch is a complete Palm tree.
The whole is a cluster of Palm trees on one stock.

These are all the trees one notices in travelling through the
country. The list is soon run through, but I saw that au at-
tempt was being made to add to the list. In the neighbourhood
of the Viceroy's palaces I found two species of Australian

Eucalyptus. They appeared to approve of the soil and climate,
and gave promise of soon becoming fine trees. They do well at
Nice, and will probably do better in Egypt.

Everyone of the trees! have mentioned remains, iu Egypt,
in full foliage througliout the winter.
•Tliat hmticulture was a favourite occupation among th?
ancient b'.gyptians is shown abundantly by their sculptures and
paintings. " Representations of gardens are so common that we
may infer that no residence of any luetentions was considered
complete without one. We even see that rare and interesting
plants, brought from Asia and Ethioiiia, each with a ball of
eartli round the roots, carefully secured with matting, formed
at times a part of the royal tribute. 'I'he very Lotus, which
may be regarded as. among flowers, llie symbol of Egypt, is
now supposed to have been an importation from India. In this
matter, as in every respect, the country has sadly retrograded.

Of course all aub-tropical and many tropical trees and plants
do well here, if only they be regularly supplied with water. I
never saw more interesting gardens on a small scale than those
of S. Cecolani at Alexandria, and of the American Consul at
Port Said. The same may be said of the garden of the ^ iceroy
at his Gezeer.ah palace. In them you will find the plants we
keep in stove h.ouses doing well in the open air, and many of
tlieiu in flowerat Christmas, orsoon after. In the first-mentioned
of these gardens I saw very beautiful specimens of the Norfolk
Island Pine, about :^0 feet high, growing luxuriantly. 'There
was also a species of Solauum, which, if I knew its Christian
name, I would commend to the attention of tliose who are
endeavouring to produce in their English gardens something of
a sub-tropical effect. It was about lUfeet high, and was so regu-
larly tilled up with hranches as to have a completely symmetri-
cal, a somewliat dome-like form. Its leaves were large, rougli,
and prickly. At the extremity of each twig, or lesser bmnih
was a large branching spike of purple flowers. The individual
flowers in the spikes of bloom were about the size of the flower
of its relative the common Potato, and similar in shape. It was
a most effective shrub. I never saw one more so.

It is generally supposed amongst us that our English gardens
are quite unrivalled. They may be in the thought, care, and
money bestowed upon them ; but in variety of interest they are
very inferior to Egyptian gardens. These may contain all the
plants we consider most beautiful and most worthy of artificial
heat ; which, too, mav be grouped with Bamboos, Palms, Indian
Figs,' Bananas, Cactuses, Daturas, Poinsettias tl or 10 feet high,
and many other plants and trees one would go some way to see
growing with the freedom and luxuriance that is natural to
them in this bright, winterless climate.— (i'jrypi of the Pharaohs
and 0/ the Kedh-t^j

STKATFIELDSAYE.— No. 1.

The Seat of the Duke of Wfu.ixoiox.

In Anglo-Saxon times one Eundi held Slradhdle, and when
Domesday Book was compiled it had passed to a Norman, Hugh
de Port. " It is variously spelt iu subsequent records, but all
indicating that Strj'l, a public road, and ./>/,/, pasture, are the
Anglo-Saxon derivatives of the name —a name justly applicable,
as it was by the side of one of the roads leading to the Roman
Silchester. This "pasture land by the public road," from
belonging to the family of D.- .S'lij/c, had the last syllable added
as a distinctive affix. In the reign of Edward III. it passed
by marriage to the D'Abricliecourts, Sir Nicholas of that name
taking to wife Sibilla, heiress of Thomas de Saye. Sir Nicholas
was Constable of Nottingham Castle and Keeper of Sherwood
Forest. After his marriage he was Sheriff of Hampshire.
Stratfieldsaye remained in the possession of the D'Abriche-
oourts until the reign of Charles I., when, again by the marriage
of au heiress, it passed to Sir William Pitt, Comptroller of
the King's Household. He made it his residence, died, and
was buried in its parish church in 1C3G. From his younger
brother descended Earl Chatham and Lord Camelford. His
grandson married a daughter of John Savage, Earl Rivers^ and
tlieir grandson was created Lord Elvers iu 177C. In 1815 tho
House of Commons voted i;200,000 either to build or purchase
a mansion and estate for the first Duke of Wellington. At first
there were rumours that the estate was to he iu Cheshire, but
at the close of 1817 it was announced that Stratfieldsaye had
been purchased from Lord Rivers for £203,000, the timber
being valued at £150,000.

Stratfieldsaye is three and a half miles from Mortimer, a
station on the branch of the Great Western Railway between
Reading and Basingstoke.

In early Norman times there was in the parish a Priory
dedicated to St. Leonards, and established iu 1170 by one of
tlie Stotteville family. The Priory itself was within the
boundary of Berkshire. Being an alien priory belonging to
the Benedictine Monastery of Yallemont, it was suppressed iu

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTOKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER

[ Maich IS, 1873.

March 13, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE.

227

the 1st of Edward IV. 's reigu, and the lands given to Eton
College.

The principal approach to the mansion of Stratfieldsaye is
from the north, through an avenue a railo long planted with
noble Elms. The roadway is about 12 feet in width, and
passes over a gently undulating surface, so that at lirst the
fuU length of the avenue is not seen ; the trees are some 4u feet
apart in the line, and stand bad; on each side 1'.) or 20 feet
from the road. They were planted between the years ICOti and
IGlis by the Sir William Pitt before alluded to, and though so
old and in some eases rather stag-headed, they are generally
quite sound, which is more than can be said of most of the
Elms near London. Mr. Loudon states that they are a broader-
leaved kind than the common English Elm, and not so tall,
but as the foliage was otl the trees at the time of our visit
there was uo opportunity of examining it. So keen an observer
as Jlr. London was not likely to have been mistalcen ; but
probably after all, the greater breadth of the leaves which he
remarked was due to local circumstances, wdiieh appear to have
had an influence on other trees which will be hereafter noticed.
The height of the Elms certainly did not appear to be so great
as that of others of similar age elsewhere, but where all the
neighbouring trees are so tall the eye is a]it to be deceived ;
their girth, however, was great, being from 1.^ to 24 feet. Be-
tween the Elms, Horse Chestnuts were planted alternately by
the first Duke in order to replace the Elms when these could
stand no longer, but, from being so much overshadowed, the
Horse Chestnuts have attained no considerable height, nor
has their progress in other respects been enthely satisfactory.

A continuation of the avenue, about oUO yards in length,
between Yews and Oaks brings us to a carriage ring round a
wide circle of turf, and in fnmt of the principal entrance
to the house, which is on the left. To the right are the
kitchen gardens concealed by plantations, and on the same
side are the stables and other buildings, while terminating the
drive is seen in the distance the parish church. Near the man-
sion we noticed a group of remarkably fine Elms, upwards of
100 feet in height, and from 15 to 20 feet in circumference of
stem. These form stately objects well worthy of attention,
and not less noteworthy is a deciduous Cypress immediately in
front of the conservatory attached to the south end of the
house. This magnificent tree is 05 feet in height, and its
girth at the base of the stem is 1) feet (i inches. The conserva-
tory just alluded to contains some healthy fruiting Orange
ti'ces. Camellias, Azaleas, Yuccas, Araucaria Bidwillii, and a
variety of other inmates which serve for its more teniporar5'
adornment.

We now reach the east side of the mansion, of which the
accompanying is a representation, engraved from a photograph
by Jlr. Cf. H. H.ay, of Hanover Place, Upper Baker Street. It
will be seen from this that the house is not remarkable for its
architectural character, and its height is small in proportion
to its size, but it is commodious, and in every sense comfort-
aljle. From the gravel terrace in front the grass slopes down
to the river Loddon, which is hero widened by means of weirs
so as to present a good breadth of water instead of its natural
very limited dimensions. Southwards there is a broken water-
fall, and beyond the river in all directions fine Oaks and other
timber trees meet the eye, though from their numlier and size
they somewhat confine the view, especially as the ground rises
from the valley in which the river flows ; still there is sufficient
breadth between the mansion and the river, and the river and
the trees, to give a better idea of the great extent of the park
than can perhaps be elsewhere gained. Here, however, we
must pause, deferring till next week the notice of otlier and
more important features of this noble domain.

mixing, also cut straw or gas tar, but in this ease there is
rather more trouble in mixing. — O. Ohpet, Cirencester.

fWe have known fire balls made advantageously of clay and
cinders. — Eps.l

CHEAP FUEL.

The present high price of coal has led many to economise
their fuel, and I being one of the number have adopted a very
simple mode of doing so. I had heard that clay and coal dust
mixed would burn, and as I had a few loads of clay at hand,
I thought I would try it in this way. Tci one wheelbarrow
load of small coal I put two of clay, mixed it up together as
one would to make common brick, and cut it in the same-sized
lumps. After the fire had burned clear I put on several lumps
quite wet, and they made an excellent fire ; and I find if they
are stacked in a shed to dry they burn nil the better. The
boiler I have is a saddle boiler, and with these bricks and a
little dust of coal a fire would last ten or twelve hours. If
there is a quick draught another load of clay may be added in

rOLTRAITS OF PL.\NTS, FLOWERS, AND
FRUITS.]

Pnii.onExriiiON rdrens (Ruddy Philodendron). Xtit. ord.,
Aroidea>. IJiiii., Moncecia Triaudria.— A native of Venezuela
and Trinidad, Spadix white ; spathe crimson internally.
Plant about 2 feet high.— (J.'<.(. J/n;/., (. C021.)

Aei'Ophyli.cm snc.vruM (Spiked Arpophyllum). Xat. nid.,
Orchidacea^ Linn., Gynandria Mona?cia. — A native of Mexico.
Flowers dark rose. It was introduced here by Hartweg in
mi':i.—(Ihi(J., t. C022.)

ABISABU5I vui.G,»r.E (Common Arisarum). Nat. unh, Aroidese.
T.iiiii., Monacia Polyandria. — Native of islands and regions
near the Mediterranean. Dr. Hooker says, -'The specimens
here figured are from Marocco, where the plant abounds, and
where my attention was directed to its root by Mr. Hunot of
Safli, as affording a food to the natives during their frequent
seasons of famine ; when they are dug-up, washed, and cooked,
notwithstanding their poisonous properties. The Arab name
is Ironne. A similar use is made of the roots of the gieat
Arisa'as in the Himalaya." — {Ihid., t. (J02:j.)

Ntoularu-m srECTABiLE (Showy Nidularium). Nut. ord.,
Bromeliacea^ Liiiii., Hexandria Jlonogynia. — It is a native of
Brazil. Flowers crimson, pink, and purple. "The genus
Nidularium was established by Lemaire in 1854, and includes
various species of the old genera BromeUa, Billbergia, &c.,
together with others, of which a dozen are enumerated by
Morreu in his valuable ' Catalogue des Bromeliaei'es cultivees
an .lardin Botanique de PUniversite de Liege ' (1«73). N.spec-
tabile was imported by IMr. Bull from the interior of Brazil,
and flowered in his establishment in December, 1872. It is a
very striking plant, allied to N. Meyendorllii, I.emaire (111.
Hort., t. 245), but very distinct; and may at once be recog-
nised from any species hitherto cultivated in England, by the
singular bright blood-red ends of the leaves, which form a
clearly defined and singular contrast both to the bright green
of the upper surface and the glaucous dull green of the.lower
surface of the leaf."— (/;<('t(., (. C024.)

Akeia pumila (Dwarf Areea). Nut. orrf. , Palmacea\ Linn.,
Mono'cia Monadelphia. — Native of the Malayan Archipelago.
It is an elegant little Palm not more than 4 feet high. — (Ibid.,
t. C025.)

PicoTEKS, :\[rs. Ilnrnlii/ — Mm. Furdlinm. — " They were raised
by Mr. Turner, of Slough, by whom splendid examples were ex-
hibited last season, which secured for them the highest awards.
Mrs. Hornby is a Ught-edged red variety, of large size, and the
finest in its class ; it is a charming flower, on account of its purity
and even marking, as well as for its finely-shaped smooth petals.
Mrs. Fordham is a largo and well-marked flower of the medium-
edged bright rose type, also a grand and effective flower for
general cultivation, and the finest in its particular style, the
flowers being large and full without confusion. The admirers
of this delicately-beautiful and fragrant flower will find both
these varieties to be grand acquisitions to their collections."
—(Florist and PomoIo(jist, 3 s., vi. 49.)

A PLEA FOR THE ROSE MRS. RIVERS.
I HAVE often noticed in the columns of the .Tournal that
Mrs. Rivers is counted a bad and weak grower. Now, I cannot
agree with your correspondents in that conclusion, for I have
Mrs. Rivers growing in a bed with twenty-two other varieties
-viz., Acidalie, Alfred Colomb, Abel Grand, Bonle de Niege,
Comtesse de Chabrillant, Charles Lefebvre, CC-line Forestier,
Duke of Edinburgh, Exposition de Brie, Gloire de Dijon, John
Hopper, Miss Ingrain, Madame Cieorge Paul, JIadame Victor
Verdier, Madame Boll, Madame Eugenie Verdier, Madame Mar-
gottin, Monplaisir, Pierre Notting, Prince Camille de Rohan,
Senateur Vaisse, and William Grifliths. With me Mrs. Riveis
is quite equal in growth to any of the above varieties, with tie
exception of Gloire de Dijon and Boule de Niege. I budded
them all in September, 1871, on the Briar; and in 1872 Mrs.
Rivers produced some first-class blooms of the finest quality,
fit for any exhibition stand. It m.ade, notwithstanding, a
good strong growth from the buds, the shoots measuring 3 feit
;i inches in length, and 1} inch in circumference at half their

228

JOURNAL OP HOETIGULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t March 13, 1973.

length. It is growing on a flinty chalk suksoil.— G., Bradford
Gardens, Dor.^ct.

WORK FOR THE ^TilF.TC.

KITCHEN G.VRDEX.

Take every oppovtuuity of ilestroyiiifj all injurious inserts;
their numbers will be greatly lessened. Set mouse-traps about
tlie garden. In favonrable and early situations the Aspararfiis
beds may be forked over. A little Lettuce seed may be sown
upon tliem at tlie same time ; also sow Asparagus seed. Make
a sowing of early AVhite Broccoli for autumn use. Trausplaut
Ctlihaors from tlie autumn-sown beds; earth-up the early crops
when the weather is favourable. A sowing of Cardooiis may
now be made if tljey are required early. As soon as the Caiili-
flowers are thiuued-out to three plants under each hand-light,
loosen the soil about them, and draw it round the stems of the
plants. For Cucumbers, keep the lights free from dirt; wash
them inside and out if there are lights to shift on. Keep the
heat nf the beds from 70* to To', but particularly guard against
a violent bottom heat. Cl:erii! and American CJ-cM should now
be sown. Sow Leeks on a border for planting out, or sow wliere
they are to remain. A good sowing of Pan-le)/ should now be
made if not already done. Clear and loosen the soil between
the rows sown last season. Two or more crops of J'cas of
different kinds should be sown. The main early crops of Pota-
toes should be planted as soon as the weatlier will permit. Beds
of Sea-kali' may now be made. New Xcaland Sj}iuach should
now be sown in pots or boxes, and placed iu a gentle heat.
Make another sowing of Early Dutcli Turnip ; or Stone, a sort
called by some gardeners tdie Snowball, is excellent.

FRUIT G.lBnEN. -

Proceed with the pruning and nailing of Apricots and Peaches
as expeditiously as the w-eather will permit. If cut too soon
access will be given to the frost, wliich will induce gum and
canker in unfavourable situations. Daub all wounds, especially
large ones, witli thick paint. Anoint Peaches witli a mixture
of clay, soot, sulphur, and Ume, adding soft soap and tobacco
juice if you think necessai-y. The great use of sucli p.iinting is
to cover the eggs of in.sects, and thus prevent their hatching.
For this purpose nothing is better than pure clay well worked
up, soot and sulphur, if they do not nourish the buds, keep
off birds, and lime gives a lighter appearance than if soot alone
were used, and helps to keep the shoots in a more equal tem-
perature liy day and by night.

fi.owi:r g.vrdf.x.

The weather has been so excessively precarious of late, that
it is doubtful whether many of the operations already recom-
mended have been performed, therefore look back to former
calendars and bring the work up as expeditiously as possible.
Woi-ms are very troublesome tins showery weather, but they
may be kept in check by watering the turf occasionally with
lime water made from stone lime, or they may be brought to
tlie sui-face of the ground and tlien removed by hand by water-
ing witli a weak solution of corrosive sublimate. The best plan
to dissolve this miuer.al poison is to add to it its weight of spirits
of salts. Attend to mowing, sweeping, and everything that
tends to promote neatness. Vacant beds in the ilower garden
will be benefited by being dug over again when they are dry.
If it is intended to make any additions of new slirubs or trees
in the shrulibery or pleasure ground, they should be planted
immediately. Paulovnia imperialis is a noble plant, if for its
leaves only, and should be planted on every lawn. It will re-
quire protection until the stem becomes woodv, but after that it
will stand as well as Catalpa syringrefolia. Araucaria imbricata
is one of the noblest plants we have, and many of the Cedars,
Piuuses, and Cypresses, to say nothing of Magnolias, are very
beautiful. Continue the covering of tender plants some time
longer. Piuuses suffer more from the destruction of their early
spring gi-owth than from any other cause, therefore endeavour
to check it by admitting a current of cold air from the north
side, and by keeping the plants shaded on sunny days. A class
of Auriculas, styled Alpines, have made great advances iu public
favour of late ; they are sells of all shades, from light pink and
grey to dark crimson and deep purple, the eye or centre of tlie
Hower being yellow. Endowed with extreme hardiness and
beauty, they likewise seed profusely. It is dangerous to grow
them in the vicinity of Auriculas with white gi-ound if seed is au
object, as the humble bee, particularly, will carr^• the farina from
one to the other, and thus spoil the crop of seedlings. They
do not appear so susceptible of wet as the Auricula, and certainly
are not so particular as to situation, flowering and flourishing
almost anywhere. They are usually exliibited at spring shows,
and cannot be too strongly recommended to the admirer of
early flowers. Plants iu frames must be watched iu rainy
weather, taking care that they have no drip. Should this be
the case, the laps must be puttied the first tine day. Polyan-
thuses are now throw-iug out fibres round the neck of the plant.
If increase is more an object than blooms, they may be parted
to advantage now. The breed of this class of florists' flowers

requires improvement, and has made less progress than any of
the othei-s. Tulips ought to be protected from heavy soaking
rains, as well as sharp frosty winds, which we may yet expect.
Since beds of Ranunculuses have been planted we have had
heavy wet ; they should lie protected with mats, as the roots
when swelling are susceptible of frost, which often occurs after
much rain at this time of the year. Keep seed pans moderately
moist. Dahlia cuttings that are rooted may be potted-off in
light vegetable or leaf soil, and put in close frames till they
take fresh hold. Young plants of Pansies put out iu beds last
autumn will flower better than those ])lanted in spring. Where
additions arc requisite they should be made now, taking care
in the purchase of them that you secure the roundest flowers,
with the colours as well defined as possible. The smoother
and thicker the petal the better, and the ground or body colour
should be of one shade and perfectly clear, bearing in mind that
white tinged with yellow, or yeliowstained wilhorangc, will not
now do.

GBEENHOUSE AND CONSERVATOKT.

Climbers will now begin to spread over the conservatory, and
will require particular care in training them regularly at first.
Stephanotis floribunda seems rather more hardy than Passiflora
Loudoni, it will live and p-ow^ in an average temperature of 4.'r
iu winter. Little syi'iuging should be done here on account of
the bloom, water must, therefore, be poured on the pathways
and any spare places to keep the atmosphere moist and cool.
See that insects are kept down and that plants have sufficient
room. Some of the more hardy and common plants iu the
greenhouse might now be turned out to some sheltered place in
order to give more room to the finer kinds. Young plants in
small pots might now be potted on the one-shift system, hut for
this it is essential that their roots are not much matted and that
they are in a gi'owing state.

FOECIN'O PIT.

Keep every part of this pit full of plants, cuttings, ic. ; any
plant that can be forced into flower during the spring is desir-
able. All the species of .Tasmine force well if they are kept
under-potted, and if their young wood is constantly stopped in
the growing season they foiTU loose bushes and give-up their
chmbing habit. All American plants require large quantities of
water. Introduce dry bulbs of sorts to succeed Gloxiuias and
Achimenes, and sow a few seeds of Uaisams, Cockscombs,
Bowallias, Thunbergias, itc.

PITS .IND FR.llTES.

.^moug the first things to be attended to, especially where a
large stock is required for flower-garden decoration, is the pro-
pagation of Chrysanthemums. Pot Tuberoses in 4S-sized pots
in turfy soil, and place them in gentle warmth until they begin
to grow. They are useful for setting among plants near the
windows, or for the decoration of the liall or drawing-room. —
W. Keani:.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

KITCHEN G.4EDEN.

The heavy rains render much out-door work as regards sow-
ing, A'c, quite unsuitable. The weather when bearable at all,
was very suitable for proceeding with some out-door work,
such as turfing, gi'avelling, and road-making. In view of
certain changes we moved a lot of Ilhubarb, Sea-k,ile, and .-Vrti-
chokes, as such operations required just the least dryness of the
surface of the soil — a very difterent aft'air from sowing smalt
seeds : but even in their case much may be done shortly by
sowing either iu drills or broadcast, and covering with fine-
riddled, dry soil. We h.ave frequently found that seedlings
come up strongly under this treatment. We save much refuse
and dry soil from the potting-bench for this purpose. In such
a spring one may be sure that the soil will contain enough of
moisture to cause the seeds to germinate freely, and the dry
covering prevents anything like rottenness. True, the covering
may soon be wetted by heavy showers, btit even then it will act
very differently from a close covering with naturally wet soil.
In the latter case the seeds are too apt to be shut-up, as in a
case impervious to air, and the wet and want of air will cause
them to swell and decay. In the former case the rains will
pass through and plenty of air with them, and there will, con-
sequently, be a free healthy vegetation. This is one of the
gi'eat adA'antages of having a well-stirred, dryish seed bed. No
rains that come aftei-n-ards will have a cliance for a long time
of making it water-logged, or rendering it hard and uugenial
on the surface.

Globe Artichokes. — Those who prize this vegetable, one of
the very best for a conversational dinner, should make a point
of planting some every year. Where there are strong jtlants it
is an easy matter to slip off some pood-sized pieces by the help
of a sharp spade and pickaxe, and plant them 30 inches apart
in rich loamy soil. These will yield heads from sis to eight
weeks after the older plants haA'o produced. Even in the case
of old plants, however, the season may be prolonged by cutting-
otV the heads before they are old enough for what are calleij

Maich 13, 1873. )

JOURl^AL OF HORtlCULtURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

220

Boles or bottoms, and giving rich mulcliings and manure water-
ings. By such a mode we have obtained successions from each
set of leaves on the flower stems until the autumn. This
method of preventing the maturation of old heads and giviug
uourishmenl tj the roots is worthy of the attention of those
who like the vegetable and yet can only afford space for a few
stools. Of course, if they prefer bottoms or soles from older
lieads, they will not be able to get so many young heads for the
t ible. It would be well if the fact, simple though it is, were
thoroughly understood, that everything approachiug the per-
fecting of seed-vessels greatly exhausts the vital energies of a
plant. Three heads left large for bottoms on an Artichoke
plant, will exhaust it more than a dozen and a half of heads cut
when young to bo sent as dishes to table. Where the extra care
and extra manuring cannot be given, and yet a continuauce is
desirable, then the fresh planting of some ground every yeai is,
perhaps, the simplest mode of attaining the desired object.

We have never seen much to admire in the chants of earthed-
up Cardoons, or those resulting from earthing-up the leaf-stalks
of the (jlobe -Vrtichoke, if anything we prefer the latter ; but if
plants are devoted to that object a good number must be grown,
as after the plants are thus blanched they are of little use after-
wards. Several great cooks have told us that the heads used young
for table are greatly improved by the plants receiving liberal
treatment after the flower stalks appear.

Jerusalem Artichokes. — These have no connection but in name
with the Globe -\rtichoke, in fact the plant is a Sunflower Potato,
the tubers resembling Potatoes more than any other vegetable,
and being relished by many as a dainty dish, and by many more
as forming a chief part in a rich soup. In a very .small garden
lately we found fully cue half of the vegetable department
occujiied with this tuber. The proprietor was not only very
fond of it, Ijut he told us that as most of his friends visited him
in winter, the tuber was of great importance to him, as his
friends never forget his delicious Artichoke soup. This jjlant,
though holding its own when once established, yet to be made
the most of, should be raised and planted every year like the
Potato. The tubers then are of the same age — a matter of im-
portance when they are used for dishes, though not of bo much
importance when used for soups. When planted the sets should
be about 2 feet apart, and the rows 3 feet asimder. We have
known a plantation last fifteen years, but when quality is re-
quired a little should be planted every year. We have never
found the sUghtest difficulty in cultivated gronud with this
plant, but we have known some singular caprices When it was
turned out to look after itself in a comparatively wild state.
When otherwise not too much fed, pheasants will find it out,
and partake of it mth the gusto of an epicure. We have recom-
mended it, seen it, and helped to introduce it into covers
extensively, first as cover and then as food, but whilst in some
places it has grown luxuriantly wherever it had light enough,
in other cases where the soil was fair it almost refused to exist,
and bo far did not answer the purpose. In all exposed cultivated
soil, whntever its natm-e, we have never known tliis tuber to
fail. When a good boiled Potato is to be had we prefer it to the
Artichoke, bnt there is something pleasing and rich iu it, never-
theless. -Vs to soup, that well made is like nectar, but then a
clever cook coidd wash a number of pebble stones and make ex-
cellent soup if there were plenty of other wherewithals.

Rhubarb. — We transplanted a lot of ours, as it had been
much injured by intruders. For this valuable plant the soil can
scarcely be too deep nor too rich. We never yet knew a Rhu-
barb plant have enough of rich sm-face-mulching. -VU the best
kinds may be raised from seed, and good produce obtained iu
two years. We depend chiefly on dividing and replanting what
we force ; and that, though it is little better- — hardly so good as
seedlings the fi rst year, is fit to take up again after two summers.
We are glad to see that Rhubarb is now, more than ever,
ticcupying a jdace in the smallest cottage gardens. In such
cases, were we to offer our advice, it would be. Plant on a little
knoll instead of sinking the plant too much ; then collect and
place ronud it any manure, house sweepings, even a few ashes ;
and as the Khubarb begins to grow give a fair allowance of dish-
washings, soapsuds, itc, so that the rich water may pass away
and not lodge around the jilants. For general purposes, as for
pies, puddings, i'c, iu i .ittage famibes, we recommend the
btrong-gi'owing kinds, as the Oiant and the Victoria. One huge
leafstalk ;> to 1 feet in length, and almost the girth of a man's
wrist, would do for a fair-sized family, and the simplest way of
using it is the best — cutting up without peeling off the skin. Arc ;
but stalks of the above size can only be obtained by high culture,
we question if any soil would produce them naturally. Though
pleasing to look at, we rather question the economy of these
huge stalks; they contain more juice, and require, if it can be
had, more sugar than smaller stalks, because the latter are
firmer.

We believe that, when duly appreciated, Rhubarb will become
more prominent as a preserve, and will make ns more indepen-
uent of Gooseberries and Currants. Now, some first-rate pre-
servers in the way of jam and jelly have assured us that

firm stalks of small Rhubarb, such as Buck's Elford, &c., not
larger in diameter than one's thumb, far surpass the huge stalks
of the Victoria, &c., requiring much less boiling and much less
sugar, weight for weight, and remaining much firmer afterwards.

Whilst on this point, though it is now somewhat unseasonable,
wo may say that when Rhubarl) is to be preserved it should
bo slipped-off, not after wet, but after several days of bright
sunuy weather, as even that will make a great difference in the
consistency of the plant and its freedom from extra moisture.
We have lately alluded to some of the simplest modes of forcing
this vegetable in winter and early spring.

Sea-kale. — After hardening it oft we commenced planting out
that which we have used for forcing, placing the crowus in one
row, and cut pieces of the roots iu another. Wc prefer pieces
of the roots to young seedlings, if we can get them 6 inches
long, and from a quarter to half an inch in diameter. The top
end soon forms buds when planted, and all that is ^s'auted is to
thin the buds, .\nyone who has a small garden and a kitchen
may enjoy this deheious vegetable in the wiuter months. Some
of the best Khubarb we have seen in January was iu an old
barrel in a kitchen. The bottom of the barrel was tolerably
watertight, but a good watering before introducing the barrel to
the kitchen was nearly all that was required. Such Rhubarb,
grown even in the dark, was more tender, and tlic)ngh not e«i
firm, required less sugar, thau that grown in the open air. We
have no fear of the effeminating or lowering influence of a taste
for such little luxuries. We have great faith in everything,
however seemingly trivial, that concentrates the feelings of a
man in his home and family.

yBUIT DEr.UlTHEST.

We must proceed with out-door work, as we are much behind-
hand with it. There have been gi-eat complaints of early Pcacliei
not seftiuj well, partly owing to the dark weather, partly to
exciting them too much with heat when there was no counter-
balanciug influence from the. sun, partly to the buds being im-
perfectly matured last autumn, partly to thickets of bloom
being left to open when less thau half the rjnantity would have
had a better chance, partly to the roots being too diy, and
partly to the roots being surrounded with stagnant water. It is
often very difficult to decide on the true cause iu such matters
without careful attention and strict examination. Some years
ago we had a fine tree that showed abundance of bloom, but on
examining it closely there were hardly a score of flowers in
which there were perfect pistils. We attriliuted the failure to
an over-heavy croji the previous year, aud imperfectly ripened
wood. The following year, and "afterwards, there was no re-
petition of the evil. In several cases tlie blooms have fallen in
consequence of too much dryness at the roots, and mere surface
appearances should not be depended on. A somewhat dry at-
mosphere is also a great help in setting the bloom. When set,
evaporating- pans containing soot water will be vei-y useful ; the
slirht fumes from the soot will assist iu keeping insects away.
A paint of sulphur and soft-soap water daubed ou opeu spaces
of the waU wherever the sun will strike, will also help to kee)i
away the red spider, aud precaution in all such cases is better
than cure.

Vineries. — As we have not commenced forcing so early this
season, we have just kept the Vines moving gently. Outside
borders shoidd be carefully covered where the forcing has been
early. For later houses now, if the borders are well drained,
such coverings will be little required.

Straicbrrries iu bloom will be aU the better of having a dry
hand or a bimch of fine feathers ilrawn through them. Those
coming on aud showing the flower-trusses should be carefully
watered. As yet avoid watering the centre of the plant or bud.
Better sail the pot from a small watering-pot with a spout rather
than a rose ; aud again, if saucers are used, wdiich they must be
in some ca.ses, allow no water to remain in the saucer. When
these little matters arc not attended to, the centre of the plant,
even after it shows, will often be destroyed by a sort of damping
gangrene. It requires time and labour to obtain good plants in
pots, and a little attention afterwards is anything but labour lost.

ORN.VMENTAL DEr.VBTMENT.

As a proof of what the sun -null now do, we had a down-pour-
ing on the 7th up to midday, such as no workmen could staud
unless thoroughly waterproofed; we had showers, too, on the
f<th; but the gleams of sun and the wind were so drying, that
we were able not only to sweep aud roll lawns, bnt also to sweep
and pull the back of a rake over walks, and roll them, too, in
the after part of the day. Heavy rain, it is true, is faUing ou
the evening of the 8th, but the walks wUl not only look clean
but be all the firmer and drier owing to the rolHug, as the heavy
rains will pass at once to the sides from the firm surface. We
kuow that walks can be made pretty and waterproof too ; but
takiug the year through, and the comfort of the feet in walking,
we question if anything on the whole is better thau a somewhat
smooth, firm gravel walk.

We prepared hotbeds of a slight nature for Bowing seeds and
propagating by cuttings. Repotted Fuchsias and Begonias, and
put Poiusettias into a slate of rest when done blooming, giving

230

JOURNAL OP HORTIOTJLTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENliR.

[ March 13, ISTH.

those remaiuiug plenty of water, and little or none to those
Jinished. Erouj^ht some Euphorbia jaccjniniictiora into heat a
second time, as from these, thoufjh the wreaths will be small, the
sprijid of bright flowers will be useful for cutting. Watered
carefully according to the weather ; and as the air is moist, kept
plant houses dry rather than flopped with water. — R. F.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

James Dickson iV Sous, iU8, Eastgate Street, and Newton
Nurseries, Chester. — Catalotjito vf Farni ticech. Iinplcinentii,

Harrison A; Sons, Leicester. — Seed Catalofjuc^ with Hints on
CU'ltivdiion.

Alfred Legertou, 5, Aldgato, London, E. — Trade Cataluguc of
Garden, AfjriciUtural, and Flower Sccda.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

\* We reijucot that no one will wiite privately to any cf the
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gaidener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing they
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All
communications should therefore bo addressed solchj to
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, d'C, 111, Fleet
Street, Loudon, E.G.

We also request that correspondents will not mis up ou the
same sheet quostions relating to Gardening and tho.se on
Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them
answered promptly and conveniently, but write them ou
separate communications. Also never to scud more tluin
two or three questions at once.

N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until nest
week.

IsTEKNATniNAL KxiiiiuTioN (E. S.).— Aiiply by letter to the Secretary,
Kcnsmgtou Goi c.

Male Auclvba fA'(7/(c}.— You are right. The plaut bearing berries is a
female plaut. Apply foi- a male plaut to auy of tlie priucipal uiuKOi^incn who
alvcrtise ia our coluraus.

PvitAMiD EosE TitEK (.fl itcnritT).— It should be trained from one stem.

Rhododendrons (D. W. (;.).— Any of the niu-serymeu who ai)ecially ad-
vertiue them in this Journal can supply you.

Hollyhock Flowering same Season as Sown {A. A. .1/.).— The plants
frjm seed sown at tliis season will uot llower tliis year, or not until vciy late,
and they will uot l>c at all in rhai-actcr. Sow the seed now in t-hallow pans,
aad place them iu a youtle heat, as that of a hotbed. The seedlings will,
li-)wever, tluive in a greenhouse. When they can be handled easily prick
off the seedlings iu pans or boxes, about 3 inclics apart, and keep them iu the
greenhouse or a cold frame, plautlng-out 2 feet apart in good rich soil in au
open situation, but sheltered from cold and high winds. When they flower
mirk the best, thou cut them down, and plant where they are to flower
another season. Those with a single or badly-formed Uowcr throw away.

CnTTiNG-PowN Passion-Flower (Ifkm).— It is good practice to cut-back
th; Passiou-Flower if it has become bare of shoots at the bottom, otherwise it
will be suiticieut to cut the side shoots where too thick, to within two eyes
of the main stems. We should not repot the plant until it had made shoots
a few inches long, then reduce the ball considerably, and pot iu the same size
of pot.

Tuor-LOLVM TRiooLonuM TrPER Suootless (0. ('.).— AVe think, as the
shoot was nibbed-off two years ago, a fresh one will not now be produced. W'e
bhould keep it another year, and if it do not form a new shoot by next Sep-
tember throw it away. It is remarkable it should keep so long sound without
making fresh growth.

PoiNSETTiAs AFTER FLOWERING (A Bt'f] inner). — Keep the plants di-y until
the end of this month, then cut-back each growth of last year to within half
an inch of its base, or to two eyes. Keep the plants rather di-y until the
f fesh shoots are 3 inches long, then turn the plants out of the pots, remove
all the suil coming away freely from tlic roots, and repot in the same size of
pit, using a compost of two parts light librous loam, oue part each sandy
psat and leaf soil, and a sLtth of silver saud. Stopping the shoots may be
practised, but not after July.

Double Piumulas after Flowering (Jf^m).— Continue them iu the
greenhouse up Iu May, aud then they may be placed in a cold pit or frame,
aad kept there thi'oughout the suiumcr, housing in September. You may
divide thorn next month or early iu May, repotting the plants then, and again
in August.

Aralia japonica— Double Geranium Leaves Browned (A Constant
Su/jNcrlfxr).— The leaf yon sent is that of Aralia japonica, a half-har-dy shrub,
requiriug protection iu a cooi gi'cenhouse iu wiuter. In summer it may I'u
placed out of doors. It succeeds well in a eompust of two parts fibrous loam
aad one part each leaf soil and sandy peat. The double Geranium leaves ^ou
sent us ai-e sutleriug from what is knowu to gaideners as the " spot," which
iu your case arises from a check owing to exposure to a cold cunent of ail".
The roots, we should say, are not very active, llepot the plaut and afford a
more imiformly moist atjuosphere, with moderate air-giving in such weather
as we have lately experieirced. The leaves will improve as the season
advances.

Conservatory Dodder CoMi'ObT (J. /f.).— The plants you name requirt;
somewhat different composts. Could you not divide the border into compai't-
meuts, and so give each plaut the soil required ? A difference of treatment
is quite as much requii'ed iu resjiect to watering as iu soil. The dividing
walls need not be more than -ir} inches thick, aud for neatness may have a
dressed stone coping with the edges chamfered. Yom- tonoreto anangement
is good, also druujs, but they f^hould be covered with not k.-s than (i inches of
vubbie for drainage, and the soil should not be less than 2 feet dtep. We

should have it '2 feet 0 inches deep. The Araucarias require good friable loam,
neither strong nor light, and if turf be used it must bo chopped up. Vuu
may add one-fomth of leaf soil. This will also suit the Musas. but we shuuld
add to it oue pai-t of well-rottcd manure to four of the loam, a sixth part of
half-inch bones, and a sixth of sharp sand well mixed. The Camellias shpuld
have a border formed of the top inch of a pasture pai-ed off where the soil is
sandy, aud there should be added to it one-fourth of leaf soil aud a hke pro-
liortionof fibrous sandy peat, with a sixth of sharp sand, the whole chopped
op and well mixed. This will also grow Acacias aud Dougainvilleas. GrevUlens
should have equal par-ts of peat aud sandy luam, with a si\th part of sand
1 and an eighth of charcoal in Imups between the sizes of iicas and walnuts.
Draciiuas will do in the soil advised for ramellias, also Aralia aud Kiciuus,
aud the Palms in the compost named for Carcellias. increasing the proportion
of the peat to that of the loam. The Alsophila should have a compost of
two parts fibrous sandy peat, one par't fibrous loam, half a part leaf soil, aud
a sixth of sand. Of those you name, all will succeed iu a conservatory k«jpt at
a temperature in winter of 40-' to ■io\ whicli they requuo. Exceptions are
Musa Cavcndishii, Alsophila contaminans, Calamus, and Latania borbouica —
these requu-e a stove.

Wiiu;worms (T. //.).— You arc entirely in eiTor in concluding that wirx-
worms feed only on decayed or decaying matter. They feed on the live roots
of plants — for instance, those of the Pink, I'lmsy, Carnation, and Lettuce;
but we have no evidence of thoii' feeding on the roots of ligneous plants. Wo
have known nearly ever*y plaut of Lettuce destroyed by wucworms ou a newly
formed Peach border, and yet the Peach-tree roots were not interfered with,
at least the Peach trees succeeded admirably. Like remarks apply to Vinos.
We have known Vine borders formed of turf much infested with wireworra,
yet the A'iues did uot experience any injury, and we do not think any evil will
result in yom' case. We also thiuk you mistake in attributing the wireworius
to the dung applied to the border as a dressing. The wiroworms, we should
consider, had escaped from the soil of the border : towards spring they come
very near the surface. We would cut some Carrots into pieces about 2 inches
long, and place them in holes about 3 inches below the siu-face, a pointed
stick being thrust into each i)icce, and the pieces of CaiTot examined every
day for a week, then evtry alternate day. If this be persisied in, and the baits
replaced in the soil after each examination, you will soon thin their numbers.
Kencw the baits when necessary.

Grapes for Cool Conservatory (A'.). — There is no black Gmito equal to
the Dlaek IIarabm*gh for a cool conservatory, aud if you wish t,u grow the
Grapes for profit we would plaut it all with that variety. Black Prince would
do for variety ; aud the most cci-tain to succeed amongst white sorts is the
Eoyal Muscadine.

Stuawherry Plants in Vinery lldcm). — It is not desirable very early
iu the season to take Strawberry pots all at ouce from a cool house into a
night temperature of 6U . The night temperature should not be above -15- or
5U'-"' at first, but may be gradually increased to 60^ in the course of three weeks.
So late as the second week in March they might be placed in a terapoi-aturo
of 6U without injuring the plants, but in all probability they will be infested
with red spider before the fruit is ripe.

PEAfu Tree not Sktting its Dlossom {7'^/^).— Dryness at the roofs,
or a close humid atmosphere, would cause the blossom to (hop without setting
When Peach titles aie in (lower the atmosphere of the house should be kept
rather div. Ventilate freely by day, admit a little air at the ventilators all
night, aud iu dull cold weather apply artificial heat to the house.

Tesipeuati-re in Greenhouse {Hern). — For a greenhouse the tempera-
ture at uight at this season should be 45^, on cold nights it may fall to 4U
From fire heat the temperature day and night should not exceed 5U\ The
nearer it is kept to 45- the more suitable it will be for flowering plants. It is
not possible to tell how often plants should be watered. They should be
examined every day, those with the soil iby should be watered before the
leaves flag. Plants in llower will need watering every day, but if the weather
is dull they will only need watering every second or thud day.

Cii.UiroAL FOR iPiNKS ^^[. E. H.).—U is excellent for Pinks if brukeu-up
rather small imd mixed with the soil either for planting in the open ground
or potting. It may be given advantageously to plants already planted out,
covcriug the ground about the plants half an iuch thick, aud poiuting-in
with a fork. It njnyaJsobe spread on the gi'ound before planting, iiointed-
in with a fork, and mixed well with the soil. Charcoal is a good maum-e,
and is useful as a preventive to the attacks of gi-ubs.

BRUuniANSiA CoairosT {H. B. 1'.).— Use two parts of light fibrous loam»
one part loaf soil, half a part thoroughly- decayed manure, and a sixth part of
shai'p sand. Drain the pois well, and repot the plants now, removing most
of the old soil, and when the shoots are a few inches long shift into a larger-
sized pot. Water abundantly after the flowers show, and at every alternate
watering use 1 o/,. of guano to a gallon of water. Assign the plants a light
and airy position iu a greenhoube, and sj-ringe frequently to keep down red
spider.

Snow Sheltering MhhiV).— There is no difficulty in accounting for snow
keeping plants from excessive cold. It prevents heat radiatiug fi-oin them,
protects tbem from the chilling blasts, aud is one of the wor.st conductors
of heat. We have never known the surface of the earth below a covering of
snow colder than il2-\ even when the temperature of the air above has been
2b. So well known is the fact that the poets have recorded it. Thus oue
says, opostrophisiug the snow —

" Every patch of bare brown mould.
Every stone lies under your fold,
And all the flowers you carefuUy hold
Hidden away from the winter's cold."
Peach BLossorts Falling (B. (?.).— The blooms of the Peach trees were
too withered to enable us to give a confident opiuiou, but we tliink with yuu
there is something abnormal in their aiipeaiancc. being so small at their
base. We can only hint that the heavy crop the tree bore last year", or an
excess of or too little moisture at the roots, may be the cause of tlie falling of
the blooms of one tree whilst the other stands so well. Three years ago we
had a small tree that showed similar- symptoms, aud everything seemed right
so foi- as the surface was concerned, but ou digging down with a jjointed stick
we ftjund the soil and roots were dry M inches beneath the smface. A marshy
soil holding water woirld have a similiu- effect in the dull weather we have
had. 1 hese, however, arc merely hints, for we really know not the cause in
your case.

Manetti Stocks (HfrfifrO.— The Manetti stocks you have had sent you
we should plant 1 foot apart in rows 2 feet from each other. We should plant
thtm Qb dttjily as they were befoie, tsumining thtm for suckers before plant-

March 13, 1873- ]

JOUKNAIi OF HORTICDIiiaRB AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

231

ing, and removing these or any eyes below the surface or planting part. Cut
them down to within 8 inches of the fn*ound, and bud them in July or August
on the stem at 2 or 3 inches from the ground. The stocks ai-e not suitable for
standards.

Brussels Pprottts [Timhurtj). — We should decidedly object to taking off
the side leaves of Brussels Sprouts as long as they remain green. When they
turn yellowish it is a different affair. To hasten free sprouting early, we
often nip out the centre of the top.

Sowing Phlox, Drujisiondi {Yoitufj Gard'-ncr). — Sow the scedbetween the
present time and the early part of April in a pot or pan filled to within a
quarter of an inch of the rim with light rich soii; scatter the seed evenly, and
cover it with fine soil the eighth of an inch thick. Place the pot in a gentle
hotbed, and keep it moist and near the glass. When the plants have a pair
of rough leaves prick them out an inch opart in pans of light rich soil, and
return them to the hotbed, keeping them rather close and shaded from bright
sun until established; tbeu admit air freely, harden off, and plant out after
the midLlle of May in rich soil in the open gi-ound. A. good time to sow
Melons is early in April. The plants will be fit to plant out early in May,
and with a moderate hotbei will ripen fruit in August.

Fruit Trees not BE.utiNG (J. Lumbit). — You trees receive far too liberal
treatment. Giving them plenty of manure, and watering freely with liquid
manure when in flower, will certainly cause a strong growth ; blossom bads
will be few, and they do not, as a rule, set freely on such trees. You did right
to add clay to your sandy soil. Do not give any manure except as a mulching
during hot dry weather in summer; a good soaking of water might be bene-
ficial at that time. It would also be desirable to stop the vigorous shoots
during summer, and cause them to break again. Summer pruning will
induce fruit fulness.

Vines Unfkuitfcl (Amateur). — If your Vines were over-cropped last year
that would be a sufficient reason for very few bunches showing this season,
otherwise over-drynesa at the roots might be the cause. When the roots are
all inside, Vines requiie a very large quantity of water. You could ascertain
the state of the roots by digging down a foot or more with a email fork. We
give an inside Vine border, 25 feet long by 16 feet wide, from 2r>0 to 300
gallons at each watering, but we only give four or five waterings during the
season. The borders are damped over the surface every day as well. We can
only say to you, Water the roots thoroughly, do not overcrowd the roof with
young wood, so that the latter may be thoroughly ripened, and do not ovei"
crop.

Insects ( TT'. G,). — The grubs found at the roots of your pot Vines are the
larvffi of the destructive Otiorhynchus recently figured in our account of the
large tubercles on Vines. The earth must be carefully sifted, and the grubs
picked out. (E. C). — YourEcheveria has had the centre of the short stem
gnawed into by the grub or larva of the Otiorhynchus weevil. We know of
no other remedy for the mischief at this stage than to hunt for the grubs
carefully, sift the earth, and destroy them. — I. O- W.

Name of Fruit [Centurion). — Your Pear is undoubtedly Eouitc d'Arem-
berg.

POULTRY, BEE, AM) PIGEOII OHEONIOLE.

AN OLD GAME COCK TO THE BESCUE.
Is common with the rest of my race I entertain the greatest
reverence and respect both for Mr. Wright and his writings.
We regard him as a lover of our species, an accomphshed ex-
poser of the abuses and indignities to which we are daily exposed,
a true friend and benefactor to each and all of us when and
wherever disinterested friendship is most urgently required.
Hence any eulogium made by him passes current amongst us,
and we regard with some Uttle jealousy anything he may have
to say of or concerning any member of our family. In a recent
number he writes, " After all that has been said regarding the
change of style, or the difference between the old lighting and
the modern exhibition birds, the breeders, the pubUe, and judges
have given unmistakeable preference to the high-bred, graceful,
fine-boned modern style." At every word of this sentence each
particular feather in my hackle rises. I challenge with all the
fierceness of former days, and hurl back with undisguised indig-
nation a slur of so gross and unjustifiable a character. We
come of a right royal race whose spotless lineage has been
nanded down throu^^h the dim vista of succeeding generations ;
kings and commoners alike have watched with jealous rivalry
that no stain, no mongrel cross should ever tend to mar or blot
our family escutcheon, and our stud-book has been religiously
kept by the noblest in the land, with as much care as ever was
bestowed on the pedigree of a West Australian, a Cerito, or a
Bedlamite. I would therefore simply ask Mr. Wright to point
out wherein consists the superiority of the so-called modern
Game fowl. With that quiet dignity which has been one of the
chief characteristics of our noble race, I refrain from committing
myself by calling the fashionably bred mongrel that now usurps
our titles, a harsh or unkind name ; neither would I do my
friends the true bred Malay that violence to associate their
name with these usurpers — I simply seek to contrast these pets of
Mr. Wright with ourselves and our ancestors, and to ask in what
their superiority consists. "High-bred"! "graceful"! "fine-
boned " ! Pshaw ! Ask those who have bred and loved us for
the last fifty years, were we not pure? Were we not courageous?
Were we not fine in bone ? Were we not equal in colour, and as
perfect in feather? "High-bred"! Are not the cup birds of
the present day three parts Malay ? How can they be termed
English Game fowls ? Why do the committees of our shows
state in their prospectuses that purity of race will be considered
in a greater degree than size or weight, whUst they seek to

promote and propagate the development of mongrels ? Why do
not our judges, many of whom used to love " a good bird in the
hand " disqualify all such pens, and with a true spirit of con-
servatism seek to maintain our English Game fowl iu its native
purity? Will the judges use the responsibility of this usurpa-
tion ? (and it is in their power to check if not to prevent it). If it
is desirable to propagate cross-breds do so by all means, but do
not oifer prizes for " pure bred Game fowls," and apportion them
to mongrels. Our friends the Malays are obtaining, I trust, their
proper class and position ; why shall not the same be acceded
to the English Game ! Do not insult us by making a new class
for us, neither ask us to compete with a race called into notoriety
by the morbid taste of a few ; simply give us a fair field and no
favour, and we shall then, as now, stick to our motto, Vinoere
vel mori. I should not, sir, have dared to crow so long, but the
dander of the old Black Red was fairly rizzed when Mr. Wright
sought to sully the purity of our race, the elegance of our form,
and the fineness of our bone and breeding. — Old Black Red.

EXHIBITION LABELS.

Secret.\kies of poultry shows ought to provide good labels..
The cost of good labels is not high, therefore why have poor
ones, which one cannot write upon, and through which the ink
comes? There is generally a rule in prize schedules requesting
exhibitors to write their names distinctly. How can they on
such poor labels as are very often sent ? The labels sent for the
Show at Northampton were absolutely rubbish (beggmg their
maker's pardon), and I was obliged to fasten another label to
mine to ensure the safe return of my birds. This is not the first
time I have had to do so, but I hope after this it may ba the

last. — -IX EXHIBITOB.

THE THIRD PRIZE IN THE FANCY DUCK
CLASS AT THE HANLEY SHOW.

Theke can be no doubt that the third prize was awardel to
the only pen of Carolina Ducks exhibited at the Hanley Show,
and that pen belonged to Mr. Elmes Watts, of Hazlewell Hall.-
There is no doubt of this, because the -Judges, Messrs. Martin
I and Douglas, so state ; yet it was printed and published that the
third prize was awarded to someone else's Black East Indian
Ducks. We recommended Mr. Watts to adopt legal proceedings,
and he has since received the following letter from the Se-
cretary : — " I have written to Mr. Martin and have had a reply;
and as there seems to be something we cannot get to the bottom
of, we have agreed to send you the amount of the prize {os.)^
wltiich I have enclosed."

One of the Judges — Mr. Douglas — wrote as follows to Mr.
Watts :^" The third prize was given to a pair of Carolinas.
They are doing something very wrong over this Show. I have
a letter from Mr. Fletcher, from whom they withhold an extra
prize that we gave his Game cock, stating we gave it to another
pen — in fact a pen that was not worth Is., except to kill."

NORTHAMPTON POULTRY AND PIGEON SHOW.

Few, if any, shows of a like description have proved so popu-
lar as that held at Northampton. At the commencement of
its career, some four years back, there was exhibited a very
small but excellent collection. Every succeeding show has
about doubled the number of entries of its predecessor, so that
last week nearly 1400 exhibits were on view. This result is due
to the unflagging energy displayed by the Committee generally,
combined with the exceedingly courteous and business-like
manner in which the correspondence necessary in such under-
takings is carried on by the Honorary Secretary. The attend-
ance of visitors was of the most satisfactory character. It is
right to mention that, irrespective of poultry and Pigeons, a
large number of Cats competed for prizes, and in respect to the
Rabbits, the entry was far greater than has been known at any
show in the kingdom. If progression is to go on at the same
rate as hitherto, it will become a matter of some anxiety to the
managers to find accommodation, for even at the present time
the Pigeons, as a whole, and a large portion of the Bantams,
were from compulsion arranged quite too high for general in-
spection. We are informed, on good authority, that the Com-
mittee feel quite alive to such a contingency, and purpose
another year to so arrange matters that the judging shall not be
carried on during the presence of so dense a crowd of interested
exhibitors as marked this year's proceedings. That the original
expectations of the Committee have been marvellously exceeded
is certain, whilst the determination to even yet extend the
value of tlie premiums offered, evinces a desire to insure for the
Northampton Show a position among the most important of
such exhibitions. When it is borne in mind that most amateurs
have now mated their best birds for breeding purposes, it is
reaUy surprising that the Quality and general exceUenoe of
most of the classes would bear favourable comparison with the

232

JOtJBNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March 13, 1873.

majority of even our winter shows ; yet so it was, and the atten-
tion paid to the valuable specimens collected erred rather on
the side of prodigality than neglect. It is necessary to note
that in almost all instances the poultry classes were for single
birds, consequently not only were very few pens empty, but the
birds were such as really were entered in the hope of winning,
and not for the purpose of changing owners.

The Dorkings were grand classes, a perfect treat throughout
to any fancier, the hens especially proving a very excellent,
well-filled, and even class throughout. As regards the Cocli'uh
classes, perhaps this Show contained one of the best collections
ever exhibited, the Buff and AVhite ones more especially. The
Cochins of the two latter varieties were remarkable for com-
prising specimens not yet a year old of unusual promise, wliilst
the majority of the old hens, both White and Buff-coloured,
were such as, once seen, could not easily be forgotten. lu the
Brahma classes were some considerable numbers of first-class
specimens ; and in the class for any variety of French Fowls a
most excellent LaFleche cock took precedence, the more credit-
able as being so unusual of late years. Spanish fowls very far
exceeded the entries generally met with in the past season, the
quality of the winning birds being of first-rate character. A
few exceedingly good Game fowls were to be found in large
classes, but most probably from the changeable character of the
weather the greater portion were shown in very soft feather.
Hamhurghs, more particularly the Spangled varieties, were
such as could not be siu-passed at even the northern shows, and
the Variety classes were exceptionably good. In the Selling
classes the entries were much more iutrinsically valuable than
ordinary; in short, there was scarcely a pen not worth the
money, and in some instances manifold the sums at which they
were entered ; this f eatiu-e entailed plenty of business in *he
sale-room.

The competition of Aylesbury and Rouen DticJcs in the same
class is a matter that offers a royal road for improvement another
season ; both varieties were unusually fine. In Fancy "Water-
fowls, the exhibition of single specimens, "either drake or
Duck," is quite a mistake, and several entries of pairs of birds
iu this class had to be passed for non-compliance with a rule
that would be more honoured by the breach than the observance,
for the simple reason that i)airs of these lovely Waterfowls, if
only temporarily divided, are apt to cease feeding, become
restless and uneasy, and ofttimes in a few days pine away
beyond the power of restoration, even in the most careful hands.
Game Bantavis, besides being placed quite too high for general
observation, were not equal to what might have been fairly ex-
pected ; the Black, Pekin, and afewreaUy Silver-laced Sebrights
were on the contrary excellent.

Of Pigeons the Show numbered three hundred entries, and
most of these classes were of the highest order, Pouters, Car-
riers, Dragoons, and Owls being, perhaps, the most noteworthy
among them.

We were glad to hear that scarcely a case of trimming oc-
curred, the punishment of disqualification that has recently
been stringently enforced apparently having at length told in
favour of the honourable competitor. The Cats and Babbits, a
jnost conspicuous portion of the Show, were evidently attractive
to many visitors, particularly the former, among which were
certainly some of the finest and best-cared-for specimens it has
been our lot to witness.

The poultry Judges were Messrs. Hewitt and Teebay ; for
Pigeons, Messrs. Tegetmeier and Allsop ; and for Rabbits, Mr.
Bayson. For the latter, on account of the number of entries,
Mr. Johnson was appointed a second Judge, the appointment
being regulated by the votes of the exhibitors.
PIGEONS.
The Pouters were good ; in the cock class Whites were first and
third, and Blue second; White being first and second, and Blue
third in the hen class. Carrier cocks were far superior to the
hens; Duns were first, Black second and third; and the winning
hens were Black first and third, Duns second. The young
Carrier class was very good and strong; Black, Blue, and Dun
being the prizewinners respectively. In the Barb class a Black
hen was first ; a Yellow cock and Black were second and third.
Tumblers — Short-faced Almond won aU the three prizes. In
the class for Any other variety of Tumblers Black Baldheads
were first, Yellow Mottles second, and Blue Beards third. Foreign
Owls were good. White, Black, and Blue were prizewinners re-
spectively. EngUsh Owls were a poor lot, though strong in
numbers; Blue being first and third; White second. TurLits
were a good and strong class. Blue, Red, and Y'ellow were the
winners in the order named. In the Jaeobin class Reds won
all the prizes.

Fantails were good. Whites being first and third ; Blue second.
Dragoons were a good and strong class of thirty-one entries ;
Blue first. Yellow second, and Brown-barred Silver third. Ant-
werps mustered twenty-two entries. Silver Dun, Red-chequer,
and Blue-chequer were the winners. Although a strong class,
they were not so good in quality as they might be. Any other
veriety not before named contained specimens of almost all

known breeds that had not a class assigned to them previously.
Black Trumpeters (aew type) were first; Blondinette and Sa-
tinette second and third.

In the Selling CIt,ss for single birds, price not to exceed 30s.,
were forty-sis entries ; Blue Pouters, Black Carriers, and Black
Barbs being the winners. In the SelUng class for pairs of
birds, price not to exceed 40s., White Pouters, Dun Carriers, and
Red Jacobins carried off the prizes. This class had twenty-
six entries. In the Selling class, price not to exceed Jto, a
remarkable good pair of Black Carriers were first; White Pouters
second; Dun Carriers third. In the Local class were Carriers
first, and Blue Pouters second and third.

The entries altogether were 33G pens, divided into twenty
classes, with three jirizes in each class ; in addition to which
there were eight silver cups, five of the value of i3 3.s-., the re-
mainder i.'2 2s. each, so this is conclusive proof that the strength
of the fancy will always show where there is somethiug to win.
Owing to tlie large entry of fowls, the Pigeons had to be jilaced
on the top of two tiers of fowls' pens, which made it very diffi-
cult for visitors to see them. In addition we would advise the
Committee to make a three-days show, and have all judged by
two o'clock on the first day, and then admit the public ; as it is,
it is very tiresome and unpleasant for judges to have to thread
their way among visitors whilst making their awards.

Dorkings. — CocA:. — 1, J. Stott, Healey, Rochdale. 2, F. Parlett, Great
Baddow. 3, J. Lou^'Uind, Grenjoa, Nurthamplou. he. Hon. J. Massy,
Limtrick; J. H. Ivimy, Long Sutton; R. W. Kichardson, Meaux Abbey,
Beverley, c, J. Louglaud; W. Evans, Prescot.

Dorkings.— Ht' 7L—1 and Cup, H. Lingwood, Needbam Market. 2, Hon. J.
Masby. 3, J. Watis, King'a Heath, BirmiutJtiam. he, Hon. J. Massy ; E. Smith,
Timperley (2); U. K. Creaswell, Early Wood, iJai,'dUot {:i); F. Parlett; K. W.
lUctiardson.

Cochin-China (Cinnamon or Buff).— Cocfc.— 1 and S, Henrv Lingwood. 2,
Mrs. Alldopp, Hmdlip Uall, Worcester, he, T. F. Ansdell," Cowley Mount,
St. Helen's; J. Bloodworth, Cheltenham; S. R. Harris, Cu3garne, St. Day;
H. Lloyd, juu., Handeworth. c, J. N. Beasley, Nortliampton ; H. B. Smith,
Broughton, Preston.

CucHiN-CniNA (Cinnamon or B\iS).—Hfn.—l and Cup, G. H. Procter, Dur-
ham. 2 and vhc, H. Tomliu30u, Gravelly Hill, Birniiugham. 8, H. Lloyd, jun.
he, W.A.Buruull(:i): J. F. Aii3deU('2) ; J. Bloodworth ; Mra. R. Harris, c. J. N.
Beasley, Southwell, Notts ; W. A. Burnell ; J. Watts ; S. Samhrooke, Chipping-
Campaen ; Kev. C. H. Crosse, Cambridge.

Cochin-china (Partridge or Black).— Coc?i:.—l. T. Stretch, Ormskirk. 2, T.
Aspdeu, Church. 3, W. W. Renton, Heeley, Sheffield, he, Mrs. Allsnp ; J. K.
Fowler, Ayleabury (Partridge) ; E, Tudman, Whitchurch, Salop, c, H. Frank-
land. Church.

Cuciiin-China (Partridge or Black).— ilcK.—l, Cup, and c, E. Tudman. 2,
Capt. F. G. Coleridge. Wargrave. 3, A. Darby, Bridgnorth, he, Kev. R. L.
Story, Wensley, Bedale ; B. S. Lowudea, Stony Siratford; C. Howard, Peck.
ham ; W. Badger, Bridgnorth ; G. Holt, Church.

Cocuin-China (White).— Cocfc.—l, R. S. S. Woodgate, Pemhnry, Tunbridge
Wells. '2, W. Whitwurth, jun„ Longsight, Mancli- ster. S, Sir S. Lakeman,
Ipswich. ?ic, J. H- Nicholla, Loatwiihiel; K. S. S. Woodgate (z).

Cochin-China (WhiteJ.— iffiH.- 1, Cup, and 3, R. S. S. Woodgate. 2, G. H.
Procter, he, W. A. Burnell ; H. Vaughan, Wolverhampton ; K. S. S. Woodgate.
c, J. H. NichoUs ; C. Bloodworth.

Brahma Pootra (Light).— Cocfc.—l, Rev. N. J. Ridley. 2, Miss M. E. Eyton,
Wellington. 3. J. Bloodworth. c, J. T. Hincks, Humberstone, Leicester.

BraUiMa Pootra (Light).— H(;h.—1, J. R. Rodbard. 2, J. Bloodworth. 3, J.
T. Hincks. /(C.J. More, KothwcU; M. Leno, Markyate Street; — SambrooKe;
c, Miss M. E. Eyton.

Brahma Pootra (Dark).— Cocfc.— 1 and 3, Horace Lingwood, Greeting. 2, T.
F. AuaUell. hc, Kev. J. G. B Kuight, Dunbury, Chelmsford; T. F. Ansdell;
Rev. J. Hichardaon, Sandy Rectory ; C. Howard, c. Lady Bolton, Bedale.

Brahma Pootra (Darkj.— iff ».— 1, Cup, and 3, T. F. Ansdell. 2, Horace Ling-
■wood. Ureeting. lie. Rev. E. J. Birch, uverstone, Northampton ; T. F. Ansdell ;
Rev. J. D. Peake, Laleham ; C. Howard ; Horace Lingwuod

French.— C'ocfc.—l, Rev. N. J. Ridley, Hollingtou Vicarage, Newbury. 2, \V.
Dring, Faversham. 8, J. Cross, hc. J. K. Fowler, c, Lady Bolton ; J. Walton,
Croydon; Kev. T. C. Beasley, Saffron Walden.

French.— Kf/i.-l, E. Lautour, Ampthill. 2, J. K. Fowler. 3, "W. Dring. hc,
H. J. Bailey, Tenbury. c, R. Burrows. Cruydou ; Rev. T. C. Beasley.

Spanish.- C'oc/c.-l and Cup, J. Boulton, Bristol. 2, C. Howard. 3,\V. R.
Bull, Newport Pagnell, hc, E. Brown, Sheffield, c, J. Hodgson. Bristol.

Spanish.— /icn.—l. J. Nash, Walsall. 2, T. Bush, Bristol. 3, E. brown, hc,
Mrs. AUsopp; J. Boultou; J. Parker, Northampton; H. J. Baily. c, W. K
Bull.

Game {Black-breasted Red),— Cocfc.— I and Cup, S. Matthew, Stbwmarket. 2,
J. Mason. St. John's, Worcester. 3, E. Winwood, Worcester.

Game (Black-breasted Red).— Ben. -1, J. Nelson, Hexbam, 2, P. Bullock,
Bilston. 3, Capt. C. F. Terry. Walton-on-Thames.

Game (Any oiher colour).— Cocfc.—l and Cup, J. Chester, Nantwich. 2, H. E.
Martin, Sculthorpe, Fakenham. 3, F. Sales. Crowle (DuckwingJ. hc, S.
Matthew (Brown Red); E. Wiuwood ; W. Watson ; P. Bullock (2); J. Chester.
Nantwich. c, B. Cox, Moulton ; H. M. Julian, Hull; W. Dunmug, Newport,
Salop.

Game {Any other colour).— He)!.-! and 2, P. Bullock. 3, T. T.ove, Kinga-
thorpe. Northampton, hc, B. Mollett, BalQam (Duckwiug) : E, Winwood.

Hamburghs (Golden or silver-apangled). — Cock. — 2. J. Kobinsou, Garstanff-
3, J. Howe, Denton, hc, L. Wren, Lowestoft; T. Love ; J. Robinson; N. Mar-
low, Denton ; G. iS: J. Duckworth, Church.

Hamburghs (Golden or Silver-spangled).— H^ii. — 1, Cnp, and c. J. Robinson,
Garstaog. 2, T. Love. 3, J. Clark, he. P. Hanson, Eastiugtou, Stouehouae;
T. Love; N. Mar ow ; J. Clarke; Aahton &, Booth, Mottram; ii. CylliU9,
Daventry ; J. H. Howe.

Hamburghs (Golden or Silver-pencilled).— Cocfc.—l, G. & J. Duckworth. 2,
J.Robinson. 3, — Speakman, Nantwich. hc, R. H. Aehton, Mottram. c, T.
Wild, jun.. Melton Mowbray ; H. & A. GUI. RawiLUstall.

HAMBUhGHS (Golden or Silver-pencilled).— Hc/f, — 1, J. Robinson. 2, W.
Chalmers, Halliburton, Coupar Angus. 3. B. Norton.

Any other Vahiety.— C'ol/c- 1, — Cruttendeu, Brighton (Poland). 2, H.
Fraukland (Cuckoo Cochin). 3, S. R. Harris {Ulnck Minorca), 'ic, H. Allen,
Wood ureen (Cuckoo Dorking); Capt. F. G. Coleridge (Golden Poland) ; W. K.
Patrick, West Wynch, Lynn (I'oland) ('i); Stott & Booth {Black Hamburghs);
T. Bush.

Anv OTHER Variety.— Hc/j.-l, W. K. Patrick ^Poland). 2. G. H<dt (Cuckoo
Cochin). S, T. Bush (Black Hamburgh). ?(C. Capt. F. G. Coleridge (Golden
Poland); W. K. Patrick (Poland); W. H. Tomlinson (Black Hamburgh) ; Misa
Mill, Bickiimnswortb {White Leghorn) ; — Crutteuden (folaud). c, Rev. N. J.
Ridley (Malay); Capt. C. F. Terry (Malay).

Selling Class.— Co cfc.—l. J. Longland (Dorking). 2. W. K. Patrick (Po-
land). 8. H. Yardlev, Bu-mingham. hc, T. F. Ansdell (Dark Brahma) ; W. W.
Cuujiick, Llanfaes (Dark Brahma) ; W. Stevens, Northampton (Buff Cocliin);

March 13, 1S7S. ]

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEK.

233

J, K. Fo^\ler (2) ; A. Darby (Buff Cochin), c, R. Crawley, Luton (Buff Cochin) ;
J. Kobiusun.

Sf.llinu Class— /Tens (Pairs)— 1, R. W. Richardson (Dorking). 2, W.
Stevens (Uuff Cochin). 3, W. R. Bull, he. Master R. Keid iSpaniahl ; Rev. .f.

D. Pcake (Creve-Cceur) ; H. Yardley; W. Stevens (bark Brabuia). c, W.
Nottaire (Spaiiiati); G. H. Young, Orliiitjbury (Golden-apunRled Haniburgha) ;
Capt. C. F. Coleridt'e (Partri pe Cochiul; A. F. Fauluner. Thrapaione (Part-
ridt^e Cocbiu); ii. Osborn, Wolverhampton (Spanisb); U. Fianklaiiii.

bKLUNG CLASS.— Coc/i- and Hcii.—l, C. Bluodwonh (Polano). i.J. Robinson.
8, W. Stevens, he, W. R. Bull (Spanish): J. Murris. Krdiugtun (Partridge
Cochin); Ji. Cox; J. K. Fowler; Cjipt. T. Weiherall: W. Stevens (Buff
Cochin), e, Capt. T. Wetherall, Loddiugton, Kettering; (Black Ked Game);
R. W. Richardson ; T. Love (Golden-spangled); E. Smith; T. Bush (Black
Hamburgh); J. Mansell, Longtou (Spanish).

Local Class.— 1, W. Nuttage. Northampton. 2, P. Passmore, Northamplnu
(White Cochin). 3, J. F. Parker (Spanish), he, W. Nottage, NorthitmpLon ; W.
Page.

Ducks (Aylesbury or Rouen). — I>raAv. — 1, J. Robinson. 2 and 3. J. K.
Fowler, he J. Haivt-y, juu , Thannmgton, Canterbury; J. Nelson, Hexham;
R. bcott, Kedlingti n; J. Hedges, Aylesbury, c, B. S. Lowndes; J Hedges.

Ddcks (Aylesbury or Rouen).— 1, Hon. Mrs. C. Vernon, Grafton, Kettering.

2, J. Htdges. 3. f! Cheesmau, Aabford, Kent, he, J: Harvey, jun. ; E. Ken-
drick. juu , Lichfield ; J. RuUiuaou ; J. Hedges, c, T. Holton ; J. Nelsou ; J. K.
Fowler; R. W. bicliardson.

Ducks (Any other variety).— 1, W^ Boutcher, Not'ing Hill (Jlandarin). 2, J.
Watts (Carohna). 3, H. J. Bailev (White Call), he, L. Gro&se. Northampton
(White Muscovy); M. Lenn (Black East Indian); H. L. Smith (3); Ciipt. u. F.
Terry (Bahama), c, H. Yardley.

Game Bantams (Black-breasted Red).— Coc/i.-.— 1 and Cup, A. Ashley, Redhill,
Worcestershire. 2, Capt. T. Wetherall. 3, W. Adaui-s, Ipswich, he, W. Adams :

E. Newbitt, Jb-pworth; G. E. Small. Burton-on-Umubcr. c, W. B.Jeffries,
Ipswich ; — Barnett, Walwall ; J. Adkins, jun., Walsall.

G.iME IJantams (Black-breasted Red).— ffc-i.— 1, E. Newbitt. 2, W. Adams.

3, W. B. Jc ffiies. he, J. N.-lson. c, Capt. T. Wetherall.

Game BantaMS (.Vny other colour).— C'ocfc. — L J. Adkins, jun. 2, E. Newbitt.
3, F. Steel, Halifax, he, W. Robinson. Whit haven ; J. Obcroft. Ilkeaton ; J.
Smith, S'lithwell, Notts, c, C. Heppenstall, Newark ; W. Adams; T. Barker.

Game Bantams (Any other colour).— i/t/i.—l, P. BullocS. 2, Mrs. S.Bacon,
River, Duver. 3, 1'. Barker, Burnley, c, J. Watts.

Bantams (Any variety not Game).— C'ocfc.— 1,-B. S. Lowndes (Pekin). 2. M.
Leuo (Black). 3, aijos R. C. Frew, Kirkcaldy. i?/ic, J. Walts (White Japanese).
he. H. B. Smith (Pekm). c. M. Leno (Laced) ; W. Scfton (Black).

Bantams (Any variety nut Game).— HcH.— 1 and 3, B. S. Lowndes (Pekin). 2,
K. H. Abbton. he, J. Rloodworth (Black); M. Leno (Laced); H. B. Smith
Pekin); W. Scfton, Blackburn (Black); R. Frew, Kirkcaldy ; E. Newbitt.

PIGEONS.

PouTEHS.- Cocfe.— 1 and Cup, H. Pratt. Birmingham. 2, W. Nottage, Nortb-
ampton. 3. W. stiles, Rushton. /ic, W.Ridley, Hexham ; F. Gresham, Sbefford.
Hen.~l, Cup, aud2, Mrs. Ladd, Calnc. 3, F. Gresham. Ac,W. Stiles; N.HUl,
Upper Norwood.

CARaiEKs —Cuck.—l and Cup, H. Yardley. 2, W. Massey, Spalding. 3, C. L.
Gilbert, Salisbury, /ic, J. Stauiey, Salford. c, J. F.Wtiite, Birmingham ; E C.
Stretch. Urmsktrli. ife/i.— 1, C. L. Gilbert. 2,W. Massey. 3, E. C. Stretch.
I'oiiHf/.— 1, J. tstiuley. 2, J. F.White. 3, W. Massey. /ic, W. Ridley, c, A.
Billyeakl. No'tmgham.

Bakes.— 1, J. Fielding, jun., Rochdale. 2. W. Massey. 3, H. Yardley. he, J,
Stanley ; C. L. Gilbert, c, C. G. Cave, Spalding.

Tumblers (Short-face).— 1 and 3. W. Adams, Beverley. 2, H. Yardley.
C, R. Cant. London ; W R. Pratt, Oxford ; P. Wise, Oslord

TuMULEKS (.\ny other varieiy) —1. J, Watts, King's Heatla, Birmingham. 2,
T. Newell. Ashton-und^r-Lyne (Mottled). 3, T. Chambers, jun., Northampton,
/ic, P. R. Spencer (Feather-legged Roller Cock). c,T. Chambers, jun. ; S. Morley,
Nortbampiou; J. W. Edge.

OwLSfForeign).- 1, 8, and c, J. Fielding, jun. 2 and he, T. W. Townson,
Bjwden.

Owls (English).— 1, T. W. Townson. 2. J. W. Edge. 3, E. Lee, Nantwich.

Tuuuits.— 1, J. Fieldiog, jun. 2, J. W. Edge. 3. O. K. Cresswell, Bagshot.
he, A. A. Vander Meersch. Tooting. London ; W, Dugdale, jun., Burnley.

Jacobins.— 1. T. Newell. 2, W. Dugdale. jun. 3, O. E. Cresswell. Iic, A. A.
Vander Meersch ; T. W. Townson. c, N. Hill; A. A. Vander Meersch.

Fantails.— 1 and Cup, J. Walker, Newark. 2, H. Yardley. 3.0 E. Cress-
well, he. J. Walker ; O. E. Cresswell. c, J. F. Loversidge, Newark (2).

Dragoons.— I and Cup, H. Yardley. 2. F. Graham. 3, W. Bishop, Dorchester.
he, H Chambers, Northampton; J. Waterworth, Skipton ; W. Bishop (2);
W.H.Mitchell. Uoseley, Biimiugham ; F. Graham (2). c, W. Sefton, Black-
bam; F Graham.

Antwf.hps.— I, H. Yardley. 2 and 3, J. F. White, Birmingham, he, C. F.
England. Stroud ; P. Wise.

Any uther Vauietv.— 1, O.L Gilbert (Black Trumpcteri. 2 and S, H. Yardley.
he, T. D. Liieen. Saffron Walden (Rant); T. Gamon, Nantwich (Black Hunt) ;
A. A. Vander ileersch (Yellow figmy and Ice). c,H. G. HoUoway, juu. (White
Pigmy Pouter; C. L. Gilbert (Black Trumpeter) ; H. A. Saddington.

Selling Class. -Pricf n\it to exeeed 3Us.— 1, L. Watkin, Northampton (Bine
Pouter). 2, W. Massey (Barb). 3, W. Nottuge (Black Carnerf. /ic, W. Nott.age ;
H. Lmnet, Nortnamptou (Black Carrier) ; T. D. Green (Runt) ; E. Walker (Black
Carrier); C. G. Cave (Barb); W. Adams, Beverlev; — Bayea. Spalding (Black
Carrier), c. H. Thurlow, Norfolk (Black Carrier); L. Walkin (Blue Pouter);
E. Walker (Black Carrier) ; T. W. Townson.

Selling Class —Priei; not to exceed ¥.s.—l, F. Gamble, Northampton. 2, —
Bayes (Dun Carrier). 3, R. W. Kiehardson, Beverley (Jacobins). hc,G. H.
Jewkes, Northampton (White Dragoon); H. Thurlow (Blue Pouter); F. J.
While (Carrier); C. (iinnett. c, A. A. Vander Meersch.

Selling Class —Price not to exceed J^5.— 1, H. B. Massey (Black Carrier).

2, F. Gresham (PouUr) 3, H. Yardley. he. T. Chambers, jun.; W. Stiles
(White Pouter) ; H. YariUey ; W. Massey (White Pouter) ; W. J. Rumley. c, B.
Walker (Duu Carriers).

Local Class.— 1 and he, T. Chambers, jun. 2 and 3, W. Nottage.
RABBITS.

Lop-ear.— 9e//cototir.—l, J. Cranch, London. 2, F. Banks, London. 3, D.
and W. B. Boden, West Hartlepool, he. A. H. Easten, Hull, c, J. & A. Weaver,
Leominster; Shaw & Allison, sheflBeld (2). Broken colour.— 1 and 8, A. H.
Eaaten. a. F. Bauks. vhc, J. Hume, York, c, J. & A. Weaver.

Angora.- 1, H. Hancock, Norihampton. 2, Rev. J. Richardson, Beds. 3,0.
Arthur, Mclkshara. he, H.Clarke, Kingsthorpe ; J. F. Farrow, Romford, c,
A. n. Easten ; H. Sims, Leeds (2).

Himalayan —1, F. Banks. 2, C. Tassell. Northampton. 3. W. H. Tomlinson,
Newark, vhe and he. S. Ball, Bradford, c, J. Butterworth. Rochdale ; R. Ash-
worth. Rochdale ; G. C. Hutton, Bradford ; A. L. Pearcp, Thorne. Doncaster.

Silver-Grkys.— 1, A. H. Kasten 2, A. B. Simpson, Waterbeach, Cambridge.

3, J. Irving, Blackburn, vhe, J. Boyle, jun., Blackburn, /tc. H. White. Roch-
dale, c, S. Ball, Bradford; S. Russell, Northampton; J. H. Brand, Earton-
on-Humber.

Dutch —1, — Whitworth, jun., Manchester. 2, F. Banks. 3, J. Boyle, jun.
vhc, A. H. Easten ; C. Martin, c, W. Canner, Leicester ; J. Boyle, jun. ; C. King,
London.

Any other Variety.—!, W. WTiitwnrth, jun. (Patagonian). 2 and he, Mrs.
A. Tindall, Aylesbury (Belgian). 3, E, S. Smith. Boston. vfiC, W. Massey
(Belgian), c, J. Boyle (Belgian); C. King (Siberian).

Heaviest.— 1, W. Canner. 2, C. J. Bentall. 3, Miss M. Christopher, London.
vhc, J. Bowman, Groves, York.

Sellin-g Class.— 1, C- King (Black and White). 2. F. Sabbage. Northamp-
ton. 3, A. H. Easten (Silver-Grey). vhc, Rev. E. J. Birch, Overatone, North-

ampton, he, Perrtn & Grant, Brigliton (Torloiseshcll. e, E. Robinson, Ketter.
ing i2); W.Adams; T.Adams, Norlhamploa.

Local Class.— 1, F. Sabbage. 2, W. G. Hancock. Northampton. S and
vhc, W. Humphreys, Northampton, he, S. RusseJl, Northampton; F. Sabbago
(2); W. G. Hancock; W. Humphreys.

CATS.

Tortoiseshell.— 1, H. Critchett, Northampton. 2, Mrs. Pai-ker, Northamp-
ten. 3. G. Gibbs, Northampton, he, T. Gill, Northampton.

Tabhies.— 1, J. Woods, Nitrthampton. 2, W. Sbipiiiiiu, Northamp'on. 5, H.
Chambers, Northampton, he, J. Hudson. North;impton ; J. Parker, Northamp-
ton; — Ruberts, Spratton Vicarage ; A Ev.ms, Maiilstone; C. Haddon, North-
ampton; U. Critchett, Northampton ; Mra. W. Morbey, Northampton.

All Black uu axl White.— 1, — Welhy, Northampton. 2, Miss S. A. Coles,
Kislingbury, 3, J. «„layBon. Northampton.

Black-and-white.- 1, J. Rowland, Northampton. 2, J, C. Sibley, Northamp-
ton. 3, T. Balnwin, Mortbampton.

Tabbies.— XoH? flair.— i. T. Adams. Northampton. 2 and he, J. Slillham,
Great Berkampstead. 3, T. Carriss, Market Harborough. c, J. U. Stanton,
Northamijton.

ANY OTHER CoLouR.— LoH«7 Uiiir.—l and Collar, J. Marsh. 2, W. Whitwell.
3, J. N. Bea-iley, Northampton, he, Miss Pell. Northampton ; G. Clarke ; J. N.
Beaaley, Northampton; Sir S. Lakeman, Ipswich Mrs. Pi udy. Northampton.
c, Eady & Co-, Chapel Brampton.

Any Variety or Colour.— 1, C. Cursham, Northampton (Blue Beard). Mrs.
Hall. 3, T. Hemmings, Northampton.

Kitten— 1. Master H. N. Wetherall, Kettering. 2, C. Tassell. 3, Bliss M. L.
Wetherall, Kettering, he, Mrs. Humphreys.

POULTEY PKOFITS.

I H-iVE read, with much interest, your extracts from a lecture
delivereil hyMr. K. B. Edwards, on the profits to he derived £i-om
poultry-keeping, p^irticularly hy farmers, and having had some
experience in that hue I beg leave to have my say on the subject.

It seems strange that the farmer should continue to be bo
blind to his own interests, that although continually told that
poultry pay, and that the British public turn anxious eyes in his
direction, and now, by this last exponent of poultry profits,
claim as a right that he should at once set his poultry house in
order and compete with the foreigner in the production of
chickens and eggs, yet that obstinate individual shakes his head
and very much doubts if under any cii'cumstauces much can be
made out of poultry-keeping.

The lecturer who tells us that fowls of a certain breed will
average from 220 to 210 eggs per annum, I presume, is supposed
to know what he is talking about, yet nothing will come of it, I
venture to think; the farmer wiU not rush into poultry- keeping,
and why ? because he has no personal experience of any breed
of fowl averaging 220 to 2i0 eggs per annum, nor has anybody
else. Such an average has no existence in fact. Our poultry
Editor, and he ought to know, in last Thursday's Journal, in
answer to a correspondent, says that he has kno-mi a Hamburgh
fowl lay 210 eggs in one year, but adds that it was an exceptional
case. The average on a farm, even if well attended to, would
hardly come up to half 220, as it would be scarcely possible tc
secure all the eggs laid ; hens steal away and lay in hedgerows
and other out-of the-way places, bringing out chickens when
their owner would much rather have eggs, rats carry off both
eggs and chicks, carter boys, too, sometimes fancy an egg for
supper. The farmer is recommended for egg-producing pui-poses
to supply himself with a stock of Hamburghs and other non-
sitters, then for the production of meat with Houdans and Creve-
Coeui-s, then Brahmas for winter laying; in short almost every
breed of fowl is mentioned as suited to his requirements ; but
how is he to keep these breeds distinct '? he must either erect
poultry houses and allow each breed to take its walks abroad on
alternate days, or keep only one kind.

Fowls, Mr. Edwards says, eat grass, seeds, grain, kernels (?),
worms, slugs, grubs, flies, &c. Eowls at liberty wiU not eat
slugs, nor could I ever persuade mine, even when denied their
liberty, to touch one. My greatest average return of eggs in one
year was 137 per hen. The Is. per lb. commanded in the poultry
market is the retail not wholesale price. My opinion is that to
return a profit as much as would be obtained from one cow,
would require an equal grass run for poultry, and that the profits
must be swallowed up under the head of labour unless there be
an intelligent person on the farm with spare time to attend to
them.

1 shall, taking as I do much interest in the poultry question,
be only too pleased if some of your numerous readers prove Mr.
Edwards quite right and myself quite wrong in'Our opinions re-
specting poultry profits. — J. M. S.

BORROWED BIRDS.

I HAVE just received the Dublin prize list, and am glad to find
the following rule : —

" XrV. — All Bpecimens must be the hond-fide property and in the posBeasion
of the exhibitor at the time of entry. The prizes will not be paid until four-
teen days after the Show, to enable exhibitors to protest asamst hired or
borrowed birds ; if any such chai'ge be proved, the prizes will be awarded to
the next in succession."

I think it might be made more strict, and I suggest the follow-
ing—" All specimens must be the bond-fide property of, and in
possession of the exhibitor at least one month before the Show.
The prizes will not be paid until fourteen days after the Show,
to enable exhibitors to protest against hired or borrowed birds ;

234

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March 13, 1373.

and if such a charge be proved, all the prizes taken by the same
exhibitor will be forfeited for the good of the Society, and the
exhibitor's name published in the reports of the Show. The
Committee hope and trust that exhibitors wUl render their
assistance in carrying out this rule."

I thiuk a rule such as the above should appear in all prize
lists ; but until it do, amateurs will not have a fair chance, as
the practice of borrowing is very common now-a-days. — An

AlUTEUK.

LIMITING THE VALUE OF EXHIBITED

PIGEONS AT DUBLIN.

I WISH to di'aw the attention of your readers to a very gross
proceeding to be carried out at the spring Show of the Eoyal
Dubliu Society. The poultry exhibited at these Shows for some
years have been of a very good class, aud since the addition of
the Pigeon classes, a few years since, the number of entries
and value of the birds exhibited have increased every year, and
the Pigeon department has of late been the great attraction of
the Show.

This year the Committee have given a very liberal sum of
money to be distributed in poultry and Pigeon prizes, but un-
fortunately they have place 1 tlie framing of the rules and dis-
tribution of the money under the decision of some incompetent
one. I wish to remark that as far as the Committee are con-
cerned, they are gentlemen who are beyond even the suspicion
of countenancing anything unfair, and when the matter is put in
its proper light before them, as I intend to do, I have no doubt
they will at once repudiate the idea of benefiting a few local
(Dublin) individuals who are half dealers half amateurs, and to
the exclusion of gentlemen who have for years forwarded poultry
shows and produced good birds at such loss of time and money
as is only known by those who are genuine fanciers.

The rules respecting poultry are, that no exhibitor can ask
more than iilO for the pen, and each pen is liable to be claimed
for i;iO. I will leave the poultry exhibitors to deal with that,
though as the time between the issuing of the schedules and the
closing of the entries is so short, I fear the promoters of the
*' little game " will carry out the project this time.

In the Pigeon classes the artiste who framed the schedule
commences his valuation at i'3 for Nuns, then he advances to
£i for Dragoons, another i£l is put on Turbits, and he gives
breeders a big chance by allowing them to ask .t'8 for Tumblers,
Owls, and Fantails. The owners of prize Barbs, Carriers, and
Pouters can actually ask i'lO for each entry. What a chance for
the owners of good birds ! Surely the London, Birmingham, and
Manchester exhibitors will cross the strip of " melancholy
ocean " to compete in the new species of (home) rule under the
Koyal Dublin Society. I have heard a rumour that the framer
of the rules gives as a reason for limitation as to price, that it will
prevent the English exhibitors from carrying off the prizes, but
i hesitate to beheve that any countryman of mine would even
think of, much less avow, such a paltry reason. I have, as
well as my friends Messrs. Montgomery, Zurhorst, "Wherland,
and Tivy, been successful at English shows, and I am proud to
say that when we Irish exhibitors carried oS the blue ribbon in
some classes at London, Manchester, and Birmingham, from no
one did we receive more hearty congratulations than from our
English friends and rivals. It is well known that there are
plenty of good birds in Ireland, and the making of such a rule by
the Dublin Society can only have one object, that is, to exclude
■the exhibitors who have gone to the expense and trouble to get
birds fit to win prizes. It is also rather singular, to say the least
of it, that there is no such rule in any other branch of the So-
ciety's schedule ; there is no limitation to the price that may be
put on cattle, sheep, pigs, or horses, so I think I may fairly
assume that the rule about the price of poultry and Pigeons has
been concocted for some object other than a legitimate one.

I expect to have the support of every amateur who is inter-
ested in the best birds winning, and who objects to underhand
ond interested arrangements. — An Excluded Exhibitoe, Cork.

Society (Thursday last being one of our meeting nights) ; and it
was the unanimous opinion of all members present thai the
proper markings of a Mottled Tumbler — Black, Red, or Yellow
— also whether Short-faced or Long-faced, should be the white,
or, as it is called, the "rose shoulder," and the *' handkerchief
back."

My reason for writing about this is simply because the remarks
made iu last week's journal are apt to lead young fanciers
astray — at least that is my impression ; and I should be pleased
to hear from any other fancier on the subject, which is to my
mind one of great importance to the fancier of Mottles. —

J. FOBD.

BIRMINGHAM CDLUMBAEIAN SOCIETY.

At a general meeting of this Society, held on the Gth inst.,
the accounts for the past ye&v were gone through aud passed.
A vote of thanks was unanimously passed to Mr. H. AUsop for the
eflicient manner in which he has dischai'ged the duties of Pre-
sident for eight years, also to Mr. J. W. Ludlow for his services
as Honorary Secretary ; those gentlemen having at a previous
meeting expressed their wish to retire from the offices so long
held by them. The meeting then proceeded to appoint a Pre-
sident and Secretary for the ensuing year ; when Mr. Ludlow
was unanimously elected to the office of President, and Mr. H.
Pratt, of Lime House, LozeUs, Birmingham, to that of Honorary
Secretary.

This Society is flourishing, has between fifty and sixty mem-
bers, and is, we believe, the largest Society of the kind in
England.

PIGEONS IN EGYPT.

As j'ou go by rail to Cairo, and as you ascend the river, you
are never long out of sight of a mud-built village. The saddest
and sorriest of habitations for men and women are these Egj-ptian
villages I have ever anywhere seen. West India negro huts are
better-furnished abodes. Their best-lodged inhabitants are the
Pigeons. The only storey that is ever raised above the ground-
floor — which is of the ground as well as on it — is the Dovecot.
This, therefore, is the only object iu a village which attracts
the eye of the passer-by. In the Delta the fashion appears to be
to raise a rude roundish mud tower, full of earthenware pots for
the Pigeons to breed iu. These are inserted — of course, lying
horizontally — in the mud of which the tower is built. In Upper
Egypt these towers have assumed the square form, about 12 feet
each side. Three or four tiers of branches are carried round the
building for the Pigeons to settle on ; these are stuck into the
wall, and as the branches depart from the straight line, each
according to its own bent, each belt of branches presents a very
irregular appearance. No village is without its Dovecotes.
From the summit of the prophylffia of the grand Ptolemaic
terhple of Edfou, I counted about forty of these Dovecotes on
the tops of the mud hovels below me. The number of domestic
Pigeons in Egypt must be several times as great as that of the
population. I suppose if they kept pigs they would not keep so
many Pigeons. They must consume a great quantity of corn —
more, perhaps, than would be required for the pigs of a pig-
eating population as large as that of Egypt. — [Eyijpt of the
Pharaohs and of the Kedivc.)

MOTTLED TUMBLERS.
I PRESUME the question has been asked you as to what should
be the correct markings of a Mottled Tumbler, as I read in last
week's Journal, in the answers to correspondents, the following
— " The best coloured picture of a Short-faced Mottled Tumbler
is that in Eaton's work. The white should only be on the
shoulder. They easily breed too light." I am quite williug to
admit that Eaton's print of a Black Mottled Tumbler is all that
need be required ; but I think if you look at the print you wiU
find that not only has that the white on the shoulder but also
on the back, which should be in the shape of the letter V, or,
as it is called, the " handkerchief back." I myself having had
some experience in breeding Mottled Tumblers, and being one
of the members of the oldest Society of Pigeon-fanciers in Eng-
land— viz., the City Columbarian Society, I thought when read-
ing your answer I would ask the opinion of the members of that

Importation of Eggs. — The consumption of foreign eggs is
still on the increase. In the first two months of the present
year the value of eggs imported was i.'26I,894, against il92,597
of the preceding year. Last month the value was much as
i:ii7,822.

PAINTED CANARIES.

"Will you allow me to call public attention to an act of in-
justice ? In the report of Canaries at the Crystal PiJace Bird
Show, the following remarkable statement is made ; — " In the
two classes a couple of birds (Nos. 187 and 21G), caused quite a
sensation, owing to the very unnatural appearance they bore as
regards their colour. On this account the Judges declined to
entertain them as proper specimens for competition, which
opinion was backed generally by fanciers from various parts of
England after the Exhibition was opened to the public." This
statement conveys the impression that these Canaries were
coloured-up for the occasion, which, if correct, would brand the
exhibitor with the infamy of fraud aud dishonour. As I am the
owner and exhibitor, I wish to say in defence, that these bh'da
were moulted by myself, that there never has been dye, stain,
or colouring matter applied, and that the rich colour was the
result of my method of feeding. Iu order that the truth of my
statement may be tested, I shall he glad to forward the birds to
you or to any person whom you may appoint, aud I have the
fullest confidence that the above inuendo will be proved to be
both false and unwarrantable.

I was quite prepared for what has happened, for a fancier of

March 13, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTIGULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

235

this town (Derby), who has beau lately proved to be guilty of
these malpractices, publicly declared that he knaw a fortnight
before the Show that my birds would be passed over. How "he
knew " is not difficult to judge.

Has not the time arrived when fanciers should demand a
revision of the judges of bird shows ? The Cheltenham stain-
ing case, the matter I now call attention to, and several other
malpractices well known to me and to others, and which can
be substantiated by the clearest evidence, warrant the fullest
consideration of this subject. — E. Bemrose, Derby.

COCKATOO CBAVINa FOR ANIMAL FOOD.

I riND an Australian Rose-breasted Grey Cockatoo very craving
after meat, but all authorities seem to agree that meat must on
no account be giveu. Can yon explain how it is, that contrary
to the usual unerring instinct of animals, the bird desires what
is hurtful ? Is it possible that in Australia they eat insects, aud
if so, whether British caterpillars might not be acceptable ? —
G. S.

[On no account give the Rose-breasted Cockatoo meat, for it
is most injurious, as all Parrots and Cockatoos are strictly seed
and fruit eaters. The reason your bird has such a craving for
meat is that it has at some time been improperly fed. It is
highly necessary that all birds kept in confinement should be
dieted, and their food varied as much as possible. Feed your
))ird on hemp seed, a little sopped bread and milk, fruit, and
plenty of green food, and be sure to let it have free access to
f ome large, clean, dry grit, which you will find the bird will
enjoy, and which will help to do away with its great desire for
meat or bones. I do not at all think your bird would eat cater-
pillars, and I should most certainly advise you not to try it, but
to feed it on the food most conducive to its health. — W.]

Courage of the Game Cook. — Much might be said respect-
ing the prowess of the Game cock, his powers of endurance, or
his courage in defending his wives and family. Thus, a cock
bred in 1814 by J. H. Hunt, Esq., of Compton Pauncefoot,
Somerset, seeing a hen and her brood attacked by a fox, which
actually seized and was carrying off the hen, flew at the fox aud
killed it, of which occurrence a plate was published at the time.
Another cook is recorded to have killed a large mastiff ; and had
we space we could multiply such stories almost ad infinitum. —
[Wright's Illustrated Book of Poultry.)

Home-made Wines.— We are informed that at the request of
the Commissioners of the International Exhibition, our corre-
spondent, Mr. Robert Fenn, of Woodstock, so long associated
with the home manufacture of grape, gooseberry, and other gar-
den fruit wines, has sent to the International Exhibition, at
South Kensington, about thirty samples in bottle of the results
of his labours in wine-making for the past fifteen years.

THE HIVE CONTROVERSY.

Mr. Pettigrew, although he has refused to compete with the
fctraw skep against the bar-frame hive, has given no valid or
satisfactory reason for doing so, considering that he upholds the
former against every other hive extant. His proposals, made
some six weeks ago, were so impracticable, and so little likely to
settle any question at issue, as has been clearly shown by your
able correspondent, Mr J.. Lowe, page 191, that I regarded them
more as a "dig "at the bar-frame principle than as otherwise
■worthy of notice, although Mr. Pettigrew says they were " fair
and comprehensive." He wants a competition to include "five or
six kinds of hives," but in bee culture I maintain there are but
two kinds of hives extant — viz., those with fixed and those with
moveable combs ; and whatever may be the size, shape, make,
material, or system, all hives must be of one kind or the other,
as all advanced apiarians will agree ; and it is really between
these two principles that the competition must take place if a
competition be at all necessary.

What kind of trial Mr. Pettigrew intended, and what his idea
of the bar frame principle is, maybe gathered from his own words,
" I myself would exclude the owners from interfering with or go-
ing near their hives during the season of trial, for it is not a ques-
tion of good management ; " so that because Mr. Pettigrew's skeps
cannot be managed, all the advantages of the bar-frame moveable
comb principle must be thrown away. In my letter of February
6th I advanced the broad principle that all hives with moveable-
combs are superior to those with fixed combs, and I offered to
accept any conditions which Mr. Pettigrew or any other gentle-

enough, and I should have been governed in my choice of hives
for the respective trials entirely by the conditions which I
expected to have forced upon my acceptance. I entirely deny
that any merit is due to any class or variety of hive as a means
in itself of acquiring honey ; so that if the proposed competition
took place, it is probable that in the class for swarms results
would be pretty equal, as I offered to submit to Mr. Pettigrew's
own terms, leaving the bees entirely to themselves. A competi-
tion between the two classes of hives for multiplying stocks and
swarms and raising queens is one in which Mr. Pettigrew must
well know he has no chance, as the facilities given to all opera-
tions by the bar- frame principle with judicious management
would leave him nowhere. The trial of honey-getting in my hands
as against him would have further proved the value of manage-
ment, for with the aid of the honey-slinger I am confident I
could have at least double his quantity of honey, notwithstand-
ing all the supering, nadiring, or eking, or any other means short
of " clever trickery," which he may or may not understand or
adopt.

I maintain that, having taken bees out of a state of nature for
our own profit or diversion, management is everything ; aud if
as much time and trouble were taken to inculcate a better know-
ledge of the natural history and habits of bees, as is now worse
than wasted in useless squabbling about their domiciles, there
would be fewer failures in bee-keeping, and less to complain of
in regard to hives and their manufacturers and vendors. With
a better knowledge of bees, the various systems, so called, would
be better understood, and it would be impossible for anyone to
make such a mistake as to declare that honey stored in any par-
ticular form of hive is better than that in any other.

It is singular that Mr. Pettigrew should so confound hives,
systems, aud management. What is his or any other hive with-
out a system ? And what is a system but a system of manage-
ment? No system can be other than equivocal which does not
insist upon a knowledge of the habits of bees, for it is they that
are managed and not their hives, the latter being only the
means to that end.

The larger part of Mr. Pettigrew's last letter is taken up in an
endeavour to create an impression against me on account of a
reply I gave to a querist in the English Mechanic on October
11th, 1872, to whom I gave exactly the reply he has quoted, and
I maintain the opinion therein conveyed. Mr. Pettigrew in-
correctly says, " I went a long way out of my way to meet him,"
whereas the truth is the querist who signed himself " M. P.,"
after asking of me individually by name no less than nine ques-
tions, says, "I should like to know somebody's opinion of Mr.
Pettigrew's system," and I gave mine, as I consider I had a
perfect right to do. Mr. E. Symington in these columns, No-
vember 7th, 1872, page 374, and " A Lanarkshire Bee-keeper,"
on December 12th, page 433, declares there is nothing new in
the so-called system ; and the latter gentleman, so far back a^
December 28th, 1871, considers Mr. Pettigrew a bUnd leader of
the blind, and asks him for the sake of the readers of this
Journal, "and his own honour" to give "an account of his ex-
periences with the Ligurian bee." His book is for " the guidance
of inexperienced bee-keepers," yet he is wrong in some of the
most important facts in the natural history of the bee. The
late Mr. Woodbury proved him wrong in his data in queen-
raising, and the " Handy Book " contains letters of Mr. .Wood-
bury and Mr. Pettigrew, which proved the latter to have been
in ignorance of the law of impregnation of eggs. He devotes a
short chapter to fertile workers, but confesses he knows nothing
about them, and evidently does not believe in their existence.
He does not recommend the sulphur pit, but he considers its
use as not more cruel than it is to cut the throat of a sheep to
obtain the mutton, and after giving most elaborate directions
for its preparation and use, accumulates the horror of the thing
by directing that a kettle of boiling water should be poured on
the half-suffocated bees; and yet he boasts that his "Handy
Book " has saved the lives of more bees than all other works,
ancient and modern. What would the Rev. Charles Cotton,
the " prince of bee-masters," say to this ? — C. N. Abbott, Han-
loell, W.

SAVING A STARVING COLONY.

Last autumn I wrote to you for advice respecting a hive that
had the combs broken or melted down by the sun, all the stores
for the winter being wasted. Your advice was to feed liberally.

I began immediately to feed on the top with syruj), but the
bees could not be induced to take it down. I thought first that
the bees could not get at it through the perforated zinc, I there-
fore took the zinc away and thrust the neck of the bottle through
the hole, aud also filled some comb with the syrup, as one of
your correspondents recommended some time since, but with
the same result. Of course I gave up all hopes of saving the
bees through the winter. I thought I would try feeding with

men thought fair and right, but I showed plainly that I think very dry sugar, letting it go down amongst the bees, and I also poured
much more of the " management " of bees than I do of the hives down a Uttle syrup. This I have continued doing uutil now,
they are in, provided they have moveable combs and are large and am pleased to say that the bees are living, and, I think,

236

JOUKNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ ilarcli 13. 1873.

doing well, as on fine days they are very busy carrying in
pollen.

Do you think it possible to drive the bees into a "WoodbuTy
hive, as I do not like the appearance of the one they are in ?
Or -would it be better to -wait and see if they should throw off an
early swarm? I suppose they may be saved now if I continue
feeding, as I should much like to do so after taking so much
trouble. The bees had not an ounce of honey in the autumn, so
have survived the winter on dry sugar, with a little syrup occa-
sionally.— John G. Webber.

[We are glad that you have succeeded in saving your bees, as
you deserve success after taking so much care and trouble. You
had better continue your assistance for the present, as a few
weeks of ungenial weather might now prove fatal to the bees.
We have always condemned the use of dry sugar, as much of it
is necessarily wasted. Tou had better not attempt transferring
the bees and combs into a box, but wait for a swarm. Mo doubt
your constant feeding has promoted early and rather extensive
breeding, so that the bees will require a rather more liberal
supply of food than you have hitherto given if the spring be wet
and cold. We should recommend your now again trying the
bottle, being sure that your syrup is of the right quality, giving
a few ounces two or three times a- week. — Eds.]

black, or -with dan, -which prodnces the best blnck. Give any good old beans
not too large. Peas all Pigeons like, but they aie not so good for high-class
birds as old tares and beans, or even as Indian com.

GriNEA Pigs {A Subscriber). — Any dealer in birds, tS:c., in St. Martin's
Lane, London, W.

BucK-^vHEAT {X. X.).— It may he obtained from any comdealer, especially
in Siiflulk, where it is cultivated and known locally as " Brank."

METEOKOLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Square, London.

Lat. 51° 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0" 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

OUR LETTER BOX.

TtTMouHS IN Hens (J. Cur/is).— The disease you mention is by no means
nncommon with hens. We never saw it in pullets, but after they have passed
into hens and have done laying their first efigs, small spots of yellow cheesy
matter may be found between the skin and the flesh. These frequently
increase in bulk and become hard. The older fowls are. the more liable they
are to this disease. The only cure is to remove the tmnouis when they liist
begin to incroise in size. We take them to be indications of age, like certain
appearances in some human subjects known to, but not admitted, by peyple
between sixty and seventy years old.

Hen with Ducklings (Novice).— The best place in which to put a hen
with ducklings is an old pigstye, it generally affords space, and slush between
the stones of the flooring. It prevents the ducklings from being draggled to
death, and saves the ben the misery of seeing her brood in dan^'cr (as she
thinks), of a watery grave. They should not be taken from the hen till they
are seven or eight weeks old. Oatmeal put in a shallow vessel of water with a
little grass, and sometimes a few long small strips of horse flesh, are very
good food at fii&t. They may afterwards have whole com. It is too eaiiy to
condemn for colour of bills or feet.

Cock Hen-pecked (L. C.).— Birds like to be pecked, and will stand for hours
not only while feathers are pulled out, but while their flesh is eaten. It is a
levered, dissatisfied, and diseased state of body that causes the picking in the
first instance. It is a craving for some food or medicine to which the feather
bears resemblance. Discontinue the potatoes, they induce excessive internal
fat, but they give neithsir bone nor sinew. They do not, as a rule, require
beer at this season of the year. Feed on slaked bai-leymeal or gi-ound oats
morning and evening. Give Indian corn or scraps at mid-day. Tou must re-
move the cock from the hen during the day. Let him run for an hour daily
with the hens, and then take him away. Bub the bai-e pai-t with compound
snlphur ointment.

Old Hens and Young Ones (A Constant Subscriber). — Both can be
marked by wire put round the leg on pieces of list fastened on with needle and
thread. Holes may be made in the web of the wing with a red-hot iron, marks
or notches on the beak ; with many others. By youi- poulterer, do you mean a
man who sells poulti^, or one who looks after yours ? In either case you have
not fallen on a cordon bleu. We advise you to ti-y again. "Better luck nest
time." Nothing is easier than to tell a pullet from a hen; hut nothing is
more difficnlt than to class correctly a forward pullet, a young hen, or a
fattened old one. Could they be asked, the last two would admit they were
of a " certain age; " but they might defy any one to say what it was.

BANTA3I Cock Crooked-breasted (Amateur). —Such a cock as you de-
scribe would have no chance if properly judged. We prefer the httle that is
left of the deaf ear to be red. The wheaten hen is much lighter-breasted
than the others, and is generally used when the birds are getting daik and
cloudy.

Sea-sand for Fowls fPoa;).— The saud from the sea-shore will not hurt
your poultry. Salt is good for thorn. Aylesbury Ducks will lose the delicacy
of their bills if they have access to sea water. We have heai-d of people who
hired cocks for a run, but we know no one who lets them.

Colour of Houdan's Eggs (O. B.).— The Houdan's eggs should be quite
white. We should not expect to hatch pure Houdans from eggs coloured like
Guinea Fowls.

Cock's Costb Slightly Injured (T. S.).—The accident to the comb of
your Partridge cock would not disqualify him ; but if shown against a perfect
bird he would lose the prize. A crooked-combed Cochin hen has no right to
take a prize ; but the defect is not of necessity hereditary.

Brahjia Cocivs Spurs too Long (J.).— You run no risk in cutting the
spurs of the cock, provided you do not reach the quick, which is only at the
base of the spin-. The best thing to cut them with is a saw made from the
main spring of a watch. As it causes no pain, you can cut piece by piece in
perfect safety, as long as you find you have only bone to encounter.

Pigeons Diseased {Alpha and H. C.).— Both yoor Pigeons are suffering
from the effects of damp and cold, neither can it be wondered at considering
the variableness of the weather. It should be borne in mind that Pigeons
can beai- any amount of heat. In ceiled warm houses, giving tUem at the
Bame time plenty of room, th?y are sure to prosper. In damp or draughty
places they never do well. Give hempseed with their food for a time, and
good old beans.

Points in Loxo-faced Antwerps {H. C). — Ist, Beak like a Dove's; 2nd,
eye bolting ; 3rd, forehead raised ; 4th, shape compact. Colour not a par-
ticular point.

Carrier Pigeons (T. A. W.).— Wattle, &c., not fully developed until four
years old. Flights and tail as good a black as you can get. Mate black with

Date.

A.M.

In t

SB Day.
Radiation

187S.

iS.S

OrJ

~

Shade Tem-

.a

R^'^v;

ter.

•Sfl

n.'^^

perature.

Temperature

9?-at-

£^

So^

M

giS^

Dry.

Wet.

B-o

t;*

Mai.l Min.

In
Bun,

On
grasB

Inches.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

W . 6

46.1

44,6

N.

43.2

62 2

42.9

63.2

40.0

0.1)10

Th. G

SU.US4

41.2

S8.4

N.

42.7

47.2

34.6

683

32.5

0.U5

Fri. 7

23.332

45.9

44.7

S.E.

42 2

;.o.4

40.1

75.0

39.2

sal. S

ia.B??

42.3

39.8

W.

41.4

51.8

34.2

94.8

31.3

O.OSS

iiun. 9

•211.780

46.3

43.9

S.

41.6

,10.8

41.1

80.2

S7.6

0243

Mu. 10

41.2

88.5

s.

42.3

46 7

S6.6

86.5

38.3

0.04O

Tu. 11

S7.5

36.7

s.w.

41.2

48 9

32.3

bO.l

30.2

0.019

Means

29.617

42.9

40.9

42.1

49.7

37.i

79.2

34.9

0.45S

REMAKK3.
5th. — Dull morning, fine at noon, occasional rain after; hut a beautiful

moonht night.
6th. — Bather duU in the morning, very dark between 10.30 and 11 a.m., but

fine and quite bright soon after, and so continued all day.
7th. — Kainy morning, fair fi'om noon, and a beautiful night.
8th. — Fair in the morning, with white frost; tine all the forenoon, soft hail
balls at 1.30 p.m., lasting (as usual] only a few minutes ; the re-
mainder of the day fine.
9th. — Bain in the morning, fine in the middle of the day ; rain about 4 and

again at 8.30, and hail, with heavy rain for a short time about 11 p.m.
10th. — Kain in the morning, cold and dull all the day, except a few gleams of

sunshine.
11th. — Showery and windy, but at times very bright sunshine ; the coldest
day this week.
A vei-y seasonable week. Probably the most noticeable feature is the re-
correuce of a fall of soft hail balls on March 8th. I have noticed a similar
fall on that or the next day almost every year for ten or fifteen years past. —
G. J. Symons.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET. -Mauch 12.
No new features in the market to report upon. A slight advance has taken
place in first-class produce from the open ground, but no general improve-
ment in prices. Hardy produce is, however, in general request, and the
stands emi)tied on the market days. Large consignments of new Potatoes are
offered fiom Malta and the West Indies. Hothouse Grapes and Sirawbeniea
are good, and sufficient for the trade.

Apples J oieve 3

Apricots doz. 0

Cherries perlb. 0 0

Chestnuts bushel 12 0

Currants j sieve

Black do.

d. B. d.

0to5 0

0 0 U

0 0

20

0

Figs doz. 0

Fiioerts lb. 0

Cubs lb. 2

Gooseberries quart 0

Grapes, hothouse lb. G

Lemons ^100 6

Melons each 0

B. d. s. d

Mulberries ^Ib. 0 OtoO 0

Nectarmt-s doz. 0 0 0 0

Oranges ^ iOO 4 0 10 0

Peaches doz. 0 0 0 0

Pears, kitchen doz. 10 8 0

Ueasert, doz, 8 0 12 0

PineApples lb. 6 0 10 0

Plums j sieve 0 0 0 0

Quinces doz. 0 0 0 0

Kaspberries lb. 0 0 0 0

Strawberries %^oz. 10 2 0

Walnuts bushel 15 0 BO 0

ditto ^100 2 0 2 6

VEGETABLES.

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus ^ LOO

French

Beans. Kidney ^100

Beet, Red doz.

Broccoli bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums ^ 100

CaiTuts bunch

Cauliflower doz.

Celery bundle

Coieworts.. doz. buu(.hea
Cucumb era each

pickimg doz .

Endive doz.

Fennel bunch

Garlic lb.

Herbs bunch

Horseradish bundle

Leeks bunch

Lettuce doz

e. d. 8. d.

8 0to6 0
0

Mushrooms pottle

Mustard &. Cress.. punnet

Onions ^ buahel

pickling quart

Parsley per doz. bunches

Pursmpa doz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Hound do.

Radishes., doz. bunches

Rbubarb bundle

Salaafy V' bundle

Savuya doz.

Scorzonera.... ^bundle

Sea-kale basket

Shallots lb.

Spinach bushel

Tomatoes doz.

Turnips bunch

Vegetable MarrowB

s. d. t

0 Oto
0

1 0

0 8

1 0
0

POULTRY MARKET.— March 12.
Our supply is still very small, and the tendency of prices is upwards.
8. d. s. d.

Largo Fowls 4 G to 5 0

Sniallerditto 3 6 4 0

Chickens 3 0 8 0

Guslinga 7 0 8 0

Guinea Fowls 3 0 8 fi

i Luckliugs 8 6 4 0

B. d. s. d.

Pheasants 0 OtoO 0

Partridges 0 0 0 0

Hares 0 0 0 0

Rabbits 1 5 1 6

Wild ditto 0 9 0 10

Pigeons 0 10 10

March 20, 1873. ]

JOUENAL OF HOBTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE.

237

WEEKLY

CALENDAR.

Day Day

Average Tempera- Rain in

Son

Son

Moon

Moon

Moon's

Clock

before

Sun.

Day

of

Year.

Month Week.

MAECH 20—36, 1873.

turc near London. 41} years.

Rises.

Sets.

Rises,

Sets,

Age.

Day.

Night.

Mean,

Days.

m. h.

m. h.

m, h.

m. h.

Days.

m. 8.

-20

Th

.11.1

33.8

42.5

17

4 at 6

11 a(6

mom.

28 8

21

7 32

79

21

F

60.7

32.5

41.6

19

2 6

13 6

48 1

4 9

<

7 13

80

22

S

50.4

B4.S

42.3

20

0 6

14 6

57 2

66 9

23

6 55

81

23

SCN

4 Sunday rN Lent.

60.7

33.1

41.9

18

57 5

16 6

56 3

5 11

24

6 37

S2

■24

M

Meeting' of Royal Geographical Society,

48.7

31.7

40.2

16

55 5

18 6

40 4

after.

25

6 18

83

25

To

Ladv Day. f 8.80 p.m.

50,9

32.8

41.9

16

S3 5

19 6

12 5

67 1

26

6

26

W

Itoyal Botanic Society's First Sprint,' Show.

51.8

32.6

42.2

16

60 5

21 6

35 6

28 S

27

5

85

From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperature of the ■week is 50.6» ; and its night temperature

88.0'. The greatest heat was 69', on the 20th, 1836 ; and the lowest cold W, on the 25th, 1850. The greatest JaU of ram was 1.11 inch.

i

HEATING— FUEL,— No. 1.

WING to the present high price of coals it is
probable that many persons ■will be pre-
vented from indulging in forced flowers,
fi'uits, and vegetables to the extent they
have been accustomed ; ■whilst as all ma-
terials of construction are greatly enhanced
in cost, serious ob.stacles ■wiU be placed in
the path of those contemplating the erection
of horticultural structures. The prices of
bricks, stone, mortar, glass, and -wood are
Mgher, but then- cost has advanced far less in proportion
than that of labour, ■which, except in the case of the
-gardener, has been variously increased by 10, 20, or '25
per cent. Iron has attained such a price as to cause those
favouring it for the construction of horticultural erections
to think twice before they give an order, and the cost of
iron pipes for heating by hot ■water must, I am afraid,
■deter many from adopting them as a mode of heating.

Apart from the first cost of providing for heating a
house or range of houses by hot ■water, as compared with
that of heating by hot air, the increased price of fuel
leads to the consideration not of which is the best mode
■of heating, but which, affording under judicious manage-
ment satisfactory results, is the most economical. The
cost of heating by hot water has not, so far as I am
aware, been considered from an economical point of
■view, its superiority in this respect having been estabhshed
over heating by hot air or flues. The apparent difference
as regards the effects on vegetation between heat radiated
from brick, stone, or the hke, and that from hot-water
pipes, results not so much from the radiating material as
from the mode of applying the heat. The difference
between a hot-water pipe and a flue is just this — by
the former the heat is given off, or the air of the house
warmed, by pipes uniform in temperatm-e, or very nearly
60, througliout their extent ; whilst by the flue the heat
is radiated at a temperatm-e considerably higher where
the flue enters than it is after the flue has passed along
half the length of the house, to say nothing of its exit.
Another evU of heating by hot au' is that the products of
combustion are carried along with the heated air, and
find their way through the cracks of the materials, and,
as everybody knows, are not beneficial to vegetation ; but
there is no such objection to heating by hot water. It
cannot be said of hot aii- that it is so desirable for heating
greenhouses and hothouses as hot water — in fact, my
experience of flues prompts no word in their favour.

I should be unwilling to say that hot air is more econo-
mical than hot water were that proven, and to my mind
it is not. It is more costly to have a boiler, iron pipes,
&c., for heating by hot water than to have a furnace and
flue for heating by hot air. The first cost is gi-eater —
double or treble, but there is no sa^ving of fuel. In heating
by a flue the brickwork of the furnace absorbs and retains
a gi-eat amount of heat. This is radiated fi'om the ex-
terior of the furnace setting, and is lost to the house ;
only when the heat of the fire is less than the heat of the
Ma. 62S.-VOU XXIV., New Series.

furnace surroundings can the house derive any benefit
from the heat absorbed at tlie furnace. This being the
case with a furnace for affording heat to a house, it may
be singular that a corresponding waste of heat does not
result in the case of a furnace for heating by hot water.

As regards the majority of furnaces for boiler heating,
there is not much more to be said in their favour than in
that of the furnaces constructed for heating by flues.
The sides of the furnace are brickwork, and are heated
to a temperature of 1141" (the heat of a common fire,
according to Daniell), while the heat on the fuel over a
fire of this kind (the fuel not burned through) is not suffi-
cient to melt lead (59-4°). Thus we have in the furnace a
heat that would melt lead, zinc (700-), antimony (810'),
and we only act on the boiler ■with a temperature of little
more than haK that of the bricks. In this case we lose
half the heat of the fire when the fuel is not burned ; but
when the whole of the fuel is brought to a red heat we
act directly on the boiler with a temperature of consider-
ably over 1000% and yet we lose the heat at the sides of
the furnace ; and the end of the furnace opposite the door
being of brick that is made red hot. The heat may then
pass through the boiler, surrounded by water, and not
unfrequently it passes along the sides, heating quite as
much brickwork as iron of holding water. In some cases,
too, it passes over the top of the boiler heating the top of
the flue very much more — though there we do not want
the heat — than the bottom, where we have water which
we wish to be heated. We expend in fact one-half, and
in some cases more than half, tlie heat of the fuel in the
furnace without deriving any corresponding benefit.

In my opinion the heating powers of a boiler or boilers
are wholly dependant on the surface the boilers expose to
the action of the fire ; direct, the exposure is the most
important, but the indirect is not insignificant. What
must be the waste of fuel when half of its heat is expended
on surrounding surfaces, and half of that heat passing
over the sm-face of the boiler escaping by the chimney ?
I know that some contend, or have done, that the side
heat of a furnace is of no use for heating a boiler, that
hollow grate bars are an evil. Professing no knowledge
of the theory of heat beyond what has been verified by
my own experience, I confess to being at a loss to explain
why any material in contact, whether below or at the
side of a red-hot fm'nace fire should not be heated. I
know that the sides of a boiler furnace are made red hot,
and the grate bars are burned through. No better illus-
tration can be given of the value of the side heat of a
furnace for heating than having a boiler fixed behind and
at the side of an ordinai^y house fire. With properly
fixed hot-water pipes it will heat a room equal in extent
to that in which the fire is situated. Thus we secure
double the heat from the same fuel. There is no loss of
heat to the room, but a clear saving of heat cent, per
cent.

Again, let us have a boiler fixed on the fire ; it shall be
so set that the fire can act on its lower and front surface,
but not on the back, the heat being made to pass in
front to the chimney, and from this again we get hot

No. 1177.— Vol. XLIX., Old SERiaa.

238

JOCRNAL OF HOETICDLTURE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEK.

t JIaa-ch 20, 187S.

■water to heat a room equal in size to the one the fire is situated
in and to the same temperature. Thus we save another cent,
per cent, of heat, and experience no diminution of tempera-
ture in the room. We cause the heat to be expended at the
fire, instead of its being absorbed by surrounding surfaces, or
expended by radiation and passing up the chimney. Absorb
the heat in hot water in this way, and the heat passing up
the chimney will be found extremely small.

Whilst aUuding to house fires I must remark on the great
attendant waste of coals. Nothing is so wasteful as an open
fire grate. It is absorption of the heat of the fire on three
sides, radiation on the other three, and the only one of benefit
to the room is the front, which suffers continual diminution or
loss from the cold air entering by the door, or the draught of
air caused by the heated air ascending by the chimney, and the
consequent passage of cold air to supply its place. AVe have
a fire ostensibly to warm a room, and its warmth during the
continuance of the fire, and afterwards until the chimney is
cooled, is being sucked out of it. This may be all very well if
the object be to cause a circulation of air to displace a foul
atmosphere by fresh, but as respects heating economically it
is absurd. It would be far more economical and very much
more effective to have a stove, the atmosphere of the room
being warmed by the radiation of the heat from every part of
the stove, not fixing the stove in a wall recess, but detached
from waUs, and with a flue to carry-off the smoke, etc., result-
ing from the combustion of the fuel. The atmosphere, it must
be admitted, would suffer considerable loss of temperature from
the fire taking in the quantity of air required for the combus-
tion of the materials used as fuel, and the ingress of cold air^
into the room to supply the equilibrium of the air of the
room. This stove-heating would give in a room a temperature
equal to that secured by an ordinary fire grate consuming four
times as much fuel. What the loss of heat by the fire draw-
ing its supply of air from the apartment may be is not readily
ascertainable, but that a varying and considerable loss is in
that way effected must be patent to those paying careful at-
tention to the subject. The difference could readily be tested
by feeding the fire with air through a pipe or tube with one
end immediately under the fire and the other communicating
with the external air, the stove being sealed in the room as
far as that could be effected by close-fitting doors where the
fuel is admitted. By a damper the air admitted as well as that
escaping could be regulated at will. This, I make no question,
would secure considerable increase of heat to the room.

Anything better calculated than our fire grates, with their
wide-open chimnies, to waste fuel could not well be conceived.
Nothing can be said in their favour except that they secure
a change of atmosphere ; but could not this be effected by a
direct supply of fresh air from the external atmosphere, at the
same time allowing the vitiated atmosphere of the room to
pass off? I believe a contrivance has been patented for supply-
ing ordinary house fires with air dkect from the atmosphere
by means of flues at the back, sides, or under the fire, which
causes the heat to be directed into the room, the vitiated atmo-
sphere being carried off by a funnel. This is said to effect a
saving of three-fourths of the fuel, and I fully believe it. How
unfortunate it is that inventions of this kind should be fettered
by patents ! The invention may be seen in operation at the
office of Mr. Peachy, architect, Northgate, Darlington. Men-
tioning Darlington reminds me that one of the family of Pease
has offered to bear the expense attendant on the formation of
a gardeners' institute in that town. Is this to be the com-
mencement of what I have said more than once in these pages
• — viz., we shall have institutions in all our large towns for the
mental improvement of gardeners on the principles of me-
chanics' mstitutcs ? I am persuaded we shall, and I view this
commencement with much satisfaction.

Other means have been proposed with a view to economise
coal in house fires ; among them is noticeable a grate which may
be placed in another grate so as to reduce the size of the fire space.
It is the invention of Jlr. Walker, of York, and is to be had
of most ironmongers at a cheap rate. It is said to effect a
considerable saving of coal. Another project is the mixing of
small coal with an equal amount of clay, the latter brouglit to
the consistency of puddle and then thoroughly mixed with the
small coal, forming a sort of mortar-like substance ; but there
is this disadvantage — namely, the fire must be made of coal
in the usual way, and the " cats," as they are called, after-
wards added, surrounding them with coal. The " eats " are
madejup into balls by hand.

I mention these methods as indications of a desire on the

part of those interested to adopt any simple means of keeping
down the coal bill. Nothing destroys prejudice so quickly as
permitting the pocket to be affected ; but so long as the heat
afforded by coal is allowed to make its escape after being gene-
rated there cannot be, in my opinion, any great saving of fuel.
We must remodel our fire grates, and, whilst retaining the
heat, allow the products of combustion to escape without
taking along with them more than a small amount of the heat,
instead of the half or more passing away by the chimney. It
may be vain to expect any great saving by the conversion of
coal into coke, the abstraction from it of the gas, and using
the latter as well as the coke for heating purposes. I am
sanguine, however, that it would be a considerable saving, and
I should be glad if any of your correspondents would teU us
the heating properties of gas, say how many feet of cubic air
could be warmed to a given temperature by burning a thousand
feet of gas, the cost of making or value per thousand feet, also
the quantity of gas to be had from a ton of coal, and the
weight of coke that would remain after the abstraction of the
gas, with the cost for labour.

I shall conclude this paper hy observing that my remarks
are intended as suggestions, and that information and criticism^
are desh'ed, for we shall some day have an almost smokeless
cheap fuel, and so much of its heat as is present will be pre-
vented escaping by the chimney. — G. Abbey.

ORCHARD-HOUSE NOTES.

The present season being a late one had the effect of bring-
ing out the perfect bloom in our orchard houses only on the
l'2th of this month. I generally reckon this point of perfect
bloom to be when the leaves begin to accompany the blos-
soms, and are about an inch long. At that time the houses
look at their best. The greatest living poet had talked of
coming to see them, but really the sight, though pretty enough,,
is not of itself enough to warrant such an honour. The train-
ing of the cordons is effective no doubt, but after much expe-
rience of visitors I have ceased to look at an orchard house in
bloom as the very best time to see it. I think, though, that
the lovely white blossoms I saw at Chiswick and at Sawbridge-
worth (of which one expected to hear more) were a great gain
in point of effect.

Possibly at this advanced stage of knowledge it may he
superfluous to hint to possessors of orchard houses that it is
essential to the setting of the bloom to shake, or rather strike,
the various parts of the trees smartly with a pole. By neglect-
ing this we certainly had less bloom set last season.

I have never painted my Peach trees till this winter, when,,
finding traces of scale on a few, I coated the stems and branches
with ordinary oil paint, and fiUed-in the hollows with thicker
paint. This, if of a greenish hue, is 'n?onspicuous, and very-
easy to apply. The brush slides over \hi branches easily, and
the trees look well now, and are very healthy. After all, what
is there objectionable in paint more than in the slimy com-
positions too dear to gardeners ? Does paint clog the pores
more ? The oil nourishes if anything, and the paint is easily
put on, nor does it come off on the clothes of passers-by. Most
remedies act mechanically by glueiug-in insects' eggs. If of
stronger composition they injure the foliage and bloom. I
have also appUed pauit to my Vines, just missing the buds, and
all appears prosperous.

I have little faith in any remedy for red spider, except
vigorous and constant syringing. Sulphur for mildew in Vines
seems also at times curiously ineffective. Several seasons ago
mildew appeared in a vinery 80 feet long, and there only ;
soon the leaves were whitened, and the very wood stained.
We tried sulphur in various ways, but could not conquer it-
Then next season we tried wiping with soft wet cloths dipped
in sulphur. This did better, and finally, the next season, we
found dry cloths passed round each berry — say fortnightly —
completely cured the disease. It vanished from the house ;
every leaf and berry became healthy, and the crop was sold for
Covent Garden with only the bloom gone from it, being of the
usual size, and well coloured. Even this wiping was not very
long to perform ; and as to bloom, well, these /Jrapes being
not for our own use, who looks for bloom in dealers' Grapes
in September? Last season I was surprised to see a few ber-
ries beginning to mildew in this house, as it had been other-
wise in perfect health, but we soon cut them away. These
isolated cases appeared only in a passage glazed between two
doors always open in summer, and in a great draught, and
nowhere else, except in three very small vineries subject to

March 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

239

great alternations of heat and cold ; in other words, hot and
4raughty.

Although the disease in question appears also in vineyards,
still there may be some similar reason even there why Grapes
should be affected by the change from a very burning day to
a night of cold evaporating rain, else why in four instances
■where there were cold draughts, and iu these only out of
some ten houses, should the mildew show itself? In the
Potato disease, which is akin to this one, sudden atmospherical
changes are highly predisposing to blight. Vie must, however,
confess to our ignorance, as yet, as to the true causes of mil-
dew, il-c, though we seem to be on the right track.

During the period of the blooming of the orchard-house trees
here many days were unfavourable, from violent winds accom-
panied by cold sleet and rain. It was certainly a triumph of
iorticultural skill to be able to witness the trees in full beauty
under a downfall of deadly sleet on the glass, so calm and
sheltered, and to know they were safe. In the open air
nothing could have saved the crop, except the glazed copings
now in fashion, and which I admire greatly when combined
with good front defences. I prefer orchard houses, of course,
and where very stormy winds prevail, I should do so espe-
cially. The other evening a furious squall of wind and sleet
broke over us. Fearing lest the servants should have for-
gotten to secure some portion of the many ropes and weights
of the houses, I took a light and wandered all over them, exa-
mining them thoroughly (the more so, as there is access from
the sitting-room to several hundred feet of glass), and whilst
the frantic storm raged without, bending every rafter, and the
panes were thick with melting snow, it was a picture of true
beauty to see each pink blossom nestling near its friendly group
•of leaves, illumined by the Ught I carried, which waved and
flickered in the draught. Though I have a famUiar experience
of storms such as are unknown to inland dwellers, there is still
to me an ever-new source of admiration in the perfect security
of the trees, and of their two-thousand yearly produce, which
has never as yet these many years been diminished. — T. C.
BBfiHioi, liichmond House, Guernsey.

EOYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S SHOW

AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS.

Maech 19th and 20th.

The Show of Hyacinths and other spring flowers opened on
Wednesday, and wiU be continued to-day. We remarked on
the last occasion, but a fortnight ago, that horticulturists
seemed to be thoroughly determined to support the Society, and
that remark holds good of the present Exhibition as it did of
that which is past. Marvellous, indeed, are the Hyacinths
shown ; when such men as Messrs. Veitch " go in " to win they
do so with a will, and, what is more, with a skill that must
carry them to the front. Nor need the defeated repine at their
fate ; there is not a discreditable collection in the Show.
Fourth prizes in some cases were awarded ; they were well
earned — better earned than many first ijrizes in former years.
This more ijarticularly applies to the amateurs' classes, for the
-names of Paul and Cutbush have always maintained their own
most honourably, and with varying success in those which be-
longed to them. A very great improvement is manifest in the
amateurs' classes for Hyacinths, tlie first and even second-prize
■collections being of such excellence as would do great credit
even to the largest growers. The same remark apphes to the
TuUps, which, it is true, are comparatively few, but still what
there are, are very good. Of miscellaneous subjects there is as
usual an ample and attractive display.

Class 1 was for fifty distinct Hyacinths, nurserymen only.
"There are two exhibitors — viz., Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, and
Messrs. Cutbush, of Highgate. Messrs. Veitch are first with, pro-
bably, the rnost magnificent collection ever exhibited, the spikes
heing of the most massive description, and the bells large and
beautifully coloured. The varieties are : — Single Bed — Howard,
L'Ornemeut de la Nature, Gigantea, very fine blush ; Scarlet
Light, Vuurbaak, splendid ; Princess Alexandra, very large and
foeautitul in colour ; Princess Clothilde, Emmeline, blush ; Ma-
caulay. Princess Charlotte, Beauty of Waltham, bright rose
with a white eye ; Prince Albert Victor, a splendid deep crim-
son ; Fabiola, Cavaignac, Lina, large and extremely brilUant ;
Garibaldi, Victor Emanuel, Koh-i-Noor, and Von Schiller.
Single Blue — Grand Lilas, Czar Peter, very large; Charles
Dickens, Admiral de Ruyter, with immense spike and bells ;
Orondates, De Candolle, King of the Blues, Lord Palmerston,
Marie, very fine ; Lord Byron, Blondin, Sir John Lawrence,
Prince Albert, General Havelock, and Lothair. Single Lilac or
Mauae — Sir Henry Havelock, Charles Dickens, and Haydn.
Single lK/u7e— Paix de I'Earope, Miss Nightingale, Alba Max-

ima, Grandeur a MerveiUe.L'Iuuocence, Snowball, La Grandesse,
Queen of the Netherlands, and Baroness Van Tuyll. Single
Yfliow — Ida and Bu-d of Paradise. Double Red. — Princess
Louise. Double Blue — Van Speyk. Messrs. Cutbush's second-
prize lot contains fine examples of Gigantea, Milton, Grand
Lilas, King of the Blues, Mimosa, Queen of the Netherlands,
and many of the kinds already named, though not equal in size
and symmetry of spike to the first-prize collection.

In the nurserymen's class for eighteen Hyacinths, Messrs.
Veitch and Messrs. Cutbush again occupy the same relative
positions, Messrs. Veitch being first with a marvellously fine
collection, containing the largest spikes both for length and
breadth we have ever seen, and absolutely perfect. They are,
too, very even in size throughout, notwithstanding that the
collection includes several varieties not usually attaining the
largest size. The kinds are : — General Havelock, King of the
Blues, Feruck Khan, Grand Monarque, Blondin, Prince /Ubert
Victor, Fabiola, La Grandesse, Macaulay, Argus, Koh-i-Noor,
De Candolle, Gigantea, Haydn, Garibaldi, Grandeur a Merveille,
Ida, aud Gigantea. Messrs. Cutbush's are also of high excel-
lence. In it are remarkably fine examples of De Candolle,
Howard, La Grandesse, Prince Albert, Macaulay, Haydn, Graurl
Lilas, aud others. Messrs. Carter, Dunnett, & Beale, Crystal
Palace Nursery, Forest Hill, are third with a very good lot.

In the amateurs' class 3, for twelve, Mr. G. Withall, gardener
to A. Travers, Esq., 28a, Addison Road, Kensington, is first with
large and extremely fine spikes ; Koh-i-Noor, Vuurbaak, Ca-
vaignac, Gigantea, Grandeur a Merveille, King of the Blues,
and La Grandesse being fespecially noteworthy. Mr. Douglas,
gardener to F. Whitbourn, Esq., Loxford Hall, Ilford, is second
with a collection of high quahty; Macaulay, Lord Derby, Leo-
nidas, aud Gigantea being specially noticeable for size and
quality. Mr. Weir, gardener to Mrs. Hodgson, The Elms, Hamp-
stead, is tlih-d with a very good twelve. In the class for six,
the Rev. H. H. Dombrain, Westwell Vicarage, Ashford, Kent, is
first with large and exceedingly well-grown spikes; Mrs. E.
Wilding, 1, Chesterfield Street, Eustou Eoad, being second;
Mr. E. Bowe, gardener to Mrs. Lewis, The Rookery, Roehamp-
ton, third ; and Mr. George, gardener to Miss Nicholson, Putney
Heath, fourth.

The next, Class 5, is for amateurs who have not previously
tak»n the Society's prize for Hyacinths. Here Mr. G. Withal],
gardener to A. Travers, Esq., is first with superb examples of
Fabiola, Lothair, Macaulay, Feruck Khan, Mont Blanc, and
Koh-i-Noor. Mr. Farrow, gardener to G. Batters, Esq., Briga-
dier Hill House, Enfield, is second, Mrs. E. Wilding third, and
Mr. D. Pizzey, gardener to Sir E. Perry, Fulmer, Slough,
fourth, each having very good specimens.

The next class was for six new kinds never before exhibited.
Messrs. Veitch were awarded the first prize, the half-dozen
consisting of S.almon King, with a broad compact spike, salmon,
with a deeper-coloured stripe in the centre of each segment;
Lady Tuyll, silvery rose with a bright pink stripe, fine spike;
Lord Cairns, a pecuUar-coloured blush, suffused with rose ;
Princess Beatrice, and Mary, pure white, with excellent spikes,
the bells closely set and with broad segments ; and Massini,
one of the single blue class, with immense spike and bells,
pale porcelain blue — this received a first-class certificate. Mr.
Douglas, Loxford Hall Gardens, took the second prize. In his
collection Hector is a splendid intense crimson, and if the spike
prove larger and more compact after cultivation it wUl be an
acquisition. Sybil, a new single red, has large bells with broad
segments, blush deepening to rose in the centre of the seg-
ments, and it promises to have a large spike.

Tulips are not numerously shown, but the quality is very
good. Messrs. Veitch are the only exhibitors in the nursery-
men's class, and take a first prize with Proserpine, White Potte-
bakker, Vermilion Brillant, Canary Bird, Rose Luisante, aud
Keizer Kroon, bloomed to perfection. In the amateurs' class
the prizes go to Mr. Weir, Mr. Rowe, and Mr. Withall, in the
order in which their names are given. The varieties exhibited
are for the most part the same as those shown by Messrs.
Veitch.

Of Crocuses there is only one collection — that from Messrs.
Veitch, which takes a well-merited first prize, being admirably
bloomed. It includes of white kinds Theba, Mont Blanc, and
Caroline Chisholm; of lilac, blue, aud striped, Othello, Sir
Walter Scott, Prince Regent, and Albion.

The only exhibitors for Mrs. Lloyd Wynne's prizes for Nar-
cissus, and Messrs. Barr & Sugden's special prizes for the same
flower, were Miss Florence Barr aud Mr. Rudolph Barr, Lower
Tooting, and Mr. Ware, Tottenham.

The first prize for six pots of Mignonette was awarded to Mr.
R. Laing, gardener to C. Flower, Esq., Tooting Common, for
large specimens trained in the pyramidal form, and pretty weU
flowered. Mr. J. Goddard, gardener to A. Chancellor, Esq., The
Retreat, Richmond, is second. For three standards Mr. Laing,
the only exhibitor, was awarded the first prize for well-growu
pLants.

In Class 16, twelve Golden Tricolor Pelargoniums, distinct,

2-10

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ MaicU 20, 187S.

nnrserymen, Mr. Pestiidge, Greenway Nursery, Uxbridge, is
first with neat moderately-sized specimens, of ivhich Mrs.
Turner, Mrs. Headly, Salamander, Lady Cullum, and Peter
Grieve are -well coloured. Mr. H. B. Smith, EaUug Dean Nur-
sery, Ealing, is second. Achievement in ting collection is very
highly coloured.

In the next class, for six Golden Tricolors, amateurs, Mr. G.
Goddard, gardener to H. Little, Esq., Twickenham, is first, and
deservedly so. Ealing Rival, Mrs. Turner, and Mr. Rutter are
very rich and beautiful. The second prize ivent to Mr. E.
Watson, gardener to T. H. Bryant, Esq., Airlie Lodge, Surbiton
Hill.

For six Silver Tricolor Pelargoniums Mr. T. Pestridge is again
first "with neat specimens, but March is too early to see this
section in good colour. Lass o' Gowrie and Mrs. Eousby, how-
ever, are very pretty. Mr. H. B. Smith again came in second.
In the amateurs' class Mr. E. Watson is first, and Mr. G. God-
dard second.

For Apples, both dessert and kitchen,' separate classes were
apportioned. Of the former the best three dishes come from
Mr. F. Eutland, gardener to the Duke of Eichmond, Goodwood
Park, who has excellent samples of Adams' Pearmain, Nonpareil
Eusset, and Cockle Pippin. Mr. S. E. Ford, gardener to W. E.
Hubbard, Esq., Leonardslee, Horsham, is second with Court-
pendu-Plat, beautifully coloured. Cockle Pippin, and London
Pippin. For kitchen kinds the same two exhibitors occupy the
same relative positions in the prize list, Mr. Eutland having
Blenheim Pippin, splendid, Lincolnshire Eeinette, and Royal
Eusset. Mr. Ford is second ; and Mr. Gardiner, Lower Eating-
ton Park Gardens, sends, among others, large ajid well-preserved
fruit of Hanwell Souring.

For three heads of Broccoli Mr. Perkins, Regent Street, Leam-
ington, is first with Leamington EroccoU, with very close and
white heads. Mr. Farrow, gardener to G. Batters, Esq., Enfield,
took the second prize.

Of exhibitions in the miscellaneous class foremost must be
mentioned the magnificent gi-oup of Hyacinths (about one hun-
dred), Tulips, and Narcissus from Messrs. Veitch. Of these it is
impossible to speak too highly. Had they been in competition
in classes with plants of their kind, there would have been a
first prize for each of the three subjects. Being, however, ex-
hibited as a group, all that could be done was to give them an
extra prize. Messrs. Standish it Co., of Ascot, have a like
award for a group of Azaleas, Lily of the Valley, Spirfea japonica,
and other plants, together with cut blooms of Eoses ; Messrs.
Lane & Son, Great Berkhampstead, for a fine group of Ca-
mellias ; Mr. William Paul, Waltham Cross, for a fine collection
of many varieties of the same flower, and cut blooms of Ca-
mellias and Eoses ; Messrs. Eolhsson, Tooting, for a group of
Orchids, Palms, and other plants ; Mr. Williams, for a group
of CameUias, Azaleas, Amaryllids, a fine plant of TrichopUia
Buavis, and a large pan of Todea superba ; Mr. Aldous, florist,
Gloucester Road, South Kensington, for a neat group of plants ;
Mr. Ware for a group of spring-flowering and ornamental-
foliaged plants ; and Mr. J. Cranston, King's Acre Nurseries,
Hereford, for two boxes of suberb blooms of Mart-chal Niel Rose.
Lastly, Mr. Bull, of Chelsea, had also an extra prize for a strik-
ing gi-onp of Cycads. Among these we particularly noticed
Encephalartos lanuginosus, brachypterus, and regalis, the last-
named receiving a first-cIass certificate ; Cycas lucida ; Macro-
zamia ebumea, pulchra, elegantissima, and amabiUs. Several
of these were very beautiful, and were remarkable for the great
size of their root-stocks.

Fruit Committee.— Mr. G. F. Wilson, F.R.S., in the chair.
Mr. F. Perkins, of Leamington, sent specimens of his Leaming-
ton Broccoli, a variety exhibited at one of the meetings last
spring. It is a very late and apparently a very desirable variety ;
but as the winter has been so mild, and so many varieties being
at present in use, it was thought that the Leam"ington would be
in finer state in the end of April, and Mr. Perkins was requested
to send it again. Mr. H. Miles, gardener to James Johnstone,
Esq., Eanelagh House, Fulham, sent a plant of Loquat in fruit,
for which a letter of thanks was to be sent. Mr. Gardiner, gar-
dener, Lower Eatington Park, sent a large collection of dessert
and kitchnn Apples remarkably correctly named, and a letter
of thanks was awarded. Mr. llacfarlane, of Glasgow, sent his
patent Powder-distributor, which has been tried in the garden
at Chiswick.

Flor-u. CoM>nTTEE. — Mr. J. Eraser in the chair. Mr. Denning,
gardener to Lord Londesborough, Norbiton, sent a beautiful
group of Orchids, which received a cultural certificate. A fine
variety of Odontoglossum Andersonianum had a first-class cer-
tificate, as also one of Odontoglossum hystrix. In the same
group were several handsome Cattleyas, Lycastes, fine speci-
mens of Odontoglossum crispum, Vanda gigantea, Odontoglos-
sum Hallii, and Cymbidium eburneum. Mr. Richards, gar-
dener to Baron Eothschild, Gunnersbury, had a similar award
for an extremely fine specimen of Odontoglossum Phalocnopsis,
with upwards of thirty flowers of large size. Mr. Coles, gar-

dener to A. Smee, Esq., sent a large and handsome plant of
Dendrobium densiflorom, producing an abundance of its rich
orange drooping racemes.

Mr. A. Waterer, nurseryman, Knap Hill, had a first-class cer-
tificate for Erica vulgaris cuprea, a variety of the common hardy
Heath, which was exhibited as suitable for winter bedding, for
it changes its colour in October, and it was stated it retains its
crimson-coppery hue for six months. As exhibited, the plant
had a charming appearance both as regards its colour and beauty
of .form. From Mr. WiUiams, HoUoway, came two Hippeas-
trums, one of which, named Burtonii, was of a fine bright red.
Mr. Douglas, gardener to F. Whitbourn, Esq., Loxford Hall,
sent Hyacinth Prince of Wales, single, of a beautiful violet blue,
much of the same shade of colour as General Lauriston, but
with a finer spike. This received and well deserved a first-class
certificate. Prince of Wales, a very good single red, rose, with
a deeper rose band along the centre of each segment, was also
shown by Mr. Douglas, and is good in spike and bells ; and
though the latter are not large, they make up for that by the
closeness with which they are packed. Messrs. Cutbush had
also a first-class certificate for Lord Melville, iudigo blue with
a white eye — a telling kind, which, though it is already in com-
merce, l^as not been certificated. 'To Messrs. Veitch a first-class
certificate was awarded for Hyacinth Massini, noticed in a pre-
vious part of our report.

Mr. Miller, gardener to J. Johnstone, Esq., Fulham, sent a>
specimen of Aigrjecum eburneum ; and Mr. Moore, gardener to
C. Leach, Esq., Clapham Common, had a first-class certificate
for Epidendrum erubescens, with lilac flowers. Mr. Young,.
Milford Nurseries, Godalming, had a first-class certificate for
Aucuba Toungii in fruit, a handsome green-leaved kind. Mr.
Perkins, Leamington, sent a pretty white Clematis ; Mr. E.
Bland, gardener to Earl Kilmorey, Isleworfh, new Cinerarias;
Messrs. Carter & Co., AmorphophaUus Eivieri, a species
noticed in our last report as being shown with spathe and
spatlix by Mr. Bull ; also An^ectochilus Ortgiesii. Messrs-
Downie, Laird, & Laing sent several new Hyacinths ; G. F.
Wilson, Esq., Primula deuticulata, a hardy Himalayan Primrose,
and a charming plant for rockwork; and Mr. Lee. market gar-
dener, Clevedon, the large and fine sweet-scented Violet, called
Victoria Eegina, to the most striking qualities of which attention
is dii-ected at page 242.

BUSSIAN VIOLETS.

Now is the time to make fresh beds of Russian Violets, the
few young leaves which have already made their appearance
being certain signs of the rapid growth to follow as the days
lengthen. By immediately planting the oft'sets or side shoots
which are now to be found bristling with rootlets, and in large
quantities upon the plants just passing out of the flowering
stage, a considerable saving of labour is effected, hardly any
further attention being necessary till summer. But if the beds
are not made till late in April or May, when the young growtii
is in full actirity and the crowded foliage has become drawn
into a long and slender growth, much care will be necessary
in watering and shading to preserve them from the sun's rays,
which wUl then very quickly prostrate and destroy the young
and succulent foliage of plants under theii- influence that have
not a vigorous root action to sustain them. The advantages,
then, that are gained by now doing this very easy and simple
operation ai-e, that the young and sturdy oft'sets sustained by
the moisture of the soil and cloudy atmosphere so quickly
become established plants, that they are in the best possible
condition to profit by the frequent showers and brighter skies
of the following month ; and by being fully exposed on all
sides to the ail' before the spring growth has made much pro-
gress, the dwarf, spreading, sturdy tufts present a pleasing
contrast to the drawn attenuated appearance of those cuttings
which may be taken from the old beds at a later and less
suitable period. — Edwamj Luckhukst.

OBTAINING HYACINTH FLOWERS A SECOND
SEASON.
After the Hyacinths have done their duty the first year in
hte greenhouse or conservatory I take them to that part of the
garden where the sun shines nearly all day, and plunge the
pots to the rim in prepared and weU-drained materials, mostly
coal ashes. I leave them undisturbed tUl September or
October, according to the time I want them to flower, and then
take them up, repotting them carefully in good sandy loam.
I have adopted this practice for the last two or three years,
and have found it answer well. The bulbs each throw up
two or three spikes quite equal to the freshly-imported bulbs ;

iiarch 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULf UBE AND COTTAGE GABDEXEE.

241

I have also had bulbs double the size of these. The single
varieties succeed the best under this treatment. This season
I have had the following beautifully in flower — viz., Prince
Albert Victor, Lord llacaulay, Leonidas, Baron Humboldt,
Voltaire, Alida Jacoba, Victor Hugo, Norma, L'Omement de
!a Nature, Mont Blanc, with many others having spikes from
6 inches to 8 inches in length. — E. C. Hiscox, Lee, Kent.

THE AURICULA TO THE FRONT.

Will the growers and lovers of the Auricula far and wide
give their hearty and substantial support to a movement which
will be inaugurated at the spring show of the Manchester
Botanical Society, April 22nd, in favour of this flower ?

The Society offer us every encouragement for holding a first-
rate general exhibition of the Auricula in conjunction with
their Show. They will grant the free use of the Town Hall,
and the generous donation of £10 towards the prizes. If
those interested in the Auricula will now come forward and
take up the matter with downright good will, we may entertain
a hope of continued support from the Botanical Society, and
may found an exhibition, suited to both small and large growers,
which all may regard with pride. My name has been given in
as Honorary Secretary, and I am anxious to hear as soon as
possible from those who will be exhibitors, subscribers, or
both. I therefore invite communications from friends of the
Auricula not known to me. Let us try to establish some such
united show for the Auricula as we already have for the Tulip
in our Eoyal National Tulip Society, a most flourishing and
influential institution, whose prizes are sharply contested and
highly esteemed, and which has been the means in a great
degree of raising the standard of the TuUp till flowers are now
grown which leave " the Dutch "' far behmd, and many of our
old flowers too.

If the Auricula is to be better known and more grown, it
must be brought forward in this public manner ; we growers
are few and scattered, our flowers little known beyond our-
selves. I should, indeed, grow all mine just as lovingly if
never another eye than mine enjoyed them ; but then this
seclusion is bad for the flowers — it lessens their chances of
finding extended cultivation, continued improvements, and
successors to ourselves.

Traly sorry am I for the many sincere lovers of flowers who
are unacquainted with the cabn, unsatiating, incomparable
beauty of the Auricula. What other flower has her contrasts
of emerald, ebony, crimson, violet, and rich brown, and many
a shade between, that are worked in edge and circle round the
snow-white eye, pierced by the yellow, sometimes golden tube ?
I call the Auricula the fairest of our florists' gems, though I
have also the Polyanthus, Tuhp, Pink, Eanunculus, Eose,
Carnation, and Picotee. Yes ! I would rather be without the
Eose than without the Auricula. There 1 The Auricula in
April brings you a charm and fragrance that belong to the
spring, and which are not to be surpassed by all the colouring
and scent of lavish flowery June. — F. D. Hokser, Kirhbij
Mul:i'uril, Hipon.

THE PEONUXCIATION OF GLADIOLUS.

Is the extract you gave last week from Mr. Dombrain's
treatise on the Gladiolus he is represented as saying, " by
right it ought to be, I think, Gladiolus, aU short, as if spelt
Gladjolus, and the one which it, I suppose, retains is the
worst of the three. Gladiolus."

As there is no rule to guide us but analogy in such cases as
this, permit me to ask Mr. Dombrain how he would pronormce
baliolus, filiolus, unciola, and alveolus ? If, as I presume, he
would say baliolus, filiolus, and unciola, why not Gladiolus ?
If not, then Mr. Dombrain must consider that Juvenal and
Plautus were wrong. — P. D.

throughout Bengal, in Amboyna, Ceylon, Merqui, Chittagong,
Sylliet, on the Madras Peninsula, and it is also widely diffused
in alpine regions." By some writers it is said to be an aimual
plant ; but as it may certainly be preserved, in a proper tem-
perature, one or two winters at least, this designation can
hardly be correct ; though it may be raised from seeds, and
treated as an annual.

Its pale-green serrated foliage is not devoid of interest, but
its chief attraction resides in its charming violet flowers,
which are produced profusely through the summer months up
to a very late period ; they are of that peculiar rich velvety
tint which the pencil of the most skilful artist is inadequate to
imitate successfully (for " who can paint like nature ? '') especi-
ally in the two lateral lobes of the coroUa, where it is most in-
tense ; after the flower has been some days expanded, it loses
a little of its depth, particularly if exposed to strong sunshine.

FLOWERS FOR OUR BORDERS.— No. 2.

TOEENTA ASIATICA.— Asiatic iorexia.

This lovely plant when first introduced was supposed to re-
quire stove treatment, but fortunately, although the plant needs
a warm atmosphere in the winter season, it will, during the
summer months, bear a considerable reduction of temperature
below that originally believed to be necessary for its healthy
condition, growing luxuriantly in the greenhouse, or the
window of an ordinary apartment, and, under certain condi-
tions, in the open air.

As its specific name implies, it is a native of Asia, " growing

Torenin asiatica

The young botanist will be interested in observing the
stamens, which, as in nearly all the Figworts — to which order
our plant belongs — are didynamous, or in two pairs, one of
which is considerably longer than the other ; in both pairs the
filaments are so curved as to bring into contact the one-celled
anthers, which adhere closely to each other; and at the base
of the two longest stamens wiU be found an appendage, differ-
ing but in length from the filament itself, and which is one of
the distinguishing marks of the genus Torenia. The stigma
is divided into two flat lobes or lips, as in the different species
of Mimulus, and exhibits the same curious sensibility to touch,
closing when irritated, as is seen in that genus ; this fact
appears to have hitherto escaped the notice of botanists. Many
of the Figworts have round stems, but in Torenia it is four-
angled.

It is of the easiest possible propagation, cuttings 2 or 3 inches
long, planted under a glass in a pot of light, moist soil, and
placed upon a warm window, rooting with even greater readi-
ness than the well known Cuphea platycentra, which is one of
the quickest-rooting plants with which we are acquainted.
The plant affects a vegetable soil, and wiU do well in a mix-
ture of peat or leaf mould and sandy loam, with well-drained
pots of moderate size.

When gro'n-n as a window plant, it is best trained upon a
flat trellis, which, from its rapid growth, it will speedily cover ;
and to induce its lateral extension, the extremity of the shoots
should be frequentlv pinched off ; or the pot may be suspended,
and the branches allowed to trail downwards, in which posi-
tion the elegant habit of the plant, combined with its lovely
blossoms, renders it a highly interesting object. We are in-
clined to believe that, during the summer months, this plant

242

JOURNAL OP HORTICUiiTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

[ March 20, 1873.

may be cultivated as successfully at an ordinary window as in
the best greenhouse, as it wiU there enjoy a greater amount of
shade, and the duration of the flowers be proportionately pro-
longed.

Wo have hinted at the possibility of its employment as a
bedding plant, but we are unable to oiier any observations as
the result of personal experience. It has been stated, ap-
parently on good authority, that the plant will endure the
open air in our climate in summer, and in the southern counties
it might probably succeed, but we doubt whether the experi-
ment would be successful far north of London.

When the tropical character of its native regions is con-
sidered, it will excite no surprise that it should require some
care for its preservation during the cold months of our winter ;
but we think that, in an apartment in which the temperature
does not descend much below 50°, no difficulty will be found in
keeping it alive, pro^■ided that it is not too frequently watered.

The genus Torenia commemorates the name of Olof Toren,
R Swedish botanist of some eminence. About six other species
have been introduced, one of which, T. scabra, a plant well
known to gardeners, may be cultivated as a half-hardy annual.
T. concolor, introduced a year or two before Asiatica, is an in-
teresting species, the flowers of which are entkely of a deep
bluish purple, and coming from Hong Kong, it is rather more
hardy than Torenia asiatica. — (W. Thompson's Enrjlisli Flower
Garden.)

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

Mn. Geokge Lee, of Clevedon, has sent us some noble
flowers of that splendid sweet-scented Violet VicioftLi
Keoina, and a number of seedlings raised from it varying very
much in character. If Mr. Lee persevere in thus improving
the sweet-scented Violet, we may expect to see varieties rivalling
in size the florists' Pansy.

Two fine plants, both from Moreton Bay, are at pre-
sent objects of interest at Kew. The tree of AEAUcAKLi Bid-
wiLLi, in the temperate house, has produced cones for the first
time in Europe. It was one of the two original plants brought
to this country in 1812 by Mr. Bidwill, the other having been
purchased for one hundred guineas by the Duke of Northum-
berland. The Kew tree is about 20 feet high, and its branches
cover a circumference of about 60 feet. The seeds are very
important articles of food to the aboriginal inhabitants, and
the property of the tribes in individual trees of the Bunya-
bunj'a is the only possession they have, and is the commence-
ment of a communal system amongst them. Dendkoeitjm
IliLLii is the principal feature in the Orchid house. The large
mass in flower has as many as twenty pale yellow racemes,
some being as much as 2 feet in length. — {Nature.)

In the last two months the declared value of Potatoes

imported was £544,639, and in the same period of 1872 only
£35,963. Last month the value was £262,330, against £19,976
in the month of February, 1872.

We have the pleasure to call the attention of our readers

to the publication of " Van Houtte's Pomona, a descriptive
list of fruits, with numerous plates." This contains short
descriptions of 431 Pears, and is illustrated by five sheets of
coloured figures of Pears and six of outlines. The coloured
figures are beautifully executed portraits of the varieties re-
presented.

KOYAL HOKTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

The Council have summoned a Special General Meeting of
the Society, to be held in the Council-room at South Kensing-
ton on Wednesday, the 26th March, at three o'clock, for the
purpose of confirming the following new Bye-Laws which have
been approved of by the Council of the Society at a Meeting
held by them on the 11th iust.

" 1. The eidsting Bye-Laws of the Society numbered 63 and
82 are hereby revoked and repealed, and the following Bye-Laws
are substituted in the place of them.

"2. Every Fellow of the Society shall be entitled to appoint,
by written proxy in the form marked D in the Appendix to the
existing Bye-Laws, any gfiitlemau, being a Fellow of the Society,
to vote for him or her at all or any General Meetings of the
Society.

" 3. Any Member or Members of the Council may resign his
or their seat or seats by sending a written notice to that effect,
addressed to the Secretary of the Society ; and every vacancy in
the Council by resignation under this Bye-Law shall be filled up
by the other Members of the Council, if less than half of them
resign at any time, and by the Fellows of the Society at a Gene-

ral Meeting, if the Members of the Council resigning are half or
more than half of the whole body ; and if half or more of the
Memliers of the Council resign at any one time, a General Meet-
ing of the Fellows shall be called so soon as conveniently may
be after such resignation, in order to supply the places of the
resigning Members of the Council ; and until such General
Meeting shall have been held the resigning Members shall con-
tinue Members of the Council, and shall be capable to act as
such."

The above has been communicated to each Fellow by post
accompanied by this statement : —

"The above Bye-Laws have been prepared to enable the
present Council to resign in a body, in consequence of the ad-
verse vote of the General Meeting on the 18th ult., on the adop-
tion of the Annual Report of the Council.

" The paragraxjh on which this adverse vote was carried was
as follows — ' The Council, looking to the position of matters and
the necessity of circumstances, are satisiied that their poUcy in
this respect was wise and ought to be persisted in.' Tins policy
referred to the endeavours of the Council to work harmoniously
with H.M. Commissioners.

" The following reasons induced the Council to adopt the
policy alluded to.

" The Council have had two great sources of anxiety pressing
upon them — viz., the Debenture debt of i'49,7UU, and the im-
certainty of being able to retain the lease of the Gardens.

"The original Debenture debt of £50,000 was incurred in
making the Gardens. The Commissioners spent at the same
time a similar amount in building the Ai'cades which sirrround
them.

" By the terms of the agreement, after the expenses of the
Gardens and the interest on the Debentures have been satisfied,
the Society has to pay to the Commissioners yearly, by way of
rent, all the surplus receipts from the Gardens up to £2100. If
after these payments have been made there remains a balance,
the profits are to be equally di\'ided between the parties.

" The Society are also bound to devote annually three-fifths
of their share of these profits to a Sinking Fimdfor the redemp-
tion of the Debenture debt.

" It is further provided that should the receipts from the Gar-
dens to be paid to the Commissioners as rent fail for five conse-
cutive years to amount in any one year to ±'2100, the lease
should be at an end without notice. Should, however, the total
sum (in rent and profits) paid to the Commissioners amount to
an average of i'2400 a-year from the commencement of the
term, the lease remains in force.

" These three important facts as respects the working of this
agreement, and the present wishes of H.M. Commissioners that
the visitors to the Exhibition should have the jnivilege of enter-
ing the Gardens, had much weight with the CoimcU :

" 1. The Society has only twice paid its rent to the Commis-
sioners— viz., in 1862 and in 1871, and in both instances
the payment was made through the assistance of the Ex-
hibitions.

" 2, The Society has only been able to pay off £300 of the De-
benture debt, and that was paid in one of the Exhibition
years — viz., 1862.

" 3. The division of profits under the terms of the lease makes
the Commissioners and the Society virtually partners.

" The terms offered by H.M. Commissioners, and under ne-
gotiation with the Council when the Annual Meeting took place,
doubtless entailed bome sacrifices on the part of the Members,
aud especially upon that section of the Society dwelling near the
Gardens. These terms would :

" 1st — Have made ample provision for carrying out the proper
object of the Society — viz., the encouragement of Hor-
ticulture.

" 2ud — Have enabled the Society to remain in possession of
the Gardens without risk of forfeiting the lease, and
virtually without payment of rental.

" 3rd — Have provided the means of Uquidating the Debenture
debt— a debt which every Fellow must feel desirous to
have extinguished : and

" 4th— Have met the reasonable wishes of their partners, the
Commissioners, in a spirit of equity.

" For these reasons the Council still consider that the policy
* wan wise aud oaglit to be jtersisted in.' "

At a meeting of the Sub-Committee of the Horticultural
Defence Committee, held on Monday last, it was resolved to
recommend the Committees to support the Council at the
Special General Meeting to be held on the 26th inst., in their
endeavour to pass the Bye-Laws Nos. 2 and 3, enabling all
Fellows of the Society to vote by proxy, and making provision
for the resignation of Council.

Estimated Value of Soot. — A genuine economist claims
that one of the best fertilisers, going constantly to waste, is

Maich 30, 1873. 1

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

243

soot. " It is as valuable as guano, and should be earefuUy
saved at least twice a-year. You will find soot contains a
large amount of ammonia, and on this account it is very bene-
liuial to nearly all kinds of plants. Apply it to the soil about
the roots, and not to the leaves or stems ; or twelve quarts of
soot dissolved in a hogshead of water make an excellent licpid
manure."

EXTRACTS FEOM AGBICULTUEAL RETURNS

OP GREAT BRITAIN.
With respect to land used for orchards or for fruit trees of
any Uiud, the returns obtained in 187'2 differ to some extent
from those published for the previous yeai'. The addition to
the forms for the returns of 1872 of columns for market gar-
dens and nursery gardens, led to the discovery that land had
been wrongly described as orchards in 1871, and the returns
under this head in 1872 of 1.50,000 acres for England, 10,000
for Wales, and 3000 for Scotland may be considered as more
accurate than the acreage returned for the first time for orchards
in 1871. Acreage of Potatoes in Great Britain in 1868, 541,543 ;
in 1869, 585,311 ; in 1870, 587,661 ; in 1871, 627,691 ; in 1872,
564,088. Acreage of orchards, Ac, in England, 150,007 ; mar-
ket gardens, 32,'J37 ; nursery gardens, 8900; woods, 1,325,705.
Orchards, etc., in Wales, 10,080 ; market gardens, 850 ; nursery
gardens, 790; woods, 120,823. Orchards, &e., in Scotland,
3121 ; market gardens, 2417 ; nursery gardens, 2083 ; woods,
734,490.

PLANT SHELTER.

As spring approaches, and space in glass structures of all
lands daily increases m value, it is desirable that every means
of shelter and protection should be turned to advantage. In
hardly any garden estabUshment are there enough spare pits or
frames for all the exigencies of this busy season ; it foUows,
therefore, that most persons having the care of a garden have
to adopt or contrive certain rough-and-ready means of protect-
ing many plants that are not sufficiently hardy to bear full
exposure to the air. With this, as with many others of the
affau's of life, it is more frequently the man who labours under
the greatest disadvantages, and whose wits become sharpened
in doing battle with the difticulties he is called upon to en-
counter, who succeeds the best.

Of the numerous appliances that may be included under the
categoiy of plant-protectors there are many admu'ably adapted
to the purpose. It is not, however, my purpose now to enter
upon a comparison of such things, valuable as they undoubt-
edly are, but rather to deal with such makeshifts as all 'are
more or less acquainted with. Among those wliich occur to
me as I write, I can remember nothing more useful than a few
spare glass Ughts, provided for no special purpose, but kept in
tstore as a sort of reserve force. No garden should be withou
some of these of a light useful size, so that they may be easUy
lifted about and removed from place to place as occasion may
require. Given the lights and a few rough planks, a handy
man will soon contrive a snug shelter for bedding plants, spent
bulbs, plants which, having been forced early, require rest,
and StrawbeiTy plants. Then, too, they may be made to play
an important part in forwarding early crops of Potatoes,
Carrots, Celery, Jjettuce, Radishes, Asparagus, Beans, and
Strawberries ; also in winter they will be found useful in shel-
tering Parsley, salading, and Spinach from frost and snow —
not, perhaps, so much for the sake of protection as for the
facility of keeping up a steady and constant supply for the
kitchen.

Common hurdles or wooden frames form excellent screens
when closely thatched with straw, heather, rushes, reeds, or,
in fact, any material adapted for the exclusion of cold air or
cutting winds. Similar materials may also be used to form
sides instead of planks, or trenches of a depth proportionate
to the height of the plants answer very well, care being taken
to cover the bottom with ashes or rubble for the plants to
stand upon, in order that water may escape from the pots
freely, and to exclude worms.

Turf is not often to be had, but there is nothing better to
make temporary pits with, especially when neatness is an
object of importance, as it should be in aU gardens. By cutting
the turves in square-edged pieces, the walls may be built with
as much accuracy as if of brick ; and after serving for such a
purpose the turf becomes so sweetened and mellowed, that
when chopped down with spades it is reduced to a very desir-
able soil for pot plants.

There are three things from which it is highly necessary to
guard plants requiring such protection — frost, heavy rain, and
cold cutting winds. A sloping covering will serve to prevent
injury from rain, but it is the action of wind which is especially
hurtfid, and is yet fre(iuently less guarded against than other
evUs. The keen March winds, as they sweep over the land,
search every cre\-ice, UteraUy cutting Uke a knife wherever
they penetrate, and many instances might be adduced of valu-
able plants suffering the loss of foUage from this cause. It is
very necessaiy, therefore, to use every precaution that no
loophole is left by which this insidious enemy may enter, espe-
cially upon the east and north sides.

Hedges of Thuja Wan-eana, Box, Holly, Thujopsis boreaUs,
Yew, or Privet form admirable compact screens to check and
break the force of high and cutting winds. This should be
especially remembered in laying out new gardens, for such
shelter, valuable as it is at all tunes, is doubly so in winter
and spring. — Edwaed Lcckuukst.

NEW BOOK.

Handy Book of Fruit Culture niuUr Glass. By David

Thomson. Edinburgh: Blackwood A- Son.

With the exception of old John Abererombie and Walter
Nicol, two stout old Scotch gardeners of the last century, we
do not remember the name of any other of the numerous
writers on gardening who have produced a book on forcing.
Separate and specific treatises on the Cucumber, the Melon,
the Pine- Apple, and the Vine are frequent, but a comprehensive
treatment of the subject of forcing is reserved to these old
worthies in the past, and to another of oiu- northern brethi'en
not less worthy of the present day.

It is satisfactory to see work done by those who are com-
petent for the task they undertake. This competency can
only be acqmred by practice, and if any person has had the
practice necessary to make him proficient in his art, it is the
author of the work before us. To commend the work it is
not needful, for Mr. Thomson is so well known as a gardener
of the highest order, and a writer at once simple, succinct,
and inteUigible, that our readers may rest assured that nothing
will escape from his pen that is not for the benefit of those
for whom it is intended.

Tliis treatise on fruit culture under glass is not so compre-
hensive as its title implies. In these days of cheap glass there
are many more fruits now grown under its shelter than Mr.
Thomson has treated of. The Cherry, for instance, he omits,
but those of which he has written, which are the Pine-Apple,
the Grape Vme, the Peach and Nectarine, the Fig, the Melon,
the Strawberry, and the Cucumber, are handled in such a way
as to leave nothing to be deshed.

It is not only the culture of the fruits which has engaged
the author's attention, but such subjects as the insects to
whose attacks they are liable, and the packing of fruit for
transmission, are not omitted. The following extract may be
useful : —

"Packing Grapes.— The packiug of Grapes to be sent long
distances by rail and other conveyances requires to be carefully
managed. There are many ways of packing them. I have seen
each bunch laid on a thick stiiT sheet of paper, and folded up
sufficiently tight to prevent the bunch from moving about m
the paper. They are then packed closely in boxes sufficiently
deep to admit a layer of paper-shavings under and over them,
so that when the lid of the box is fastened down each parcel
was held securely in its place. The stiffness of the paper is
supposed to come in contact with the bunch at fewer points
than when wrapped-up in more flexible paper, and on that ac-
count to better preserve the bloom. There is, however, at the
same time, room left for the oscillation of those berries not m
immediate contact with the paper, and tliis is objectionable. In
sending Grapes to a distance I liave never adopted this mode of
packing, but have either wrapped each bunch in a slieet of fine
tissue paper, and packed them on a firm bed of paper-shavings
as close as they would lie, with just sufficient waddmg between
each to fiU up the irregularities of the outUne of the bunches.
When the bos is thus tiUed, a sheet of wadding is spread re-
gularly over the bunches, and over all a layer of paper-shavings ;
so that when the Ud is shut down they are subject to as much
pressure as prevents their moving. -A.t other times, when only
sending a few bunches in one compartment of a box, I have
spread a sheet of paper over the shavings in the bottom of the
box, and laid all the bunches as nicely fitted mto each other as
possible on it, then put another sheet of tissue-paper over them,
then some cotton wadding, finishing off with a layer of paper-
shavings, la. this way I have always found them go quite

JOCENAL OP HORTICDLTURK AND COTTAGE GAEDENER.

March 30, 187S.

safely, 'ttnien a quantity has to be sent in one box it should be
dirided into compai-tments, so that when the box happens to be
set down, standing on end or side, the Grapes at the lower part
of it cannot possibly be subject to much pressure from the top
end of the box. I do not know of any way of sending them to
preserve tlieir bloom, for unless some person is sent with the
box there must be packing material on the upper side of the
Grapes."

We can reoommend this work very highly to all who are en-
gaged in fruit culture under glass as a thoroughly practical
find reliable guide.

STKATFIELDSAYE.— No. 2.

The Skat ok the Duke of WELLiNflTON.

In the previous notice (p. 227) we left off with the view of
the east side of the house, aud wo commence this with a re-
presentation of a group of magniiiiient Cedars in the pleasure
gi-ounds to the north. The largest of these trees towers up to
a height of 109 feet, aud has a stem 15 feet in girth at a foot
from the ground. In consequence of having been planted so
closely together they have assumed more the character of the
Scotch Fir than of the Cedar, several of them having trunks
without a branch until a height of at least 60 feet is reached ;
and with the play of the bright sunshine upon them they had
a lighter and more aii-y character, and some of them, at all
events, apparently a more silvery hue than this sombre tree
usually presents. The group referred to is a feature of which
mere description would fail to give a just idea, and we have,
therefore, availed ouselves of a photographic view by Mr.
G. H. Hay, of Hanover Place, Upper Baker Street. Associated
with the Cedars are several fine Silver Firs, ranging from
100 to 120 feet in height, with stems from 12 to 17 feet in
circumference. Passing from this group eastwards between
clumps of Rhododendrons and thriving young Conifers, we
reach an immense old Oak, the greater part of which is dead
aud covered with Ivy. Bemg on a mound of considerable
elevation, it forms a striking object, aud is a great favourite
with the Duke. Near this is a fine WeUingtouia, forming a
perfect cone 21 feet in diameter at the base, and 34 feet in
height. It is always interesting to note the dimensions of
large trees as well as of those which have been but a tew years
introduced into the country ; aud that the " great tree " named
after the " great Duke" has thi-iven well at Stratfieldsaye may
be inferred from the fact that its stem is 9 feet 6 inches in
circumference at the base, aud 5 feet 4 inches at 6 feet from
the ground. It was planted in 1857, about three years aiter
the introduction of the tree into this country.

A few yards to the right of the WeUingtouia is a fine old
Hemlock Spruce about 70 feet in height, with branches spread-
ing over a circle of some 35 feet in diameter, and a stem
12 feet in girth at the base. There is also near this a hand-
some tree of Abies orientalis about 34 feet high. Approaching
nearer to the mansion we find three remarkable Scotch Firs,
which had evidently been headed-down when young, as a
whole forest of trunks have sprung upwards at about 6 feet
from the ground. On ono of the trees we counted thirteen of
these stem-like branches, some of which had, besides, in-
arched thems3lv9s naturally in several places. A very old
Weymouth Pine next demands attention ; pressed on the
north side by large deciduous trees, it has extended its huge
branches southward to the distance of 40 feet, and has at-
tained a height of 80 feet, whUst its girth of stem at the base
is about 19 feet. After passing a fine specimen of a silvery
variety of the Cedar of Lebanon, among a large group of
Beeches, Oaks, Chestnuts, and Tulip Trees, we come to a Pinus
Pinaster 90 feet in height, with a stem 12 feet in circumference.
Proceeduig towards the house we pass on the left some fine
specimens of deciduous trees, and among them Nyssa aquatics,
i., a pendulous tree rarely seen in our pleasure grounds, al-
though it has long been in the country, having been intro-
duced before the middle of the eighteenth century from the
southern states of America. The tree at Stratfieldsaye is
C5 feet liigh, with a stem nearly 5 feet in circumference', and
in autumn its pea-green leaves die off to such a beautiful
crimson, that it has been compared to a column of flame.

In the park, which is of great extent, there are numerous
large Oaks, Elms, and old Yews and ^Vhite Thorns, besides a
uuniber of thriving young Pinuses and Cedars. Abies Meu-
ziesii and Picea Pinsapo are thriving well, aud there are fine
groups of Silver Firs, while Spruce of great size and perfectly
sound to the core is very abundant. Indeed, the park is much
over-timbered, aud would ha iuioroved by the judicious use of

the axe, as, owing to the trees being so large and crowded,
its real extent is not perceived.

From the main avenue another leads to the Reading and
Southampton road. This is planted with thriving Welling-
tonias three or four years old, and outside the lodge at its
termination is a lofty and handsome monument in honour
of the first Dnke. It is of polished Cornish granite, was de-
signed by Baron Marochetti, and bears this iuscriptiou —

"Ki-ecteii by Arthiu- Richard, seconil Duko of ^Vo!^ngton, anil by the
tenants, servants, and Jabourors on the estate of his Father, as a token of
their affection and respect. 1863."

Opposite each comer of the base of this Mr. Bell, the gar-
dener, has appropriately planted a WeUingtouia at a sufficient
distance to allow it to attain its natural gigantic proportions.

The kitchen garden, as already stated, is situated close to
the mansion, though weU concealed, but everythiug about it
was so clean and neat that little concealment was necessary.
The space within the waUs is some 3A acres, but there is also
nearly an equal extent outside as orchard, herb beds, and for
propagating purposes. Among the houses was a Peach house
60 feet by 12, well adapted for early forcing, tlie roof being at
an angle of Co", and therefore admitting more direct sun light
at this time of the year than flatter-roofed structures. The
trees — BeUegarde, Royal George, and Violette ILitive, are
trained to a wire trelUs 15 inches from the glass, and are bear-
ing an exceUent crop. As in other houses, the shelves at the
back were fully occupied by Strawberries, Gerauiums, and
bedding plants. The next house is a late vinery, 40 feet by 10,
planted with Lady Downe's Vines ; and between this and the
early vinery, of like dimensions, planted with Black Ham-
burghs, which promise to bear a good crop, is a ridge-aud-
furrow greenhouse, containing an excellent show of Camel-
Uas, Cyclamens, and spring flowers. Following the early
vinery is that for succession, in which the Black Hamburgh
and Buckland Sweetwater Vines were just breaking. Next
come four ranges of span-roofed pits, three of which are
chiefly devoted to Pine Apples. Three and four-inch pipes are
used for supplying the top heat, but for bottom heat leaves
alone, and of these the woods must afford no lack. In the
fruiting house, a three-quai'ter span, we noticed a remarkably
healthy lot of Queens aud Smooth-leaved Cayenne in H-inch
pots, aud some of them were ripening fine fruit. Mr. Bell
considers pots larger than 11 inches not desirable for general
purposes. After just glancing at a range of forcing pits CO feet
in length, ooutainiug satisfactory crops of Asparagus, Potatoes,
ludney Beans, and young bedding plants, we came to a span-
roofed house partly employed for foi'cing, but in other com-
partments principaUy fiUed with Orchids, Dracasnas, Crotous,
Alocasias, and various fine-foUaged plants. There is also a
collection of Ferns, aud to the roof of one compartment is
trained a pot plant of BougainviUaaa glabra, which is seldom
out of flower.

On the south side of one of the vineries is a range of low
pits or frames 12 feet wide, heated by a 6-inch pipe passing
all round. In these. Peaches trained on flat trellises a
foot from the ground and 2 feet from the glass, were in
beautiful bloom, and Mr. Bell informed us that they ripen
heavy crops of finely-coloured fruit. The remaining glass
structures were a Fig house CO feet by 12, a Muscat house, and
the latest vinery, planted mth West's St. Peter's. Sir. Bell
having found that the Peach trees on a wall facing the east
always bore abundant crops, whilst those on the south-aspect
wall fre(iuently failed to do so, although similai- care was taken
in both cases, was for some time at a loss to account for the
circumstance, naturally considering that the trees on the
warmer aspect ought to succeed best, but he remembered that
the east waU (12 feet high) had a broad projecting coping,
whUe the south wall (only 10 feet high) had one projecting but

IJ inch beyond the face of the brickwork; he 1

was therefore having irons bent in this fashion ^1

inserted into the south wall to support temporary copings of
boards till the spring frosts are over ; aud near the upper
angle of the iron he has had an eye-hole made, through which
stout iron wire can be threaded for the support of curtains in
front, to be drawn on or off as needed. We have no doubt
this simple and inexpensive contrivance will answer well, and
that, except in a vei"y exceptional year indeed, he will not have
to comjilain of want of crop. The Apricot wall facing south
has an 8-inoh coping, which proves a great protection. Along
the sides of the principal walks in the kitchen gai'den are old
espalier Apple and Pear trees, which prove very serviceable in
any year, and in the past season bore fruit when that from

Mmh 20, 1873. ]

JOUENAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

245

younger trees was entirely out off. It may here be mentioned
that the Bamie Grass, Urtica or Btchmeria tenaoissima, is cul-
tivated with great success by tlie Duke, who takes much
interest in this member of the Nettle family, and not without
reason, for he has succeeded in extracting from home-grown
plants a tiue, beautifully white, and extremely tenacious fibre,
which will bo exceedingly valuable for textile and other purposes.

In a paddock adjoining the kitchen garden Copenhagen, the
horse which the tirst Duke rode at Waterloo for fifteen hours
without dismounting, spent in peace the remainder of his exist-
ence, and there he 13 buried, in a raHed-rouud enclosure, under
three Evergreen Cypresses and a Turkey Oak. He was not
more than four or five years old at the time of the battle, and
lived till about 1838.

On quitting the kitchen garden we passed through a dense

Yew hedge some 12 feet high, and then into the American
garden, which is neatly laid out with clumps of Khododendrons,
Azaleas, and Kalmias, and very effective in the early summer
when the plants are in bloom. The main feature, however,
hero is four fine specimens of Araucaria imliricata, the largest
of %vhich is about 33 feet high. Three out of the four have
flowered, and two female trees have produced cones with per-
fect seeds, which have vegetated freely. One of the female
trees is 180 yards from the male, but having been artificially
fertilised, it has matured seeds, a process which occupies two
years, as plentifully as the tree whose branches interlace those
of the male. At the time of our visit the catkins of the latter
were just coming out.

We cannot conclude these notes without taking this oppor-
tunity of thanking Mr. Bell, under whose care the gardens are,

Group of Cedai'S at StratHeldsaye.

for the great trouble which he took in pointing out the features
of the place, and it is through liis kindness that we have been
enabled to give the dimensions of the largest trees from actual

measurement. It ie only necessary here to add that the
management of the gardens and pleasure gi'ounds amply
proved his professional skill.

FORCING BY NATURAL HEAT.

A WEiTEB in the Scientific American, of November 23rd,
upon " Scientific and Mechanical Possibilities," says : — Heat
increases about one degree to every 50 feet that we penetrate
the earth ; shafts are now sometimes sunk to a depth of
2000 feet. It is not within the possibility of mechanism to
bore 4000 feet more. At that depth we should find a heat
of at least 150', and in many places even greater than
this. Mechanical power could be obtained from the steam
and water forced up from this depth. Heated water and
steam from these wells could be carried into our houses
and warm our dwellings to a summer temperature. Con-
ducted in pipes under the soil protected by glass, we could
cheaply grow in New England, all of the southern and
tropical plants and vegetables. The snow could be kept
melted from the streets of New York, and all of the build-
ings warmed from this spontaneous flow ; useful also for
cooking and other purposes.

The Garden of Plants in Paris is heated by \vater from an
artesian well 1800 feet deep, which has a temperature of

82° Fah., and is carried in pipes under the soil. A salad
garden at Erfurt, in Saxony, is heated in the same man-
ner, and is said to have yielded #00,000 a year to the pro-
prietor.

That the cost of artesian wells is not too great to grow tropi-
cal plants in New England cheaply by heat thus obtamed, is
not shown. Whether the internal heat of the earth cannot bo
made available for winter forcing, is a question worthy of care-
ful consideration.

In this locality a uniform temperature of 52° is found at a
depth of not more than 20 feet, and probably it would be
about the same in the latitude of 42° from this to New
England.

It would seem to be among "scientific and mechanical possi-
bilities" to utilise this proximate internal heat in securing to
plant structures a proper night temperature, which need not
be above 45° for greenhouses — the sun, in bright days, giving
a day temperature of 60 to 80 degrees. This, cheaply ac-
complished, wUl it not inaugurate a new era in window gar-

2ir,

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENER,

[ March 20, 1878.

tleniug? — James Weed, Muscatine, loica.-
lienor's ilonllihj.)

-(Amerkan Gur-

WOEK FOE THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GABDEN.

Clean and move tbe ground between the rows of Lettuce,
young Cablmge, autumn-sown Onions, Garlic, Shallots, and
other winter-standing crops. Clear tbe garden of all litter. Roll
the walks if they have been loosened during tbe winter. Make
another sowing of Beans ; the Longpod ia a prolific sort, but
tbe Green Windsor has a better appearance when sent to table ;
earth-up the early crops. Pot young plants of Capsicums as
soon as fit, and place them in a hotbed-frame ; they are very
liable to be attacked by the gi'een fly, which should be destroyed
immediately it is observed. The weather is now favourable for
getting-in tbe main crop of Cm-rots. The Early Horn is an ex-
cellent sort both for early and late use, as it keeps as well as
the long sorts, and is much better adapted for many soils.
I'rick-out the early-sown Celery into boxes, or on a slight hot-
bed; when it has taken root give air at every favourable oppor-
tunity. As soon as tbe frames of Cucunihers are imcovered in
tbe morning, give a little air for an hour to let the stagnant air
pass off, when they may be closed again till the day is further
advanced ; if air has been given to the frames all night they
may be closed for an hour or two. As soon as the principal
shoots have reached the sides of the frame, never allow any of
the laterals to gi-ow more than two joints before being stopped.
Jerusalem Artichokes, if not yet planted no time should be
lost in getting them in. Some of the best plants of Lettuces
that have been wintered in frames may now be put out, some
under a south wall and others in a more open situation. If it
can be so managed tbe whole of the bods of Mushroums in one
house should be made before any begins beaiiug. This can
be accomplished by making tbe last bed about six or seven
weeks after the first. Sow tbe main crop of Onions. If large
ones are required plant the very small bulbs of last year, or the
autumn-sown plants in very rich soil ; or larger Onions may be
grown by the following method ;— Well tread the ground, and
lay 3 inches of very rotten dung upon it, on this sow the seed,
and cover with a little fine earth. Stick the early crops of Peas
as soon as they are earthed-np ; a few small beech boughs with
the leaves on may be stuck on each side of the row, this will pro-
tect them from frost and cold winds. Make a sowing ot Purslane
on a warm border. Sow a successional crop of liadisJies ; the
Turnip-rooted sort may now be sown. Bhuharb may now be
forwarded by placing a hand-glass over the roots ; a little litter
should be placed over tbe bottom of tbe glass to prevent the
ingress of cold. Make a good sowing of the Dwarf Green Savoij,
which IS by far the best for general use. Salsafi/ and Scorzo-
nera should be sown in drills at from 9 inches to a foot apart.

FKUIT QAKDEN.

Continue pruning and naiUng Peach trees, and when they are
coming into bloom put up coping-boards and curtains or nets or
m the absence of these, small beech boughs with the leaves on
may be stuck about the trees. Continue regrafting Apple and
Pear trees. Securely stake newly-planted standard fruit trees
nothing is more injurious to them than being blown and twisted
about by the wind.

FLOWEK GAKDEN.

The walks should now he turned if required, and the turf
edgings mended if necessary. Eoll and mow the lawn before the
grass gi-ows much, as it can be kept in better order afterw.ard6
than if allow'ed to remain until tbe cud of April or beginning of
May Level-down the beds a little with the Dutch hoe, but do
not aUow the rake upon them at present. Prune Roses to cause
them to flower late. All rubbish thrown upon lawns by tem-
pestuous weather, or othermse, should be carefully removed
before the roller is used. The planting of herbaceous plants
.should be completed, and the beds they occupy dressed with
tresli soil. It IS a good practice to defer the operation of prun-
ing Roses^ which have been recently transplanted until vitality
IS decidedly manifested in the buds, as in removing a largo pro-
portion of young wood the powerful excitement which it un-
doubtedly offers to the roots in influencmg them to action is
diminished. Tulips now begin to want warm and fine weather.
^\ liere unprotected tbe late hailstorms have done considerable
damage to the fohage, and canker in many places has made its
appearance. I hear of several beds in the north having been
wholly destroyed, apparently by a disease similar to that which
has affected tbe Potatoes. All beds of any pretension should
now be covered with a net, and every attention possible ought
to be bestowed upon the growing plants. Pansies will require
considerable attention during the present month. Sheltering,
cleaning, &c., must bo sedulously attended to. Seedlings will
be expanding their blossoms, but we would caution the grower
not to remove those that are promising. After their good
quahties are ascertained, it will be advisable to take off tbe
gi-eater part of the main stem, which will induce the production
ot laterals ; these should be put in and will readily strike root.

If Carnations and Picotees show symptoms of decay carefuUy
remove with a sharp knife the' decayed part, especially that
portion of tbe root where the severance from the parent plant
took place, also take away any bruised leaves. The general
stock should now be potted. Auriculas now require particular
watching ; they should be kept moderately and regularly moist,
not by watering them all at the same time, but only according
to the state in which each pot may be ; in some pots the soil
may retain moisture longer than iu others. Should the weather
be mild a little Ught rain would be beneficial, taking care to
protect the frames at night.

OKEENHOUSE AND CONSEIIVATORT.

Let the occupants of the conservatory beds and tubs receive a
proper degree of that attention which is demanded by all green-
house plants at this season, especially in regard to the supply
of fresh soil and other necessary stimulants to active growth.
Maudevilla suaveolens, tbe Kennedyas, Passifloras, and Big-
nonias will require regular supplies of water, and possibly a
further supply of rich soil. In introducing Roses, Pinks, and
other plants from the forcing pit see that they are free from
insects. Plants infested within tbe show house should be re-
moved and fumigated. Shift greenhouse plants as circum-
stances may render advisable. In some cases an alteration in
the period of blooming may be produced by varying the time of
potting and proportion of nourishment. Permit no depression
of heat in the forcing pit.

STO^'E.

Many of the plants can now be propagated with gi-eater
success than at any other period, it is impossible to particularise
them as they often vary in the time of growth according to the
treatment they receive. A knowledge of the time to take oB a
cutting is the principal art iu propagation. Give air at every
favourabls opportunity.

PITS AND FRAMES.

Many of the established and more hardy plants in these
structures may now be removed to temporary pits to make
room for the spring-struck stock. Proceed with the potting-off,
and do not permit any vacant space in the propagating frame
untU there are more plants than will be required for bedding-
out. — W. Ke.vne.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

KITCHEN G.UIDEX.

The snow and rains still predominating have confined most
of our work to digging and turning ridges, the few frosty morn-
ings affording a good opportunity for such work. With a few
fine days the soil will be in a suitable condition for even the
finer seeds being sown, and then it will be seen that a little
delay will not be time lost.

When the weather was at all dry we took the opportunity to
fork gently among a plantation of Cahbaijes which as yet has
not lost a plant, and the broad, squat appearance of the plants
leads us to hope that there will be no bolters among them. This
slight forking lets the aii- in among the roots, and does away
with the hard pan that rain and snow are apt to form on the
surface. We shall most likely give the soil between the plants
another forking a little deeper if the surface is at all di-y, and
then in a few days we will draw earth to the plants so as to
firm them more, and give them some security against winds
when their heads become heavy. In this earthing-up, though
placing some earth against the stems, we do not approve of
having the ridge shaiq) like the ridge of a house, but rather of
leaving it in the shape of two ridges with the j)lants in a little
trench or valley between. This gives the plants a gi'eat ad-
vantage as far as the benefit of rains is concerned.

We intend to plant-out immediately a lot of youug Cabbage
plants kept in beds all the winter, putting them in between
Raspberries and Currants, though they would be well worthy
of an open space if we could afford it, even if they were all
pulled-up by the end of tbe summer and autumn. We say this
last advisedly, for though such spring-planted Cabbages, and
even Cabbages and Coleworts planted later will often after
being cut yield a good deal of produce in winter, still on the
whole for winter and early-spring produce in tbe second season
they will bear no comparison with the autumn-planted Cabbages
— that is to say, the Cabbages to which we first referred to,
planted-out last autumn, after giving a first, second, or third
cutting during tbe summer and autumn, wiU yield numbers of
small sprouts and young Cabbages all the winter and early
spring if the weather be not excessively severe. Few things
are better flllbaskets than such an old quarter of Cabbages. We
generally keep them until the sprouts from Scotch Kale, &c.,
come in abundantly, and then the gi-ound is bedded-out for
Celery.

Lettuce and Endive. — We ran a fine hoe or a fine-pointed
fork through rows and beds of Lettuces. Those planted in the
orchard house have come-in useful. Of small compact plants
of Broad-leaved Endive on a ridge containing five rows, one at
the apex, and two at each side, not a plant has been lost iu-

ilarch 20, 1873. ]

JODRKAL OF aOETICULTltEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

247

dependency of the wet; whilst those on the level, both Broad-
leaved and Curled, succumbed to the datap. We covered these
plants on the ridge separately with a 5 or 6-inch pot reversed,
with the hole of the pot stopped-up. This blanches the plants
white iu about eight days, and as two or three plants are used
tile pots are carried and placed over others.

Cauliflowers. — We threw a little dry ashes and charcoal dust
among them to keep them from any approach to damping. The
mild weather has brought on the most forward till they are
quite as large as we wish to see them.

Broccoli. — We examined this frequently to see that no heads
were exposed ; we also puUed away decayed leaves from them
and Winter Greens, and paclted the earth more iirmly against
the stems of Broccoli that were laid, as it is possible with these
northerlv and easterly winds that we may still have a sharp
frost. For forwarding and forcing vegetables, see previous
weeks' notices.

FKUIT G.UBDEN.

For general management of houses. Strawberries, &c., we
must refer to former numbers. Sowed Melons, as we did not
care to have them early, also Cucumbers for succession. Some
we planted in winter, to afford a succession after the late ones,
did little good iu the dark days, and were just kept moving, but
have grown well since the days lengthened, are bearing a few
fruit, and most likely mil render part at least of our sowing
unnecessary.

Our chief work for the week has been in the orchard houses,
as we were forced to give a rest to some pressing out-door work,
fearing that we should be too late in the orchard house, as the
buds of Peaches, &c., when they become too forward are apt to
be rubbed off in pruning and tying, and yet it is as well to have
the buds swelled a little before pruning, so that the wood buds
may be cleanly seen. All that were likely to be in danger have
been thoroughly done, and only the washing of late trees and
the cleaning of the ground in one house still remain to be done,
and both may be completed iu a day when it would be too wet
to be out of doors. The trees against the walls have all been
attended to after trees and walls alike had been thoroughly
washed and cleaned, both being well syringed with warm soft-
soap water, the walls washed down with a hard brush, and then
painted with fresh limewash. We generally tone down the
limewash with a little blue-black, but as the wall was getting a
little dark in colour, we used a thin limewash just as it was,
kuowing that the dark colour would just tell a little on the
white of the lime so as to prevent its being too white. If the
wall were not nearly covered with trees the reflection of heat
from a white surface would make the branches and buds near
it rather hot. We run over the twigs with a thin mixture of
water, clay, soft soap, and sulphur ; we like Gishurst used thin,
l)ut the oue is almost as good as the other. If taken in time,
just before the buds swell much, there is nothing more effectual
for destroying insects and their myriads of eggs than syringing
several times with soap water at about 180^.

Our difficulty in getting this done except by pieces at a time —
say the wall and the trees on it at one time and the trees planted-
out and in pots in front of a lean-to house at another — arises from
the fact that in general these orchard houses are crammed with
plants and vegetables in winter, that would not stand the hot
water. Even iu cleaning now, we could only do part of a house
at a time, not knowing what the winter might be. Besides
Lettuces in the latest houses there were lots of Salvias, Roses,
Deutzias, and the Chrysanthemums in pots after blooming. We
took out all the latter, and plunged them out of doors, with a
few laurel branches to protect them if the weather become
severe. Some of these we shall grow on, others divide, and of
others make cuttings. We have so much more faith in pre-
vention than cure that, besides looking to the trees, we make it
a point to remove a portion, fuUy 1 iuch, of the surface soil in
the pots from the floor, shghtly fork-up, say half an inch deep,
see where a little water is wanted, top-dress again, first with
rotten dung mixed with lime to destroy all worms, and then
surface neatly over with fine fresh soil. All such matters re-
quire labour and time, but in general it will be saved in the
little trouble given by insects, &c., afterwards.

After such cleaning and fresh-surfacing, whatever plants may
Ije introduced will not cause the houses to look shabby. We
shall have lots of flowering plants ere long, and Strawberry
plants along the fronts, as they will come on gradually so as to
tie taken to other places under glass, and would advance all the
sooner if we kept the orchard houses a little closer.

Success in all unhealed orchard houses greatly depends on
not pushing the trees forward, but, on the contrary, retarding
them as much a< possible in spring. The later that Peach blos-
soms open, the later that Vines break, the less likely will they
be to suffer checks from cold, il'C, afterwards. If we had a
few days of very sunny weather before the bloom opened, we
would not only give all the air possible, but most likely would
dull the glass a little, so that there should be no extra stimulus
to the buds, until there were a corresponding action at the
roots. A week's difference in the opening of the blossom,? often

makes the difference between failure and success, though a
Peach tree in full bloom in a cold dry house with the air still,
will stand a good deal of frost uninjured. Still, early blooming
is not desirable in such cold unheated houses. A keen amateur
has informed us that his Peach trees were in bloom in his un-
heated orchard house on the 20th of February. We had rather
the same thing had taken place fully a month later. As the
season has been, we do not think his trees will suffer, but we
have had seasons in which such trees could scarcely have been
kept secure without the help of an iron stove or two in the
coldest nights. Of course, when heat can be given the time of
blooming is a matter of liltle consequence. Where no heat of
any kind is intended, the retarding by abundance of air, even a
little frost, wUl be safer than encouraging them to grow. When
once the fruit is set, such retarding can soon be made up by
taking advantage of the sun in securing a greater but safe
amount of heat.

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT.

For all out-door work — looking after florists' flowers in the
open air or protected, as Auriculas, with glass — refer to previous
numbers, and be aU the more particular if we should have sharp
frosts after so much wet. In^j?aH.^!».7 what we intended to bo
specimens of Finuses (of course we prefer even for them autumn
planting, l>ut owing to the season and other matters, many nice
little plants will be turned-out between this and April), there is
this advantage iu spring planting, that as the buds swell the
roots are enticed into action. The great advantage of autumn
planting is that the warmth in the soil entices the roots to form
fibres, and these then are ready to meet the demands of the
swelUng and expanding buds. With the exception of the few
species that delight in marshy ground, the great bulk wiU thrive
all the better, and look aU the better if, instead of being planted
on the level or in a hollow, they are planted on a mound. Thus,
for Araucarias, Deodars, Picea Pinsapo, Wellingtonias, Piuus
excelsa, &o., a load or two extra of good loam would be a great
help, so that the tree may stand on a flatfish rounded knoll.
The roots will soon go under the surface, but the collar of the
plant will never be troubled with stagnant moisture. Plenty of
moistm'e can be obtained even there by mulching, and as the
trees become somewhat venerable in years the mound, worn
down by that time, will still show somewhat of a pedestal for
the line base of the stem. How different even to the eye does
a fine old tree appear when its stem seems to creep, as it were,
through the level ground, from one scarcely more handsome
standing on a knoll with its huge roots close to the surface near
the bole ! The tree should thrive better, because the bulk of
the roots wiU be in the richest surface soil. The distance that
roots will travel is astonishing when thus encouraged; and the
length of the roots, like so much strong cordage, is the greatest
preservative from tempests. The finest Araucariain the grounds
lit Woburn stands over a deep drain, giving it all the advantages
of a mouud. We should like to see now the Araucarias planted
at Woodstock, Ireland, by Mr. McDonald, now of Phcenix Park.
They were on raised mounds with a substratum of open stone-
work. We have long thought that the giving way iu many
places of Araucarias was owing to their being planted on the
level. All the best we have seen were secured from anything
like stagnant moisture.

Half-hardij Annuals. — It is well to defer sowing for a few
weeks irnless there is plenty of glass room to permit of their
beiug pricked out and haviug their growth encouraged. Without
that advantage very early sowing is a mistake, as if kept in the
hotbed the plants become drawn-up and weak, and if merely
sheltered out of doors they are apt to get chilled and stimted,
which they would not be if they had been three weeks or a
month later, for then in the case of Asters, Stocks, &c., the
pricking-out might be dispensed with, though it is always an
advantage when the room can be given.

Azaleas. — We gave those iu fuU bloom plenty of water, aud
rang the sides of large pots near the base iu order to be sure by
the dull rather than the sharp sound emitted, that the soil was
moist to the bottom of the pot. In the case of such hair-rooted
plants, two or three waterings may be required at times to
effect that object, and if the part of the firm ball is dry the
flowers will not open kindly nor the young wood push freely.
In extreme cases where the water stood on the surface a long
time showing where the drainage was right, and that the lower
part of the ball was drj', we have placed the pot in a tub of
water until no air-bubbles appeared, and the ball was thoroughly
wetted. A ring of the pots frequently will prevent the necessity
of such a summary operation ; l^ut even by that means many a
fine plant has been saved that otherwise would have been in-
jured by insufficient watering. Our plants iu bloom have only
had common greenhouse treatment, but when wanted early,
soon after blooming and being cleaned, they shoiUd be taken to
a forcing house to make wood and set buds, and then hardened-
off in a cool atmosphere iintil it is desirable to start them.

IViodoihndrons in bloom and swelling their bloom buds, espe-
ci.aUy if under-potted, require abundance of water. Some of
the old tree kinds are very beautiful.

24S

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AKD COTTAGE GARDENES.

{ karcb 20, I8?d.

Camellias swelling buds and blooming require free watering.
Those which have finished blooming require but little water
until the young shoots are coming away. If after this the plants
can have a little shade and a temperature of from 60° to G5^
until the wood is made and the buds set, the blooming will
come early the following season, for this early period is that in
which Camellias stand forciug, and not when we wish the
buds to expand. Plants in fair-sized pots will stand several
years without repotting if there be once or twice a-year a rich
surfacing; but when potting is deemed necessary, perhaps the
best time is just when the fresh growth is takingplace, provided
extra heat and shade can be afforded them, otherwise we should
prefer potting after the growth is made and the buds set. We
have often tried both plans, but preferred the first when we
could give the desired conditions.

FucJisias. — Repotted some in smaller pots, and generally after
removing most of the old soil. Of plants that were just break-
ing, and with soil and roots rather dry, we dipped the roots for
a few minutes iu a tub of water at about 65°. The swelling the
roots with moisture ia such cases is better thanmixch watering
before there is free growth. Cuttings put in now in a hotbed
strike quickly.

Cinerarias require plenty of water, and the cooler the base
can be kept the more free will they be from insects. The same
may be said of Calceolarias. The large-flowering kinds should
now be put in their blooming pots. Primulas should be also
well watered, keeping the water from the collar of the plant.
We repotted the most forward Pelargoniums, and tried to give
them more room. Scarlets, single and double, placed in rather
large pots and rich compost, will make striking objects in sum-
mer. Potted Gloxinias, and looked over Caladiums preparatory
to placing them in fresh soil. They do not keep well, even if
di-yish, in a temperature under from 55'^ to G0°. — R. F.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

J. Backhouse & Son, York. — Catalogue of Alxjine Plants
and Hardy Perennials.

J. Carter, Dunnett, it Beale, 237 and 238, High Holborn, Lon-
don, W.C. — Carter's Fanners' Calendar,

S. Shepperson, Prospect House, Belper. — Descriptive List of
Florists' Flowers, Greenhouse Plants, Bedding Plants, tOc.

Drummond Brothers, 52, George Street, Edinburgh. — List of
Agricultural Seeds,

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*,* We request that no one will write privately to any of the
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing they
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. AU
communications should therefore be addressed solely to
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture^ c^c, lUtFleet
Street^ London^ E.G.
Books (.-i Siihscriher).^k manual on greenhouse plants is preparing and
will suit you.

Boiler for WEED-KiLLiNa. — ^ Sti&scrifter wishes to be informed where
he can procure a machme for destroying weeds on walks like that used at
Trantham, which distributes boiling brine over them.

Planting Potatoes [An Amateur).— Thero is no "vital objection" to
growing Potatoes on the same plot two years successively. On a fertile light
soil we have grown them for eight or ten following years. Such a case is
exceptional, and it is usually better to let the Potato follow some other crop.
Bone duat may very advantageously be dug into the soil at planting time.

CuLVERKEVs (K ij. S.).— We have searched, vainly searched, to identify the
plant known in the seveuteenth century by the name of " Cnlverkeya."
Walton iu his "Angler" mentions it, but it is in a quotation from a con-
temporary poet. Although in one etlition Walton calls that poet " Davors,"
yet it is certain this is a mistake ; the author was " John Dennys, Esq.," and
the book is entered in his name in the books of the Stationers' Company
under the date " 11312, 23- Mai-ti." The lines are as follows, literatim : —
" Let them that list these pastimes then puisue,
And on their pleasing fancies feed their fill;
So I the fields and meadows green may ^iew,

And by the rivers fresh may walk at will
Among the Dazies aud the Violets blew :

Red Hyacinth, aud yellow Daffodil,
Piu^le Narcissus, like the morning rayes,
Pale Gondei'glas, and azor Culverkayes."
Does anyone of our readers know a county where a plant is known as " Cul-
verkeys ?"

Small Cabbage (fl. S. S.). — AU the Cabbages grown for the usual supply
of the London maikets are of the common Battersea variety. Their size
depends on the time of the seed being sown, and of the Cabbages being cut.
For autumn and early winter u.^e the seed ia sown in the spring of the same
year. If you wish for an especially sweet and email Cabbage cultivate either
the Nonpareil or the Little PL\ie.

WooDRN r. InoN-FRAMED HousES (A Su-bacriber). — The only advantage
of iron-framed houses over wooden-framed is that they are neater in appear-
ance. Wooden-framed houses ai'e less easily cooled, and are less Uable to
cause glass fractures by sudden expansions and contractions of the frames.

Insects in Cucumber House (J. 7J. S.\— They are mites (Acari) feeding
on the decayed vegetable matter in the soil. They do not injure the roots of

the Cucumbers ; if the roots are diseased we should attribute the injury to
the excessive richness of the soil.

LoiiELiA srEciosA CULTURE (E. G. G.).— Good plants for planting out at
the end of May can be produced from seed so^-n on a hotbed in Februaiy.
When the seedlings can be handled, prick them off an inch apart in pans of
rich light soil, shade xmtil established, and harden off in a cold frame in
May. They wiU afford a fine display from June until cut off by frost.

Pewits in a Gabden (C.A.J.).—lf you have a large garden, sufficient
food will be found by the Pewits or Plovers to sustain them in good health, as
they feed exclusively on insects, worms, and grubs ; but until they get quite
used to your garden we should feed them upon scraped raw beef, and hard-
boiled eggs chopped small, as a substitute for their natiu-al food They aro
fond of damp localities, aud often bathe, and they will find sheltered places
fur themselves at night, bo do not require further protection to prevent them
from flying away. One of two plans must be adopted — viz., the flight feathers
of one wing only must be cut off, or the wing must be pinioned, but the latter
is rather a difficult operation, and must be performed by someone who
thoroughly understands it. All birds can be more or less tamed by kind
treatment and perseverance ; but Pewits most certainly are not cat-proof, aud
are just as liable to be killed by cats as spaiTOws, Ac, and, of course, if de-
prived of the power of flight have less chance of escape.

Sm.all Birds Destroying Brns (-£".).— As the birds have commenced
the destruction of the buds the only remedy will be to cover the bushes with
nets, so that the birds cannot get at them, but we find stringing black cotton
from branch to branch so as to form meshes about 2 inches wide frightens
them quite as much as anything. We do not know of anything smeared over
the buds that will keep them off. If the birds are the bullfinch, shoot them.

Dressing Fruit^Borders (W^^hO.— We should not advise disturbing the
borders as the roots are so near the surface, but we would use in place of the
proposed tan a dressing an inch thick of veiy rich compost or short manure.
Though the new tan may not do any good, it may possibly when decaying
encourage funguses.

Potatoes Wintered in the Groi^nd f/f^fHi).— t^na"estionably if the
soil ia of a friable natme, and they aie so deep or protected as to be safe
from froat. Your having them in the ground all winter aud now taking them
up sound and of good quality, is e\'id6nce of this. Planting 10 inches deep
is more than is safe in all but light well-diained soils, and on all but very
favourable soils, and with protection from frost, it would not be advisable to
allow them to remain in the ground. Victoria is a very good Potato.

Clijibers for Greenhouse (TT. R.).—Foi the girders we should advise
Kenaedya bimaculata variegata, Habrothamuus fasciculatus, Mandevilla
suaveolens, and Sollya heterophyUa. They may be grown in pots placed on
the stage. If you wish to plant outside we should have Tea-scented Rosea as
Mari-chal Niel, Safi-ano, Climbing Devouiensis, and Catherine Mermet. They
would succeed well in a good outside border if introduced through the wall of
the house.

Varnishing Wood Palings (.4 Co mutant Kcader).— Instead of gtm tar we
should have the paUng? toated well with black varnish, which is used largely
by us for iron fencing, wood railings, and various kinds of rough out-door
woodwork. It dries quickly, and when exposed to the sun does not give off
any fumes injurious to vegetation. If the woodwork be dressed or planed wo
should have it painted oak colour; the an ti- corrosion paint is good. Tho
black voiTiish can be obtained through most oilmen.

Holly Leaves Variegated (C. T. H.).— The leaves you sent are only
what we have on several of the gold-leaved Hollies. It is a sport common to
the kind in one or other of its stages of gi'owth. It is lies Aquifolium ferox
aureum. The paints exhibiting the leaves all yellow aie mostly weak, and on
being put on a stock would revert to the original character of the variety ; in
fact, they will return to it on the tree, or, if much shaded, will die off.

Centaukea ragusina from Seed {Idem).— It comes true from seed,
which if sown now wDl make good plants by the end of May, provided they
be forwarded ia a gentle hotbed up to the middle of that mouth, and then
hardened off. The seedling plants are not so good in colour the first season
as those from cuttings, as they have not the silvery whiteness of older plants,
and are more free in growth.

September-flowering Genetyllis tulipifera, Dracophvllum gea-
ciLE, AND Crowea saligna (J. C.).— The Genetyllis you may probably suc-
ceed with, also the Dracophyllum, by now cutting away or shortening all the
flowering shoots, and at once placing the plants iu a temperatme of 50=' at
night. Increase the heat 5° in a fortnight, and in this temperatm-e continue
the plants for two months, allowing a rise of 5° by day from fire heat, and
10- to 15'^ or more with sun and abundance of aii'. Alter this place the
plants in the greenhouse iu a light airj' position, and keep them rather dry.
They may, probably, go to flower if placed in a rather moist aud close atmo-
sphere at the middle of July, but you will need to give tbem the temperatmo
of a stove to flower them. Plants to flower at such an unnatmal seasou
should be specially prepoi-ed, and with hardwooded plants it is best done by
retarding rather thim forcing. Were you to retard the plants for two years,
so as to make them bloom later every year, you would, probably, be able i"
llower them more satisfactorily at the time you wish ; but we do not perceive
the propriety of flowering these plants at such an unnatural season. Crowea
sahgna will flower at the time you wish under ordinarv treatment, retarding
it in a pit if likely to be too forward, otherwise grow it in a gieenhouse.

Potting Bedding Plants {F. J.). — The mode of potting you adopt is
good, especially the use of moss in place of crocks for drainage. If yom' soil
is just moist your potting is not too tight, but if it is in a moist state wo
should pot less firmly. The soil for this class of plants ought to be rather
fii-m and close, but not haid. Go on as you have been doing.

Shallots Decaying (N. S. .S.).— These should have been planted in Feb-
ruary, or as soon afterwards as the weather permitted. The gi-oimd should be
well manured in autumn, thrown up roughly for the winter, levelled down iu
drj' frosty weather in Febriiai";'. luid after a few days dressed with woodashcs
or powdered charcoal, spread over the surface to the depth of about half an
inch, and then forked iu. Form the ground into beds 4 feet wide, with 1 foot
alleys between, and divide it into rows 11 inches apart, with the side rows
fi inches from the alleys. Draw drills an inch deep, and plout in them tho
bulbs or offsets singly (i inches apai't, just pressing each bulb firmly, and fill
the drills to the general .surface level with fine soil. Occasionally stir the
soil hotwcou the rows, beyond which no other care is requii'ed. Tho bulbs
should be taken up when full gi-own— as soon as the leaves begin to turn
yellow — and ahoiUd be laid for a few days on a bard floor or boards in an aiiy
place, and when dry, after trimming off the rougher pai'ts, store away thinly
in a cool airy place. We think you grow the common kind that has long

March 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

249

Blender leaves and small bulba. The larger kind is better, being larger in bulb,
with shorter stouter leaves, and a very much better keeper. It ia known as
" LonK-keeping."

Heating bv Hot Water (Ludlow). — There is no doubt that your boiler
will do a ip^etit deal more than you require of it. A boiler the same width
and depth, and about half the length, would do all you require. In such a
case you must moderate your tire, conhniug it chietiy to the lower part next
the bars, aud using the damper. Whcu uuce the water is heated a small fire
will keep it so if ashpit and furnace doors are shut. You say the boiler is
an open one, and that you mean to take the flow pipe 3 inches from the top,
and the return pipe close to the bottom. If the boiler is open, like awash-
house boiler, we would not raise the flow pipe 3 inches to the extreme end,
with an air pipe there, as that would be as high as the top of the boiler, and
it would be apt to run over as the water expanded by heat. Better lay your
flow pipe level, or not more than a rise of an inch in the 60 feet, with a small
air pipe all the same. Under such circumstances the water will ciiculate veiy
well on the level with the air pipe, and you will have 3 ioches in the boiler
above the pipe to allow for expansion. With an open boiler the circulation,
though perfect, is more languid generally than in a close one. lu your case
we would cover the top of the boiler with a wooden hd, as that will keep the
heat in and help the circulation. Some of the first boilers we worked were
something like wash-house boilers, and thej' worked very well ; but, of course,
it was impossible to heat houses from them where the pipes were on different
levels.

Packing Hot-water Pipes (J. Bourne). — For hot-water pipes we prefer
the sockets being done with red lead and plenty of the usual hemp or jute
packing. Where there is great pressure we prefer the joints near the boiler
being put in with iron cement, but guarding agaiust an excess of sal-am-
moniac with the iron filings. There is a danger of the joints cracking when
too much ummonia is used and the joints are made too full, bat there is uo
risk of cracking when the work is well done. We once had a small house
heated; the joints were firmly made, and the cement was brought outside and
smoothed round like so much putty, but there was hardly a joint that did not
crack in a tv/elvemonth. Other houses were done in the same way, the juto
packing driven well home, and then more mixed with the iron cement, but
from a quarter to half an inch of the socket was left unfilled all round. In
such pipes for the best part of thii'ty years there has never been a leakage
nor a cracked joint.

Defective Heating by Hot water (H. T.\. — There are two things that
rather bewilder us. First, if the house can easily be kept to 6U^ after ten
o'clock at niyht, and yet stand to 33- or S-iT in the morniug, there must be a
fault in banking-up the fires the last thing, so as to keep up a slow but heat-
ing combustion. The question is. Is the house easily raised to that tempe-
ratine in a coldish night '.' Because there is such a thing as heating with
difficulty, and then if there is anything wrong with the pipes when the extra
stimulus is withdrawn, there will be a want of circulation. Then, again,
though you show us the pn-sition of the boiler, we are left in ignorance as to
which is the flow and which the return pipe, and in either case the mode of
placing the pipes seems somewhat comphcated. Of course, the flow pipe
must proceed from the top, and the return go as close to the bottom of the
boiler as is convenient. Once more ; in this span-roofed house, 30 feet by 16,
aud 11 feet to the apex of the roof, there arc no pipes at the south-west end ;
there ai-e two pipes along the southeast side and end, and three pipes along
the opposite north side — quite sufficient to keep out frost and maintain a
temperature of from -lO*^ to 45"^ in cold weather; but to keep up a temperature
of from 50"* to 60^ in cold weather three pipes would be required all round as
far as the doorway. Even with the position of the boiler in the comer where
it is, and with the pipes as they are, it would have been better to have had a
X flow and X return, and then the flow and the return each way would have
been separate, and there could be no flaw in the circulation if air pipes were
placed at the higiiest point at each end. Even with the present arrangement
air pipes should he placed at the two ends, and that might neutrahse the
going round and joining one pipe to three, &c. Now to the direct questions.

1. There is no disadvantage, quite the reverse, in having the pipes on the same
plane instead of one above the other, only one pipe must be made the return,
and go at once by a rapid or more regular descent to the bottom of the boiler.
In a house with a small boiler in a corner like youi-s, we had one flow pipe,
and joined it to three ; the three went round under a stage, parallelogram
shape, rising a few inches to the farther point. An air pipe was placed there.
The three pipes were exactly on a level. From that highest point a pipe de-
scended and went to the bottom of the boiler, and no plan could answer better,
as it Would be difticult to ^ay which of the three pipes was hottest. Owing to
the doorway you could not go round, and therefore must have a separate return
pipe, but uutil it nears the boiler it may be on the same level as the flow.

2. It matters nothing where the supply tank is, provided the water is uot
frozen. 3. No reason of the temperatme falling, excepting what is suggested
above — a little watching and regulating of the lu-e. We are soriy wa do not
know the Eouvardia referred to.

Asparagus Planting (Aurora).— Ot the kinds you name we should prefer
Conover's Colossal, and not have more than one-year-old plants. Of the other
kinds we should prefer Grayson's Giant, and of this plant two yeai'S are pre-
ferable to those three years old. They grow more freely, attain a cutting size
as soon as older plants, and altogether make better beds.

Daisies on Lawn (Id'^m). — We do not know of anything better than a knife
— a slow tedious method, but certain.

BicoLOR and Tricolor Pelargoniums for Redding (An Amateur). —
Antagonist, Edith Pearson, Edward Milner, Louisa Smith, Sophia Dumai'esque,
and Mrs. Headlcy— those for bedding. For pots and probably bedding. Macbeth,
Mr. Kutter, Prince of Wales, Peter Grieve, Sir Robert Napier, and William
Sandy. Those are Golden Tricolors. Silver Tricolors are Charming Bride, Lass
O'Gowrie, Miss Burdett Coutts, Mrs. Colonel Wilkinson, Excellent, aud JIi-s.
John Clutton ; the last. Prince Silverwing and Mabel Morris are best for bed-
ding. Bicolor or Variegated and Bronze : Black Knight, * Carrie Fowler, ^Her
Majesty, ^Countess of Kellie, Arthur H. Wills, "Mrs. Lewis Lloyd, 'Meridian
Sun, ^Princess of Wales, *Tho Moor, Prince of Wales (Dowme"& Co.), ^Mrs.
George Gordon, W. B. Morris, Impi-ratrice Eugenie, and Harrison Weir, with
*Crimson Banner. Those distinguished with an asterisk are best for bedding.
You will find all good varieties, the zones well defined.

Hardy Annuals for Rose Circles (Idem).— They will need to be of small
growth, and should be sown where they are to remain early in April. Alyssum
maritimum, CaUiopsis marmorata nana, Campanula Lorei, Candytuft, Cen-
tranthus ruacrosiphon, CoUinsia hart i sic- folia, Eschscholtzia crocea, Godetia
tenella, Leptosiphon densiflorus and var. albus, Limnauthes Douglasi, Linum
grandiflorum coccineum, Lupinua nanus, Mignonette, Nasturtium Tom
Thumb, Nolana atriplicifolia, .^nothera bistorta Veitclii, Sanvitalia procum-

bens flore-pleno, Silene ruberrima, Saponaria calabrica, and its wliite variety,
Venue's Looking Glass blue and white.

Protecting Fruit Tree Buds from Birds (Arthur). — We think you are
in error as to the chaffinches taking the buds of your fruit trees. Are they nob
bullfinches ? The green linnets, sparrows, and bullfinches are the only birds
we know that take off the buds of fruit trees. Chattiuches with us are very
numerous, but ihey only take insects and small seeds. The only thing we
have fuuud of any use against bU'ds taking buds is to string worsted from
branch to branch of the trees, foruaiu^' a kind of net- like meshts. It frightened
the birds. We should be obhged by information on this subject. Lime dusted
over the trees answers for a time, but the first rains remove it, and so of other
dressings we have .applied. Keluctantly we have been obliged to resort to
the gun.

Plants for Greenhouse (P. S.). — Half a dozen Annuals are Amaranthns
salicifoliuB, BrowaUia gi-andiflora, Celosia Huttoni, Globe Amaranthus,
Balsam, Rhodanthe maculata. They should be sown in a hotbed, and grown
on in heat, removing them to a greenhouse after they are shifted into their
bloomiug pots. BkuniaU: Herbaceous Calceolaria, Cineraria, Chinese Prim-
rose, Clianthus Dampieri, Ipomopsis elegans, and Arctotis gi-andiflora. Peren-
nials : Cyclamen persicum. Acacia coccinea,' Cytisus racemosus, Chorozema
cordatam, Daubeutonia coccinea, and Salvia splendens compacta. Climbers:
Bignonia Tweediana, Kennedya MarrjattLt, K. bimaculata, Lapageria rosea,
Mandevilla suaveolens, and Tacsonia Van-Volxemi.

Seedling Primula (E. Jfiiher).— The flower is very double and large, bub
not superior to others exhibited this year before the Royal Horticultural So-
ciety's Floral Committee.

Outgoing Tenant's I uphove me nts (C. T.). — You cannot recover from the
landlord anything for what you have expended on or done to improve the land.
Even if you had taken the ground for more than a year, it would not have
placed you in a better position. It would not be equitable to make the land-
lord pay for improvements which were done without his consent. You made
them to suit yuur own purposes.

Protecting Forest Trees from Horses (Forest). — We do not know o£
anything applied to the stems that will keep horses from gnawing them.
Gas tar is of no use; they strip off the bark of trees with it on. We should
have some strips of inch hoards fixed round the stems as high a5 the horsjg
can reach. The boards may be about 3 inches broad and secured with iron
hooping, a space of about 2 inches square being left between the boards,
which should be secured by screws at the top, centre, and bottom. W'rap the
bottom of the stem with a hayband, also the top, so as to keep the boards
from injuring the bai'k of the trees when worked by the wind. They will last
a number of years, do not require nearly so much room as guards fixed ati«
some distance from the trees, and are quite as effective.

Stock and Aster Culture (A. S.]. — We have found that the best method
is to sow the seed eai'iy in April on a shght hotbed ; in fact we make up a
hotbed about "i feet high of sweetened dung, and put on a frame. We put in
about 8 inches of light loam with a third of leaf soil and some sharp sand,
and allow the heat to warm the soil through; then we make the surface very
fine by raking, and foi-m drills with the finger about a quarter of an inch deep
for the Stocks and half an inch deep for the Asters, aud the same for Phlox
Drummondi. If the soil is moist we cover lightly with the hand, using the
soil employed for the bed and drawn from the diiils ; but if the soil is dry wa
give a gentle watering and do not cover up for an hour. The drills are about
1^ inch apart, and the seeds scattered about a quarter to half an inch,
apart. Keep close and shaded tmtil the plants ai'e showing through the soil,
then admit air freely, and withdraw the shading. Water only when the soil
becomes dry aud in the morning, continuing to admit air in mild weather,
and protecting only from frost. Use mats iu addition to the Ughts on frosty
nights, Wheu the plants can be handled have in readiness another hotbed,
if the frame they were aovm in be not large enough to hold them, pricked out
in rows 2 inches apart for the Stocks and 3 inches for the Asters, the plants
1 inch apart in the rows, and put them in up to the seed leaves, but no deeper.
Water gently, and keep rather close and shaded from bright sun until they
are estabhshed, after which you can hardly admit too much aii-. They will
be fine plants by the middle of May, and alter having been well hardened off
they should be planted out at the end of the month. The hardy annuals sow
the second week in April where they are to flower, and the Tropajolums at
the end of April. The Stocks have gone off from being sown too thickly an<J
owing to want of air.

Air- ROOTS on Vines (I*. J. H.). — Au*-roots on Vines are caused by the
close moist atmosphere of the house. You may either cut them off or let
them remain; they do no harm to the Vines, and are produced under tho
best management. We would not care to have the di'ainage from the dwelling
house running into the rain-water tank in the vinei-y, but would prefer to
have a separate tank outside the house for the drainage ; it could then be
mixed with water and apphed to the Vine roots with advantage.

Pruning Fruit Trees in Pots (M.). — Y'ou will find treble buds only on
the strong young wood of your Peach trees; you may cut them back to a
treble bud. The weaker shoots have mostly single buds ; these should not he
cut back as a rule. The trees can be kept of a bushy habit by summer-pinch-
ing. The Peach tree that has lost its blossoms without the fruit setting may
bo cut back closer than the others if it requires it ; in other respects it will
require the same treatment. We cannot say why the buds dropped prema-
turely: it might have been overdryness at the roots. Some sorts do not set
their fruit freely when cultivated in pots.

Pruning Vines (ItUm). — If 6 and 9 feet respectively is the length the
Vine rods have grown on Vines planted last July, then they are veiy weak and
should be cut back to within a foot of the ground ; or, as it is now late to cub
the Vines, rub all the eyes off except two or three at the base, which ought
to be trained up the rafters, and would make strong canes during the ensuing
summer. If, on the other hand, the canes were strong and well ripened,
G and U feet would be good lengths to cut them back to.

Autumn Raspberries not Fruiting (Centurion). — You have not planted
the autumn- bearing sorts ; if you do so they will certainly bear in autiunn.
The best we have seen are Merveille dcs Quartre Saisons or October Red.
There is also a yellow variety of the same name. With us the Red Antwerp
bears well in autumn. There is also Rivers's Autumn Black, which we have
not seen.

Heating a Small Conservatory (Jinks). — In such a case as yours we
think the best plan would be to have an iron stove, with a flat head to receive
a plate-iron pan filled with water. Tho stove must be large enough to have a
fireplace inside lined with firobrick, if the fireplace should only be 7 or 8 inches
square. Such a stove without piping would average about 70s. A small pipe
from 3 to 4 inches in diameter could go through the most convenient part ol

250

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March 20, 1873.

the roof, a square of glass being replaced by a square of zinc with a hole in it.
Bum coke or clean cinders, and damp the aahos wheu cleaning out. Remove
the stove from April to November.

Orchard-house Management (A. T.).— Ton will find an article in No. 51G
of our new series which will give you the information you require. As the
trees will soon be in liower, keep the atmosphere of the house dry at that
time. Pears under glasH do not set so freely as Peaches. If the weather is
dull and cold artificial boat should be appUed, with ah in the daytime. Water
ireely at the roota after the fruit is aet.

Repotting Hoya carnosa (Idem). — Pot the plant at once if it requires
it; doing so will not stop its flowering. If this Hoya grows freely in a stove
temperature, and the shoots are trained near the glass, it will be certain' to
flower. Florists' varieties we cannot name. The greenhouse plant is Poly-
gala oppositifolia.

Flowehs for Table Glasses {Petitr).—'\Ye do not know of any seeds
jou could sow in such shallow naiTow glasses to do any good. We can only
advise you to fill them with sand satui-ated with water, and use any cut
flowers that may bo in season in your garden to fill them when required. No
doubt such bulbs as Crocuses would do pretty well, as the flowers are formed
in the bulb or corm the previous season.

Insect Eggs (L. J, K.). — The cocoon covered with eggs is that of the female
Vapoui-er moth (Orgyia antiqua). It is a very common insect, and being (in
the female state) destitute ol wings, it scarcely moves from its cocoon, in which
it generally dei)osit3 its eggs after pairing with the winged male.— I. O. W.

Nabies op Fruits (H. F.).—a. is ILamb Abbey Pearmain ; b is Aromatic
Russet. (Uer. C. B.).—The Pear, BourrO de Ranee; the Apple, we think, is
Coi's Orange Pippin.

POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON OHRONIOLE.

POULTRY SHOW JUDGES AND REPOETS.

Veet much hag been Baid lately as to alleged inoonsiBtencieB
in awards at poultry shows, in some cases no doubt correctly ;
but in some other cases the fault-finders do not seem to be even
aware of all the circumstances which must be taken into con-
sideration by any really good judge. Ignorance in most cases
begets prejudice, and so it is in this case. As types of comments
which seem to me just and unjust, I may take the remarks of
"Obseevek," which were calm and judicious, and of " Justitia,"
which (I have already assumed through want of knowledge, and
and not through ill-will) certainly are not worthy the signature
appended to them.

With regard to " Observer's " remarks, there certainly is a
crying need for more of really able and conscientious judges.
Even when in good health, Messrs. Hewitt and Teebay cannot
be at every show ; and I have again and again remarked there
is hardly an important show yet which has a really sufficient
staff. Whoever may be the judge of certain classes, if he has to
keep on his legs from morning to nearly six o'clock, with only a
hastily-discussed sandwich between, can his later awards be
equal to those made when mind and body were both in fuU
vigour '? The work often given to poultry judges is really cruel,
and I often wonder they do not follow the prevalent example,
and " strike for shorter hours." I wish they would ; it would be
an uumised benefit did every judge of repute make it known
that he declined to arbitrate over more than a certain number
of pens at any show, and insisted upon an hour for dinner in
the middle of it !

But I confess wheu we come to consider where the new judges
so desii-ed by " Observer" are to be found, the answer is not so
easy. It seems nice to speak of " electing " them, but where
are the peoplu to be elected ? That 's the rub. And I venture
to repeat a suggestion I have made elsewhere, that it is worth
censidering whether able service in this department, as in others,
IS not worth proper remuneration; and that were this under-
stood, it might, ijerhaps, induce several perfectly competent
men to devote themselves to it almost as a kind of jn'olession.
I scarcely see otherwise how we are ever to get judges w'ho are

neither breeders nor exhibitors," desirable as such judges are.
Mr. Hewitt stands alone ; and while it is, of course, possible
some one else may appear who shall combine the happy qualifi-
cations of enthusiasm, experience, independent circumstances,
and the will, as well as the power, to devote the whole of his
time without fee or reward to other's service, I confess it appears
to me unreasonable even to hope for it.

Let me suggest again, that if we expect any judge to start up
who shall rival Mr. Hewitt all at once, we shall never see such
expectations reahsed. If he will pardon me for my way of
putting it, even he did not become what he is all at once — he

growed." The most intimate knowledge of any variety will
not necessarily make a good judge of it ; for this, certain pecu-
liarities of mind and eye, as well as experience in actual judging,
are requisite. Does anyone doubt this ? Let hiiii try a very
simple experiment. Let him go to Birmingham on the judging-
day, without a catalogue, and note down as best he may what
pens he thinks should be distinguished in his own pet classes.
Let him resolutely deny himself the temptation to see whoso
they are, but judge them honestly in ignorance ol this, as the
judges have to do ; and then on the Monday let him compare
■his own mental awards with the catalogue of names. He will
reverse many of his own deoiBiona until he has had some ex-

perience of this sort of thing, and he will find out by degrees
that it is much easier to criticise awards with catalogue in hand,
than to go tlirough a bewildering class of, perhaps, nearer a
hundred entries than fifty, and make even a tolerable approxima-
tion to correct judging. Names are a wonderful help. Perhaps
if the judges had them too their awards would be more " con-
sistent." Let anyone do as I suggest, and he will speak more
gently than some of our correspondents have beau doing.

I have seen numerous errors in judging — undeniable errors;
and X may add that I never met a good judge yet who for a
moment denied he had often made such, or who was at all
backward in acknowledging them individually at any show if
courteously pointed out ; but no man can be expected to do so
in reply to the disgraceful language I have sometimes (though
very deaf myself), felt truly ashamed to hear addj-essed to gentle-
men who had done their best through a hard day's work without
the smallest reward of any kind. While admitting this, how-
ever, I may add to it, that having had occasion for purposes
of my own, known to many readers, to attempt something like
an analysis or average of the judging at oijr best shows for
several years past, I have been myself astonished at the sur-
prising amount of consistency and agi'eement, and the very
small proportion of marked excejjtions which appear when thus
tested for purposes in which personal interests have no sway.
That there is any real difiiculty in ascertaining what, in general,
the judges look for in various fowls, I cannot admit, nor can it
be substantiated by any impartial observer. An exhibitor who
is wondering why his bu'ds do not win may not find the task so
easy.

I cannot, therefore, by any means agree with " Justiti.^'s "
remark, that watbout a *' code of rules " there "appears to be
no hope of satisfactory judging," and when we go from this
general statement to the sjjecific ones this con-espondent malies
to substantiate both it and his complaints of the reports too,
these do not appear any better founded. Thus, he states that
birds fDark Brahmas), " that would have been branded as
vulture-hocked last year, are now considered comparatively
clean-legged." I think I have studied Dark Brahmas as care-
fully as most men, and I afifirm without hesitation, that so far
as any diilerence at all can be observed, the exact contrary is
the case ; several perceptibly hocked cockerels having been
awarded prizes in 1871-2, whilst there is no instance at any
of the main shows (London, Birmingham, Manchester, and
Bristol), of such birds winning in 1872-3. Minor shows are less
reliable. I speak of those as having most authority.

His question as to how you can " reconcile " your "report" of
the Devizes classof Dark Brahmas, and complaint of the "want of
impartial criticism," are not better founded. I would rather not
have referred to his argument on this point, as it refers to a
bird of my own breeding; but as it is his only one, and explains,
moreover, a very large class of misconceptions on points of
judging, I can hardly avoid doing so. He says, "It so happens
that the cup and second-prize pens exhibited at Southampton "
were at Devizes, and " as they gained a victory over the Crystal
Palace and Birmingham cup-bird, it follows [here is the fallacy
— a type of many], that the cup-pen at Devizes must have been
a very superior pen of birds." Now, without dwelling on the
fact that the report of Devizes did not depreciate the cup-pen
at all, but only the class generally, a reference to the report of
Southampton will be rewarded by finding the remark that
" Pen 75, unnoticed, belonging to Messrs. Newnham & Mauby,
contained by far the best cockerel [the cup bird at Birming-
ham], and would certainly have been entitled to the highest
honours had he been shown in good company." I do not know
who wrote either report, and am not going to deny that either
or both may possibly have been mistaken. I only wish to
point out that both may be " impartial," and the Devizes ono
can easily be " reconciled," since it thus appears the cup-bird
through which the line of comparison is drawn, as " pubUo
form " is calculated with racehorses, was not, so far as reports
go, "vanquished" at Southampton at all.

It was worth while to mention this, as the remark in the report
of Southampton shows in this case so clearly the origin of the
misconception, which is, as I remarked, but a fair type of a
large class. But even " Justitlv's " general complaint, that
birds which have won at one show have been unnoticed at
another, does not of necessity prove any fault of the judges.
The difference in the competition may have been very great,
and I once had myself to give first prize to a pen which in a
good class would not have deserved more than a commended.
But still more frequently it happens that birds are shown so
often, they go " all to pieces." The mischief is often almost
imperceptible, except to a very in-actised eye, till it is far gone ;
and even such a judge as Mr. Hewitt, though he sees and knows
, that the birds are nearly worn-out, and wiU soon knock-up, miiy
be able to see no valid excuse iu their appearance (which is
all lie may go by) for withholding the highest honours ; when
one more show does the business and finishes them, for the time
at least. The process has not reallv been sudden, but it appears
BO, and the birds are all at free passed over. Other matters

March 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

251

which may change rank occur at once to the mind, siich as
birds being at times shown singly, at others with mates {vide
Southampton already quoted), sometimes in company with their
own a;^es, at others all ages together. But I have said enough
to show that many apparent inconsistencies would disappear
upon patient analysis and reflection.

Many errors remain; all I can say as to these is what I have
said so often already. It is no use railing at gentlemen who do
their best to serve us. The one tangible remedy is to provide
more judges, and to give them time for their work. The pro-
portiou of fair and good awards under the present scandalous
overwork they have is to me really extraordinary, and I can
only believe that with a little more consideration shown to them,
the real causes of complaint would be few indeed. — L. Wright.

THE FORTHCOiVIING POULTRY SHOW OF THE

HANTS AND BERKS AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

I HAVE before me the schedule of the above Show, to be held
this year at Southampton, and although it may in many ways be
called Uberal, I am fain to confess that the reason by which the
prizes are apportioned is to me a mystery. To Polands, which at
the Society's Show last year could only muster four pens, we
now have allotted three classes, and i'G 10.s. in prize money. To
Hamburghs, which put in but a miserable appearance last year,
four classes, and £ij in prize money. While to Dorkings and
Cochins, the principal features of last year's Show, are given
but one class each, and ,i'3 in prize money. The framers of the
schedule may say, '* We wish to encourage these neglected
breeds ; " if so, why do they not give a class to Malays, which
last year mustered four pens, though they had to compete in
the Variety class ; or to Leghorns or Silkies, which mustered as
strongly as Silver-pencilled Hamburghs ? — C. B. T.

HANLEY POULTRY SHOW.

I HAVE before me the Judge's book and the catalogue. In the
Judge's book, Class 130, Ducks, any variety, first is pen 351 ;
second, pen 350 ; third, pen 354; highly commended 353. No.
354 is Mr. J. Walker's, 353 is Mr. Watts's ; and whatever was
the intention of the Judge, the above is correct. Such being
the case, how could the Committee act different ? But on
Mr. Martin (the Judge) giving his impression that it was dif-
ferent we forwarded another third prize to Mr. Watts, although
we had recceived a most imjustifiable letter from him, which
merited a solicitor's reply. With us our desire was to do right,
and for the paltry sum of 5s. it is wrong to accuse any body of
men of premeditated dishonesty. In Mr. Fletcher's case it was
our mistake, and I am sure he will be sorry when he sees your
remarks ; as on receiving his courteous letter expressing his
disappointment I at once referred to the kind of prize, and by
the same post wrote and ordered the manufacturer to forward a
most handsome tea service, and also "^vrote to Mr. Fletcher ; and
was much pleased at receiving a kind acknowledgment, and a
guinea as his subscription to the Show. As to the management
of the Show, the only unkind remark that we have received is
through your Journal, and why it should be so I am at a loss to
understand, as no trouble or expense was spared to make it a
success, which for your infornaation it was ; and the only com-
plaints that came to our notice were Messrs. Watts's and Fletcher's.
I would observe that every bird and dog were in the hands of
the Railway Company by twelve o'clock the day after the Show.
Not so bad for a " badly-conducted Show." — Geo. Bradford,
Chairman of the Hanle// Show.

[We readily insert the foregoing. The " unkind remarks "
were from those who considered themselves wronged, and from
one of the Judges. We made no comment, although we should
have been justified in commenting, since even the Secretary
wrote that there seemed to he " something we (the Committee)
cannot get to the bottom of." — Eds.]

The Epworth and Wharfed-u^e (Otley) Shows. — These
Shows are arranged respectively for the iith and the 10th of
May. In the lirst instance the Show of the latter Society was
arranged for the 9th ; but on the case being represented to the
Council, these gentlemen with great courtesy decided to hold it
on the following day; and the Committee of the Epworth Society
followed suit by arranging for the conveyance of specimens from
their Show to that of the following day, the only condition being
that the labels of birds intended for exhibition at Otley must
be forwarded to the Secretary of the Epworth Society. The
schedule of the Epworth Society is much the same as that of
last year. For poultry there are twenty-two classes, mostly two
prizes in each class ; for Pigeons twelve classes, with tlu'ee
prizes in each; for Cage Birds seven, and for Rabbits four; in
addition there are five silver cups in the various sections. The
prizes offered by the Wharfedale Society are a great improve-
ment upon those of previous years, the classes being much more

numerous in all sections ; and in each class there are three
prizes. Rabbits are for the first time introduced into the
schedule. Five silver cups are offered for competition. —

E. HUTTOX.

SEATON-BUKN POULTPY SHOW.

The second annual poultry Show was held on the 15th inst. at
this, one of the Northumberland mining villages. Considering
that the Society is in its infancy, the gathering was very credit-
able, and the management unusiaally good. Unfortunately,
there is not a room sufficiently large to accommodate so many
pens as were shown and the visitors, and recourse was had ta
a marquee in an open field, which, notwithstanding the coldness
of the weather, answered the purpose admirably, and the abun-
dance of straw which was strewn upon the ground prevented the
dampness of the turf being felt.

The Doi-}ci}igs, BrahmaSy and Spanish were really good, but
the Cochins poor. Gaine were a great feature of the Show, and
there were some good specimens shown, though many were
exceedingly coarse and roiigh in appearance ; in fact, it seems
to be a great difficulty to convince many in Northumberland
what an exhibition Game fowl should be, some adhering to the
old short-legged heavy-feathered style of bird. There were
some good Hamburghs in most of the classes; indeed th&
winners throughout were good specimens. The Silver- spangled
and Golden-pencilled were remarkably good, and a handsome
pen of Black cai'ried off the first prize in the Variety class, good
Crcve-Cosurs being second. In single cocks the first was a good
Brahma, and the second Brown Red Game. Perhaps one of the
best birds in the Show was the first-prize hen, Brown Red Game,
which left no point to be desired. Black and Brown Red Game
Bantams were a large class, but there were many worthless
specimens. Black Reds were first, and Brown Reds second,
both pens being very good. In the class for Any other variety
of Game Bantams a neat pen of Piles were first and Duckwings
second, the latter being closely pressed by another pair of the
same variety. In Bantams, any other variety, the birds were
poor, with the exception of the winners, which were Blacks.
Single Bantam cocks were all Game, and some of the birds very
good and showy, and we noticed one pure white, which, but for
the shortness of head and beak, would most decidedly have
attained the first position as Game. There were but six pens
of Ducks, but these were extremely good, the first-prize (Rouen)
finding a ready purchaser on the opening of the Show, the se-
cond being also Rouen, and the third Aylesbury.

Dorkings.— 1 and e, W. Swann, Bedlin^on. 2, W. J. Thompson, Morpeth.

Cochin'-China.— 1, A. Stephenson, Dudley Colliery. 2, W. Swaun, Bedlington,
c. W. J. Thompson.

Brahma Pootba.— 1, W. Swann. 2, K. Shield, Swalwell. c, W. Sanderaonj,
Seghill Collierv.

tiPAtiisu.—Blacl:—! and 2, Sanderson & Oliver. Whalton. he, R. Shield,
SwalweU ; W. J. Tlinmpson. c, W. .T. RobBon, Newcastle : \V. Swann.

Gaub.— Black-breasted and uther Reiln.—l, T. Younp, Bebside Colliery. 2, T.
and J. Knbsoo, Bishop Auckland, he, J. Nelson, Cock^shaw. Bexliam; T-
Middlemass, Seaton Delavtil; T. Watson; W. Stewart, Dudley; Sharp and
Merry^veather, Dudley Colliery, c, W. Lindsay. Morpeth. Duckwings and
other Greys.— \, T. & J. Robson. 2, J. Nelson, he, Taylor & Hetberinf^ton,
Eedlington Colliery, c, W. J. Thompson. Any other rarietu.—l, G. Perey,
West Oramlington. 2, W. Wilkin, Dudley, he, W. Drysdale, Longhirat
Colliery ; T. Goliyhtly, Seaton Delaval ; J. Richardson, Seaton-Bum.

Wh^'uvRGns.— Silver-spangled.— \, R, Moore, East Rainton. 2, G. TurnbuU,
Ashington Colliery, he, G. Stalker, West Sleekburn; G. Turubull. c, G.
Johnson, Choppington Colliery. Golden-spanoled.—l, G. Stalker. 2, G. John-
son, c, G. Johnson ; G. Stalker ; E. Bell, Brenkley.

Haiiburghs. — Silver-pencilled. — 1. R. Moore, East Rainton. 2 and c, J.
Wilson. Shank House Colliery. Golden-pencilled. — 1, D. ChejTic. 2, R. Moore.
he, R. Shield, Swalwell ; J. W. Schofleld, Morpeth, c, W. Johnson, Cowpen
Collierv.

Any otrkr VABiETy.— 1, W. J. Thompson. 2, T. & J. Robson. he, R. Par*
sons. Cock.— I. J. Neasham, West Sleekburn. 2, J. Nelson. vJie, T. & J.
Robson. he. T. Young; Taylor & Hetheriugton; T. Dortd, Seaton Bum ; W.
Lindsay, Morpeth ; Sharp & Merryweather. Dudley ; W. Swann. c. W. J,
Tliompson. Ht'H.— 1, T. & J. Robson. 2, J. Parkinson. New Delaval. vhe,K.
ShieM. Swalwell; W. Swann. hc.W. J. Thompson; W. Johnson, Burradon
Colliery, e, R. White, Cockshaw, Hexham; J. Pattison, Bebside Colliery;
Davison & Mitchieon. Netherton.

Game Bantams.— B/ac/^6rcftsfe(i and other Reds.—l, J. Short, Bedlinston. 2,
W.Davison. 7tc. C. Cniddia, Seaton Delaval ; J. Nelson; G. Wi^ht, Dinning-
ton Collierv : Fairless & Robson. Wideopen ; W. C. Moody, c, J. Younj;. Anu
othervancti/.—i, J, Douglass, North Seaton. 2, R. White, vhe, T. Reavely.
he, R. J. Hartley, Altrincham. c, T. Gallon, Wideopen; J. Ross, Bebside
Colliery.

B*ntams. — Any other variety.— 1, Taylor & HetheriuRton. 9. J. Neasham,
West sleekburn. he, W. Sanderson, Sefihill ; J. Neasham. c, W. J. Thompson.
Cocit.— 1. J. Short. 2, Miss M. Parsons, vhc. R.White, lie, Fairless & Rob-
son. c, C. Crnddis, Seaton Delaval; J. Dickinson, Stakeford; R. Gustard,
Seaton-Buin ; W. C. Moody, Newcastle-

Ddcks.-I. J. Nelson. 2 and 3, Mias Wilson, Morpeth, he, K. White; J. W-
Schoheld, Morpeth.

The Judge was Mr. E. Hutton, Pudsey, Leeds.

Exemplary Punishi^ient. — At the Southwark Police Court on
the 17th inst., Elizabeth Coffey, a middle-aged woman, was
charged before Mr. Partridge with cruelly torturing a hen, the
property of Elizabeth Seager,by cutting off its comb. The com-
plainant said she Hved three doors from the defendant, who
was always quarelling with the neighbours and annoying the
children. Witness and her husband kept a few fowls in ashed
in the yard, and on Tuesday morning one of the hens got out,
and the defendant's door being open, it rushed into her front

252

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ March 20, 1873.

room. Witness sent one of her children after it, when the de-
fendant seized hold of the hen. The child called out, " Mother,
Mrs. Coffey is cutting off the chicken's head." Witness rushed
to the door, when the defendant threw the hen out of the house,
and said, " I'll serve you the same." Witness then picked up the
chicken, and found that the comh had heen entirely cut off, and
the poor thing was almost hliuded in hlood. (Witness liere pro-
duced the hen for his Worship's inspection, and it was in a fright-
ful state.) EUzabeth Jane Seager, 10 years of age, daughter of
the last witness, said she saw the hen fly into the defendant's
house. She ran after it, when Mrs. Coffey snatched up the
chicken, and taking a knife off the table commenced cutting its
head. In answer to the charge the defendant said the fowls
caused a great nuisance by always rushing into her house. Mr.
Partridge told het he had no doubt she had committed this
■wicked and deliberate act of brutality. He sentenced her to two
mouths' hard labour at Wandsworth House of Correction, with-
out the option of paying a line.

THE JUDGING OP POUTERS AT BE.IDFORD

-\ND NORTHAMPTON SHOWS.
I .\ji quite at a loss to iinderstand the difference in the Judges'
opinions of the Pouter hens at the above Shows. I showed a
Red Pouter hen at Bradford, where she was very highly com-
mended ; Mrs. Ladd showed two White hens, but they were not
mentioned. I sent the Red hen the next week to Northampton,
where she was not even commended, whilst Mrs. Ladd was first
and second with the same two hens that were not mentioned at
Bradford. Can anyone inform me if there are any standard
points by which to judge Pouters, or is it a mere matter of
■fancy? 'The hen I showed took the first prize and cup at Glasgow
this year for Pouter hens any age, in the Black, Blue, and Bed
or Yellow classes, and (as she is much fresher than she was then)
I cannot understand how it was that she did not get even a
commendation at Northampton, as the Pouters shown at Glas-
gow were considered to be the best lot ever brought together in

Scotland.

X should feel much obliged if some of the Judges would kindly
let me know the points by which to judge Pouters, so that in
future I may know whether I am buying a good bird or not. —

William Bidlev, Hexham.

MOTTLED TUMBLERS.
Mb. Fobd, than whom no fancier is better able to speak on
the subject, has called in question the answer given in the
Journal for March 6th on the colour of Mottled Tumblers. The
gentleman who put the question also sends another line on the
subject. I wlU frankly own that in writing the reply to Mr. T.
Moore I had not, being absent from home, Eaton's work to refer
to. I there find that the model bird has a mottled back. But
that it is an open question, or, at least, one ou which some
fanciers hold one view and some another. I must refer to the
large work entitled " Pigeons," published by Messrs. Boutledge
in 18G8, just ten years after Eaton's, and in it the Black Mottles,
particularly the upper one of the two, in the picture have no
white at all on the back ; and in the body of the work, jjage 112,
it is written, " Mottles have a dark ground, black, red, or yellow,
and occasionally dun, slightly mottled with white on the wings,
and sometimes also ou the back." I own I prefer them without
the white feathers on the back, but it is all, of course, fancy, and
fancy is changeable ; but I think the birds look neater without
the handkerchief back. — The One who Wrote the Answer.

THE RABBITS AT NORTHAMPTON.

The fact that 1G2 pens of probably the finest specimens in the
country were collected together was a sight for the admirer of
the Rabbit varieties. At Northampton the entries for Babbits
were more numerous than at any other show. More Babbits
have been collected probably, but in pairs, and in reference to
these in question as a whole they were a decidedly good and
valuable collection. To particularise would be a pleasurable
duty if our space would admit.

The Lops, Self-coloured (uine entries), were clear and almost
faultless in their respective markings, and the Sooty Fawn buck
may be considered an almost perfect specimen, and for such
attributes the cup was his reward. He is not perhaps the largest
of those seen at times, yet his quaUties render him valuable.
The second in position a Blue buck, and third a Black buck of
almost perfect jet-like shade, were equal to their positions, and
the others claiming honourable mention were of considerable
merit, and probably at no other time are the Self-colours to be
found in gi'eater numbers in the rabbitry than at the present
throughout the coimtry. The variety Coloured Lops (eleven
entries) were excellent ; the Tortoiseshell doe as the cupwinner
is a large and well-marked animal, the second in distinction of
same marking is a valuable Babbit, and fitting companion to

her more distinguished neighbour. The Grey and White Buck
as third in position gives promise of being a fine animal, as he
is only eleven months old. The other pens were too important
to escape favourable mention. The Angoras (eighteen entries)
were with few exceptions fine specimens, not probably so large
as we have seen, yet in fineness of wool, ttc, decidedly good ;
and had their owners made more free use of the comb before
their appearance in public, the animals would have looked all
the better, for probably no variety depends more upon this at-
tention for its' general showy appearance. The first-prize and
cup specimen youug doe was of great value ; a few months will
find her still more attractive. A doe as second, a young buck
as third, were also worthy of their position. A French Rabbit
of large size shown in this class, a Fawn Buck, and a Black
were the three exceptions to the prevailing colour White.
Some were in a state of moult, consequently appeared to dis-
advantage, others presented a strong and less silky fineness of
wool so desirable. As a rule the Angoras are in greater perfec-
tion during the warmer weather, and present a fulness of fleece
scarce to be expected in a less genial season.

The Himalayans (twenty-six entries), were a splendid class,
some almost perfection, and evidently exhibited at the right
time judging from the darkness of points, so all-important.
Some few were moulting, hence their chances of success were
considerably less. The doe which won the first prize and cup
was in excellent condition and moderate size ; the second prize
also went to a doe, and the third to a buck — these were well-
formed animals. The class was probably one of the best ever
seen.

The Silver-Greys (twenty-two entries), were presented in a
variety of shades and size, so generally observed in this ani-
mated variety, and we are glad to observe that that near ap-
proach to the Chinchilla, so desirable, is now more frequently
observed than in years gone by, and Jihe first and cup pen, a
doe, was both large and of true shade ; the ^second, also a doe,
it probably not quite so large was of great merit ; and the third,
a buck, was worthy of his position ; the others in favour were
valuable specimens of this variety.

The Dutch (eighteen entries), in the diversity of colours were
an important class, some pens moulting. The first-prize and
cup Babbit, a Lemon-coloured doe ; and the second, a Black
doe ; also the third in distinction, Yellow doe, were all worthy
of their respective positions, and the minor badges of honour
were awarded to nens of great merit.

The Any Variety class (fourteen entries), included a noble-
looking specimen of the rare shade (sandy fawn), Patagonian,
as first prize, a fine Belgian doe as second, and a buck of the
same variety as third. Nine Belgians were exhibited, and we
feel assured that if a class for this valuable and now more appre-
ciated variety was given the result would be satisfactory. Au
Andalusian buck was also exhibited, a Siberian doe, and a speci-
men of the once-important variety of thirty years ago, desig-
nated when first introduced into this country " Silver Sprig."
The class was important, more especially as regards the number
of valuable Belgian Hares exhibited.

The class for heavy Babbits included six entries, and the
17-lb. 6-oz. doe as first, the 15-lb. 4-oz. doe as second, and the
less weighty one as third, were aU of the Lop class, as were the
others exhibited.

The Selling Class (twenty-five entries), presented the usual
varieties, and two Lops (bucks), as first and secona were de-
cidedly good and of the full stipulated price in value. The
third, a Silver-Grey buck of great promise (five months), and the
others were equal to the position they respectively took.

The Local Class (thirteen entries), was very commendable,
and we rather like this feature in a show as an indication of the
interest felt. The first-prize winner, a Blue buck (Lop), and
second, an Angora doe, third a young Belgian doe, wore all
decided in their varied points of excellence, and the others ex-
hibited were of good quality.

In conclusion we must offer a complimentary word to the in-
dustrious Committee, and not forget their indefatigable and
courteous Secretary. May they have every success for the
future, in which we think all will concur who saw the complete
arrangements made to insure success. The pens were roomy,
and supplied by Mr. Turner, of Sheflield ; and as to the occupants
for the time being, there is little to fear as to their being re-
turned home none the worse for their visit to Northampton.
The longest-eared Bibbit was 23J by 5i inches, and heaviest
17 lbs. 6 ozs.

Guinea Pigs. — k writerof distinction, according to the Scien-
tific American, says those little, plump, clean animals should
be used for food. A mistaken notion is entertained generally
that they are a kind of rat, and therefore au unjust prejudice
ought to be overcome, since they are excellent eating. Guinea
Pigs are not pigs. They are harmless, timid, vegetable feeders.
Their flesh is nutritious and delicate. If once received into our
markets, being easily raised, they would soon be prized for their
many desirable dietetic properties. Being prolific, too, they

Maroh 20, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDKNEB.

253

might be raised in vast abundance, their food being an item of
no expense, a few cabbage leaves, roots or waste parings being
all they would require to grow into proportions to till vacancies
in a gourmand's stomach.

BEE DOMICILES AND BEE SYSTEMS OP
MANAGEMENT.

I NOTICE your esteemed correspondent Mr. Lowe, at page 194,
expresses regret that the reiteration of his hypothesis has failed
to convince me of its soundness. Now I feel sorry he should
have given himself this additional trouble, as I was perfectly
familiar with the theory, which was simply a reproduction of
what he promulgated more than a dozen years ago in the pages
of this periodical ; consequently it can scarcely be styled as
*'iucideutally expressed." ■■■ ^ .— -

Let us suppose there are the two hives I drew the comparison
between— the straw skep and the Stewarton — side by side. Let
us look no deeper than the entrance. Does not the running-in
of that sliding door in the Stewarton, which the straw skep
lacks, so close as to admit but one or two bees at a time during
the prevalence of this bitter March east wind which whistles
into both, raise the temperature and stimulate the queen's pro-
duction ? -Assume, for the sake of argument, at the moment
we looked, both hives were on a perfect equality as to population,
bee for bee, is not every additional worker that is called into
being three weeks hence, just so much bee-power, if I may use
the expression, put upon the field to add to the honey result in
tl e Stewarton over the straw skep '? Admit but this thin end
of the wedge and the equality theory topples : it is unnecessary
to drive it home, the increase being in a progressive ratio. Or
does not the exchange of the overloaded combs from this old
Stewarton colony with the fully-combed but starving one esta-
blished last season, without the smallest outlay, save the exist-
ence of the one and beneficially affect the other, so as to give
the reasonable prospect of a good honey result from both ? And
pray had the hive qua hive here little or no influence on such
a result ? That starving straw skep has to be fed at present
oi:tlay or perish.

Does the spring examination reveal the queenlesg state of that
otTiier Stewarton ? The interchange of a frame brood for one of
empty comb puts all right. What are the honey results from
the queenless straw skep ?

Is not an inch or two of more depth, one hive over another,
all other things exactly alike, sufficient often to prevent a swarm
and complete the super, the former of which in the other case
goes off, leaving but empty comb therein, with honey result ?iil ■
Is the disparity so little between one hive and another when
there may be a defect sufficiently wide over the centre to
admit the body of the queen to pass through to the supers ?
and are her peregrinations therein for one morning not suffi-
cient to ruin the honey results of the season ?

How many more bees per minute emerge from the Stewartsn
<:olony with close on 14 inches of triple doorway room at mid-
summer over the two or three of the straw skep, would be a
nice calculation, watch in hand, for the theorist; and what a

fain in honey result at the season's end, from the greater free-
om of egress and ingress alone, besides the bracing stimulating
effect of so much fresh air, the practical apiarian knows full
well.

Why compel that row of workers to stand busy fanning at the
contracted entrance of a straw skep on a sultry summer day ?
Would it not be a manifest gain to set them free, to the more
congenial task of adding to their honied store ? Does the ma-
nager of the manufactory so waste his labour power ? Is he not
ever ready to attach a belt to going machinery and economise
it? But I forget; a bee hive is not a manufactory — simply a
store, says Mr. Lowe. Well, a store be it, then. Are stores
too, like bee hives, beyond the pale of improvement ? In these
-days of enormously enhanced manual labour and horseflesh cost,
does not the prudent store proprietor dispense as much as pos-
sible with both, and adopt the hydraulic or steam hoist, adding
materially if not to his honied at least to his monied result at
the year's end ? And what is to prevent the bee-keeper from
adopting the aerial hoist described above ?

As to the general question " Which is the best hive ?" there
is much force in your excellent contributor " B. tt W.'s " re-
marks thereon, at page 109, as to the impracticability of Mr.
Pettigrew's competitive scheme.

Mr. Lowe in his fancied contest presupposes his tea-chest the
winner from its greater nett weight. Would not Mr. Pettigrew
a,t once enter his protest that nett weight was not honey result ?
There might be more brood and pollen in the chest ; " And pray
iow are we to ascertain it?" ask the bewildered Judges. " By
rtmning it, to be sure," replies Mr. Pettigrew triumphantly;
*' it is run honey that is most in demand, you know." Liberty
is granted. A couple of pairs of chairs are procured from the
tent and set back to back, basins and measure from the nearest
chinaman's ; the bees are got quit of, and each competitor pro-
ceeds to break-ui) his waxen citadel, depositing the combs as

bruised in the suspended cheesecloths. " Look here," says Mr.
Lowe, " it's but September. See what a lot of unhatched brood
and grubs are here. It is not humane to so destroy them.
Where is Mr. Abbot ? Possibly he may have a spare frame or
two ; I could fix in these spare combs nicely and save them."
" Wo'n't have it," cries his opponent, ** that's modern. Besidep,
you have told us experiment and chill are synonymous with
foul brood. Crush them up, man, they are sappy." " Lend
themahtlle hot water," cries Mr. Symington from the ropes.
Pint after pint is measured and duly recorded in the Judges'
note-books. The process is slow, and the crowd of ou-lookers
impatient. "Can't they wring it out?" cries a voice. This,
too, is allowed. Off coats and up shirt-sleeves, and at it they
go ; straw skep if anything ahead. " One squeeze more," cries
Mr. Pettigrew, and the measure overflows. It is declared the
winner by a quarter of a pint amid the cheers of the spectators.
— A Renfeewshibe Bee-keepek.

[We have omitted much from the above communication, and
must similarly treat all other communications. Our pages are
too limited to afford space for merely smart sayings and repar-
tees. We wish every writer would confine his pen to detailing
facts and their legitimate deductions. Bach is entitled to his
opinion, and each is searching for truth. — Eds.]

THE BEST KIND OF HIVES AND THE
BRIMSTONE PIT.

Being an interested observer of this discussion, I have looked
into Mr. Pettigrew's book this morning to see what is said about
the brimstone pit, and there I find the following instructive
paragraph at page 172 — " Now let us suppose a bee-keeper has
twenty hives at the end of August — ten for stock and ten for
honey. Should he apply the brimstone to the ten for honey ?
No, and again we say no ; but drive the bees out of them, and
unite them to those selected for keeping. This is a considera-
tion of prime importance, for hives thus plentifully furnished
with bees in September are worth much more than those which,
being otherwise equal, receive no addition of bees from without.
Hives thus strengthened are well able to bear the difficulties of
cold winters. They swarm about a month sooner than others
in spring ; and their first swarms in fine seasons will have their
hives filled with combs, and be nearly ready to swarm them-
selves before hives not so skilfully and Liberally dealt with begin
to swarm at all. No poor words of ours can describe the value
of this hint. Let it go and be circulated widely with that of
large hives, and the success of those who carry it into practice
will soon stimulate the attention of those who do not. The
awful brimstone pit, now used to destroy valuable lives, will
soon be considered as something which belonged to the dark
ages." And again on page 178 we find — " We are no advocates
and patrons of the brimstone pit. We do not use the pit, or
ever attempt to put to death whole swarms of bees. We think
it bad poUcy to do so ; but we cannot agree with some senti-
mental folk who hold up the practice as one of inhumanity. It
is not more cruel to destroy bees for honey than it is to knock
a calf on the head in order to get milk, or to drive the poleaxe
into the brains of a bullock with a view to get beef. And what
about cutting the throat of a sheep for a bit of mutton ? There
is nothing in the destruction of the Uves of bees more cruel and
inhuman than there is in the destruction of the lives of cattle,
sheep, and fowls. There has been given to man a power over
the inferior creatures, the proper use of which is an advantage
and blessing to the human family."

In the interests of fair deaUng I send you these extracts, which
speak for themselves. — An Obsebver.

[How would killing calves, oxen, and sheep for their flesh be
justified if it were possible to have their flesh without kiUing or
hurting them ? Honey and wax can be obtained without killing
or hurting the bees. — Eds.]

NADIRING.

At the request of one of your con-espondents who signs him-
self " A LooKER-ON," and asks for some information on the
advantages or disadvantages of the practice of nadiring hives,
I must confess that my own experience of this practice has been
very Umited, for the simple reason that it has never in any case
of trial been found of use except for a particular and Umited
purpose. . .

It is an excellent plan to nadir a strong stock in May with a
box intended to be used as a super, and to put it oyer the hive
as soon as the bees have begun fairly to work in it. For this
purpose my supers are mostly of the same size as the stock,
boxes, only considerably shallower. Everyone knows how diffi-
cult it sometimes is to induce bees to ascend into supers ; but if
the plan of previous nadiring be adopted all difficulty ceases, as
the bees have already become accustomed to the box and have
begun to work in it. With this exception I cannot imagine any
advantage in the practice— certainly not if virgin honey be a

25-i

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Maich 20, 1873.

deBideratum, as the results I have invariably found to be the
storing of honey in the old box, which becomes liracticallj* a
super, and the spoiling of the combs in the nadir, which are apt
to be filled with drone comb and to be choked with pollen.
— B. & W.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Kent AND ScRBEY Rabbit Show (IF. H.^W.).— It seems to have baen a
local show, not being advertised.

PouLTUY Account {J. H. D.).—You Ihave Bucceeded exceedingly well, for
you have paid for all your stock and their keep the first year, with a email
profit over. Go on without change.

Ground Oats— Slaking (J(7noramu8).— Ground oats are not oatmeal, but
oats gi-ound and not dressed. Slaking is mixing with hot water.

Hen Food. — " A Dozen Hciis " wish " Oyster Shell " would reveal the food
he employs.

DisTiNGUisHiKG PuLLETS FEOM Hens (Breeder of Cochins).— You pro-
pound a question difficult to answer. It is easy to distinguish between a
pullet and a hen, but a fowl twelve months old is not a pullet. She has, if of
a sitting breed, laid, sat, and reared her chickens. This much is certain — no
pullet has large coarse scales on her lege, unless she is suffermg from ele-
phantiasis. We have never 1-ad a spurred Cochin hen; the breed is not sub-
ject to such an appendage. Dorkings, Game, Houdans all have it at times,
even when young, but we have not met with it in Cochins. We should not
like to buy such.

Dark and Light Erahmas {BristoUan). — There is no difference in the
useful properties of the two breeds. It is a mere distinction of colour. We
cannot as readily answer your next question. "What are the breeds that are
best to make the croas-breds ? and what is your object, eggs or fowls ? If
you want only eggs, put down a Spanish ; if fowls, put down a Dorking, lu
neither case would it be necessary to put an expensive bird. We are enemies
to all crosses, and advise you to get some good pure eggs to put under some
of our broody hens. Save the produce for your nest yeai-'s stock, and get rid
of your croBS-breds.

Rats in rowi.-HoFSE (7. H. S.).— They are a great plague in afowl-house.
We keep the floor round the wall and foundation of large loose gravel stonon;
but besides; that, there must be contiuuaJ attention. We also keep a cat in
our fowi-house locked in every night. If she does nothing else, she keeps the
rats away. We lose no eggs. You must not imagine oui- immunity arises
from the'absence of rats. We swarm with them, and five hundred were killed
from one rick within a quarter of a mile.

Ar.RANGEMENT OF POULTRY RuN (Jii^'wi).— Fowls should havea placo apart
to sit in. We put all ours in close baskets covered at top with wire netting.
Thus they are never disturbed. The age at which chicksnscan bs left without
their mother depends much on the time of year. Between May and Septem-
ber they will shift for themselves at six or seven weeks, If the rip in which
they have roosted with the hen be left for them to use every night, and be
left in the same place. During such trying weather from rain, snow, and
cutting winds as we have had of late chickens are better under cover, but at
the end of this month we shall put all out of doors. The grass is never too
damp unless it is slushy, and if it is you should choose another place for the
rip. They always do best on grass. The front of the rip should be closed
every night for some weeks to come. It must bo opened as soon as the sun is
up. Till the weather is more favoiu-able put the hens with their rips at the
door of your house, so that the chickens can run out. If they have no grass
give some large growing sods. Let them have road grit. Do the same for
your hens. If many shell-less eggs are laid, increase the quantity of whole
com for a day or two, and see that the brick rubbish contains plenty of mortal-
and old ceilings. It is very often only a temporary dei-angement of the se-
cretions.

FERTiLirY OF Ducks' Eggs (M. JET.).— The fertility of the eggs will depend
on the depth of the tank. The size is immaterial, but it should not be less
than 18 inches deep; 2 feet will bo bettor. A bread-pan or a washing-tub
sunk to the level of the ground willl answer every purpose; hut failing the
depth we have named, the gardener is right.

Brahma Hen Tumoured. (J7i5uir(rr).— The probabihty is it is a cheesy
tumour, aud the longer it remaius the hai-der it will get. It is more thau
likely it prevents the hen from laying, and that would cause her to walk with
tail on I he ground. Take a pair of scissors, and cut off the feathers all
round; rub the naked spot with oil. Put your thumb and finger at the
bottom of the swelling; it will .sometimes burst through the skiu. If it will
not, take a nharp knife and cut it across, squeeze it at the bottom at tlie same
time, and it will come out clean. Wash the wound out with alum and water.
Sew up the cut with two distinct stitches or mure if necessary, and rub siifli-
cient giease on it to prevent the entrance of air. She will soon get rid of her
torments, but it will bean assistance to her if you rub some oil under her
wing close to the body, at the back of her head, and along her backbone.

Dorking Cock's Comb Wounded {J. M.).— If the comb was an upright
one before, was only outwardly damaged, and is properly and thoruugbly
healed, it is probable it lops for want of condition. If it be flaccid there is
no doubt that is the cause. He was probably shut up during treatment, and
has lost health. Give him a run to himself, or if that be inconvenient get
Bome cottager who has no fowls of his own, and who has a good run, to walk
him. He will doubtless come round.

Hamburghs in Limited Space (Hamburgh Breeder). — You may keep
two cocks and eight hens, but you must let them all run together. You must
do it, because by your proposed ai-rangement you will keep on at a see-aaw.
Improved on Monday by the 41-fuet run, deteriorated on Tuesday by beitig
restricted to 8 feet, you will make no progress. If you find you cannot keep
two cocks together, let all the heuti run, but the cocks only ou alternate days.
Close confinement is very trying to Hamburghs.

Jacobin wt:th Swollen Breast and Vent (A Subscriber). — Most likely
it is a gathering, and before you read these lines, matter has formed and the
place has been opened by you. Possibly it arose from a braise in the long
journey you mention. If a bad case your bird will die.

Rearing Pheasants (J. B.). — Your letter would be a good advertisement
ior the firm.

HniES (M. J.). — It is quite impossible for ua to undertake the commission.
If you showed a drawing of any wooden hive you prefer to a carpenter, he
onght to maJie you one.

Ligurian Bees (N. S. S.). — Italian and Ligurian bees are the same. All
things being equal, we consider Ligurian to be superior to the black bees. It
would be of little advantage to you to obtain a stock of them in a common
straw hive unless you use loose-frame or bar hives, ,and could luise queens
artilicially. For particulai's as to price, &c. ,apply eitlier to Mr. A. Neighbour,
1-lil, Regent Street, London, or to Mr. Pettitt.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS ,

Camden Square, London.
Lat. 51° 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0^ 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date.

A.U.

In t

IE Day.

Radiation
Temperatnre

1873.
March.

Barome-
ter at 32°
and Sea
Level.

Hygrome-
ter.

P

Shade Tem-
perature.

.3

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

Bun.

On

grass

We. 12
Th. IS
Fri. U
Sat. 15
Sim 16
Mo. 17
Tu. 18

Inches.
29.362
2a.S03
2a.738
29.889
29.818
29.884
29.920

deg.
S8.8
S5.3
33.1
40.4
87.4
88.4
40.8

deg.
36.3
34.8
31.8
38.1
86 2
37.0
40.4

N.W.

N.

E.
N.E.
SE.
S.W.
N.E.

deg.
41.2
41.1
40 5
89.5
39 8
40.4
41.0

deu.

47.0
44.1
43.2
43.8
43.0
48 0
47.2

deg.
33.0
32.7
29.2
32.5
84.3
36.5
36.0

deg.
91.2
83.1
f,5.2
66.3
48.9
81.1
61.2

deg.
SS.l
32.2
26.8
29.4
33.4
36,8
85.0

In.

0.040

0.092
0.130

Means

29.739

87.7

86.4

40.5

45.2

83.4

71.0

82.4

0.262

REMARKS.
12th. — Some showers, but nearly all the early part of the day fine and bright.
13th. — Snow iu the early morning ; fine day ; rather thick in the evening; sun

very bright in the middle of the day.
14th. — "UTiite frost in morning ; fine, and occasionally very bright till between

2 and 3 p.m., when it clouded over, but no rain.

15th. — Lunar halo at 1.45 a.m., fair but cold, and not quite as hright as on the

previous day, though very fine in the early moi-ning.
IGth. — Koin in morning ; fine in the middle of the ^y ; rain at intervals after

3 p.H. ; rather heavj' in the evening.

17th. — Fan- all day, and occasionally bright, though rather coldj a whistling

wind commencing about 9 A.M.
18th. — Rather dull early, and not particularly bright at any time, bat taken as

a whole a pleasant day.
Temperature nearly 5° colder than last week; the sun occasionally very
bright, but not for a sufficient time to warm the air, counteract the cooling
influence of the easterly winds, or dissipate the cloud-curtain which has so
long rested over these islands. — G. J. Svmons.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET. -March 19.
Imports and home-gi-own produce are just about sufficient for present re-
quirements. Good Apples of all sorts are now becoming very scarce, and the
American varieties aie decaying rapiiUy. A quantity has lately been offered
in very bad condition. Cornish BroccoUs are still coming vei'y good,; and
remain at former prices.

FRUIT,
8. d. B. d. ; e. d. s. d

Apples i sieve 3 oto5 0 ; Mulberries ^Ib. 0 UtoO 0

Apricots doz. 0 0

Cherries perlb. 0 0

Chestnuts bushel 12 0 20 0

Currants ^ siuve 0 0 0 0

Black do. 0 0 0 0

Figs doz. 0 0 0 0

FUberta lb. 0 0 0 0

Cobs lb. 2 0 2 6

Gooseberries quart 0 0 0 0

Grapes, hothouse lb. 8 0 14 0

Lemons ^100 6 0 10 0

Melons each 0 0 0 0

0 0 Nectarint-a.,

doz. 0 0 0 0

Oranges ^* loa 4 0 10 0

Peaches doz. 0 0 0 0

Pears, kitchen doz. 10 8 0

dessert doz. 8 0 12 0

PineApples lb. 6 0 10 o

Plums i&ieve 0 0 0 0

Quinces doz. 0 0 0 0

Raspberries lb. 0 0 0 0

Strawberries ^oz. 10 2 0

Walnuts bushel 15 0 80 0

ditto %>>1U0 2 0 2 6

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus %>- 100

French

Beans. Kidney =^100

Beet, Red doz.

Broceofi bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums ^ 100

Carrots bunch

CauUflower ■. doz.

Celery bundle

Coleworts.. doz. bunthes
Cuoumbers each

pickimg doz.

Endive doz.

Fennel bunch

Garlic lb.

Herbs bunch

Horseradish bundle

Leeks bunch

Lettuce doz

VEGETABLES,

. d. B. d.

J Oto(j 0

i 0 10 0

5 0 80 0

a 0 8 0

8 0

1 6

1 6
0 0
0 0
4 0

2 0
4 0
8 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
4 0
0 0

Mashroomg pottle

Mustard i Cresa.. punnet

Onions ^bushel

pickUng quart

Parsley per doz. bunches

Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

ludney do.

Round do.

Radishes., doz. boncheB

Rhubarb bundle

Salsafy ^^-bundie

Savoys doz,

Scorzonera..,. %^ bundle

Sea-kale basket

Shallots lb.

Spinach bushel

Tomatoes doz.

Turnips bunch

Veget^ible Marrows

I. d, s. d

U 0 to 2 C

2 0

POULTRY MARKET.— March 19.
We have a very short supply, and prices are in consequence above the
average. Doubtless from the unfavouiablo weather good poultry will lie
scarce for a time.

B. d. s. d.

Large Fowls 5 0 to 5 6

Smallorditto 4 6 6 0

Chickens 8 6 4 0

Geese 7 0 8 0

Guinea Fowls 8 0 8 «

Ducklings 4 0 ^ -1 G

8. d. S. d.

Pheasants 0 0 to 0 0

Partridges 0 0 0 0

Hares 0 0 0 0

Rabbits 15 16

Wild ditto 0 9 0 10

Pigeons 0 10 10

March 37, 1873. ]

JOUKNAL OF HOBTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

WEEKLY CALENDAR.

Day Day

of 1 of
Mouth "Week.

MAKCH 27-APRIL 2, 1873.

Average Tempera-
ture near London.

Rain in
4S years.

Sun

Kises.

Son

Sets.

Moon
Rises.

Moon

Sets.

Moon's
Age.

Clock Day
tefore c-f
Sun. Year.

27
2.3
29
80
81
1

Th

P

S

SCH

M

Ta

W

MeetUig of Eoyal Society, 8.30 p.m.

5 Sunday in Lent.

Meeting of Zoological Society, 8.30 P.M.
Koyal Horticultural Society, Show, Committee,
[and General Meetings.

Day.

64.1
53.0
53.7
53.7
55.3
55.0
67.8

Night.
34.1
34.0
83.4
34.3
88.9
84.4
36.7

Mean.
44.1
48.5
43.6
44.0
44.0
44.7
40.9

Days.

14
17
13
19
18
21
21

m. h.
48al5
46 5
44 6
41 5
39 5
37 5
34 5

m. h.
23afG
24 6
^G G

28 0

29 6
31 6
83 6

m. h.
54af 5
11 C
20 6
43 6
2 7
25 7
64 7

m. h.

58 4
20 6
52 7
17 9
41 10
moru.
1 0

Days.

26
•

1

2

3

4

5

m. 8.
5 23
5 5
4 47
4 28
4 10
3 62
3 34

86

87
88
89
90
91
92

qj J^Tr, "•'^"J"""'"' taien near London dicing forty-threo years, the average day temperatore of the week is 54.7- ; and its night temperatnie
84.4'. Ihe greatest heat was 1j\ on the 2(th, 1B3U ; and the lowest cold 10 , on the 1st, 1838. The greatest fall of rain was 1.19 inch.

A SELECTION OF PLANTS FOR THE WALLS
AND EOOFS OF GLASS HOUSES.— No. 1.

^ ^' S inquiries are frequently made for plants
suitable for the decoration of the walls and
roofs of glass bouses, the following paper
upon the subject may be found useful, espe-
cially as it includes a Hst of plants which
from experience can be safely recommended.
My list is not put forward as a complete
one, for it does not include many choice
plants tliat are at places grown for the pur-
pose, and which requu-e, pei-haps, more than
ordinary skill in then- cultivation ; my object is to give a
list fi'om wliich plants maybe selected that are individually
inexpensive, easy to cultivate, and likely to afford a large
supply of cut flowers, as well as to give general satisfac-
tion. I purpose dividing the list into two parts, one for
the greenhouse or conservatory, and the other for the
stove, and with each plant mentioned I vfill give a few
cultural remarks.

Before I proceed further I ought to observe, that in
order to secure perfection of growth and development of
abundance of both flowers and healthy foliage, most if
not all the plants should be planted out in the borders of
the house. I say with the greatest confidence, that un-
less such a provision bo made disappointment will most
likely be the result. It is not uncommou to meet with
handsome and elaborate greenhouses, conservatories, or
stoves where a healthy lot of climbing plants would be
the gi-eatest ornament, and yet there is no provision for
growing the plants except in large pots or tubs, and this
mode is seldom, if ever, satisfactory. In these vessels
there is not enough of root room to enable the plants to
cover their allotted space, and at the same time present
an ornamental appearance ; in fact, there is no compari-
son between the two modes of growing these plants.

None of the plants I mention requu'e any very com-
plicated mixtiu'es of soil, neither is there any occasion
for a great depth of it — probably 18 inches or '2 feet will
suffice. There must, however, be an abundance of drain-
age beneath it as a provision against stagnant water about
the roots. I have generally found that a top-dressing of
soil in the spring is far more serviceable to these plants
than a greater depth of soil than mentioned above. A
deep soil is pretty sure to become soured and soddened
fi'oui the repeated applications of water, and will conse-
quently stand at a much lower temperature than a shallow
one.

Again, in making the borders for climbing plants it is
advised by some practitioners to allot a certain space to
the roots of each plant by forming brick partitions. I
am not convinced of the necessity of this, because most
or aU of the plants I shall name wfll thrive exceedingly
well in one uniform mixtm-e of soil throughout the
border; but if Orange trees, Camellias, tree Ferns, Pahns,
or any other choice plants are to be planted in the border,
by all means let these have separate compartments ;
they can then be removed at any time wtliout injury to

No. 626.— Vol. XXn'., New Series.

their neighbours, and the vigorous roots of the climbers
win be confined to the border proper.

Taking the first division of greenhouse and conservatory
climbers, a suitable soil for them is one-half turfy or fibry
loam, not chopped fine— it should not be a heavy clayey-
loam— one-fourth of fibrous peat, sandy if possible (this
should also be worked-up coarse), and the remainder may
be equal parts of well-decayed leaf mould and dried cow
manure that has been under cover twelve months. Mix
aU well together, and as this mixture v/Hl probably be in
the border a long time without being renewed, a quantify
of broken potsherds and charcoal nibs should be mixed
with it in order to keep the soil open.

Bhynclwspernmin jasminoidcs is one of the best and
most popular plants. It is an evergreen climber suitable
for either training upon pOlars or spreading under the
glass roof or rafters, but it is not so much at home on
a wall. It is a free-bloomer, and its white flowers are
abundant and very fragrant. In an intermediate tempe-
ratm-e it flowers from May to July. It should be kept
dry at the roots diu-ing the winter, and should have an
abundance of water when in growth and flower.

Oloire de Dijon and Marvchal Nicl Roses wherever
planted are sure to become favourites. They grow vigor-
ously and flower freely in April and May, at which time
they are especially valuable for vases, &c. They will
flo\yer more or less throughout the summer, but for
spring-flowering the growth should be previously well
ripened and pruned back- to a reasonable length, and if
in a proper state of health, nearly evei-y bud left will
produce a flower. Give them rest in winter by vnth-
holding water and admitting plenty of an-.

Cob<ra scanilens and scandcns variegata. — These two
plants will cover a very large space ; the latter is the better
for general pm-poses. They are particularly suitable for
domes of large conservatories, and they are ornamental
all through the year. They require frequent shortening
and thhming of the shoots, and plenty of water when
gi'owing ; the flowers are insignificant.

Tacsonia Van-VoUcmi. — This has proved to be one of
the handsomest climbers ever introduced. It will cover
a large space, and is most at home trained under the roof
of the house, where its branches and flowers hang sus-
pended. Like the Coba'as, it requh-es a frequent thinning
of shoots, so as to produce young growth from which its
flowers spring, and in other respects it should have similar
treatment. It will flo.wer for months.

Fuchsias. — Of these, Venus de Medici among light
varieties, and Black Prince, Souvenir de Chiswick, and
Carolina among dark kinds, are, I think, the best for tho
pm-pose when trained up the rafters or upon pillars.
Started from the bottom with a single stem, and allowed
to branch out when necessary, they wiU flower more or less
throughout the summer, and are not surpassed by any
other plant that I know. In such a position they become
sub-evergi-een, but this does not appear to interfere v/ith
then flowering, which commences in February. I am not
acquainted with any other plants that afford such a quan-
tity of cut blooms. Dry them off, both root and branch,

No. KTJ.-VoL. XLIX., Old SEErES.

250

JOURNAL OF HOKTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEK.

[ March 27, 1873.

in autumn, afterwards thin-out and shorten the shoots to pro-
mote fresh growth. They are not suitable for walls.

Mandfrillia siiaveolciir: jiroduces in chisfers a very sweet-
scented, white, bell-shaped flower, and is suitable for a cool
greenhouse, being hardier than some of the preceding. It will
answer for covering pillars, rafters, or for spreading over a
portion of the roof; in either of these positions it is, perhaps,
more subject to red spider and thrips than any other plant
similarly situated. It requires to be frequently fumigated and
syringed, and must have plenty of water at the roots ; for in
its season it is a very fast-growing plant. I am sorry such a
desirable plant is not more cultivated. I believe many have
discarded the plant because it does not succeed very well in a
pot. I have seen it thriving out of doors on a south wall at
Battle Abbey in Sussex and other places. In such positions
it become deciduous, and requires matting-up in winter. Under
glass the plant should be kept dryish at the root in autumn
and winter, and afterwards be moderately praned before it
commences to grow. — Thomas Eecokd.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

Makch 26th.

A Special General Meeting of this Society -was held yesterday
(Wednesday), in the Council-room of the Society, South Ken-
sington, for the purpose of confirming certain new bye-laws,
which have been approved of by the Council of the Society at a
meeting held by them on the 11th inst. ; the object of the new
bye-laws being to enable all Fellows of the Society to vote by
proxy, and to make provision for the resignation of the Council.
There was a very numerous attendance of Fellows, including
many ladies, and the greatest excitement prevailed throughout
the proceedings.

At the request of Mr. "W. Wilson S.vundebs, who said he was
suffering from hoarseness, in consequence of having had to
attend a public meeting elsewhere in the morning, the chair was
occupied by Loed Alfred Chubchill.

Sir C. LiNDs.iY expressed a wish, before the formal business
of the meeting was proceeded with, to ask whether Mr. George
F. Wilson intended to use the proxies he had obtained by the
following letter, -n-bich had been sent to a very large number of
ladies [hear, hear.] The letter did not fairly state the whole
facts of the case, and for that reason these proxies ought not to
used [loud cries of " Hear, hear," " Question, question."] Now
Mr. Wilson was committed to all the acts of the Conucil [hear,
hear], for he only resigned on the 11th February, 1873. The
letter, which will be found at page 259, was then read.

The CHAiniiAN (after some interrnpti^n) said : I think we had
better proceed at once to the question before the meeting. I
can assuj'e the meeting that Mr. Wilson lias acted entirely upon
his own responsibility in this matter. We have had no sort of
communication with him whatever on the subject, and I need
hardly say that any private member has a right to do what
he likes.

A Fellow. — It appears that the date of Mr. Wilson's letter was
anterior to the date of the notice from Her Majesty's Commis-
sioners. The letter from Her Majesty's Commissioners, I find,
is dated the 8th February.

Mr. Wilson said, I beg to give a distinct answer to the ques-
tion which has been put to me — I shall most assuredly use all
the numerous proxies that have been entrusted to me by the
lady Fellows. I also wish to add that I have a right to com-
plain of a letter of mine which has been published in the
Gardeners' Chronicle, in which a number of words were inserted
which I never used, which were intended to make out that I
denied being a member of the Council [hear, hear]. My words
were, and I have them here, ' As an old member, though not of
the present CuuncU.' I was most careful in my words, and I
most distinctly deny ever having asked the lady Fellows to
vote, but I said, ' The bye-laws of this Society permit you to
vote by proxy.' For the part I have taken I can assure the
meeting that I have been thanked by numbers of ladies.

A Fellow. — A most dishonourable transaction [hear, hear,
no, no, and interruption].

Mr. G. E. Blenkins. — I rise to order. Mr. Lindsay has no
right to make such a statement at this stage of the proceedings.
It ought to come before the meeting properly [hear].

The Assistant-Secret.uiy (Mr. Richards), then read the ad-
vertisement from the Times of Saturday the 15th of March,
containing a copy of the new bye-laws.

The Ch.mkman then said he found himself in a pecuHar, and
to him somewhat difficult position, inasmuch as he had not had
time to put his thoughts into order, as he should like to have
done. He joined the Society at a vei-y recent period, as they
all knew, and under peculiar circumstances, and when the meet-
ing took place on the 11th of February he purposely abstained
from attending, knowing that his election was to come under
consideration. He was aware of the letter from the Commis- '

sioners making certain propositions to the Council, and his first
impression was that it was their duty to reject them. Since
then he had altered bis opinion on that point, and why ? Be-
cause a subsequent letter had been received from the Commis-
sioners, in which they entirely withdrew their original pro-
posals, and made suggestions which formed the basis of the pro-
posed arrangements between them and the Council [hear, hear].
That letter having been withdrawu, there was nothing to prevent
him from acting with the meeting on the present occasion.
Looking at the difficulties and intricacies of the matter, he bad
since changed his opinions strongly in favour of the policy pro-
posed to be adopted by the Council [hear, hear]. That policy
was one of concihation with the Commissioners. The Society
had found that its financial position was such that it was not
capable of making that strong and independent movement on
its own behalf which some of its members had advocated. His
opinion w"as that they had better under all circumstances act
harmoniously with the Commissioners' proposals [hear, hear,
and oh, oh]. They were, according to their original proposi-
tion, to receive from the Commissioners ±'2100 a-year, which
would in all probability have been paid back again as rent ; A'200O
towards the extinction of the debentm'c debt, and a sum which
would amount to ilOOO a-year for the sale of season tickets, mak-
ing a total of i'5400, and he took it that would have been a binding
agreement for the entire term. By that means they would have
found their rent would have been paid, and eventually they
would have had i'2000 a-year to expend upon the gardens. That
would have been the result had they adopted the propositions of
the Council. Now it might be thought that, whilst giving up
this sum, they had excluded the Exhibition public from their
g.ardens, but be was mistaken if it did not turn out that in this
they were counting without their host. These were the financial
advantages submitted to them, and which were withdrawn upon
the letter of the Commissioners to the Council, which was read
at the second meeting on the 18th of February. But the meet-
ing, led by the eloquence of the honourable Baronet, ijroceeded,
when there was no question before them, to x^ropose a vote of
censure upon the Council for having submitted these proposi-
tions to the members [No, no, no, and hear, hear]. I can
understand on no other ground could you have wished to pass
that resolution.

Sir A. Slade. — It was the non-adoption of the Eeport [hear,
hear, and applause].

The Chairjlvn. — That is tantamount to a vote of censure upon
the Council, and the Society loses the whole of the financial
benefits which would have accrued to them ; and, indeed, it is
very doubtful whether you have not excluded the whole of the
pubUc [hurrah, and hear, hear]. The Council felt that they
were pledged to resignation by Lord Henry Lennox, who filled
the chair at the first meeting. They therefore, somewhat
hastily, came to the conclusion that it would be prudent for
them to resign their seats. They did this without examining
fully into the bye-laws of the Society ; and the result was, they
found that as soon as they had done that, there were legal diffi-
culties in the way which could only be got over by submitting a
new series of bye-laws to the Society. By doing tins they had
done all that lay in their power to give the Fellows the means
of legally dismissing them if they determined so to do, and
electing others to fill their posts. They had used no sort of
means whatever to obtain a single vote, either one way or the
other [cries of oh, oh, and hear, hear]. He did not believe that
a single member had canvassed for a single vote [renewed cries
of oh, oh, and order] . The question before them was the adop-
tion or non-adoption of the resolutions, and it therefore became
his duty to put them to the meeting seriafivi. The first reso-
lution was as follows : —

" 1. The existing bye-laws of the Society mimheTed 6.^ and 82 are hereby
revoked and repealed, and the following bye-laws are substituted in the place
of them."

Mr. Lindsay said that as the Council proposed to take the
propositions seriofim instead of as a whole, his resolution w*ould
be that '' 63 and " in that resolution be struck out. It would
save him a great deal of trouble if he criticised what the Chau--
man had said, rather than give them the history of these pro-
ceedings, which he had intended to do [hear, hear], and he had
to thank the noble Chairman for having thus facilitated his
work. It appeared that on reflection the Chairman entirely en-
dorsed the policy of the Council, and therefore there was no
reason why he should not involve him and the Council in a
common condemnation, which it was their desire to do [hear,
hear]. It would be within their recollection that the circum-
stances which had led to these proceedings was that at the last
Annual Meeting the vote for the non-adoption of the Report
was carried by a majority of eighty-six to fourteen. The Chair-
man then stated that he did not see how it was possible for the
Council to take any other step than that of resigning, in which
he entirely concurred. He was sorry to say that it had resulted
in the most unfortunate circumstance for the Society, because
the Chairman dissolved the meeting instead of adjourning it
As soon as that meeting was over the Council held a meeting,

March 27, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

2.'57

at wliich tliey passed a resolution that they had resigned. In
consequence of that resolution Sir Alfred Slade communicated
with some other gentlemen with the view of forming another
Council, and after certain negotiations the Council asked them to
wait upon them, which they did, and the statements then made
were of such overwhelming importance, that he could not pass
them by without notice [hear, hear]. They began by asking if
they could suggest any way by which the Council could escape
from their difficulty. A more extraordinary question he had
never heard proposed [hear, and confusion]. Now the Council
were in this dilemma, that when they dissolved the meeting they
either knew that they had the power to adjourn, or they did not,
and if they did, their conduct was dishonourable in adjourning
and not dissolving the meeting. We suggested to them that they
ought to be responsible for their accounts, and they made the ex-
traordinary statement that they were not answerable for the ex-
penditure of the Society's funds [cheers and counter cheers].
Just imagine, they were not responsible for one penny they
spent! [great laughter]. Then they arrived at another dilemma
— namely, that by a mistake of their's the sum of ±'931 had
been applied to a wrong purpose. Their contention seemed to
be that they were not answerable for their accounts. If that
were so, it was, indeed, a diiHcult thing to have confidence in a
body possessing such enormous irresponsible powers [cheers
and counter cheers]. The Council had frittered away five
weeks of the Society's time in making the most abominable
bye-laws that ever were framed [cheers and counter cheers].
He desired to say that they were only there to deal with the
Council as a body, and not as single gentlemen. If they had
thought it desirable to go out as a body there would have been
no noise, and all irritation on the subject would have been spared

on both sides, and though Mr. Wilson [interruption].

The Ch-ueman. — I must request you not to enter into any-
thing not before the meeting.

Mr. LiNDs.w. — If it is necessary to charge any one man with
having failed in his duty, it was the Secretary who had pro-
mised to resign [hear hear], and he considered the conduct of
the Secretary in holding a correspondence between his right
and his left hand was an insult to the Society as long as he sat
in his chair [applause and uproar]. He had stated to the best
of his ability the faults of the Council, and it appeared to him
that they only existed as a Council by sufferance, to carry on
the existing routine business of the Society, and had no power
whatever to legislate on its behalf [applause and counter ap-
plause]. His opinion and that of the party with whom he
acted was, that the C'ouncU were under the sway of persona of
gigantic influence as Commissioners [cheers and ironical cheers] ,
and that they were under the impression that the Society was
insolvent when it was in a solvent state, and it was their duty
to protest ffost emphatical'y against any such conclusion. He
had heard that the Council had conceded part of the land to Her
Majesty's Commissioners, and if so they had acted ultra vires,
and the transaction must be repudiated, for they had no right to
barter away property belonging to the Society without its con-
sent [renewed applause], and any such arrangement must be
ratified by a general meeting before it could be carried into
effect. If the Council, acting on their own responsibility, could
bargain away one part of the Sooiety's property, why not every-
thing ? The thing would be absurd [cheers]. There might be
perhaps some arrangements between the Council and the Com-
missioners, but they certainly had not appeared in any paper
to which that Society had access [hear], and he could only re-
peat that if sach were the case it was a most unwarrantable
proceeding. The way in which they had carried on the aiJairs
had not been satisfactory he believed to a single member, and
there was every reason to believe that if their efforts had been
properly directed they would have been in a much more satisfac-
tory position [applause]. The Council had proved themselves
unable to carry on the affairs of the Society to a prosperous issue,
and he wished to impress upon the Fellows present the necessity
of their voting against the proposition before the meeting, and
passing a final resolution unanimously which would enable the
Council to resign.

General Scott said he durst say they had all heard of the story
of ** Coelebs in search of a wife," and how the old man was
always talking of his lamentable condition as a miserable sinner
[cries of " question " and " silence."] He claimed to be heard
[cries of " Speak to the point."] He was speaking to the point,
but the great difficulty in societies Hke that was to get the Fel-
lows to understand how matters were really situated. If the
meeting would allow him he should continue his story [ no,
no.] It was very short and very much to the point. They
had been told that they were all good men with the exception of
himself [a voice, " Individually, not as a body."] Well, he
would give up the story, although it was a good one [laughter].
Some three years ago he foresaw what would happen between
the Commissioners and the Society, and he placed his resigna-
tion in the hands of Mr. Wilson Saunders, requesting him to
have it accepted as soon as he thought that it would not be of
benefi.t to the Society that he (General Scott) should remain

Secretary. On two or three subsequent occasions he renewed
his wish to retire, and at that very moment he had sent in his
resignation. It was in the hands of the Assistant-Secretary, but
stiU he was not a bit certain that he had any right to resign
[oh, oh]. The gentleman who spoke last said the Council
should have retired in the ordinary way. Why, what was the
ordinary way '! They had got the opinion of their sohcitors, and it
was, that according to the bye-laws, the Council could go ; but
the Commissioners had got an opposite opinion sent them by
the Solicitor-General, and he (General Scott) was not sure that
the Solicitor-General was not right. The constitution of the
CouucU was to prevent any section of members coming suddenly
forward and creating a revolution [hear, and laughter j. He
should not be a bit astonished that, when the present Councils'
resignations were given in, the Council would find they could
do nothing. He thought the mode that had been adopted was a
very unfair way of attacking the Council. He was almost per-
suaded that the gentlemen who attacked them knew his (Gene-
ueral Scott's) own personal opinion from the first was that the
Council should go out, and others be admitted, one by one.
Mr. LiNDS.iv. — No.

General Scott. — At all events there was a noble lord, an
acquaintance of that gentleman, would tell him that was the
case. He knew that noble lord would confirm his (General
Scott's) statement.

Sir A. Slade. — He is not here to confirm it.
General Scott in continuation, said the last time a gentleman
made a most extraordinary attack upon him, because, indeed,
he had been superintending soldiers who were whitewashing
the ceiUng of Albert Hall, He should not have been ashamed
of that if he had done so, but he really had nothing to do with
the matter.

Mr. LioGiNS. — I will explain. I did not mean

General Scott. — Allow me. In 1868 he found a gentleman
who was taking great interest in the formation of the Council,
speaking in high terms of the " able management " of Lieut. -
Col. Scott. Now, that gentleman at all events must have known
he was not such a traitor to the Council as he (General Scott),
was represented to be. At another meeting a gentleman wished
to know what was paid to Lieut.-Col. Scott, E.E., who had not
the courtesy to read the Report, but left it to be done by the
Assistant-Secretary. It appeared, therefore, that he was too
proud for his work. Did he think the only salary he got was
abuse, when he had been accused for keeping silence about his
avocation and salary ?

Mr. Lic.GiNs. — I am afraid the words were scarcely what were
said.

General Scott. — The gentleman knows what is coming. Mr.
Liggins then said he had much pleasure in proposing a vote of
thanks to Col. Scott, the Secretary, for the benefits derived
from his services [laughter]. Well, he thought he should go
a little farther. In 186i he was asked whether he would come

up

Sir C. Lindsay rose to order, as this was foreign to the subject.
General Scott. — Everything is foreign to the subject which
they do not like.

The Chairman. — General Scott has been attacked, and he has
a right to defend himself.

General Scott. — In 1861 I was invited to come up

Sir Charles Daueesey. — What is the question before the
chair? Surely it is the consideration of the bye-laws.
The Ch.UlBm.in. — He is replying to a personal attack.
Mr. LiNDS.iY.— Why go back to 186-1 '?

General Scott in continuation said he was going to take them
to a question which was very much between the Society and the
Commissioners. When he came there his instructions were to
do what he could to assist the Society, and in 1868 the general
opinion existed that he was assisting the Society [hear, hear].
On the last occasion an accusation was brought against him
personaUy, that he had accused the Fellows of the Society of
dishonesty for not paying their rent. He had never said any-
thing approaching it, because he never thought, from the first
day, that the Society could i)ay its rent [cries of "oh!" and
laughter]. What he did say was, that if the Commissioners
pointed out to the Society the way in which, without injuring
horticulture, they could pay their rent, then honesty ought to
induce them to adopt these means. Well, another attack had
been made upon him with reference to the sum of il'200 [a
voice, "i'gOO"], paid to the Commissioners [another voice, "It
was £900 "]. It was ±'1200, half the rental of the year, and paid
because it was supposed that the exhibition would have enabled
the Society to pay the whole of the rental. He denied that the
tiling was forgotten in any way. The Assistant-Secretary, when
the money was paid, pointed out that it would be repaid at
the end of the year if it were not made. It was only not repaid
on account of the present difficulties, but there was no sort of
furgetfulness about the matter at all. AU he had to say in
conclusion was, that Sydney Smith advised some States of
America which repudiated their debts to go about with S. S.
on their backs. If the Society did not make an arrangement to

258

JOTJRNAlj OP HOETICULTUBB AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

I Marth 27f 18T

pay their debeuture-holders, and without injury to horticulture,
the time would come when gentlemen who lived in London
■would be afraid to go about with a flower in their button-hole
[loud cries of " Oh ! " and laughter.]

The Chairman. — The question before the meeting is proposi-
tion No. 1.

Mr. S. H. Godson remarked that in 1864, when General Scott
was called upon to assist them, they had i.15,869 19s. id. to their
credit.

General Scott. — That is not the case.

Sir A. Slabe seconded the amendment. They had now been
an hour discussing other matters, and he would ask the meeting
to allow him to point out that it would be better if the Chairman
had kept to the business of the day instead of making a speech
on what had occurred on the 18th of February. When he (Sir
A. Slade) and his friends challenged the Council to reply to their
arguments, they (the Council) sat down like dumb mice, but
they sent a statement aU over England which they could not
substantiate. That was a most unfair way of answering a public
discussion. As the Chairman alluded to him personally, he
might remark that the position of the Society with the Eshi-
bition Commissioners was laid down iu printed agreements
which anyone could read ; and if the Chairman insisted the
position was difficult and intricate, it solely arose from those
ill-advised arrangements made between the Council and the
Commissioners. General Scott had told them they ought to
pay their rent ; but he (Sir A. Slade), told the meeting that they
had paid their full rent to the Commissioners, because if the
Council had a million sterling at their bankers', they dare nut
hand over more than the surplus profits of the gardens. It was
a gross mistake to say that the proposals of the Commissioners
■would enable the Society lo pay its rent, because upon the face
of the agreement it was only to be for the continuance of the
annual exhibitions. How was it, then, that the Council should
send throughout the country an ex ijarie statement ? General
Scott told them he did not know whether he had a right to re-
sign or not, but there was a special clause which enabled him to
resign.

General Scott asked if that was of any importance Vhen his
resignation was in the hands of the Assistant-Secretary.

Sir A. Sl.lde said he was obliged to go into the matter by
reason of General Scott's remarks. The Charter stated that " in
case of death or incapacity " [great laughter] the Council might
appoint a " discreet person " [laughter] to fill the place of the
Treasurer or Secretary. Alluding to the i;931 he asked, how
could they pay £1200 rent, when then- surplus profits were only
j£237 ? When he had come to the Council-room on that matter Mr.
Wilson Ssnnders said he was quite right, and the money would
be refunded. He would second Mr. Lindsay's amendment, be-
cairse, if people were allowed to vote by proxy, it would give the
Council the power of nominating their own successors [hear,
hear, and no].

Mr. Wilson Saundebs.— One word. As regards the Council
having asked for proxies, I most positively assert not one mem-
ber around the Council table has ever mooted the thing at the
Council .

Sir A. Slade. — That is not stated. I did not say you had
done so — I said you had canvassed for votes.

Mr. Sauxdeks. — Not one.

Sir A. Slade. — May I read a letter for you in which it is said
you did canvass for votes ? but perhaps you would rather I
should not.

Mr. SArxDEHs. — I want to assure you that we did no more
than send round that statement to you as our justification.

The Chaekman said he was informed that the highest legal
authority held that the agreement of 1871 still held good — to the
effect that the public should be admitted to the gardens, the
Commissioners paying one-twelfth of the receipts to the Society.

Mr. D. T. Fish rose to support the proposition with respect to
the proxies. He was surprised at much that he had heard that
day, and he asked them to remember that they were members
of the gentle art of horticulture ; but they should also remem-
ber that they were centlemeu [laughter and cheers]. He was
much surprised at the language used towards some gentlemen,
and the way iu which matters had been discussed that day. He
thanked the Council for proposing this bye-law as to proxies,
because proxies were just the thing for a society in which there
■were so many country gentlemen. He should support the proxy
bye-law, and the alteration of bye-law 110, so that the members
should be provided with voting papers. Mr. Fish was proceed-
ing to address the meeting in coutinuation, when his voice was
drowned by loud uproar and cries of " chair " and " divide."

Mr. "\ViLLL\M Haugiitom said he observed that when any
speaker said anything that was not agreeable to a certain section
of the meeting an attempt was made to drown his voice by
clamour. He did not think that was fair. He thought that when
the original cause of discord came from the Commissioners, aud
■when the Council thought they might assent to a slight modi-
fication of the terms, and lay their propositions before the
Fellows, he (Mr. Haughtoni thought it was the duty of the latter

to consider calmly and without passion what the Council had
considered before. He thought that although they might not
approve of any particular proposition, they had no right to say
that those who recommended it were committing a breach of
trust [hear, hear]. He felt the first two terms of the Com-
missioners' propositions were such as could not be accepted by
the Society. At the proper time he hoped to submit to the So-
ciety a slight modification of these tei-ms, which ■n'ould meet
the wishes of the great majority of the Fellows, and be perfectly
fair both to the Commissioners and the Society. He was not yet
in such a position as to feel himself at liberty to explain them. As
to the proxies, it was with deep regret he witnessed the noise
and tumult, and the attempts to drown voices by clamour ex-
ercised by an organised clique [loud cries of order, no, and
uproar]. It was an attempt by a coup d'etat to seize the guid-
ance of the Society's afi'airs. He regretted there was no power
by which absent gentlemen Fellows could vote l)y proxy. If that
could have been done the result of the vote on the Report woidd
have been different [no, no, and hear]. Before he sat down ho
wished to express to the Council his deep regret for the way in
which they had been treated.

Mr. Blenkins said it must be self-evident to anyone that there
were two parties in the room [loud and continued laughter].
It was pretty clear that one party was unwilling to hear what
the other party had got to say. He belonged to neither ; he had
come up from the country — 120 miles — to maintain the present
Council, which he behoved was composed of honourable men
[hear, hear]. His reason for voting for the proposition to
establish vote by proxy was that he did not think the mainte-
nance of the gardens should be carried on solely by those living
in the neighbourhood [cheers]. It appeared that some parties
wanted to make the Horticultural Gardens the same as the
London squares — the residences of nursery-maids [cries of
"No" and cheers]. In the country they well knew what all
this meant. He had a few proxies, notobtained'by him through
unfair means, but from what he had seen reported in the
papers of the meetings of the Society. He did not see why a
great national Society like this should be conducted by a clique.

A Fellow said he had heard a gi-eat many reasons why the
existing bye-law should not be revoked, but none from the
Chairman why it should be revoked.

The Chaieman. — A vote of censure was passed upon the
Council at a previous meeting. In consequence of that the
Council deemed it expedient to tender their resignations, but
certain legal difficulties arose. To meet them a certain bye-la^w
was proposed [cries of proxy, proxy, and interruption]. In
order to make this alteration we deemed it expedient for horti-
cultural interests that members in the country should be enabled
to vote by proxy. There are 3500 FeUo-n'S, of whom, perhaps^
three thousand reside in the country [no, no], and we thought
it only right that they should have an opportunity of expressing
their opinions on the pohcy of the Council.

A Fellow, who rose amid loud cries of " divide," said he had
come from the country, and remarked he did not see why the
control of the Society should be in the hands of a small number
of gentlemen near the gardens [cheers and "no"]. Why did
they show a want of confidence in vote by proxy ? If any gen-
tleman had gone into the country sneaking for votes, other
gentlemen [laughter] could do the same.

Mr. Lindsay said his object was to prevent the ladies' privi-
lege of voting by proxy being extended to men.

The amendment of Mr. Lindsay was then put to the meetings
when there appeared ui^on a show of hands — -

For the amendment 107

Against it 53

Majority 54

Proxies were then handed in, and upon a scrutiny there-
appeared —

For the amendment 225

Againstit 206

Majority 19

Total maj ority for the amendment 73

The original motion submitted to the Council was therefore
lost.

The Chaiejian said the next proposition was

" 2. Evei-y Fellow of the Society shall be entitled to appoint, bj m-itteu
proxy in the form marked D in the Appendix to the existing bye-lawp, any
ceutleman being a Fellow of the Society, to vote for him or her at all or any-
General Meetings of the Society."

Sir A. Sl,U)E.— That is rejected already, but you had better
take a pro formd vote.

This vote was then taken, and the new bye-law No. 2 waa
negatived.

The Cii.viEMAN then put to the meeting new bye-law No. 3, as
follows :—

" 3. Any Member or Members of the Council may resign his or their seat
or seats by seuding a -writteu notice to that effect, addressed to the Secretai-y

Maieh 27, 1S73. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB.

259

of tlie Society ; and eveiy vacancy in tho Council by resignation under this
bye-law sball be tilled up by the other Members of the Council, if less than
half of them resign at aay time, and by the Fellows of the Society at a General
Meeting, if the Members of the Council re3if,'ning are half or more than half
of the whole body: and if half or more of tho Members of the Council resign
at any one time, a General Meeting of the I'ellows shall be called so soon as
conveniently m;iy be after such resi|,'nation, in order to supply the places of
the resigning Membei-s of the Council ; and until such General Meeting shall
have been hjld. 'Ui rsiiiuin,' Members shall continue Members of the
Council, and shall be capable to act as such."

Mr. HiEDCASTLE, M.P., wished to move au addition to tliis
bye-law iu the following words : — " Such resignation and such
«lection shall take place in the same manner as required by the
10th clause of the new Charter." The honourable gentleman
said it was important they should walk in the way of the
Charter, and not commit auy irregularity iu making a new bye-
law. The 10th clause of the' Charter jn-ovided that the election
should take place by ballot.

The amendment having been seconded,

Mr. H.iuoHTON said this was a two-edged amendment. Its
-ostensible object was that the election should work iu harmony
with the Charter, but in auy case it must so work. The real
spirit of the amendment, however, was that if auy member of
the Council resigned, the Fellows must accept the resignation
whether they liked it or not.

Mr. HiBBERD asked whether the Council in bringing forward
this proposition had had sufficient legal advice.

Sir C. D-iUBENEV. — You may depend they had.

Sir A. Sl-u>e said if the Chairman thought the additional
•words were unnecessary, Mr. Hardcastle would withdraw them.

The CH.vmMAN did not see the point of them at all.

Mr. H-i-KDCASTLE should like, before he withdrew his amend-
ment, to have some assurance that the Council would follow the
way of the Charter, and not adopt any other mode of election.

The Cn-AmiiAN. — As soon as we leave this room, our resigna-
tions being in the hands of the Assistant-Secretary, we cease to
be a Council, and only conduct the affairs of the Society until
■our successors are appointed. It is for you to say what course
jrou will adopt.

Mr. "VV. M.-utsH-viL (member of Council) said this one point
had been overlooked. They stood in the position of tenants to
■the Commissioners, and the Commissioners were their laud-
lords.

Sir A. Sl.vde asked. Was it possible they were going into tho
whole question again ?

Mr. M.iKSHALL said that the Charter said there should for
«ver be a Council. If the Council resigned iu a body there was
no Council [cries of no, and question]. Was it or was it not
so ? [A voice, Certainly not]. AU he could say was, that Her
Majesty's Commissioners were entitled by the Charter to say
if there were no Council, " You have broken your lease, and wo
are entitled to take possession" [oh, oh].

S. A. Sl.vde. — That is an entire misconception. If the Chair-
man thought that the bye-law was in harmony with the
Charter, Mr. Hardcastle would withdraw his rider-

The Chairman. — ^We aro indifferent ■whether the words axe
■inserted or not.

Sir A. Sl.ade. — Then you accept them.

The Chairman. — No ; I do not mean to say we acijept them.

Here there were loud cries of "Vote, vote," and general
uproar, which lasted several minutes. In the midst Mr. Fish
i'ose to speak, and moved from his seat into the centre jjassage
■of the room, where he made vigorous efforts to make himself
heard, but in vain. When order was partly restored,

The Chairman said he had just received the following notice —
■" We the undersigned, being five Fellows of the Koyal Hor-
ticultural Society, object to the voting for three new bye-laws,
because by the 16th law of the Charter the voting should be by
■ballot." [Loud cries of oh! oh!]

Sir A. Slade said that as regards the first two bye-laws the
application was too late, but it was perfectly in order as regards
the third.

The Chairman said the notice had been signed, G. F. Wilson,
<j. E- Bleakius, J. R. Furnyhough, .1. Cox, and E. J. Beale.

Mr. Marsh.all then read the bye-law regulating voting by
ballot, by which it appeared that a meeting at which a ballot
■was demanded should be adjourned for not less than five, and
not more than ten days.

Mr. Lindsay asked why, as the Council were so desirous of
resigning, did not Mr. Wilson withdraw his protest ? The only
effect of it would be to give his (Mr. Lindsay's) friends an enor-
xaous majority.

Mr. A. F. Godson said he had come ■up from Derbyshire last
night to attend the meeting, and he hoped he would not be
asked to come up again.

A Fellow said that Mr. Wilson was putting the Council
into a very false position, and he thought the Council also
were putting themselves into a very false and disagreeable
position, and he ventured to ask the noble Chairman to request
Mr. Wilson to withdraw his protest, and let them proceed to
vote on the motion.

After some conversation and confusion, the Chairman said ho
took it that the demand for vote by ballot was withdrawn, as
well as Mr. Hardcastle'a amendment. He should now put the
motion for the adoption of No. 3 bye-law in its present form.
The motion was put, and there appeared for the passing of

The Bye-law (by a show of hands) 93

Against (by a show of hands) 23

Proxies 37

— 60

Majority for the Bye-law 33

The supporters of the bye-law did not use proxies.

Sir A. Sl.ade asked the Chairman to explain the mode of pro-
cedure by which they proposed to resign, and how they were to
elect a new Council.

The Chairman- said the Council were willing to facilitate by
every way in their power the election of a new Council, but as
to the mode of procedure they left that to the meeting. The
Assistant-Secretary was instructed to give Ms best attention to
this important xjoint.

Sir A. Sl.ade said, that according to that they were no wiser
than they were before. What day would the election take
place ?

The Chairman said that rested with the meeting. The
Fellows must hold a meeting.

After a short discussion it was agreed that a special meeting
be called for Friday, the 4th of April, for the election of a
Council.

A vote of thanks to the Chairman closed a very stormy and
excited meeting, which lasted over two hours and a half.

As the Gardeners' Chronicle inserted, on Saturday last. Sir
Alfred Slade's incorrect version of my circular to the lady
Fellows, and his comments upon it, and as the Journal and
Chronicle are seen by my friends all over the world, would you
give space to my reply iu your next number '?

Sir Alfred Slade accuses me of wishing to conceal the fact
that I was a member of the Is.st Council, and misrepresents the
words I used to prove the truth of his accusation. It is painful
to have to make any defence against such an imputation, but as
I was in my letter addressing those interested in the objects of
the Society, and I had been Chairman of the Fruit Committee
as well as member of the Council for the last seven or eight
years, it did not occur to me that any doubt could arise as to
my personal identity. — George F. Wilson, Heatherbanlc, Weij-
hridge Heath, '2ith March, 1873.

Subjoined is the circular referred to : —

" Heatherbank, Weybridge Heath,
" 14th March, 1.373.

" Madam, — Many members of the Royal Horticultural Society having com-
plained that the printed cu-culars do not reach them, or at least are not read,
as an old member, though not on the present Council, and feeling strongly
that, whichever of the suggested lines of policy be adopted, the necessary
negotiations with the Commissioners will be conducted more successfully by
tlie existing Council than by any new comers, however able, ■j/ho would have
theii^ experience to learn, I Ijeg to call your attention to the statement of the
Council now issued, as well as to the notice of au important meeting of the
Fellows to be held on the '^Gth inst.

" The byelaws of the So.^iety permit of your voting by proxy. Should you
desire to keep-in the Council, would you sign and return the enclosed '.'
" I have the honour to be, Madam, yonrs faithfully,

"" Geokge F. Wilson."

EOYAL BOTANIC SOCIETY'S FIRST SPEING
SHOW.

This was held yesterday, and afforded a highly satisfactoiy
display for this time of year. Hyacinths and other spring-flow-
ering plants were the principal subjects of exhibition, but there
were also mixed collections of stove and greenhouse plants and
Azaleas. Of Hyacinths, Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, exhibited a
splendid gi'onp of upwards of 120, besides a magnificent twelve
in the nurserymen's class. In this, too, Messrs. Cutbush also
staged a very fine group. In the amateurs' class Mr. Douglas,
Loxtord Hall Gardens, and Mr. Withall, produced admirably
grown specimens, and good exhibitions came from several others.
'Tulips were shown in great perfection by Messrs. Veitch, Cut-
bush, and Douglas; Cyclamens by Messrs. Little and James,
the latter having, besides his group, a tine, broad-petalled, pure
white variety called Miss James ; and Lily of the Valley by
Messrs. Cutbush, Reeves of Acton, James Rowe, and others.
Chinese Primulas from Messrs. Little, James, Dobson & Son,
were exceedingly good. Deutzias in excellent bloom came from
Mr. Reeves and Messrs. Lane; the latter also exhibited a fine
collection of Camellias in small pots, Ukewise Azaleas. Mr.
Ward, gardener to F. G. Wilkins, Esq., sent good groups of
these and of other stove and greenhouse plants, as did Mr. Wil-
liams, of Hollov,-ay, and Mr. 'Wlieeler, gardener to Sir F. Gold-
sinid, Bart., Regent's Park.

From Mr. William Paul, of WaUbam Cross, came a fine gi-oup
of Camellias, which has been noticed in a previous report, and
cut blooms of Roses ; and from Mr. C. Noble, of Bagshot, a

260

JOCENAL OF HORTICDLTDEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t March 27, 187S.

splendid foUection of Clematises. Messrs. Veitch seut a small
collection of new plants, including Dracfcna imperialis, one of
the finest of the genus; Phormium atropurpureum, a striking
dark purple kind ; and the beautifully marked Maranta Ma-
koyana. Messrs. EoUisson, of Tooting, contributed large bushes
of Mignonette, which were examples of successful cultivation ;
and besides a large collection of plants for spring ornamentation,
Mr. Ware, of Tottenham, exhibited a very dark-leaved variety of
the Sweet William, which may prove u.seful for bedding purposes.
A new Eose, called Abbe Bramere), exhibited by Mr. W. Paul,
had extremely rich maroon crimson flowers, and appeared to be
a very desirable addition.

VEITCH MEMORIAL PHIZES.
The trustees of the Veitch Memorial have decided to offer
medals accompanied with the following prizes at the Meeting
of the Eoyal Horticultural Society to be held at Bath from the
24th to the 28th of June next.

1. For the best dish of Black Grapes exhibited in the

Show £5

2. Ditto of "White Grapes in the Show, not Muscat 5

3. Ditto of White Muscat Grapes in the Show 5

4. For the best cultivated Orchid in bloom in the Show 5

5. Ditto Stove Plant in bloom in the Show 5

6. Ditto Greenhouse Plant in bloom in the Show 5

Any dispute that may arise as to the definition of stove or
greenhouse plants or to any other matter in reference to these
prizes is to be settled by the Judges, whose decision shall be
final.

GLADIOLUS, GLADIOLUS, OE GLADIOLUS?

The pronunciation of Gladiolus and similar Latin words is
not a mere question of analogy, as " P. D." would suggest,
but of rules recognised by all classical authors ; and by these
rules Mr. Dombrain's pronunciation is the only correct one,
for the following reasons — " Where two vowels meet, the first
is always short," with a few well-known exceptions, but of
which Gladiolus is not one. This disposes of the letter i,
which must therefore be shortened. As to the letter o, there
is also a more positive rule — namely, " The penultimate syl-
lable of diminutives is short ;" and Gladiolus is a dimiuutive
of (jladiiis, a sword, and therefore signifies " a little sword
and these two rules decide the disputed question in favour cf
Mr. Dombrain's decision.

Of course " P. D." may not like to depart from established
usage, however corrupt it be ; but as there are three distinct
usages in this case it is desirable to reduce them to uniformit-\
and in doing so to establish that which is correct ; and as the
word imder consideration is a purely Latin word we should 1
guided in the decision, not by rules of taste, fancy, or anak^^
but by those of the prosody of the language to which it belonj,^,
and bj' which alone it should be determined. — A. M.

front a row of Tulips, Chinese Primroses, and Cyclamens. An
effective centre to the whole is formed round a large standard
Bay by means of Camellias, Cinerarias, I'runus triloba, and
plants of Chama^rops humilis, surrounded with a ring of Lily of
the Valley. Hyacinths in particular are numerously exhibited,
but as we have lately devoted so much space to that deservedly
popular flower, we will not enter into details of varieties ; suffice
it to say that the best kinds are well represented. Year by
year they are becoming more popular, year by j'ear the speci-
mens jiroduced improve ; and they are, besides, an unselfish
flower, for both from necessity in their culture and a not unpar-
donable pride in the amateur owner, they belong as much to
the public by '' right of eye " as to him by right of possession.
We hope that such exhibitions as that which Messrs. Downie
and Co. have opened will become more general, for many an
amateur will thus be enabled to select for hiinself plants which
suit his means and tastes.

THE BEAUTIFUL AND USEFUL INSECTS OF
OUE GARDENS.— No. 2.
Owing to the singular transformations which take place in the
insect world, we are apt to overlook some of the most beautiful
objects {in fiitnro) just because we happen only to see them in
some preparatory stage, when they are unattractive or seeni
even repulsive. Thus in the chrysalis or pupa state it is
almost needless to say that in nine cases out of ten neither
butterflies nor moths show any elegance of form or richness
of colour, and the temporary vesture of the enclosed insect
gives no sign of the winged being shortly to emerge. Of
course the gardener, pursuing his routine of work in the early
months of the year, cannot fail to turn up many pupai as he
digs the ground, some of these receiving fatal injuries from
the implement employed. I know it is the practice with some
persons to pick-out from the earth thrown up everything that
is supposed to be an insect, and destroy it ; and I have seen
on gravel walks numerous pupa? which had been crushed in-
tentionally, a good part of which were probably quite innocu>.
ous to the garden. Amongst the beautiful insects which thus
occasionally come to a sudden yet painless end is the Lim*

The analogy by which " P. D." wishes to show from baliolu'!
filiolus, unciola, and alveolus that the i in Gladiolus is loni-
and that the accent should accordingly fall upon it, tends to
the very opposite he wishes to establish ; thus filiolus is i
dimiuutive of filius, in which the first i is long and the second
short. Derivatives as a rule retain the same principal vowel
accents as their primaries : hence filiolus, similarly unciola is
a diminutive of uncia, alveolus of alvcus, and Gladiolus of
gladius. If the prosody of baUolus requires the i long in the
single instance in which it occurs in Plautus, yet eminent
scholars have expressed their opinion that the word itself is
doubtful. Mr. Dombrain has, therefore, manifestly strong
grounds for believing Gladiulua to be the correct pronunciation,
in which I fully concur. — A. H. K.

MESSRS. DOWNIE, LAIRD, & LAIXGS SHOW
OP SPRING-FLOWERING PLANTS.
At the Crystal Palace on Saturday last Messrs. Dowuie,
Laird, ct Laing, of the Staustead Park'Nurseries, Forest Hill,
and of Edinburgh, opened an attractive exhibition of spring-
flowering plants, which is to close on the 5th of April. It is
comprised in a double row of tabling occupying 13G feet run.
Palms, Drac.Tuas, and other graceful-leaved plants are ranged
along the centre between the two rows, backcd-up on each side
with Epaorises, Cytisuses, Spirje i japonica, Lily of the Valley,
and other plants ; then come two rows of Hyacinths, and in

Lime Hawk Moth {Smeiriiithus Tilire).

Hawk ]Moth (Smeirinthus Tiliw), the caterpillar feeding not
infrequently on that tree growing in gardens, though also
occurring upon the Elm. I must acknowledge, however, that
the first specimens of this caterpillar I ever saw were procured
for me by a worthy old gardener at Norwood, who had watched
their growth amongst the leaves of a tree, .and obtained them
with some trouble by mounting for them. Earely, if ever, are
thrse caterpillars sufficiently abundant in one spot to do any
injury, and therefore we may seriously plead that cither in the
larval or pupal state the insect should be spared, and suffered
to come forth as a handsome and strong- winged moth to career
about the garden and roadside in the dusk of evening. As
do others of its relatives, it prefers the " gloaming," being
popularly classed aiuongst those called in some country places
" Owl Moths." Sometimes these Hawk Moths are mistaken
for bats.

During the day this moth, in its position of repose, offere
a striking instance of Nature's mimicry. An individual will
suspend itself from a twig or branch, with the wings so folded

MaKh 27, 1873. 1

JOUBNAL OF HOBTIOULTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB.

261

that the blighter hues are not observeJ, and, keeping jierfectly
motionless, it may easily be mistaken for a withered leaf.
Some naturalists think that insects when iu such positions are
actually iu a state of sleep, though how far this is correct is
ciuestiouablc. Many moths, if we touch them while they are
iu their sluggish state, at once fly off, others withdraw their

induced to deposit eggs in confinement, and the larva; have
beeu reared from the earliest period to maturity. Like others
of the tribe, they hold on to the leaves or twigs when not in
motion with so much pertinacity, that if a sudden attempt is
made to remove one with the fingers, the body will very liiely
be torn away, while the claspers are still attached to the object
on which the larva was resting. If crawling, they are more
easily dislodged, and a high wind in the autumn will bring
some to the ground from a height of many feet, no perceptible
injury being usually sustained liy them if they fall on low
plants or amongst grass, though they are not so fortunate as
a well-known quadruped, which generally contrives to descend
upon its legs. A ludicrous circumstance in the history of
these caterpillars is, that after one of their'moults or changes
of skin they iisually devour the exuvia;, with the exception of
the head — too tough and horny a morsel even for their power-
ful jaws. Should one of them be annoyed by the near ap-
proach of another, ho wUl tm-n rather fiercely upon tho^in-
truder.

The caterpillar of h. Tilia; is in one particular- quite unique
amongst British caterpillars. It has immediately behind the

Larva of the Lime Hawk Moth (Pmcii-iuthub TiJiie).

legs from the object they are resting on, and feign
death ; the Lime Hawk, however, and its congeners
strike out witli the front pair of legs, as if an-
noyed.

Of the three Smeirinthi known in Britain, S. Tilisc,
though the least in size, is deemed by certain con-
noisseurs to be the handsomest, on account of the
richness of the colouring, shades of oUve brown and
green being set off by a tew lighter markings. For
my own part, however, I must confess to an ad-
miration for the Eyed Hawk, in which both the upper
and lower wings please the eye. This species has,
it may be remarked, been already named among
" predatory insects," being at times found feeding
freely on the Apple.

The Lime Hawk has nothing hawk-hke in its
disposition, being one of the most pabific of insects,
only taking excursions in pursuit of honey, which it
eagerly imbibes through the proboscis, and this is
rather slender and short as compared with that such
moths as the Death's Head and the Privet Hawk are
furnished with. The name of Hawk is only applic-
able to these insects as possessing strength of wing
and celerity, though I am inclined to think that
these moths do not travel long distances, and career
across the country for several miles, as various ~^ —
butterflies are known to dn. The life of the insect
iu the imago state is but short, however, the moth
being seen in .Tune or July, the period varying with
the temperature.

The eggs of S. Tilia) arc not very frequently detected by
those who look for such insect curiosities, they being generally

Larva of the Poplar Hawk Moth (Smeirmthus PoptUi).

deposited on the branches of the Lime and Elm at some distance
from the ground. By a little management the moth has been

Convolvulus Siihinx (Sphmi Convolvuli).

anal horn a flatc plate or ridge, which is of a purple colour,
bordered with yellow, and the use of which, if use it has, is
unknown. In most particulars, this excepted, the larva of
S. Tilia; resembles its congeners fi. ocellatus and Populi,
having tho surface of the body roughened, and yellow dots
on the green ground colour, while along the sides are tho
seven stripes so common amongst the larvaj belonging to the
larger Sphingidw. The anal horn is blue and yellow. This
stage of the existence of the insect lasts from six to eight
weeks, and during September, or earlier, we may see them
crawling towards the earth with the intent to undergo pupation .
The chrysalis is not usually closed in a regular cocoon, but the
caterpillar seeks out, if possible, some sheltered angle formed
by the roots of a tree, and drawing some particles together in
a careless way with threads of silk, it becomes a chrysalis.
This torpid condition lasts from eight to nine months if the
chrysalis be left undisturbed by the gardener's spade or the
entomologist's trowel.

A larger moth than the one just described is that commonly
known as the Poplar Hawk (S. PopuU), though in reality, as
we find to be the case with other names taken from the food-
plant, it might quite as correctly take its name from tho Willow,
on which it often feeds, and on various species of which I have
frequently taken it along the Thames and Lea.- The cater-
pillar also feeds sometimes on the Birch. Laurel and Laurus-
tinus have also been noticed as occasionally yielding it a supply
of food in gardens ; some instances of this were observed in
1872, though the latter seem unlikely plants for it to resort to.
The moth is fond of sitting upon palings near gardens, even if

262

JOURNAL OF HORTlCtJLTUBE AND COtTAGE GABDENEB.

( Marcli 27, 1873.

it has not been bred in such a locality, bavmg doubtless le-
VleA thither at evening's dusk, attracted by ^^^ °^°Yt~
summer flowers ; and then thereafter, haying satisfied '*« appe-
tite sought a convenient spot to promote its digestion by
aking rest-a wise precaution which is not instmctive, unfor-
tunately, in living creatures of a nobler type. The foro wings
with their delicate marblings of dark brown harmonise v^y
nearly with the tint of many palings which are innocent o the
tar-brush, and even the white dots might pass for tmy bits o
Lichen ; the reddish base of the hind wings is mostly eonceaed
from view. I have taken a female moth hanging by one leg
from the bar of an iron railing in a garden, seemingly m jus
the position to furnish a choice morsel to some bnd. She was
not incubatiug. No! but preparing to lay eggs; «!? ^n the
course of an hour after she deposited about loO. These are
largish, and it is noticeable that through the membrane befo e
hatching, one can perceive the young larva coiled up head to
tail. The full-grown caterpillar is of goodly size, and striped
as in S. TUias, which in colour it also resembles. _ The anal
horn, however, is without any blue. A singular variety of this
larva turns up now and then, and is suffused J^tl ™sy
tints ; the moth therefrom is not dissimilar from the oidma y
type. Kept in breeding jars or cages, the larv.-e of S. Populi
have a peculiar habit of attacking each other's extrem ties
and the result is that their anal horns as they grow large
appear more or less disfigured. . , ^, . ri„„^^i

A moth of right noble proportions is the Unicorn or Convol-
vulus Hawk (Sphinx Convolvuli), figured on page 261 rather
a rare visitant to the garden, but more partial thereto than are
many others, being fully sensible to the attractions of the
flower beds. Single specimens are picked up in all pai'ts of
England, and even near London, more usually m the eastern
districts. That it occurs also in the western suburbs I have
had proof, since in the autumn of 1871, when passmg through
a market garden near Putney, I came upon a patch of Convol-
vulus which had escaped cultivation, and I at once perceived
traces of the law- work of some large caterpil ar, the bitten
leaves affording one proof, and another also stil more unmis-
takeable beiug given by the large pellets of ™ss, as the
Germans say, which could only have been left by some large
Sphinx. The only species likely to feed upon the plant m
question was that before us; but as, unfortunately for the
observer, the caterpillar is apt to hide itself m the day, I in-
stituted a search for it in vain. According to the statements
of some it descends to the earth, or even enters it ; this at
least is certain, that the insect is rarely detected m the larval

The moth has rather a grey and shaggy appeai-anoe, the
body bemg well clothed with down ; the abdomen has a broad
grev stripe down the centre, and pink and black bands on each
side. The delicate markings on the fore wings soon disappear
after S. Convolvuli has been a short time on the wing. A
friend of ours once received a specimen from Devonshire that
had been picked up on a gravel walk, and ere it came mto his
hands it had been thoroughly washed to rernove the dirt,
which was effectually got rid of— and also all the scales of the
wings ! — J. B. S. C.

[For the illustrations from Figuier's " Insect World " gifen
with this paper we are indebted to the courtesy of Messrs.
Cassell.Petter, & Galpin, of Ludgate HUl, who liberally placed
them at our disposal. — Eds.]

CEEOSOTING WOODWOEK.

1 HAVE read " Obsekvbii's " communication in your Issue of
the 6th inst. with great mterest. I have just ordered the
woodwork of a new greenhouse, and I find that I can get tue
same creosoted, at a place where such work is done as a
matter of busmess, at about the cost of two coats of p^t.
There is no doubt as to the advantages that creosote would be
on the outside, but I always have had an idea that tax and
tar spu-its exercised a very injurious action on plants, i
should feel obliged if your correspondent would say whether
he has found any injui-ioua effects upon cUmbers touching the
creosoted wood, and whether any drop that may fall off the
wood on a plant burns the leaves in any way.— U.

[" Obseevek" repUes as follows ;— The creosote, labour, fire,
&c., ought to cost about one-third that of a coat of pamt.
The wood should only remain in the creosote two hours ; it
much longer the creosote runs out of the wood again. For a
house of 52 feet by 1-5 the whole expense was 12.-. I had a

trough and small boUer close by. Everyone knows that if
creosote drips on the leaves it will kill them. I have used it
for many years without any drawback. After six months
plants may come m contact with the creosoted wood without
injury.]

PEAT FUEL FOR GAEDENING PUEFOSES.

An answer to a correspondent relative to this subject will be
found in another column, and as it is a subject deservedly
obtaining much attention now that coals are so enhanced in
price, we copy the following from the Irish Fanners' Gazctlc.
It will be seen from this that in Bavaria peat is used for heat-
ing the boders of railway engmes, and as it is eflicieut for that
there can be no reason for its not being efiioient for the gar-
dener's hot-water boilers.

At a meeting of the members of the Eoyal Dublin Society the
first commuuication was by Mr. Alexander MacDounell, the
subject being " Notes on Peat." The paper dealt with the clit-
ferent descriptions of peat made in Belgium of w-hich he found
the density to correspond substantially with that found in the
bogs of Ireland. One cubic foot of peat was found to be equal
to 8.7 lbs. of German peat, and varied from 0 to 12 lbs. per cubic
foot. Peat in some parts of Germany was dried m sheds, a
process which he believed to be very expensive. He explained
at length the most approved methods for the production of com-
pressed peat, and expressed his behef that a satisfactory solution
of the question of compression would be the making of a p-e^t
part of the west of Ireland. He obsei-ved that nearly all the
machines which were used in the peat factories of Holland and
Belgium for condensing purposes were constructed upon almost
the same principle— of first disintegrating and almost destroy-
ing the fibre, and then forcing the pulp, by screw pressure,
thiough a groove, after which it was cut to the required size.
The specific gi-avity of peat manufactured was greater than that
of water, and as a rule exceeded the density to which Irish
manufactured peat was hitherto reduced. By a machine whicli
he had used hitherto for reducing the raw part of peat to a pulp,
the continental principle of cutting the fibre was to some extent
resorted to ; but by a new machine which he intended to bring
shortly into operation the fibre would not be thoroughly dis-
organised and cut up, but rather reduced by a series of blows to
a homogeneous consistency ; the machine employed bemg a
slightly modified concrete miser, in which the blades were set
atl sUght inclination, so as to produce a sort of screw motion
urging the peat forward to the moulds after it was properly

™A'^dfscussion followed, and a member remarked that beyond
all doubt in remote districts peat could be utilised to a very
gi-eat extent, and he hoped it would be ; but, at the same time,
he personaUy did not think that they had facts to justify them
in coming to the conclusion that it could be made the subject of
large commercial operations, to be carried to any very great

^Vhe Chairman said that both peat and coal were used on the
Bavarian railways in proportion as facility for procuring either

° The Chairman asked if the principle of drying peat by heating
the sheds had been tried. ,.i;K„;„i

Mr. MacDonnell said no attempt had been made at aitiheial
drying that he eoiild discover. If peat was dried too quickly it
would crack. It would be well to make some experiments upon
the partial drying of peat for the first couple of days. Extrava-
gant statements had been made in reference to the cost of peat.
The fact was that there was no machine-made peat, and tney
had no idea whether machine-made turf was going to cost 5s. or
10s. a-ton. Both figures were stated, and he thought one had as
good a right to say Cs. as 10s. a-ton.

rPeat is, perhaps, nearer to us in Loudon than we have hither-
to beUeved, for in The English Mechanic we read that Accord-
ing to Mr. J. E. Scott, the Registrar of the London coal market,
an immense deposit of peat lies within seven miles of the lioyal
Exchange, and within 10 feet of the surface, extending from
Bow Creek, Blackwall, along both shores of the Thames to the
sea. Tills only requires to be 'dug, dried and scientifically
treated ' to add a valuable fuel fit for aU and e^'ery purpose for
which coal is now used. This is good news ; but who wiU dig,
dry, and scientificaUy treat' this fuel, and sell it, cheap I J

Death of Mr. Jabez J. CnATEK.-We regret to have to record
the sudden death of Mr. Jabez J. Chater, of the GonviUe Nur-
series, Cambridge, on March 10th, from heart disease The de-
ceased was the fifth son of Mr. W. Chater, the celebrated raiser
of prize Hollyhocks, and it is not too much to say that to mm
may be attributed a good deal of his father's success with that
flower. For the last ten years Mr. Jabez J. Chater has been
at the GonviUe Nurseries, Cambridge, where he has been the

March 27, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

263

most successful exhibitor at the various exhibitions in that
and the adjoining counties. He was a most diligent and
ardent lover of floriculture, and had on many occasions ex-
hibited successfully at the great shows of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society in London and the provinces. Ho was a
successful hybridiser of Geraniums, his Forget-me-not being
one of the best of its class.

THE HYACINTH SHOW at SOUTH KENSINGTON.

As the readers of tbis Journal are aware from the report
given last week, this was characterised by great excellence.
Tuhps were very gay in their gaudy colours, and were probably
finer than usual. Crocus and Polyanthus Narcissus helped to
give interest to the meeting ; but the great centre of attraction
was the Hyacinths. The spikes were, I think, the finest ever
seen at any exhibition, they certainly gave evidence of superior
skill in culture ; but, on the other hand, the new varieties,
which are now becoming more common, are a great advance on
those which used to be staged some ten or fifteen years ago,
and help very materially to improve the collections in which
they are placed. The Hyacinth is one of the oldest of florists'
flowers, and has been undergoing improvement before the very
oldest grower or his father saw the light, so that any improve-
ment must be slow, and to the ordinary observer uuperceptible,
but that there has been improvement during the last decade
no one can doubt who has been at aU observant.

Only three new varieties obtained certificates on the llHh.
All of them were single blues of different shades. Mazzini,
from Messrs. Veitoh, has beUs of immense size, of a porcelain
blue ; the spike moderate. Lord Melville, from Messrs. Cut-
bush, dark blue and clear white eye, is a very distinct sort.
Prince of Wales, which I exhibited, is also a very distinct sort,
very dark blue, with well-shaped bells and compact spike.
The bells of this sort are sometimes striped red. If we go
back to 1863-4, when that grand sort King of the Blues was
introduced, in the intervening years a marked improve-
ment win be noticed both in the size of the spilies and in new
colours, although, however distinct and pretty a va-iety
possessing a new shade of colour may be, it will not do for
exhibition if it do not also possess length and breadth of
spike. Sir Henry Havelock has a good spike, and the colour
is purplish crimson, it may be taken as the greatest advance
in colour. Vuurbaak, brilliant crimson, has a grand spike ;
and no white is at all equal to La Grandesse when it is at its
best. I might name others, but these all show recent pro-
gress.

Double varieties are not being improved in the same ratio
as the single, and they seem to be displaced at the exhibitions
by the single varieties. I admit the single sorts have the most
symmetrical spikes, but the double are very beautiful. They
deserve and ought to have a class to themselves. Some very
fine sorts that are not now seen would be shown. I should not
like to see any of the classes in the present schedule of the
Royal Horticultural Society omitted, and if the Society did
not see fit to introduce a class for doubles, why could we not
do it ourselves ? l''uuds might very soon be forthcoming to make
a class both for the trade and amateurs. I would willingly
subscribe for such a purpose ; but I would only do so on con-
dition that the rules for exhibitors were made more stringent
then those contained in the schedule of the Society. I think
it highly desirable that gardeners should purchase the bulbs
in the autumn, pot them, and grow them up to a flowering
state under their own or their subordinates' care. At present
this is not at all an essential point. A gentleman or his gar-
dener may go to any of the large growers in the trade, pur-
chase his plants a week or a day before the exhibition, and
carry off the first prize — certainly not first honom-s — they
belong undoubtedly to the gardener who exhibits the best
plants of his own growing ; and there are some to whom " a
good name is better than great riches, and loving favour
rather to be preferred than silver and gold." In fact, I am in
a position to say that the amateur grower who carried off the
first prizes at South Kensington obtained his plants from one
of the large trade exhibitors after the bulbs had been potted
and cultivated to a certain extent by their grower, and he
might have had them two months or only two days before the
Show, yet he was, according to the present regulations, entitled
to the award. In a case like the above there cannot even be a
division of honour. An exhibitor should and would be proud
to take an opponent by the hand and congratulate him on his
success if honourably beaten by him. When there is room

for suspicion he cannot do so. To slightly alter a passage in
" Marmion" —

*' The haml of Dou^'las is his own.

And never shall in friendly grasp

The hand of such a tiiud clasp."

This is a matter on which the Editors of this Journal should
give an opinion. For my own part I would sconi to exhibit a
flower or fruit that was not grown entu-ely under my own
care. If some stringent provisions against such unfau- pro-
ceedings are not adopted, it is quite evident that respectable
exhibitors will have to withdraw entirely from exhibiting. Let
us if possible have a fuU and free ventilation of the subject ;
it is, I think, of great importance.— J. Docgl.\s, Loxford Hall
GanUns.

[This is not the first time we have received information
relative to persons (wo will not prostitute the word by calling
them gentlemen), who have bought flowers from florists, and
a few days subsequently have exhibited them for prizes. We
have the name of the person who is referred to by Mr. Douglas,
and unless we have satisfactory information we will publish
his name and where and when he bought the Hyacinths. — •
Eds.!

MR. LITTLE'S CYCLAMENS.

The same day that I visited Lord Londesborough's new
garden at Coombe I took the opportunity of caUing at Mr.
Little's at Cambridge ViUa, Twickenham, in the hope of find-
ing him at home and having a chat with him about his won-
derful Cyclamens. In this I was disappointed, as he was not
at home ; but I found Mr. Goddard, and was enabled to see
his house fiUed from one end to the other with these lovely
spring flowers ; and as I walked through what is simply a little
viUa garden, I could not help observing that it is so often in
small and not in large gardens that the lover of flowers finds
his pets so well taken care of. One goes through a large place,
the garden comprising many acres ; houses upon houses are
filled with plants, fruits, &c. ; and while everything is well
done — the plants well grown, the Vines filled with a good crop,
the various quarters of vegetables well arranged — there is
nothing that stands out especially good— there is, in fact,
no spi'ciuliti'. But you go into a small garden. The owner
has a hobby, and away he goes at it full speed. His energies,
instead of being expended on many things, ai-e concentrated
on one object, and he therefore excels in it ; or it may be he
takes up two or three flowers, which in succession claim his
attention, and if you want to see these dift'erent plants you
must go where they are grown.

No one who has attended the spring shows of the Royal
Horticultural Society need be told that the specimens of Cycla-
mens exhibited by Mr. Little take the very foremost rank ; and
those who were at the exhibition on March .5th will not easily
forget the splendid bank of plants of varied hues which were
displayed in the entrance-haU. These all came from a span-
roofed house about 30 feet in length, which on the day of my
visit was filled from one end to the other with a glorious col-
lection of plants, in colour pure white, rich purple, dark crim-
son, white with crimson base, pale blush, &a., of immense size
and substance such as a few years ago would have been con-
sidered impossible. Indeed, we recollect the time when it was
exceedingly difficult to procure the corms, and when all sorts
of " dodges " were recommended for the purpose of increasing
the stock ; and now in less than ten months plants are ob-
tained from seed which will carry forty or fifty blooms. The
manner in which this result is obtained is now well known.
The plants are kept continually going, grown in tolerably rich
compost, kept near the glass, green fly narrowly watched
for, and, in fact, everything done to insure rapid and con-
tinuous growth. Mr. Little is exceedingly careful as to hybrid-
ising ; and as he names his best flowers, he is able to trace
the pedigree of those which he is raising from year to year,
and thus to insure an advance as far as it can bo done. This
is much better than the plan ordinarily pursued of gathering
seed indiscriminately from the whole collection ; and if those
who save seed for sale were to adopt the same plan there
would be finer flowers in general cultivation than are now
seen.

It has been stated by some writers on the Cyclamen that the
plants are comparatively useless after the second or third
year, and I asked Mr. Goddard his opinion on this subject.
He replied by showing me some plants which were eight years
old. The corms were enormous, nearly filling the pots, and
the flowers produced in great profusion, thus clearly estabhsh-

264

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Mai-ch 27, 187S.

ing the fact that old plants need not be thrown away. I will
not expatiate on the value of this very beautiful spring flower ;
it is so useful for decorative purposes aud for cutting for
houfjuets. — D., Deal.

A CENTURY OP ORCHIDS FOR AMATEUR
GROWERS.-No. 6.

CCELOGYNE.

This is an extensive family of eastern plants, many of
which succeed admirably under cool treatment. Most of the
kinds produce very beautiful flowers, and some are most de-
licately perfumed. The treatment recommended for Maxillaria
will suit these well.

C. CRISTATA. — The whole plant is rich deep green in colour ;
the flowers are large, and pro-
duced on pendent racemes
during the winter. In some
cases, under good manage-
ment, two racemes spring
from a single pseudobulb.
The sepals and petals are of
the purest snow-white, so
also is the lip, but in addi-
tion it is ornamented with
several raised fringed lines
of orauge yellow. Native of
Kasia and Nepaul.

C. COERUOATA. — .iltllOUgh

"the flowers of this species
are not so large as those of
C. cristata, they are, never-
theless, sufficiently interest-
ing to warrant tlie atten-
tion of amateur cool Orchid
growers. The pseudobulbs
are much wrinkled, and bear
ample dark green leaves.
The raceme is about half
the length of the leaves ; se-
pals and petals pure white ;
lip white, blotched with yel-
low aud streaked with deep
orange. Native of the Neil-
gherry Hills.

EPIDENDBUM.

A really vast genus includ-
ing several hundred known
species, many of which are
extremely beautiful, wliilst
others, again, are extremely
duU and unattractive ; yet
even some of the least in-
teresting make amends for
want of colour and size by
the exquisitely delightful
fragrance of their blooms.
Natm'aUy, most Epiden-
drums are epiphytal, but the
majority of them conform
to pot culture very well. Use
sphagnum moss aud peat in
about equal parts, and if
medium-sized lumps of charcoal are employed, they will greatly
conduce to healthy growth. The following two are all I shall
introduce in my selection for small amateurs : —

E. viTELLiNU.M MA.IUS. — Au extremely beautiful kind of
easy culture. It has oblong pseudobulbs bearing a pair of
glaucous leaves. The flower-scape is about a foot long, bear-
ing flowers an inch or more in diameter ; the sepals and petals
are thick and fleshy, brilUant deep orange, or yolk-of-egg
colour, the Up yellow. Its colours are rare amongst Orchids,
and the flowers last a very long time in fuU beauty. It usually
blooms during winter and spring. Native of Mexico, at great
elevations.

E. NEiioRALE MAJDS. — This is another superb Mexican
variety. The pseudobulbs are very large, bearing a pair of
leaves some 10 or 12 inches long. The panicles of bloom are
v?ry large, often rqeaauriug between 2 aud 3 feet in length.

sometimes even more. The numerous flowers are soft rosy-
mauve, the lip, in addition, being streaked with a few lines of
red. It is found growing in Oak forests, at great elevations,
in Mexico.

CYPBIPEDIUM.
The various species comprising this genus are popularly
known as " Lady's-slipper Plants," or as its name impUes,
Venus's iShoe, the peculiar pouched appearance of the lip
having suggested the name. Cypripediums are favourite plants
with most Orchid growers, aud may be easily grown into good
specimens. They thrive in a mixture of peat, sphagnum,
and sand, and during summer enjoy copious waterings from
both the watering-can and syringe ; it must be borne in mind
that having no pseudobulbs they cannot withstand much
drought. The only three kinds I can recommend for low tem-
peratures are here given, and they are sufficiently hardy

to withstand unharmed the
temperature of the dwelling-
house for a long time.

C. iNsiGNE. — A free-grow-
ing old plant. The leaves
are long, strap-shaped, and
light-green. The scape bears
a single flower which lasts
ia full beauty five or six
weeks with ordinary care,
and as it expands about the
end of December, the bloom
is doubly valuable as serving
to enliven, the dull winter
days. The upper sepal and
the petals are yellowish
green, the former large and
tipped with white, the
ground beiug freckled with
brown spots ; the pouched
lip is brownish orange.
Native of Sylhet.

C. ixsiGXE Maulei. — This
differs from the normal form
of the species in having a
smaller lip, aud in the dorsal
sepal being much larger and
brighter-coloured. The

snowy white marldugs ex-
tend fully half the length,
whilst, in addition, it is
streaked with crimson aud
dotted with dull purple.

C. vExcsTUM. — Leaves
light 'green, blotched with
deep blackish green on the
upper side, purphsh below.
The flowers are solitary,
sepals aud petals greenish
white, whilst the pouch is
yellow suffused with pale
green. It also blooms during
the winter. Native of
Sylhet.

DENDEOBIUSI.

This is entirely an eastern
genus, aud it includes
several hundred species, the
majority of which are exceedingly beautiful and showy. Many
of them succeed best grown upon blocks or in baskets, and
thus produce a pleasing effect in the plant house, in addition
to economising space. In many instances Dendrobiums re-
quire the temperature of the warm house, but the species here
enumerated thrive well under quite cool treatment. The soil
should be rough peat aud sphagnum, with ample drainage.
Durint! winter only just suflioient water should be given to
keep Ihem from shrivelling.

D. NoRiLE. — This is one of our longest-known members of
this order, having been introduced to this country about the
year Is.SO, and it still mamtains its position as one of the
handsomest. It blooms at varioiis times during winter and
sprinjr, and lasts long in beauty. Tlie flowers are admirably
ndapted for the embellishment of a lady's hair, especially
when backed by a small frond of some graceful Fern. It is an

Bendrobium noblle pallidifloi-um.— (Bof. Mag.)
(See page 205.)

March 27, 1878. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

2C5

erect-growing plant, with stout leafy pseudobulbs, bearing to-
wards the upper part two and throe-flowered peduncles of a
lovely description. The blooms are thick and fleshy, measur-
ing upwards of 2 inches in diameter, the sepals and petals

differing from the typical form in several particulars, and
especially in the absence of the blood-coloured spot on the lip,
is figured on the preceding page), varying more or less in colour
and markings, but all are beautiful, and deserving the ama-

white, rose, and purple, whilst the lip is purplish red. There I teur's attention. It is widely distributed in northern India. —
are several varieties of this plant in cultivation (one of which, ' Expeeto Obedb.

VIOLET VICTORIA EEGINA.

We were about publishing this uuexaggerated portrait of
some of the Victoria Regina Violets exhibited by Mr. Lee, of
Clevedon, at the Royal Horticultural Society's Meeting on the

I'Jth iust., when we happened to meet with these brief notes
upon the flower.

Violets I deep blue Violets 1
.Xpiil's loveliest coronets

Victoria Regina Violet.

are emblems of modesty, and wittily as well as wisely did that i
lady who chose the Violet for her crest, with the motto // faut '
nif eliprcher — T must be searched after. The ancients did not
fail to note the habit of the flower, wliose perfume led to its
detection beneath the leaves, so tliey named it Ion, and said
that it was the nymph la who shrank from the kisses of Apollo
(the sun), and was for safety changed to a Violet. Violets
were sold largely in the Atheni.an floral market, and the Ro-
man cavousers wore chaplets of them to dispel the couseriuenees .
of their excesses. Double varieties of both the white and !
purple are mentioned by some of our earliest herbalists. Many
florists have succeeded in increasing the size of the flowers,
but none have been more successful than Mr. Lee. Many i

have succeeded in increasing the size of the flowers, but no
one has intensified the sweetness of the common wild Violet.
No better evidence of the power of its perfume can be given
than that of the huntsman, who when asked what had thrown
the hounds off (he .scent, replied, " That bank of stinking
wiletfl.''

lu VicTORi.v Recina Violet, the variety which wo now figure,
we have a Violet not merely remarkable for the great size of
its flowers, but very sweet-scented as well, a quality not always
possessed in a high degree by large- flowering varieties of this
plant. Large flowers are but too often wanting in scent, large
fniit in flavour, and it would seem that Nature in developing
one quality to aa unusual extent had to do so at the expense

266

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB,

I Maioli 27, 167S.

of another. Be this as it may, Victoria Regiua Violet is a very
queen among Violets, and as it has already produced several
seedlings varying much from the parent, we know not whither
these variations may lead ; hut if the advance in size be as
great on the parent as the latter is on the ordinary Violet,
" we may," as we previously remarked, "expect to see varie-
ties rivalling in size the florists' Pansy."

With regard to Violet culture, Mr. Lee remarks, " The soil,
I think, cannot be made too rich, provided it is light and
porous ; with this there is no lack as to quantity or quality
of bloom. Soil is, I think, much more important than aspect,
although aspect must not be overlooked. A position to the
north of high trees, and not subject to the drip from them, I
find the best ; many of my plants are to the north of such
trees with naked stems, so that the sun shines underneath in
winter, but they are shaded in summer. If, however, the soil
is deep, light, and rich, they will bear a considerable amount
of sunshine.

" I must not quite omit the time of planting. If the plants
you procure are not in pots I think September the best time ;
but if you plant in winter, or in spring after growth commences,
it is necessary to cut off all the young leaves. I find the plants
do very well planted in any open weather from September till
April.

" I plant my Violets at 18 inches apart in beds of three rows
each ; this affords room for hoeing the intervals between the
rows while the plants are growing. I sometimes plant them
at 6 inches apart, sometimes at 1 foot apart in the rows, just as
I have a large stock of plants or otherwise. They soon spread
and fill the beds ; but they ought not to remain more than
three years in the same place, unless you take off the runners
and add manure liberally, otherwise you get the flowers small
and short-stemmed. The outside rows of the opposite beds
ought to be 2 feet C inches apai-t ; this gives room for a 1-foot
path between the beds, which, if the plants do well, will not
be too much."

EVENING MUSINGS FOE PLAIN PEOPLE.— No. 3.

Not Vines alone are the subject of these papers, which are
intended, not for professional gardeners and their exalted
employers, but for the great middle class with gardening pro-
clirities, who hesitate in their plans from want of assurance
on given points. The point in question is, What can be grown
with Vines ? — not grown to a pitch of absolute perfection for
exhibition purposes, but cultivated as a pleasure and recreation
to contribute to the attractions and happiness of home.

As has been noticed, bedding plants and spring-flowering
subjects generally are at home with Vines, and Camelhas as a
special class have been mentioned as peculiarly adaptable for
vinery occupation. In themselves few things are more beau-
tiful than a collection of Camellias. They are at any time
worthy of a house to themselves, erected specially to meet
their cultural requirements. These stnjctural conditions are
simple, and resolve themselves into shade and moderate heat-
ing appliances, sufficient to exclude frost in winter and im-
part a more genial warmth in spring. These conditions are
provided exactly by an ordinary vinery, the Vines themselves
affording the shade. A vinery, therefore, is a Camellia house
as good as need be. I lately saw a vinery nearly the size
of that at Hampton Court ; the roof was covered with foU-
age, but there were not more than 100 lbs. of Grapes in the
house. What was to me a blank disappointment was not so
to the owner, who remarked that the A'ines did their duty well
by shading the Camellias. What a grand sight must be that
huge house of Camellias when in full bloom ! and what a rich
appearance has even a small house of healthy Camellias ! But
that large structure would have grown the Camellias equally
well had the roof been covered with fruitful instead of unfruit-
ful Vines. If my visit should result in this I shall be glad,
and the owner surely can enjoy his Camellias none the less if
rich clusters of Grapes hang above them.

It is, I am quite aware, the desire of many to put up a
vinery for a few home-grown Grapes, although they cannot
endure the thought of emjity stages in the summer. They see
a neighbour's house with greenhouse plants and Vines. The
latter are very well, but look at the plants — Pelargoniums as
if attempting (which they are) to push through into the open
air, and most likely sustaining a live stock of ten thousand fat
(and lean) aphides ; Fuchsias with shoots blanched and attenu-
ated, crawling, and hanging, and writhing in misery, with a
little paltry bloom squeezed out here and there, of course

carrying the live stock ; Balsams long, lanky, languishing, and
leanmg for support on then- feeble friends in distress, attempt-
ing to derive a modicum of comfort in a prison of misfortune.
That is a too-common picture of an amateur's vinery in summer,
and serves as a text to unpractical visitors that plants and
Vines will not associate together, and has often decided the
fate of a projected building, as well it may. Empty benches
are infinitely preferable to such a miserable mass of unsuitable
plants driven wild in their desperate attempts to get out of it.

" Come and look at our vinery," said a gentleman and his
daughters, " and tell us what to do ; we cannot get a plant
for the drawing-room worth looking at," with a special sup-
plementary grumble from paterfamilias of, " I hate the place !
Thought I should have everything, and have nothing. I can
do in winter and spring with bulbs. Primulas, and the like,
but now I hate to look at it ; it is a wilderness of desolation."
He was not far oft' the mark. They did not expect a great
deal, but the house to be " decent." My first advice was to
have some Camellias, especially white ones; in the spring they
will charm the ladies, and in summer, only keep them clean,
and they will be healthy and glossy. The rejoinder to this
was, " You gardeners are all alike. That is just what my man
wants ; but if he cannot grow easy things Uke these, how can
he grow Camellias ?" I am afraid that against such logic many
an industrious man has to battle. But pressing the Camellias
and demolishing the logic at the same time, and pledging my
little reputation that with fan- treatment not only Camellias
but a few Azaleas, after the beauty of bloom was over, would
keep the place neat and themselves within bounds under the
Vines ; that hardy and greenhouse Ferns would do admirably
in the house and look well in the rooms ; and that Palms —
healthy young plants of the hardiest kinds were the very things
they requu-ed — would do well in the vinery, and look charming
for in-door decoration. At the sound of Camellias, Ferns,
and Palms the daughters' eyes brightened with deUght as
just what they hoped and longed for. They pressed their
claims in their own way, and the owner's opposition com-
pletely collapsed. What a pleasing and enjoyable change
was the result by just putting the right things into the right
place ! The Grapes above were as good as ever — yea, better,
as the plants, being more valued, received more regular and
constant attention in watering and syringing, and created an
atmosphere more suited to the Vines.

Vines and plants will only not flourish together when wrong
plants are put under the Vines. Select the right ones — plants
requiring, or at least tolerating shade, and amongst these are
to be found the most beautiful and interesting genera, and a
house may be always attractive without counting the value of
the Grapes.

There is yet one more great order of plants to which shade
is indispensable in summer, and which with good attention
will attain a high state of perfection under Vines. These are
perhaps the most singularly beautiful, interesting, and valuable
of all plants — viz.. Orchids. That a judicious selection of
this order will flourish admirably in conjunction with Vines
has been clearly demonstrated, amongst others by my former
fellow pupil. Temple, late of Headingley, whose practice hag
been detailed in this Journal. The temperature required by
many varieties of Orchids is the same as required by the Vines.
Atmospheric moisture is in the same degree necessary to the
summer growth of both, and the period of rest required is
sufficiently identical for practical purposes. Any or all the
plants which have been named will, with proper attention,
afford a return commensurate with the skill and attention given
to cultural points of detail, and at the same time will not inter-
fere with the Grapes, which may certainly be produced above
them. A main condition necessary for success is not to attempt
too much by overcrowding. A few plants grown well will ever
be more satisfactory than many in an indifferent state. In
the matter of overcrowding, amateurs do not err alone. In
this respect there are sinners amongst professional gardeners,
who, in their anxiety to get the utmost with small conveni-
ences, occasionally overstep the mark and defeat their object.
This is not to be wondered at, considering the diflioulty at
times of deciding when and where to stop. The wonder is
that so much is produced under crippled circumstances by able
and thoughtful men. But what the professional man can do,
the amateur may do also in a less degree, by cool calculation
beforehand and steady regular action afterwards, provided —
and this is a main element of success — he has a real love for
his object and a will to work, not by fits and starts, but just
when the work is needed, and not simply when his fancy die-

March i1, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE A^tD COTTAGE GAIlDfiNER,

267

tates. At any rate, there can be no manner of doubt tliat
Vines and plants may bo grown well together, and many a
house may be erected which would add considerable attrac-
tions to a snug and happy home. — J. W., Liin-olii.

WOEK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GABDEN,

At the time of earthing-up any of the crops strew a little soot
close to the stems of the plants ; this will prevent slugs har-
bouring there and biting them off under the surface of the soil,
which they are very apt to do in the early part of the season.
Looseu the earth between all the wiuter-stauding crops, and
keep every part of the garden free from litter. When Peas or
other plants are frozen, water them very gently with cold water
as soon as the temperature of the atmosphere surrounding them
is above the freezing point, but never before, or by its appli-
cation the juices of the plant will be more effectually frozen
than they were previous to the application of the water. The
general spring dressing of Asparoijus, if not yet done, should no
longer be delayed, as the roots will now begin to gi'ow. A little
Early Purple and Early White Broccoli may be sown for autumn
use, but Cape and Grange's almost su]>ersede the use of any
other sorts for autumn use. Make a sowing of Brusseh Sprouts
for the first croi^ : this is an excellent vegetable, but rarely to
be met with true. Plant out some of tbe early spring-sown
Caitlijioiccrs as soon as they are of sufficient size to succeed the
autumn-sown ; earth-up the early-planted as soon as it can be
done, so as to prevent the wind blowing them about to loosen
them. Take advantage of a fine day to draw the earth round
the hills of Cucinnbcrs after it has lain a day or two by the side
of the frame to get warm ; do not press it down round the plant.
As soon as the heat is observed to fall, fork up and add to the
linings ; or, if the heat is entirely out, renew the lining first
made. After a continuance of dull weather the plants are apt
to flag for the first few clear days ; when this is observed they
may be slightly shaded. Herbs should now be propagated, seeds
being sown of the annual sorts, or of such as do not supply
cuttings nor admit of being divided. Get in the main crops of
Potatoes where the ground is in good working order, otherwise
no time will be lost by waiting till such is the case. Plant in
trenches or drills drawn with the hoe in preference to dibbUng
them in. A little dryish Utter laid under and over the sets will
be found to increase the crop very materially. Keep-up a succes-
sion of Salading by sowing ouce a-week. Young liadishrs may
be drawn from the frames where they are too thick. Sow a
few rows of Spinacli for succession, limiting the supply to the
demand, as it is a sure crop and one that does not last long.
Pot Tomatoes as they require it, so as to get good established
plants by the time the weather will permit of their being turned
out, for if very small at that time they seldom ripen their fruit
well before the frost sets in.

FBUIT CUIDEN.

See that recently transplanted trees are not suS'eriug from
want of watering. This, however, will hardly be the case except
on dry porous soils, and in such cases the ground should be
mulched w'ith decayed leaves to preserve it in a uniformly moist
state. Attend carefully to the protection of the blossoms of all
fruit trees where nothing better or more convenient can be
obtained. Yew or sjiruce branches will be of service, provided
they are so fixed as not to be hable to be blown against the
blossom. Bemove the covering as frequently as may be conve-
nient on fine days, so as to fully expose the trees to sun and air.
Get a supply of tobacco water in readiness to attack aiJhides
immediately they make their api^earance on Peach trees.

FLOWER G.iBDEN.

All now groundwork, such as planting and turfing, must be
finished as expeditiously as possible, and as soon as all rubbish
has been cleared from the borders, &c., prepare for trimming
the walks and making them clean for the season. This, though
an operation readily performed, is frequently tarried over and
badly executed. A walk after it has been turned, levelled, and
the facing of new gravel laid upon it, should remain in that
state three or four days for the gravel to bleach, and not be
rolled until it has a shower of rain upon it. The utihty of this
plan is, the gravel becomes washed before it is rolled down, and
you have a clean, bright walk at all times instead of one sticking
to your feet and faliiu.Lj into holes in wet weather. This delay
causes inconvenience while the work is being done, but it i^ fully
counterbalanced by the excellence of the walks throughout the
season. Birds are very troublesome to early germinating seeds,
and where it is inconvenient to cover with netting it will be well
to sprinkle the beds with sand made wet with spirits of tar. The
transplanting of aU autumn-sown annuals should be completed
•without delay, also of biennials. Prepare for a sowing of the
latter a piece of ground, which must be sUghtly enriched and
dug to a good depth. In the shrubberies the work for the season
will be finished, except attending to newly-planted shrubs and
watering them when necessary. Take care that all newly-planted

shrubs and trees are properly staked before they begin to make
new roots, and mulch them with short grass occasionally when
the lawn is mo'\^'n. Am'icula flowers are putting on an improved
appearance ; still keep them warm at night with mats, and as
they are growing they should have a moderate supply of water.
Last year's seedling Polyanthuses are now throwing up their
trusses and " showing their faces ;" those which do not come
up to the mark should be pulled up or planted for border flowers
in the shrubberies or elsewhere. Seed of llammculus is now
coming up fastj shelter from cutting winds, and if any are
rooted out of the soil, which sometimes is the case, they must
be carefully reinserted. Where practicable, the beds of named
flowers should be covered with mats when frost is expected.
Potting Carnations has commenced in many parts of the
country, and where the plants have been brought up hardy the
sooner they are out the better; as a precaution, place a slice of
potato between the rows, if two are planted in a pot, so that
they may have a chance of avoiding destruction should a solitary
wireworm escape you. The beds of Pansies may be top-dressed
with Melon-bed manure, and screened from the prevailing cold
with spruce fir boughs or other efficient protection. Snails must
be trapped, as they begin to be seriously troublesome.

OBEENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY.

To keep the conservatory now in perfect order you must go
over the jjlants daily, or at least every alternate day, and take
out those beginning to fade. Pick-off all decaying flowers and
leaves, also all distorted flower-buds, or, indeed, any small or
ill-arranged flower which does not look well. Change the
plants in sitting-rooms often, if they are worth preserving after-
wards. Fuchsias represent that class of greenhouse plants
which do best to be shaken out of their pots annually, but as
the strong varieties of them are gross feeders, you may use a
rougher compost for them. A thorough revision of plants in
the different houses where plant-gi-owing and forcing are carried
on in a mixed way is necessary some time during spring, and
the present is as good a time as any for the operation, the
shutting-up of late vineries or Peach houses generally offering
facilities for the arrangement, and, of course, for reheving the
other structiu-es. Exhausted forcing stock should by all means
have a pit or frame fitted-up especially for it. It shoiUd by no
means be allowed to mix with the general stock. The amateiu'
may carry out this principle with a small frame. A bed of fer-
menting material of a mild character, covered G or 8 inches
deep with tan, and well tupped-up with linings and mats at
night, is what is required. A bottom heat of 80*, with fre-
quent syringing, and the plants plunged, of course, will restore
them to perfect health and prepare them for another campaign.
Cinerarias for late blooming should, if not bound, be shifted.
Likewise let plants in need of water have immediate attention ;
nothing conduces more to the encouragement of insects than
suffering plants to become checked through drought. By start-
ing Camelhas into growth about this time, and getting their
wood ripened early, they wiU be in full bloom in November, at
which season their flowers retain their beauty much longer
than after the sun becomes powerful in the spring. Proceed as
dihgently as possible with the repotting of such of the hard-
wooded greenhouse plants as require it, so as to afford every
chance of making a vigorous growth. Bo careful before potting
to have the ball in a moist state, and avoid giving large shifts
to weakly growers. — W. ICe.vne.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

KITCHEN G.VRDEN.

Planted Peas and Beans for succession in rather favom'able
days. Placed more Potatoes under the shelter of glass for a time,
and we hoped to get ground ready for Onions, when we had a
heavy fall of snow on the '21st, and a sharp frost on the morning
of the 2'2nd, all tending to make the season a very late one.

CatiUjiowers under glasses we shall soon thin-out to five
plants, as we find that, instead of the regulation three, we can do
five well when spread out in the earthrng-ui). When scan a of
ground we dig a trench between the rows of such protected
Cauliflower, so as to earth the Cauhflowers well up, we then
cover the ridges of Cauliflower with short grass or other litter,
and give several manure waterings ; thus we obtain large, clean,
compact heads, the trench being no objection whatever, so long
as the sm-face and the sides of the broad ridge containing the
Cauhflowers are mulched. Besides, the trench between comes
in well, with the help of rotten dung, to afford space for some
early Celery, the shade of the fine fohage of the CaiUiflower
helping the Celery much after planting-out early. _ _ <

We have often dwelt on the importance of not cm-tailing the
ciitent of the kitchen garden. That wiU pay, whatever else re-
turns nothing except to please tbe eye, mucli in the same way
as we put a value on statuary or fine paintings. But with all
that, there is many a small kitchen garden that might return
double the produce it does by successional cotemporary cropping
in the same ground. Thus, in the case of the Cauliflowers re-
ferred to, many have supposed when the plants are put out ou

268

JOURNAL OF EORTIOULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

[ March 27, 1873.

the flat, say three or four rows under hand-lights or other pro-
tection, and then banked-up into ridges so as to leave a ti'ench
between, that the plants as they become large would feel
the effects of dryness. When mulched or littered over, even
without additional watering, we have never perceived anything
of this ; on the contrary, when leaving early Cauliflowers on the
flat with merely a little earthing-up, neither foliage nor heads
were so fine as when the early autumn-planted crops were sub-
jected to earthing-up, so as to form a sort of flat ridge.

Then, again, in small gardens we have recommended not rows
but beds of Cderij ; our general arrangement is to have -l-feet
sunk beds or trenches, and 4 to 5-teet ridged beds between. If
these can be made early, a row of Peas is sown along the middle
of the fiat ridge, with Spinach and Radishes on each side. Here
we may state that after the ground is marked out, the place for
the broad ridge is well dug, and a little manure if needed is
incorporated with the soU before the soil of the part intended
for the beds is thrown on the top of these ridges neatly. We
wish to record here, in opposition somewhat to the general be-
lief, that we have never had better Peas, or plants more free
from mildew and other evils, than when gi'own on the middle of
such raised ridges and platforms. The greater depth of good
soil made the Peas more independent of the changes of the
season, but in a very dry summer a mulching of short grass was
throwTi over the ground, or the surface of the soil kept loose
with the hoe to arrest the absorption of heat and the excessive
evaporation of moisture. The beds, meanwhile, with a little
protection, were used for early Potatoes, Eadishes, Lettuces, &c.,
to bo cleared off before the space, manm-ed with more rotten
dung, was needed for the Celery. We used to follow this plan
largely at one time, and it was only broken-in upon when we
were obliged to use Celerj' trenches as beds in which to harden-
off bedding plants. One extra great advantage of the wide-bed
and the wide-ridge system as thus used is, besides the saving
of ground, the shade afforded by the rows of Peas to the early-
planted Celery whatever the direction of the beds, though on
the whole we prefer them to run somewhat north and south.

We allude to the matter more particularly because much
space is often wasted in small gardens. It is often essential not
only to practise rotation-cropping, but also cotemjiorancous
cropping — that is, ha-ving several crops on the ground at one
time, and yet having the one removed before it will interfere
with the well-being of the next crop in succession. At one time
we found that different successions of Radishes crisp and young
were a matter of importance ; but under glass in winter and out
of doors in summer they never had a bit of ground for them-
selves, but were brought in between Carrots, Potatoes, or
Turnips. In fact, even in the open air, we rarely sowed Turnips
18 to 21 inches apart in drills without having several kinds of
Radishes in lines between them, all of which would bft removed
before the Turnips would need the room. The same thing may
be said of Spinach, a great favourite in many families, and if
vegetables are to be sent to a distance in summer, a good packing
material for keeping things separate, and yet xrseful withal.
As respects this useful vegetable, except what is sown on an
open space of ground in August and September, to stand .^ud
afford gatherings in winter and spring, all our general sowings
come in as intermediate crops between Peas and other vege-
tables, the crop of Sirinach being cut-up as soon as the best is
gathered, before it would interfere at all with the more lasting
or more valuable crop. Thus, on Celery-bed ridges, after using
the best of the Spinach, we have often cut it up, when it acted as
a fair mulching to the Peas until something better could be
obtained.

At one time wo turned our Cdcrij beds to m-eat account, as
by putting a Uttle hot dung at the bottom and dryish soil over,
we could turn out nice Potato plants from small pots, the pots
full of roots, and the Potatoes 2 to 3 inches in height, as with
one row of Peas in the centre of the 5-feet ridge we could manage
to walk along each side to give what protection was needed to
Potatoes thus turned out in March. In general we could obtain
clean ripe tubers from such beds in May and June, three weeks
earUer than we could obtain them from favoured spots at the
bottom of a wall, and a montli earlier than from those planted
out early on raised liauks facing the south, though in some
warm springs the produce from these banks would come in
only a fortnight later than that from beds. In protecting such
sunk beds we found nothing better than mats or calico Ughtly
strained, both being fastened to poles at each end for rolling up,
and stakes laid across the beds to prevent the covering sinking.

We had also a lot of shallow earth pits in an out-of-the-way
corner where we hardened-off our bedding plants, and which
were never idle in winter or summer for low-gi-owing plants
after the bedders were gone. Deprived of these we have had to

fo to our fresh-made Celery beds as places for hardcning-off
eddinij plants, and therefore cannot use the beds for early
vegetables, and cannot use the ridges so well for early Peas, as,
in attending to the bedding plants, there must be more room
for working, and the beds would only be fit for Celery by the
beginning of .June. Where such necessity does not exist, these

wide beds may bo turned to good account in secui-ing early
produce. Between Potatoes planted across in rows 20 inches
apart, we have .sowed in one bed two rows of Radishes, in
another bed planted one row of stout Lettuces, and so on, and
all was cleared off, more rotten dung added, and the Celery
plants turned out in the middle of June, the Peas, as hinted
above, just giving enough of shade to the young Celery. Had
we more ground we would make our Celery beds 4 feet in width,
to take three rows of Celery, and we would make the ridges
between 6 feet in width, as that would afford more room for
gathering the Peas ; and the dwarf crops at the sides, w'hilst they
lasted, would not interfere with walkiug between the rows to
attend to the Celery. Let us here add, from considerable prac-
tice and observation, that most gardeners must try and make
the best of circumstances. There is not one in ten who can
exactly foUow out the plans which he knows would be the best
in his peculiar position.

FKUIT DEPAKTMENT.

Owing to the press of garden work we are behind with all our
hardy fruit department out of doors. As to orchard-house trees
see remarks of last week. We shall reserve our little space to
refer to two matters which correspondents have brought con-
spicuously under our notice.

Potted Trees. — " Sigma " tells us that he can get trees of
Cherries, Plums, Peaches, itc, in 8-inch pots, and he can have
similar trees taken out of the ground that would be cheaper at
first, and cost less for carriage than those in pots, and he wants
to know whether, by having these trees Lifted and carefuUy and
firmly potted, he might not expect as good a crop this season as
from the trees all along grown in pots, as the pots seem so small
that the trees would appear to require repotting to give enough
of noui-ishment to the fruit. We say decidedly, Xo. These
taken-up trees would actually succeed better if planted carefully
out of doors than when thus repotted. How jt is we cannot
exactly say, but the fact remains that all plants in pots blooni,
seed, and fruit best when the pots are full of roots, and until
this condition be arrived at there will be a tendency in the
blooms and fruit to fall. We several times obtained good sup-
plies of fruit from Cherries, Plums, &c., raised out of the
ground and potted in the middle of March, but we gave them
extra attention. First of all we put them in the smallest pots
in which we could get the roots, and packed them neatly and
firmly, and then for three weeks or a month we plunged the
pots overhead in a shght out-door hotbed of from 0.5' to 70°, and
kept the tops as cool as possible iu a shady place, the object
being to encourage fresh rooting and keep back the buds. The
plants were moved to the orchard house when the heat of the
bed declined, so as to bo little warmer than the orchard house.
Too much heat, even at the roots, would nullify the beneficial
effect but a little at first, and the small pot would eucom'age the
formation of fresh fibres to sustain the swelUng buds and open-
ing and setting blooms. Where such means cannot be carefully
followed up, it would be best to depend little on the first season
after potting, and to look forward to the second, in which case
larger pots may be used for the roots. It would be a different
affair if such trees had been taken up in October or November,
potted and plunged in a bed iu the open air, the bed being from
5° to 10° wai-mer than the general atmosphere. Under such
circumstances, whilst the heads would be cool in the open air,
requiring little protection, except a net to keep birds from the
buds, the pots would be well supplied with fresh fibres by the
month of March, and these roots would make a great point of
success. Owing to the simple fact alluded to. if our correspon-
dent obtains trees in 8, 10, or 12-uich pots, if he expects fruit
from them to any extent in the ensuin}:; summer, he should keep
the trees in the pots until the fruit is gathered before he places
them in larger pots. These things ho may do with advantage :
He may knock a good portion of the bottom of the pot out, he
may even crack it along the sides, so as to let fibres out, and
then he may sink the pot into one, two, or three sizes larger, and
supply rich compost to the bottom, the sides, and over the toji
of the old pot ; or he may, after so sei-ving the old pot, plunge
it an inch or so over the rim in the gi-ound, with rich compost
all round it, and in cither case labour in watering, etc., will be
saved, and the main part of the roots still pressing against tho
sides of the pot will so far secure free blooming and free seating,
whilst the fresh roots that extend beyond the pot will secure
extra vigour, if not watched perhaps more luxmiance of wood
than the autumn sun would ripen, but a little early pinching
will guard against that evil. As soon as the fruit is gathered
he may pot afresh in larger pots if the plants are in small pots.

The same remarks apply to " Alexis " as respects his Vines in
W-inch pots, and from which he wishes to obtain some fi-uitthis
season. Let the Vines remain in the pots, but do as recom-
mended forthe other trees — give room for the roots to get out, and
give plenty of rich compost and manure waterings. If free
growth is desired plant out in the usual way, but if this is done
do not expect much fruit this season, especially if the ball ia
broken and the roots traced out. Under such circumstances,
free gi-owth is opposed to fruitfulncss. As already stated, all

ITaroh 27, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OF HORTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

269

plants in pots fruit best "when the roots push against the sides
of the pot. We can recollect of a great authority throwing more
than cold water over the care and attention that gardeners
bestowed on Strawberries in pots for early forcing, because
plants lifted and potted in spring ripened good crops in May and
the beginning of June. If the great authority had tried a
similar method to bring in fruit in March he would have found
that the old gardeners had reason as well as success on their
side. We have for many years lifted Strawben-y plants in March
and April, but even these did all the better when they had a
little bottom heat, whilst the tops were fully exposed, so as to
give a prior stimulus to the roots.

OnNAMENTAL DEP.UITMENT.

Simple propagatiyig cases, as hand-lights, itc, are dear. Well,
we cannot say a word against, quite the reverse, all the con-
trivances of earthenware furnished with a sliding square of
glass, Arc. Some of our readers, in addition to what we said
the other week, want sometliing simple that they could get
without the ruinous expense of carriage and breakage. We have
a few wooden boxes with a square of glass over each, which
we find so useful that we should like to have more of them.
They are 20 inches square, made of three-quarter-inch deal.
The front is 4J inches high, the back 9 inches, and the two sides
slope like a common frame. A square of glass is fitted into a
light frame to rest on the back, front, and sides of the box ; the
front, on which the square of glass rests, with a tack in front,
being half au inch thick, and the sides and back 1 inch square
and grooved to receive the glass. The glass and its frame are
moveable, so that when the glass is damp the dry side can be
placed downwards. These when set on a bed or close platform
are very useful for striking cuttings, raising seeds, itc, and in
some positions the slope from back to front renders them easier
managed, and gives more command of light when that is wanted
to harden-oS the Uttle plants. For all mere sowT.ng and pro-
pagating purposes, a square bos of one depth, say from 8 to
9 inches all round, woiild answer just as well, and four such
boards nailed neatly together to enclose, say, 20 inches square,
need not cost much. Then with common care the covering of
glass would require no frame. W^ith a weight of from 21 to
26 ozs. to the foot, a square of 21 to 22 inches could easily be
lifted off and on, or even two squares or panes could be used
instead of one. Of course, we are supposing these little boxes
are under glass, for if in the open air means would have to be
taken to prevent the glass being blown off. The boxes may be
much smaller if deemed expedient. — R. F.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Dovenie, Laird, & Laing, StansteadPark, Forest Hill, London,
S.E., and 17, South Frederick Street, Edinburgh. — Descriptive
Catalogue of Florists' Flowers.

John Morse, Dursley, Gloucestershire. — Catalogue of Cuttings.

T. S. Ware, Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, London, N. —
List of Succulent Plants. — Catalogue of Antirrhinums^
Auriculas, and other Florists' Flowers, dsc.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*,* We request that no one will write privately to any of the
correspondents 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., Ill, Fleet
Street, London, E.G.

N.B. — Many questions mast remain unanswered until nest
week.

Books (^Voiuce).— The " Garden Manual." Too can have it free by post if
you enclose twenty postage stamps with your address.

No. 464 of THE JouHNAL OF HoRTiccLTUBE Is required by Mr. J. Albert
Ford, 73, Lawton Street, Congleton.

Abusive Communications (Emptor).— V?e should not be justified in pub-
lishing your letter. If you had declined paying until you had received tha
goods, you would have been only justifiably careful.

Half the world's mischief

And foUy and woe.
Comes from using a " Yes "
[ Instead of a " No."

' ^ Mn. W. Allesbrooke. — We do not know his addi-ess, but if those who have
inquired for it will enclose a stamped letter to him under cover to Mr. D.
Thomson, Dnimlaurig Castle, Thornhill, N.B., it would probably reach him.

Varieties of the Pea (A. TT.}.— We are obliged by your pointing out
that Tlu: Garden has been publishing a list as if the descriptions were
original. They were not taken from our columns as you suppose, but from
Dr. Ho^'gs '• Gardeners' Almanack and Year Book." I'ou will not see a con-
tinuation of the descriptions in our contemporary, for Dr. Hogg has just
stopped their pubhcation by obtaining from the Court of Chancery a perpetual
injunction against the editor for the piracy. Other parties are considering
whether they should not apply to the Court for a similar protection to their
literary property.

Gravel (W. M. 31.). — We do not know to whom you could apply. An ad-
Tertisement stating fully what you'require would probably obtain you the best
offer?.

PniMri.A DEN-TiccxATA AND ERosA FoRTUNEi ( TT. ff.).— The two are vcrj
much alike. In the latter the leaves are fully developed when the inflorescenca
appears and the scape is mealy ; in the former the leaves are not fully de-
veloped, and the scape is not mealy.

Vine Bcds and Melon Plants Insect-eaten (H. 5.).— The Otiorhynchus
probably injures the Vines, and its grubs the Melon plants. It may bo
O. picipes. Whatever the species is, the grub is more or less like that found
in nuts.

Poplar and Southernwood (York).— The common White Poplar, PopuIuB
alba, produces seed in England. Southernwood, Artemisia Abrotanum, h&s
spikes of yellow flowers, bat they rarely open in England, and we never heard
of its ripening seed here. It is a native of Italy.

Orange and Black Rose Fcngi (^. B.). — We sent your query to a well-
known Kose-grower, and, being in a poetical humour he replied as follows :—
"Liquid manure, ammonia and siot.
Applied, and freely, at the root ;
If that fchduki fail, a httle iron
In form of sulphate you may try on."*
Mandrake (C. L.). — The species called Mandrake by modem botanists be-
long to the genus Mandragora. This genua is included in the same natural
order as the Solanum.

Potato Tri.u-s at Chiswick (Derbyshire). — Send your specimens im-
mediately; they will be planted this week.

Seedling Amaryllis (^f. A. H. B. I,.).— We cannot admire the flower,
there are very many far more beautiful.

Pea Hurdles [Lantnhorpe).—Vf& bought the rough deal, and had them
made by one of our own men.

Walks— Concrete and Asphalt (A Beginner).— Yor concrete, a layer of
stones, brickbats, shells, or clinkers, 6 inches deep, to form a dry bottom ; a
layer of chalk or lime, in the proportion of one to ten of the stones or other
foundation, and well rolled and watered to the thickness of 3 inches, with a
rise of 2 inches in the centre ; over this half an inch of gravel andhme, or fine
chalk ; water and roll well again ; add one-eighth of an inch of the best
coloured gravel ; and again roll until quite solid. Have the walk 2 inches
wider on each side than you desire, as this checks the turf and weeds from
encroaching, and prevents the rain water getting to the foundation of the
walk. For a.tphaU, take two pai-ts of very dry lime rubbish, and one part
coal ashes, also very dry, and both sifted fine. In a dry place, on a dry day,
mil them, and leave a hole in the middle of the heap, as bricklayers do when
making mortar. Into this pour boiling hot coal tar; mix, and when as stiff
as mortar put it 3 mches thick where the walk is to be. The ground
should be dry and beaten smooth. Sprinkle over it fine gravel; when cold
pass a light roller over it, and in a few days the walk will be solid and water-
proof.

Peas for Use at the End of August (H. Y. Z.).— Laston's Superlative
and Omega Peas, to he in at the time you name, should be sown the second
week in May. The season makes a difference of from ten days to a fortnight ia
the growth of Peas ; if wet and cold they come in later, if hot and dry earlier.
During summer, late Peas take fifteen or sixteen weeks from the time of sow-
ing to attain u. full bearing state.

Thinning Leaves of Pot Vines (C. G.).— The leaves on the shoots that
are not bearing fruit should not be removed. They should have the same
treatment, and are as necessary for perfecting the Grapes as the roots
are for their support. Retain them, bat keep the laterals well stopped. The
dried Grass you sent us is Agrostia nebulosa, a very elegant and useful Grass
for bouquets and drying.

Gikger Flowering — Seedling Camellias Flowering (A Young Be-
ginner]. — We presume the plant of Ginger has been already potted; if not, pofc
it at once, shaking the plant out, and divide the roots, placing a good division
in a 6-inch pot in a compost of two parts sandy fibrous rich loam, and one
part sandy peat, adding half a part of leaf soil. Place the pots in a hotbed of
75^, just keeping moist, and gradually increase the supply of water as the
plants gi-ow; when the frame is too low for them, gradually withdraw them
and remove them to a light position in a stove. Shift into ll-inch pots when
the shoots are a foot high. The plant will flower, if strouii, in July or August,
and at the end of August or early in September the roots wUlbe fit to take up
and preserve. Seedling Camellias will flower in the fourth to sixth year.
Wa have now several that have flowered. To have them in flower soon they
should be grafted on stocks raised from seeds or cuttings, hat to flower them
on their own roots patience must he exercised.

Roses for Towns (Jma/t-io-).— The Roses you name are good growers,
and would succeed in a town L;arden if not more than usually smoky. Town
Roses require an abundance of watering overhead, and very hberal treatment.
Twelve for pots in greenhouse are Devoniensis, Gloire de Dijon, MarechaJ
Niel, Sombreuil, Marie Sisley, Pauline Lahonte, Safrano, Madame Ducher,
Homere, Madame Celine Noirey, Adam, and Alba rosea, all Tea-scented.

Camellias for Vinery Walls (Idem). — ^Mathotiana, Leopold I., Valte-
varedo, Reticulata flore-pleno. Monarch, Mathotiana alba. Giovanni Santa-
reHi, Mrs. Cope, Rubens, and Countess of Derby. They should be planted out,
succeeding admirably in the same compost as Vines, though we think the
compost is improved for them by having a quarter of sandy peat added.

Improving La^nti (P. P.). — The wormcasts are an evidence that your lawn
soil is rich and full of humus. You say it is well diained. Are the drains of
such a depth as to drain the subsoil? Some drains are only a few inohea
deep ; they drain the surface, but are of very little or no use to the land. The
drains should not be less than 3 feet deep, and are better 4 feet. If certain
that the land is properly drained we should dress the lawn at once with some
good loam, adding one part to four of fresh lime, aid after having been
thoroughly mixed whilst dry, place it on the lawn at the rate of 20 tons per
acre. After the first rains rake well with an iron rake, removing the rough-
est of the compost, and sow over it about the middle of April, when there is
an early prospect <*i rain, 6 lbs. of Festuca duriuscula, 10 lbs. Cynosurus cristar
tns, 4 lbs. Poa nemoi-alis sempervii-ens, 4 lbs. Festuca tenuifolia ; we should
add 6 lbs. TrifoLium repens, and 4 lbs. lYifolium minus, and if the soil be light
2 lbs. Lotus comiculatus in mixture for one acre. Rake hghtly after sowing,
and roll well. You object to Clovers. We have not seen a good lawn without
them. If you omit them add one-half more of Festuca tenuifolia and Poa
nemorolis sempervirens.

Taking Vines into Greenhouse (Idem). — The Vines should be taken
into the greenhouse at once. About the middle of March is a good tim&,
tying them horizontally along the front inside until they have broken, and
then tie to the wires.

270

JOUENAL OF HOBTICULTOBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB.

March 27, 1873.

CtJU-EKKETS.— In HaUiwell's interesting " Dictionaij of Aichaic and Pro-
Tincial Words,' vol. I, page 286, is the followmg:— " Culverksys, the bunches
of pods which contain the seeds of the Ash. Also explained the Columbine."—

W. I. S. HORTON.

[The flower referred to by Dennys could not have been the kevs, or seed-
vessels, of the Ash. We know that the Columbine has been guessed to be the
flower, but we wish to know if anywhere in the British Islands any flower is
still known as the Culverkey.]

Layering Kose Tress (C. A. 7!.).— We do not advocate layering or pegging
down the shoots of Roses. They certainly look well when so arranged as to
present a flat surface, but the shoots that eome from the base, and which
must be kept to replace those that are pegged down and blooming this year,
present even a more uneven surface than plants trained on the dwarf bush
system. Good hard wood pegs are best ; they should be 15 to 18 inches long,
with a notch at the side about 2 inches from the top. The stakes or pegs
should be di-iven into the ground to within 8 inches of their tops, and should
be in rows about a foot apart every way. The shoots of the Buses should be
tied to the stakes -d-ith tarred strings disposing them equally, aud so as to
have at least one shoot to cross and be fastened to each peg ; cut off the weak
snoots, retaining ouly the strongest and best ripened, but take off the unripe
points of these. The shoots pegged down will need to be cut off in autumn
after flowering, aud bo replaced by those of the current year.

Tdberose TREATaiENT (Z(fe)7i).— Pot them now in light fibrous loam two
pai-ts, one part leaf soil, and half a part sf well decayed manure, with one-
sixth of sharp sand. Drain the pots efficiently; they may bo 7 mches in
diameter, aud in each place one bulb, and so that it may he entirely covered
■witli soil. If the soil is m a sufSciently moist state no water need be given
but If dry, water moderately, place in a gentle hotbed, and keep there until
they have made good roots, or the shoots are 3 inches long, when they mav be
gradually withdrawn from the hotbed, and removed to a light aiiy position in
the greenhouse. Water freely and syringe often, so as to keep down red
spider. If you wish the plants to flower early they should, after removal
from the hotbed, be placed in a vinery or other house having lii-e heat, and
they will flower a month or six t.-eeks before those placed in the gi conhouse.
The offsets should be removed, so as to throw the vigour of the plant into the
flower-stem.

Mowing Machines (Slreaf/Mw'.— We have no experience with either of
the machines you name ; but we can say that each machine that has been in-
vented does its work well if carefully managed.

AaEANGEjiEXT OF Frcit-room (i^. H. i.).— Of the two sites we prefer the
loan-to against the north wall. The thicker the walls the more equable will
be the temperature of the house. We would have them 14 inches thick, but
they need not be hollow walls ; a thatched root is also preferable to one com-
peted of tiles. The floor would be better boarded, but it is not very material.
The best ai-rangement for the shelves is a staging of laths, similar to that
used to stage plants upon in gi-eenhouses. One tier of staging may be
placed above another, about 1 foot 9 inches apart, and the staging may he
3 feet wide. If yours is a narrow house there will only be room for staging
round the sides ; but should the house be wide enough, another tier of
shelves may be placed in the middle of the house. There ought also to be
one or two windows, which should be provided T\ith shutters. The windows
should also be made to open. There should likewise be a fiieplace or a
email stove in the room.

MALPor.MATioN OF TiNE Shoot (TT. T.).— The enclosed shoot is similar
to many we have seen this year. The cause is, no doubt, to be found in the
unfavourable season of last year, the wood not being sufficiently ripened. In
our earliest vinery we had one rod which had nearly all the side shoots
affected in a similar manner to the shoot you sent. We trained them in the
usual way, but took the precaution to train a young rod up from the base of
the old one m case the affection should he permanent. One rod only was
affected m the house, aU the others broke weU aud regulai-ly.

Drainage of a Faemvaed for Vine Borders (A Siib)cribn).—1)iis is
somctunes very strong, at other times so weak that it might be applied as it
IS taken from the tmk. If it look strong we would advise you to add two
wateniot.-fnl of clear water to one of liquid mantu-e. Apply it to the roots of
the \ ines as soon as the Grapes are set, and up to the time that they begin
to colour.

Peach Trees in Pots (T. G.).— The sorts we have found not to set their
fruit freely m pots are few. Barrmgton, Exquisite, and Late Admirable are
the worst in this respect. Walburton Admirable is also shy in setting. Sal-
way sets Its fruit freely, but it is not a desirable sort to grow in pots. Early
Beatrice Peach has large flowers.

HocsE FOE Orchids U. B.).— It would never do to depend on a tempe-
rature of 30' as the coldest in winter. Where would you he when the thei-
mometer was at 15", or even sinkuig to zero ? As you propose heating by gas,
2 aud 3-meh pipes would be better than i-inch ; but even with 2-inch'pip68
you would need at least a third more than you specify. As you have the
boiler iuside, there must be an escape pipe for the gas. Were it not for show-
ing a funnel through the roof, or gettiug the di-aught into a chimney, a small
hrick stove would be the most economical in every way.

FoEciNQ PiTdf'. S.).— We think that two 1-inch pipes worked separately
wui afford you a good bottom heat. If you want a very strong heat you had
Better have three, but we should be satished with two. For top heat you
must have three pipes at least ; two would not give von enough of heat iu
severe weather without making tho pipes too hot, and "that is always attended
by a waste of fuel. *• »■ > j

Planting Flower-beds (IF. G.).— We think the proposed planting this
year will on the whole, be an improvement on the planting of last Tear,
llie Hollyhocks, if not over-tall, will look very well at the back of tho pau'elled
Oor.ler, aud tho Coleus or the Iresine Lmdenii wiU make good substitutes for
i'urple Kmg, and will look weU in aU kinds of weather.

^ Tor.r for FoEi (0. P.. a Subscriber).— We should be obliged if y»a woul d
jry a ton of turf mixed with the coke, and report progress. We presume that
oy turf you mean flnng peat or bog earth. Wc do not think that you will
gain any advantage, as we do not think its heating power, weight for
weignt, equal to hall that of good coke, but we cannot speak from any cxten-
Bive practice. Tiy, aud give us the results. Slack, breese, and cinders of
coKe me drfferent. and aU come in useful if mixed with coke. At one time wo
triea lump of chalk, aud they greatly tended to lessen the coal bill. Our
Vi^i t f't'^M'"' '='^'1'' "^ 'o "'™'= ">■>' y"u wUl gam little or nothing by using
wi'„. . ' ^'{ l"'«s;ime, you mean peat. You would see m last week some
?„f ^ ",' ;° ,?"!'»•'* liouses, aud in previous numbers, in " Doings of the
i^ast Week, allusions aie made to tho importaaco of not hurrying on trees

even when heat is applied in the dull weather; also to the importance of
thinning the blooms and assisting their setting. It is just possible your
house has been kept too warm at first, but we fear that the dropping of the
flowers was chiefly owing to one of two causes— unmaturity of tho wood last
autumn, or too much dryness or too much moisture at the roots as the trees
came into bloom.

Whitewashing a Geeenhodse Glazed Eoof (H.H.).— For a temporal?
shade which rams will wash off we use whiting bruised, say 4 ozs. in thi-ea
gallons of water, and spatter it over the glass with a syringe. For a per-
manent shad;, after using size, &c., we find nothing simpler than skim milk
and whitmg, say 4 ozs. of whiting in two gallons of milk, and that drawn
over with a brush will cover a great amount of glass. When mere shade is
the object, the thinner the mixture is put on the better, as, if that is not
enough, yon can add to it. When neatness is an object it is weU to use two
brushes — one to lay tho material on, and a diy brush to daub it so as to
resemble ground glass. In doing such work two things are essential : first,
the glass must be dry ; and second, if possible, there must be sun to set it
nicely. We have thus whitened glass in May, and the shading remained until
washed off in October. We recommend Dr. Masters's edition of Hcnfrey's
" Elementary Course of Botany.'"

Secdeino Boles from Kats (A Comlanl Ben<fcr).— Wo have found red
lead a safeguard to all kinds of seeds. We shall use it when we plant
Crocuses extensively, as even those in pots we cannot keep. Wo would mix
the red lead powder in soft-soap water, and dip the bulbs and corras in it, so
as to have a red appearance, or even use it as we do with Peas— that is, we
use enough of moisture to damp the Peas, and no more, an^;! then dust as
much of the red lead powder among them as, v. hen turned with a stick, leaves
every seed reddish. We have not tried it with corms and bulbs, but we wish
wc had, and we would recommend you to try it. In om- case mice, rats, and
hu-ds will not look at the seeds.

Watering w^T^ Spring Water {A Constant Bei&r).— Spring water,
though not so good as rain water, is nevertheless suitable for watering plants.
It would bo better if you had a cistern in each house of sufficient capacity for
one watering. We use spring water to a large extent, and do not find any
noticeable difference between it and rain water. For syringing rain water is
much to be preferred, as it does not mark the foliage.

Snowdrops Failing (irfcm).— We aie unable to account for the bulbs of
these disappearing after the first season. Do not place the crown of the bulb
more than an inch below the surface, and plant in autumn when they are be-
ginning to grow. Probably the leaves were cut off before*they were ripe, and
to that we should attribute the failure. They should succeed under the same
treatment as Crocuses.

Compost for Feens {A Young Gm'ifcner).— Two parts sandy fibrous peat >
one part tm-fy yellow loam, aud one-sixth part each of silver sand and of char-
coal in lumps from tho size of a pea to that of a hazel nut, the whole well
mixed. Of the materials yon name charcoal is the most useful if you use
sand as an ingredient in the compost, but if not we should prefer the sand-
stone. Lycopods do not requii-e different treatment from Ferns, only they
need more moistm-e and shade.

Taeiocs {A. D.I.— We would now cut down tho plants to within 6 inches of
the soil, taking off their tops when they had grown 1 foot high. Clunbing
Roses may be trained with tho shoots npright on the same principle as Pears.
We have several so trained, and the method answers well. We would not have
any plants in the Rose border besides the Roses. They do better without
them. Violets now blooming in the couser^-atory wiU do for another year, but
they must be divided in April or May, and planted out in good rich soil a foot
apart every way, and bo taken up and potted in autumn. Young plants ai-e
far superior to old ones kept in pots for a second season's bloom.

Gleichenia speldnc.e Cdltoee (ir. p.).— Pot it in two-thirds fibrous
peat and one-thud turfy yellow loam, with a free admixtm-e of silver sand
and lumps of charcoal as large as hazel nuts or walnuts, mixing the whole
well together. Drain the pot to one-thu-d its depth with crocks, the largest at
the bottom, the smallest at top, and cover with a thin layer of sphagnum or
the rougher parts of the compost. Pot so that the rhizomes may be about
half an inch below the rim of the pot, and level over neatly, making the sur-
face fine and firm, the rhizomes only just covered with soil. Water with a
rose-water-pot until the sinface becomes settled, which it will be in two or
three waterings, always keep moist, and whon growing afford abundant
supplies of water. Place the plant in a greenhouse and shade it fi-om bright
sun, admitting air moderately.

Sowing Dedtzia gracilis and Lobelia rellidifolia (Pc/ifc).- Tho
seed of Deutzia gracilis may be sown in light sandy loam in a pot or pan, and
be covered with a depth of soil equal to the diameter of the seed. Place the
pot in a cold frame, or plunge it iu a wai-m situation out of doors, and keep
the soil moist. The seedlings, when an inch high, may be pricked out 3 inches
apart in light loamy soil, and should be shaded from sun until established.
The Lobelia, as you have no gi-eenhouse and we presume no hotbed, may be
sown in a pot tilled with Ught turfy loam, adding a third of peat, and a sixth
of silver sand. Make tho surface very fine, and just cover the seed with very
fine soil. Place the pot in a room window, and keep the soil regularly moist.
When the plants can be handled pot them off singly in small pots, and
encourage their (Growth, keeping them well supplied with water. In June
they may be p!anted-out in rich soil. After the first frost take them up and
pot them, wintering them in a room window safe from frost, and keep the
soil no more than moist. The following May plant them out of doors, and
they will no doubt flower well.

Azalea Leaves Beowned {J. W. i.).— Syringing Azaleas during the
winter is not desirable, and your doing so has no doubt caused the leaves to
become brown at tho points from water drippiug or hanging on them.
Discontinue the .syringing, and we think your plants will go on well. We do
not think water from a galvanised iron tank wiU have any injurious effect.
Woodhce will not shell and eat the seeds of Melons. Mice, we thinlt. are the
cause of tho mischief. We should set a few spring traps by the side of the
Cabbages and so take the woodpigeons, or you can take an old hat or two and
suspend them with a string between two stakes thrust into the ground about
a yard apart, the bats about 3 or 4 feet from the gi-ound, aud so placed that
they will be moved by the wind. We find these infallible against stockdoves.
They build their nests in trees close by the kitchen garden and do no hai-m,
but before we used the hat-scarers they did great mischief.

Nastes of Pl.ants (A. S.). — No one could tell the name from a single flower
of the Scilla; you must send a spike of flowers. (iJa/;/).— Narcissus minor.
{Mac). — Cystopteris fi-agilis and Polystichum Lonchitis. ({J. CinptnUr). —
Oleander noi-iiformis. (Tr. ijanwi/u//). — Tho flowering plant is Leucopogon
lauceolatus. Tho Selaginellas are S. Braimii and S. uncinata. The Feru is

Marcti 27, 1873. ]

JODBNAIi OF HOBTICDIiTUBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEK.

271

DidyiaocUliiL'iia ti-oncatula. (E. Eadcs).—1, Aspleniam flabelUloUum; 2, A.
lineatum, or a near ally.

POULTET, BEE, AND PIGEON OHEONIOLE.

POULTRY PROFITS.

As a praelical man and farmer, will you give me space for a
few common-sense remarks upon a lecture delivered by Mr.
Edwards on the above subject, and wherein he proved entirely
to his own satisfaction that, from an agricultural point of view,
" fowls not only pay but actually return a larger profit than
that realised from any other farm stock ?" There are a certain
number of persons who keep a few head of poultry, who under-
take the sole management themselves, who feed them almost
entirely with the scraps from the house and the refuse from
the kitchen garden, and who have the opportunity of allowing
them a good grass run, all which they consider cost nothing.
They then constitute themselves their own customers, consume
their own produce, charging themselves with eggs and poultry
at retail shop prices, and they then fancy that " poultry pay,"
and moreover return large profits, simply because they only
consider in their debtor and creditor account the grain they
actually buy. But to a farmer, a thoroughly practical man and
who understands book-keeping, this is mere moonshine.

And now let me turn to the details of the lecture. The re-
commendation is to keep only " first-class poultry of the best
improved breeds," but in the debtor and creditor account the
lecturer commences with a supposed spontaneously produced
" chick." The parent birds are not mentioned. Let lis suppose
a farmer beginning this neglected branch of agriculture, and
starting, say, with one hundred of the " best improved breed of
first-class poultry." He could not possibly buy them (young
birds in full lay), on an average for less than 7s. 6d. per head.
These birds he is sirpposed to sell two years after for 2s. Gd., or
at a loss of 5.s. per head, or i'25 on the one himdred head pur-
chased. This loss does not a^spear in the balance sheet. Again,
it must be remembered that, supposing for the sake of argu-
ment, Hamburghs lay the amount of eggs stated, they do not sit ;
and therefore other hens must be kept as mothers, who would lay
comparatively few eggs ; and, moreover, cocks lay no eggs and
retiu-n nothing for their food, whereas in Mr. Edwards's account
every fowl, sitter or non-sitter, cock or hen, is considered to lay
on an average 220 eggs per year, which is absurd.

Again, any practical poultry-keeper knows that you cannot
possibly expect to rear all the chickens hatched, more especially
early broods, which are what Mr. Edwards advocates, and yet
in this debtor and creditor account every chicken hatched is
reared. Again, every egg laid is sold, no provision being made
for replenishing worn-out and sold-otf stock. Again, Mr. Ed-
wards states, " Hamburghs " are the fowls to be kept, and says
that at two years and a half old hens weigh 7i lbs., and for
these he can procure 2s. dd. each. Hamburgh hens never weigh
7J lbs., and certainly no one would give 2s. 6d. each for old hens.
A farmer does not sell to "the consumer," but to "amiddle-
mau," who swallowe-up all the profit. — E. E. E.

GAME COCKS OF THE FIGHTING PERIOD versus
GAME COCKS OF THE SHOWING PERIOD.
As a breeder of the above birds for upwards of forty years,
first for the pit and now for exhibition, I think I may venture
to give an opinion respecting the qualities of our Game cocks in
the fighting period, and also the showing period. I fully endorse
all Mr. Wright has written about the present exhibition birds,
and I think the majority of the birds bred l)your best exhibitors
would prove themselves quite equal to their ancestors in the
pit, and for general appearance they are far in advance of them.
I cannot imagine in which points " Old Black Bed " can see
the Malay in our present cup-winners, and I think if he were to
cross one of the old fighting cocks with a Malay he would find
the offspring would be a long way behind in those points re-
quii'ed to make a cup-winner at any of our large shows ; in fact,
he might cross for several years, and would still find his birds
far behind in the race.

I think any close observer would plainly see, on looking at the
Malay with his short thick head, bad colour of feathers, and
general coarse appearance, the many difficulties he would have
to contend with before he could get a Game cock equal to the
present type of cup- winners. — Duck%ving.

OxFOTin Poulthy .^nd Pigeon Show. — The Committee of this
Show lately met to audit the accounts. There was a satis-
factory balance. Votes of thanks were passed to the patrons
and douors of cups. In order not to interfere with the arrange-
ments of other committees, it was determined thus early to fix
the date of the second Show for "Wednesday and Thursday,
October 29th and 30th. We are informed that the value of the

prizes wiU be more in some cases, and that prizes in an in-
creased number of classes wiU be awarded ; also that cups will
be given in nearly every class. The Pigeons wUl not be neg-
lected, silver plate having been promised for several varieties.
We trust that exhibitors wUl give their assistance by a nu-
merous entry. The Town Hall in addition to the Corn Ex-
change has been engaged, so that any number of pens can be
accommodated.

REFORM IN POULTRY SHOWS.

I HAVE been for a long time a frequent visitor at poultry and
Pigeon shows, in fact I never miss one that I can go to. I
always return with a feeling of regret that the committee should
not have made some arrangement that would have put me, the
mere amateur — I know what the word used to mean— on a level
with the regular professional exhibitors, who carry away so
large a share of the spoil at most shows. I have pondered ovei!
the matter, have read the complaints of many similarly situated
to myself, have heard the suggestions thrown out from time ta
time, and am at length prepared to offer a plan which wQl at
once, without excluding the professional shower, leave him but
a sorry chance beside the amateur, and which wiU at the same
time flU the catalogue of most exhibitions. This scheme of
mine is to reverse the usual order of things, and award the
prizes to the worst birds. It is positively unjust, I say, to go on
year after year giving prizes only to the best specimens, while
scores of fanciers — local fanciers, men who never borrowed or
bought a bird in their lives, men whose yards and lofts are often
large ones, and who would not hesitate to let you pick out any
bu-d for a guinea, are as good as told that the prizes were never
meant for them. Consider, by the adoption of my plan, how
these men will support exhibitions. From every nook and
corner of the kingdom, supposing the entry fee to be judiciously
low, we should evoke a friendly rivaliy of true fanciers— of
fanciers who, not having given ±'20 or iBO for this or that bird,,
and not breeding birds of that value themselves, have not made
their winning a foregone conclusion.

It may be urged in opposition to this plan that it subverts the
true end of shows, which are for the encouragement of breeders-
and for the improvement of the breed ; but let us look into it..
Considering a show as for the encouragement of breeders, the
end is attained most surely by my plan, for there are more
breeders of moderate than of good stuff, and being no respecters-
of persons we must look to the end — the encouragement of the
larger number of breeders ; and considering it for the improve-
ment of the breed, 1 must confess 1 cannot see how giving every
cup for two or three years to one bird, which happens to be
better than was ever raised before, tends at all to improve the
breed. It must do the reverse, for how can every fancier spend
years upon years in striving after excellence, and never stint
expense in the purchase of stock ? The thing is impossible, and
the success of one who can do this must be but disheartening to
the tyro and the modest fancier, who must perforce content
themselves with the more ordinary type of the breed; and that
we shall find, after all, to be often the correct type.

1 shall look forward to our coming summer and autumn shows
with much suspense to see my plan adopted. It has been called
for long enough. SoUtary fanciers have now and then lifted up
then- voice against the present plan. Latterly the number of
complaints from these gentlemen, who are, as has been well
said by no mean authority, "the sinews and backbone" of a
show, have been very numerous. A few committees have tried
what they could do, have ruled out all prohibitory prices, have
limited even actual prices ; and that must work well, for how
can, say, a J^IO pair of Carriers be anything but very poor speci-
mens ; and lastly, your contemporary takes up the matter, and
with an earnestness worthy of the cause, demands the exclusion
of the leviathans who arrogate to themselves all the goodness
in the country. I now call on all true amateurs to aid us, and
I trust that before many months we shall see " shows as they
ought to be, not as they are," so contrived that every man, be
his birds what they may, will stand his fair chance of a cup. —

S.VPIENTISSIMUS.

[We have heard of a donkey race where the last was to be
the winner, but there to insure a good contest each owner rode
his opponent's donkey. If " Sapientissimus's " plan were
adopted, each exhibitor should feed an opponent's fowls. — Eds.]

HANLEY POULTRY SHOW.

I THINK it only right to the Committee that I should bear
testimony to the gentlemanly way in which they have treated
me. Mr. Douglas was not quite correct in stating that " they
are doing something very wrong over this Show." If he had
said "there ia something wrong, &c.," it would have been a
little nearer the facts of the ease. My case was this :— I was
awarded the Duke of Sutherland's cup for the best pen in the
Show, and the Committee had the extra prize booked to the
wrong class in error. It was simply a mistake on the part of,
I suppose, the Secretary or some person deputed to act on his

272

JOUBNAL OF HOBTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

I March 27, 1873.

behalf, in copying the awards out of the Judpes' boolis. When I
discovered it I immediately wrote to the Chairman of the Com-
mittee, who very courteously wrote back saying that it was an
error, but that the Committee would forward me an extra prize.
As_ they met me in so gentlemanly a manner I gave them a
guinea as my subscription to their Show, knowing that there
Would be some loss conseqiieut upon their mistake.

I am very glad to hear that the Show has been a success, and
I hope the Hanley poultry fanciers will not allow it to fall off
the list of exhibitions. I think, however, as one of your corre-
spondents has stated, that it would be a great improvement if in
futui'e they would mention the names of their .Judges either in
their prize lists or catalogue — not that I find any fault with
Messrs. Douglas and Martin, as they are two of the most success-
ful breeders and have a practical knowledge of poultry, but it is
more satisfactory to exhibitors to know who have awarded the
prizes. — James Fletcher.

BIBMINGHAM PHILOPEKISTERON SOCIETY'S
SHOW.

Tms took place on the 19th and 20th inst. It was certainly a
very good Show, and one on which its members may congratu-
late themselves, but it should by all means have been a fixture of
at least a mouth prior in date. From this cause, the entry
<lid not equal, as to numbers, those shows which have taken place
during the past ten years in connection with this Society, but
■which were held a month or six weeks earlier in the season. So
late iu the spring most of the best specimens of Pigeons have
either young ones, or, at least, are about nesting, and hence two
members alone abstained from exhibiting, although they woiild
otherwise have made an entry of forty pens from their own lofts.

As will be seen on reference to the list of awards, the Selling
classes were wonderfully good, and abounded with some very
cheap pens ; the great variety of breeds shown in these classes
was also a subject of general remark. The Carrier classes,
whether those expressly for cocks or hens (these being shown
separately), contained birds of a quality rarely exceeded, and
a remarkably well-shown Dun hen took the cup. Some few
very promising young Carriers were entered in these classes.
Folders were few, the White being unquestionably the most
praiseworthy. In Fantails there were some remarkably heavy-
tailed birds, but we regretted to see some that carried the tail
decidedly inclined to one side, a great objection in a show bird
of this variety. In the Barb class there was only a single entiy,
still it was a good one ; but, strange to say, there were many nice
Barbs shown in the Selling classes. The Almuiids were scarcely
BO good as those exhibited at some of this Society's former
meetings, and, on the contrary, the Short-faced Beards, Balds,
and also the Owl Pigeons were very superior.

One of the members, Mr. Hoyds, of Rochdale, sent a very
grand collection of Jacobins, all three classes of this breed
Being of a first-rate character. The Trumpeters were a fine
class; whilst in both Dragoons KnA Antwcrps the competition
was of tliat lively character for which the Birmingham Pigeon
Shows are known. A class expressly for Swallows, although a
silver cup was given to them by a fancier of this variety, did
Dot bring out a large entry, still the birds were well shown.
'The flying Tumblers were comprised in well-filled and interest-
ing classes, and embraced a great variety, whether considered
as to colour or character ; and as both in the immediate district
and the surrounding counties these breeds are especial fa-
voui-ites, this division of the Show secured a large share of
popularity.

It must be a matter of careful consideration for the Managers
of this Sliow to alter the date to an earlier period in future
j^ars, complaints being general that individual Pigeons had
been taken from either eggs or young ones for the sole purpose
of sending them to the Show.

CkURmns.—BhtcIc— Cocks. — 1, C. Siddona, Aston, Birminpliam. 2, G. F
Whitehijuie, King's Heath, Birmingham. Hens.~l, c, Siddoas. 2, G. h'.
iVhitehouae.

CiHnxKRS. -Dun.— Vockg.—h C. Siddona. 2/cn».— Cui>, 1, uni 2, C. Siddons.

Carhif.ks.— .4nu other colour.— Cocks.— 1, C. Siddonis. Hens.—l, 0. Siddons.

PouTEKS.— CocA-^.— 1 and 2, F. Bowker, Birmingham. Hcm—1, F. Bowker.

Fantails.— 1, G. While, Birmingham. 2, J. W. Edge, Tyburn, ErdiLglsD,
Birmingh.aui.

Barbs. — 1, A. Richardson, Birmingham.

Almonds.— Cnji, 1, 2, and he. J. F. While.

Balds.— 1 and 2, W. Woodhonse, King's Lymi. c, J. W. Edge.

Beards.- 1 and 2. W. Woodhonse.

Owls.- Forfi.;;i —1 and 2, G. F. Whitehouse. Ei!i7((s/i.— 1, J. W. Edge. 2,
"W. Woodbouse.

TuRniTs.— 1, J. W. Edge. 2, \V. Reddihongh, Kclbrook, Colno.

(Jacobins.- BiiicJ:.— 1. 2, and ,1, E, E. M. Koyds, Kochdale. Jted.—l and 2, R.
G. Sanders, Leven, Beverley. Any other colour.— 1, R. G. Sanderu. 2, E. E. M.
Royds.

TRr.MPETEES.— 1 ami 2, W. Gamon, Chester. 3, J. F. While, c, R. G.
Sanders ; J. F. While.

Draooons.- iSiue.— 1, W. T. Nieholds. Selly Park, Northficld. 2 and 8, W.
Gamon. he, W. Keddihongh. YelLou',—\, G. F. Waitehouse. Whiie.—l and 2,
G. F. Whitehouse. c, W. Keddihough. Anu other colour.-l, W. Gamon.

Antwerps.— U/HC- 1 and 2, W. Gamon. Djui.— Cup and 1. W. Gamon. 2, C.
Mttgg. Chequered —1. W. Gamon. 2, J. F. While, c, G. While.

Swallows.— Cup and 1, F. Bowker. '.*. .1, W. Eilge.

Badges.— 1 and 2, F. Bowker. .1. G. While.

Saddlbs,- 1, J. W. Edge. 2, G. While.

Black Mottles, Rosewings, and Redbbeasts.— 1, Cup, 2, and 3, F. Bowker.
4, G. While, he. J. W. Edge ; G. While.

TcMHLERS.— .-iHi/ othcr Variety. — 1, J. W. Edge.

Selling Class.— Carn'^r, Pouter. Barb, or Short faced Tumhhr.—\, 2, 3. and
4. H. Yardley, Birmingham (Black Carrier, Red Pouter. Black Barh. and Silver
Dun Carrierl. he. H. Yardley (3). c, C. Siddons; H. Yardley (3). A?iy other
voriety. — 1, 3, and 4, H. Yardley (Silver Bun Dragoon, White Owl, and Yellow
Dragoon). 2, G. While (White Fantail). )iC, U. Yardley (7). c, H. Yardley (3) :
J. W. Edge.

Messrs. Hewitt and AUsop, both of Birmingham, awarded the
prizes to the Selling classes and Antwerps ; and Messrs. Hewitt
and Yardley judged .all the otlier classes of fancy Pigeons ; the
premiums for flying Pigeons being decided by Mr. Charles
Hague and Mr. W. Kendal.

MOTTLED TUMBLES S.

I w.\s rather surprised when I read the remarks on the above
subject last week from " The One who Wrote the Answer,"
and who owns to Eaton's being the model bird, and yet refers
to a work pubUshed by Kentledge.

For the last twenty years I have spent a deal of time as well as
money on Pigeons, and onTumblers more than any other variety,
have been a regular attendant at most of our London societies '
shows, and have always looked upon E.aton's portrait as the
correct thing as far as the marking of a Mottle is concerned. I
never befofe heard of any fancier preferring Mottles without the
white feathers on the back. As to fancy being changeable, it
has not been changeable to any whom I know, and I know some
who have kept Pigeons for fifty or sixty years. I have also
asked the opinion of several of the old Spitalfields fanciers,
whom I consider to be as good fanciers as any, aud they are all
for Eaton's, and ridicule the idea of a Mottle without the hand-
kerchief back. One of them, a Mr. M. Hall, of whom Eaton
himself has bought many a Mottle, says where they would sell
for pounds with the handkerchief back they will only sell for
shillings without it, and to be perfect they must iiave it. I
have also a letter from Mr. Dean Wolstenholnie, who was one of
Eaton's oldest friends, also the engraver of his plates, who
is a well-known fancier, and who is looked on as an authority
by many, in which he says, " When I belonged to the Feather
Club forty years ago, unless the bird was marked on the back
as well as on the wings it was inadmissible to be put in the pen
as a Mottle." I think with such authorities as these, however
*' Tke One who Wrote the Answer " might prefer the birds, he
will acknowledge that, although his own fancy may be change-
f.ble, it is not so to the real fancier. — J. Ford.

LIMITINO THE VALUE OF EXHIBITED
PIGEONS AT DUBLIN.

Did "An Excluded Exhibitor" never hear of any other
" gross proceeding " at the Eoyal Dublin Society's Show than
that of limiting the prices in the poultry and Pigeon classes ?
If he has been an exhibitor at the Royal Dublin Society's Shows
he cannot but be aware of the wholesale hiring and borrowing
carried on by some fanciers (?) who descend to any unscrupulous
meanness to gain a prize. The new rules have put a stop to
such dishonest work, and they make the limitation clause the
ostensible objection, while the real one is the rule against
hiring. As to saying that the organisers of the schedule are
*' half dealers, half amateurs," it is what I will mildly term
untrue. I can state that the schedule of prizes passed the Com-
mittee of the Eoyal Dublin Society after due consideration, and
that they highly approved of the rules as securities against all
dirty work.

The reason for inserting the limitation clauses was not " pre-
venting the English exhibitors from carrying off the prizes,"
but to keep certain Irish fanciers from carrying on their " little
games " of borrowing and hiring, and also to keep dealers from
monopolising the prizes. The reason why no limitation clause
is put on " cattle, sheep, pigs, or horses " is that there are no
exhibitors in those classes who habitually borrow and hire for
the mere purpose of prize-taking, and tliey have an lionest
pride in showing stock of their own breeding. Unfortunately,
amongst poultry and Pigeon-f.anciers there are always a few
addicted to dishonest courses, and it was to keej) them on the
square that the classes were limited. Hitherto exhibitors were
allowed to do pretty much as they pleased, but they are now
kept within sometliing like reasonable bounds, and, therefore,
this little ebullition of irritation is nothing to be surprised at.

When the Show comes off it will, I think, be found to be in-
ferior to none ever held by the Royal Dublin Society either in
quality or quantity ; it will also be found that very few of the
constant exhibitors will be absent, aud that many new ones will
be added to the list.— A Despised Skinni.ii, Dublin.

The letter of "An Excluded Exhibitoh, Cork," might pro-
duce an en'oneous and unfavourable impression on the minds of
English amateur iioultry and Pigeon-fanciers if passed un-
noticed. It was not, as the writer states he has been informed,
or the purpose of preventing English exhibitors from carrying

Uuch 27, 1873. ]

JOUKNAL OP HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB.

273

off the prizes that the rules limiting the price were made ; on
the contrary, their competition tending, as it does, to the better
success of the shows, is earnestly and cordially desired ; but the.
rules are intended to exclude borrowers and dealers ; for many,
like mj'self, have no desire to encourage either class with their'
attendant practices.

The framers of the rules were anxious, at all events, to en-
courage and cultivate amateur competition ; but how was this to
fce done so long as it was competent for boi-rowers to have re-
course to the birds of their dealing friends, together with the
imposition (to prevent such birds lea^'ing their possession) of
impossible prices ? I think the rules have met this difficulty.
I have reason to hope the only " bull (?) " in the affair will be
that mentioned by your correspondent, and that it will be wholly
confined to the pasturages of his letter. I cannot see the
analogy between it and our interesting feathered friends, but I
can quite understand why it is very improbable horned cattle
will be exhibited by any but their owners ; therefore there exists
no reason for the introduction of protective clauses or grounds
for his comparison.

I feel called upon to bear testimony to the commendable
promptness with which the Council evinced tlreir readiness to
grapple with and end a grievance by diminishing mere mer-
cenary interests in the poultry branch of their Show. — E. A.
Seale, Cottage Park, KilgobMn, Co. Dublin.

NADIRING.

I H.1VE only to hint to so able an apiarian as " B. & W.," that a
nadir is merely an extension of breeding space, and that it is
against all sound storifying rules to nadir first and super after-
wards. Bees must be compelled to press up into the super, and
when once work is fairly in progi-ess there, then nadir, both to
prevent swarming and augment the population to complete that
and succeeding supers. All supers ought to be so shallow as to
prevent their ever being employed as nadirs, or converted into
breeding receptacles, also for the due and proper classification
of the different descriptions of virgin honey. There is no diflicnlty,
only a little tact necessary, in getting bees to take to shallow
supers; the nicety is to hit the proper time. The novice, possibly,
on a given date, without taking into account the state of the at-
mosphere and honey prospects, opens communication with a
super, and the bees, scorning so questionable a procedure, have
their revenge by swarming at the first favourable chance. The
Stock boxes must be full of bees as well as combs; the tempera-
ture must be genial, and honey to be had ; and the guide-combed
super, above everything, kept as warm as possible. What an
eyesore to Messrs. Neighbour's neat catalogue and handy bee book
the " Apiary," those illustrated perpetuations of Nutt's fallacious
ventilating theory ! Is it not the first act of the bees to close
the perforations in the zinc tubes ? Where was it we read the
bee-keeper counselled to draw them up and clear them, then re-
insert them ? How long the thwarting process was to be con-
tinued we do not remember. We who follow in the wake of the
good old ship " Experience," sail on the very opposite tact. No
sooner is the super placed than we exclude the colder atmosphere
by running a strip of gummed paper round the junction with
the stock hive, cover up with a fleece of wool or four plies of
woollen cloth ; and when the slides are drawn how grateful is the
hum of the ascending throng as they duly appreciate our an-
ticipation of their wants and wishes ! The heat so generated, it
is evident, must promote wax-secretion and comb-building, and
we storifyers know full well the quicker the work is done the
piu'er and finer the honey is. — A Eenfkewshibe Bee-keeper.

ENGLISH BEE BOOKS.

A coebespondent, "A Welsh Keeper," asks us for a list of
" the authors who liave written on our favourites previously to
the present century." We can only name those with which we
are in some way acquainted, and from these we must except the
first in the hst, for we have never seen either the volume or
quotations from it. We cannot even tell where we saw it men-
tioned : — " Edmund Southen on Bees," 1.593. " Levett on Bees
(Dialogues)," 1634. " Remnant on Bees," 1637. Butler, who pub-
lished in 1634, entitled his bee book "The Feminine Monarchic,"
but in Cromwell's time a volume appeared entitled " Reformed
Commonwealth of Bees. Presented to Hartlib, 16.5.5." " New
Discovery of an Excellent Method of Bees. John Gedde." 1675.
J. W. (WorUdge) "Apiarium." 1G76. "English Apiarian."
John Gedde. 1721. In this, octagon hives of three storeys are
mentioned. " Apes : a Poem by Jacobus Vanerius." 1729.
" Modern Art of Breeding Bees. By J. Dimsdale, M.A." 1740.
"Collateral Bee Boxes. By Stephen White, M.A., Rector of
Holton, Suffolk." 1756. ■' Au Enquiry into the Nature, Order,
and Government of Bees, those instructive and useful insects ;
with a New, Easy, and Effectual Method to Preserve them not
only in Colonies but Common Hives — a Secret imknown to past
ages, and now published for the Benefit of Mankind. Written
upon Observation and Experience. By the Rev. John Thorley,

of Oxon. Third Edition. 1772." Plate of hive as frontispiece,
on top of which is engraved, " Thorley's Original Honey Ware-
house removed to No. 85, Lombard Street, near the Mansion
House;" and at the bottom, " Just pubUshed, the 2° Edition of
The Management of Bees. By N. Thorley." The preface is
dated Chipping Norton, Nov. 24, /43. The editor in the preface
speaks of the author as his father, and states that improvement
is a glass on the top of the super. He quotes Dimsdale on Bees
— a poem. Thorley says, " I once had a stock of bees which not
only bred great number all the spring time, but also swarmed
without drones." N. Thorley had an apiary near Ball's Pond,
Newington. We have omitted the works of Purchas and
Y^order.

TO BEGINNERS IN BEE-KEEPING.

[The following extract from the American " Bee-keepers'
Magazine " will interest some of your apiarian readers. Some
of the hints are worthy of particular notice by all novices ; and
others are suggestive even to the more experienced.]

Work quietly, and avoid sudden starts. Never fight your
bees, and always keep cool.

If you get stung, remove the sting, squeeze out all the poison
you can, and apply hartshorn.

Use plenty of smoke. A roll of dry rags or decayed wood
makes the best. Blow it in the entrance and at the top of the
frames.

If you are timid use rubber gloves on the hands and a veil
over the face and head. The veil must be long enough to allow
the vest or coat to be put on over it.

When pasture first becomes plenty in the spring is a good
time to transfer bees. Always work among the hives during the
middle of the day, when the bees are busy.

Stocks without eggs or young-born in June must be queenless,
and should be supplied with a queen or queen cell, or they will
dwindle away and perish either by robbers or moth.

When symptoms of robbing occur use the utmost caution.
Contract the entrance of weak hives, and allow the comb, honey,
sugar, or syrup to be around. Avoid opening hives as much as
possible.

Avoid an excess of drone comb by the presence of a queen in
swarms where combs are to be constructed. As swarms ha\'ing
young queens seldom swarm that year, less drone comb is built
in swarms having young queens.

Quiet is essentially necessary to the well-being of an apiary.
Do not place it near mills, steam works, or manufactories of any
kind. If possible have it in view from the window of the
family room, as much extra trouble may be avoided.

As natural talent or business tact is requisite with education
to success in business, so a careful turn of mind and a love for
the business, with an understanding of the subject, are necessary
to success in bee-keeping.

Put on honey boxes partly filled with comb as soon as the
lower part of the hive is well filled with honey and bees, and
when they are gathering honey plentifully; commence with only
one or two boxes at a time on the most i^opulous stock.

In transferring combs, always give those the preference that
contain worker blood. Put brood combs near the centre of the
hive in the order in which they were in the box hive. Do your
transferring where robbers cannot possibly be attracted.

Avoid weak swarms, as they gather but little honey, breed
slowly, and are in great danger of destruction by robbers, the
moth, or severity of winter. Weak swarms should always be
united in the fall, and should never be made by dividing early
in the season.

Whenever you notice the bees running about the entrance in
the evening, in a disturbed condition, mark that hive and notice
it the next evening. If the bees run about smelling each other,
it is a sign that they have lost their queen, and should receive
attention.

In establishing au apiary, select a gentle slope to the south-
east ; face the hive in the same direction. If possible have
running water near. Shade and protection from winds are im-
portant. Set every hive as perpendicular as a clock ; for a stand,
take two short pieces of 4-by-6-inch scantling, and lay or nail on
a board.

To make queen cages : Cut wire cloth 3 by 4 inches ; pirll out
two or three transverse wires from one of the 3-inch edges, and
insert the protecting ends thus left in the corresponding meshes
of the other 3-inch edge, and fasten them ; stop one end with
cork or wood. When you wish to introduce a queen, put her ia
the cage and stop up the other end with wax. — (American Bee-
keepers* Magazine.)

OUR LETTER BOX.

Eeahmas— R.1EBIT.S (P. C. .S.).— All Brahmas have feathered legs. The
Ostend Rabbit we believe is also known as the Polish, Himalayan, and by
other names. The Patagoniaa has russet-coloured fur. You will find all
particulars in our " Rabbit Book," a new edition of which is now printing.

AUTiFiciAL HATcmNG (T. W. B.).— We know of no machine that would

27i

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

( March 27, 1878.

answer for so small a number, nor do we tnow any reason why you should
have any tronhle with sittins hens. There arc plenty about now, and il you put
them in a basket or the half of a butter-tub covered at the top yon will have no
trouble with them. It is more than probable you have put down hens that
were onlv beginning to be broodv. Such are not to be depended upon. Every
hen should be put upon dumb or sham eggs for two or three days before she
is entrusted with thoi^e she is to hatch.

EK.ir.iNG PocLTHV (A ComtaiU A-arfer).— About 103° is the temperatui-e
for hatching eggs ; but of course it vaiies, and falls to 90-, or even lower, when
the hen is oS her nest. No incubator has proved satisfactory. It you wish
for a cheap book buy our " Poultry 'Book ; " if you wish for the host illustrated
and most copious, take in Mr. Wright's "Illustrated Book of Poultry, pub-
lished in sliilling numbers. A good book about swine is Richardson B " Do-
mestic Pigs."

Cock Hen-pecked (J. J. B.).— The hens will not give up the habit while
they are in conflnemenl. You must remove the naked burds, and rub the baro
spots with compound sulphur ointment.

CocHis WITH Twisted Flight (F. O. IF.).— The cock is disqualihed; he
has a twisted flight. The fault is also hereditaiy. It is rare for Oochm hens
to have sweUed face, as such are not subject to roup. Wash the face with
cold water and vinegar, and give Baily's pills.

Cjucken P.uluhe {Cheshire Amateur Farmer).— The foundation of the
failure was putting the chickens in the harness-room, and then puttmg them
on a brick floor. The sulphate of iron and the tonic mixtiu-e have caused the
increase in then- malady, and they will doubtless all die. We can only say to
you and many other querists, Follow nature as closely as you can, you will
succeed with little trouble. Eschew theories and^artiiicial treatments. We
have not lost a chicken.

Cock \ii.i^a {Mabel}.— aiwe the bird a strong dose of castor oil,' a good
table- spoonful; follow it with bread steeped in beer, and pills of camphor
two per day, each as large as a full-sized garden pea.

Indications of a Fertile Eokj {Comlant Reader). — You have no
means of ascertaming whether or not an egg is fertile tiU after four days' in-
cubation, when the first development lakes place, and is perceptible if the egg
be put m a strong cm-ient of Ught. The temperature must be considered in
fixing any time that may elapse without injury if a hen leave her eggs. At
this time of vear, if they are left in the early morning for two hours they are
placed in jeopardy ; in the summer, if very hot weather, they may be left six
hours ; and there are instances known of eggs having hatched after they had
been twelve hours deserted. It is, however, always a source of weakness to
the chicken if the eggs have been partially chUled. You may at present run
ten hens, and later in the season fifteen or sixteen. {Sitbsoribfr).— You can
test eggs easily. Shut yourself Into a dark outhouse when the sun is shining
brightly ; admit the light through a chink or small opemng ; form a sort of
tube by partially closing your hand ; put the egg at one end, and bring it m
contact with the ray of light ; look through the other end, and you will see
the first alteration in the shape of a dark streak.

Chickens Leg-weak and Dvino— Feeding {Ncoro Wouo).— All the ail-
ments we hear of, unknown disorders, and leg-weakness we attribute to un-
natural food and to unnatmal treatment. Our fowls never have leg-weakness
nor epidemics. Oiu- chickens are all out of doors, and are fed as we describe in,
this Journal. They have curd, bread and milk, boiled eggs, bread crumbs
and sometimes suet ; when the weather is very cold they have beer to diink.
They always roost on the ground, and always have done so. Any other floor-
ing wiU cause cramp. If you follow this, which is natural treatment, you will
have no difficulty. Quackery both m breeds and treatment will give nothing
but trouble.

Fowls' Livers Diseased (SiiJjscriSsr).— Constant changes of temperature
are always productive of more or less derangement of the liver, but that is a
softening and partial decomposition. The description you give is that of a
rabbit's diseased hver. All the animals we have to do with suffer from liver
complaints. Some have knotty hard callosities that form white substances
in the Uver ; others suffer from enlargement and as much decomposition as
we beUevc compatible with hfe. In wild birds, as in Grouse, the disease is
fatal. In poultry we treat it successfully with a dose of castor oil; then
camphor pills for two or thi-ee days, piU morning and evenmg the size of a
garden pea; and if the convalescence is. Blow, decoction of wormwood to
drink.

Insects on Canaries {A Subscriber, E. If.).— I wish our entomological
correspondent who writes the interestmg articles on the predatory and useful
insects of our gardens, would cultivate the acijuaintance of the Canary
parasite, and tell us who and what the feUow is, where he comes from,
whether he goes ; in fact, write his biogi-aphy from his craiUe to his gi-ave. I
thmk a few specimens could easily be sent for inspection, but the better pla.n
would be to set our friend up with a pair of birds and aUow him to breed his
own vermin, and at the same time amuse himself with a nest or two of young
bkda. For all practical purposes I may say in reply to " E. M.," that their
origin is dirt, their existence dirt, then- end a thing much to be desired, but
not easy to accomplish. Their prevention is more easy than then: eradication.
Just now, when most breeders aie putting-up their bh-ds, I may say to all,
Give yonr caL;es a thorough cleansing. If you have only one or two small
ones, and they are infested with insects, scald them— put them in the kitchen
copper. If you have large stacks of cages pull them down and have them ouP
into the yard and turn on the tap. Give them pail after pail of water, and
afterwards thoroughly whitewash the interior with whiting mixed with thin
flonr-and-water ;paste to the consistency of thick cream. Fill-up every crack,
and especiaUy the small ones. The larger cracks, such as the spaces which
sometimes occur from the wood warping, are not of so much consequence.
They ai-e not such comfortable tenements as the minute interstices into
which you can hardly insert the blade of a tablcknife. Use a medium-siiied
paint-brush, and work the stuff well in, and finish-off smoothly. Clean your
perches, see that all old wire boles at ths back or elsewhere are fiUed-up,
examine seed-hoppers, and scald them if need be, tear down all cornices and
ornamental carving, and leave no hole or corner uncleansed. Keep a sharp
look-out for stragglers during the season, and with ordinary care and strict
attention to cleanliness you need not be troubled. — W. A. Blakston.

Aviary Bibds Losing Feathers [Sutdi(fht). — Vary the diet of your birds
Btill more, and probably you will find the feathers soon gi-ow freely. Give
them every now and then, say twice a-week, a little rice boiled in milk and
sweetened with a small quantity of sugar. Also put a very small portion of
magnesia instead of saffron in theh drinking water, and in addition to grass
seeds and lettuce leaves give them Bome groundsel, watei-cress, chickweed, and
a little piece of apple sometimes. If the birds are disposed of their own

accord to bathe, give them a tepid bath, hut be sure to keep them out of cold
an- draughts, and see that their sand is both dry and gritty and changed every
day. Discontinue the bread and milk, and do not attempt to put lard nor
gi-ease of any kind on the bai'e parts. Are you sure there are no parasites in
the cage or on the birds ?

LiGUHiAN Bees [A Slee2)er). — Write to both pai-ties, ask for their charges'
and then select which you prefer.

METEOROLOGIC.il OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Sqoaee, London.

Lat. 51° 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0' 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date.

A.M.

In the Day.

■ as

11

..,

Shade Tem-

Radiation

0,S~

Hygrome-
ter.

'n^^

perature.

Temperature

a

March.

^t

g-3-

In 1 On

Dry.

Wet.

Q= r

Max. Min.

sun. grass

Inches.

de(f.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

We. 19

29.869

3S.9

36.S

N.E.

40.8

42.7

SI1.5

61.4

35.3

—

Th. 20

29.1174

40.0

3.9.2

N.

40.6

46.2

36 4

776

33.8

0,070

Fri. -21

29.B58 , s;.0

36.2

N.

40 8

40.8

34.1

67.2

S0.8

0.110

Sat. 23

29.932

41.4

39,4

SE.

40.1

49.9

31.8

93.3

28.2

0.016

Sun 23

29.990

42.5

41.8

N.

40.8

52.8

84.9

70.7

S2.8

Mo. 21

S0.OS6

44.4

48.8

N.

41.G

617

81.8

97 4

82 8

^

Tu. 25

30.150

48.2

44.9

N.E.

42.9

68.7

85 8
845

988

32 0

—

Means

29.973

41.9

40.1

41.1

00.4

81.S

32.2

0.195

BEMABK3.

19th. — A dull and very cold day, i^ercmg wind; veij little eun, but nu

rain.
20th. — Rather dull all day ; cold, and occasional slight gales of snow, and

wind high ; the morning the finest part of the day.
2l6t. — Dark disagreeable morDing, rather brighter between noon and 2 p.m.,

after then cold and miserable.
22nd. — Very fine morning, white Xrost ; fine and bright all day, ^ut the wind

veiy cold.
23rd. — Showei7 morning, fine after; but ratber dull, though much warmer.
24th. — A most beautiful day — bright, diy, and warm, and splendid Btarlifc

night,
25th. — A very fine day, hut the wind colder than yesterday.

Temperature somewhat higher than last week, with larger daily range;
the sun at times powerful, but CuunLeraeted by the cold northerly winds.
The last two days mild and spring-like, almost the iu'st to which that term
could properly be apphed.— G. J. Syhons.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET. -Maech 26.

A LITTLE bright weather has improved the quality and colour* of pro-
duce from under glass, but still the quantity is somewhat limited. The
supply, from out of doors and the Continent, of ordinoi'y rough goods is sufficient
for the demand. English Apples ai-e scarcCj but American sorts titill im-
ported in lai'ge quantities.

FRUIT.

Apples } sieve 3

Apricots doz. 0

Cherries per lb. 0

Chestnuts bushel 12

Currants i sieve 0

Black do. 0

Figs doz. 0

Filberts lb. 0

Cobs lb. 2

Gooseberries quart 0

Grapes, hothouse lb. 10

Lemons ^100 6

Melons each 0

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus ^^ 100

French

Beans. Kidney i;*- 100

Beet, Red doa.

Broccoh bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums ^^ 100

Carrots bunch

Cauliflower doz.

Celery bundle

Coleworts.. doz. bunches
Cucumbers each

picklmg doz.

Enihve doz.

Fennel bunch

Garlic lb.

a erbs bunch

Horseradish bundle

Leeks bunch

Lettuce doz

B. d. s. d. I

Otoi
0 0

B. d. B. d

Mulberries 1Mb, 0 OtoO

Nectarines doz, 0 0 0

Oranges ^100 4 0

Peaches doz. 0 0

Pears, kitchen doz. 1 0

dessert doz. ti 0

PineApples lb. 6 0

Plums i sieve 0 0

Quinces doz. 0 0

Raspberries lb. 0 0

Strawberries ^ oz. 1 0

"Walnuts bushel 16 0

ditto :^100 2 0

VEGETABLES.

3 OtoO

0

5 0

10

II

15 0

30

II

2 0

3

0

1 0

3

0

0 9

1

6

1 0

1

6

0 0

(1

(1

0 6

0

II

2 0

4

(1

1 6

2

0

2 6

4

0

1 6

S

0

0 0

(1

II

2 0

0

0

0 S

U

II

1) 6

0

0

0 3

II

II

3 0

4

1)

0 2

0

0

1 0

2

0

MuBhroomB pottio

Mustard iJi Cress, .puunet
Unions ^bushel

pickling quart

Piirsley per doz. bunches

Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

Futatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Bound do.

Radishes . . doz. bunches

Rhubarb bundle

Salsafy :tF* bundle

Savoys doz.

Scorzonera.... %*■ bundle

Sea-kale basket

Shallots lb.

Spinach bushel

Tomatoes doz.

Turnips bunch

Vegetable Marrows

s. d. 6.
0 0to2
0
0

POULTRY MARKET.— Mabch 26
"Vi'E have a veritable dearth of good poultry. The weather of the last two
months has rendered reaiiug almost an impossibiUty, hence the scarcity. It
will probably last a month.

B. d. 8. d.

Large Fowla 5 6 to 6 0

Smaller ditto 5 0 5 G

Chickens 4 0 4 6

GoslingB 8 0 8 6

Guinea Fowls 8 (1 4 0

Ducklings 4 0 4 0

B. d. 8 d.

Pheasants 0 OtoO 0

Partridges 0 0 0 0

Hares 0 0 0 0

Rabbits 15 10

Wildditto 0 10 1 G

Pigeons 10 13

M»7 1, 187S. ]

JOUBNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

31^)

WEEKLY CALENDAR.

Day

Day

o(

oj

Mouth

Week.

1

Th

2

F

S

a

4

Sn»

5

M

(>

Tn

7

W

MAY 1—7, 187S.

Meeting of Koyal and Linnean Societies.

Valienerius 150171, 1661.
3 Sunday after Easter.
Meeting of Kntomolo^ical Society, 7 p.m.
Meeting of Zoological Society, 8.30 p.m.
Royal Horticultural tiociety's Rose and Azalea
[ Show opens.

Average Tempera-

Bain in

ture near London.

43 fears.

Day.

NiRht.

Mean.

Days.

61.4

89.2

50.3

16

62.7

89.1

50.9

15

62.4

42.2

52.S

20

62.4

38.5

50.5

16

62.9

89.0

50.9

22

62.3

88.5

50.4

16

60.3

39.4

49.8

18

Son

Bises.

Son

Sets.

m. b. I m. b.
33 af 4 I 21 al 7

22
24
25
27
29
SO

Moon

Rises.

Sets.

m. h.

m. h.

10 7

1 0

6 8

58 0

11 9

38 1

21 10

8 2

31 11

31 2

42 0

49 2

62 1

4 3

'^^"- Son. Tear.

Days.

10
11

m. s.

3 4 121

3 11 I 122

8 18

1-iS

3 24 ' 124

3 29 i 125

3 34 120

3 39 127

From obHervations taken near London daring forty-three years, the average day temperature of the week is 62.P ; and its night temperature
).4^. The greatest heat was 84 , on the 0th, 1862 ; and tho lowest cold 20-, on the 6th, 1805. The greatest fall of rain was 1.26 inch

GEAPE-KEEPING.

BELTON GRAPE ROOM, 1872 and 1873.

' NDEB the above heading last spring in The
Journal of Hokticulture, vol. xxii., p. 80,
you published an account of my failure in
keeping Grapes in bottles of water in a room
erected specially for the purpose, and with
that account is a plan. I there stated par-
ticulars of the treatment to which the Givapes
had been subjected from the time of cutting
them, and asked for information on the
subject. In addition to the writers of pri-
vate letters, conveying information from many of the
highest authorities, I have to thank the following who
kindly responded — namely, Mr. Nisbet and Mr. Douglas
in No. 569, page 169, and Mr. Nisbet for his able article,
page 211, and in the following numbers Mr. Potts, Mr.
Eoberts, and Mr. Dodds.

If the system of keeping Grapes in bottles of water in
rooms is to be of any value to the horticultural com-
munity it must be reduced to a safe practice, founded on
natural laws, so that, when the Grapes are thoroughly ripe,
and not tdl then, they may be all safely cut, and placed
at once in the Grape-room in bottles of water, each con-
taining a httle charcoal, there to remain until required
for use, be it in two, foiu', or six months, and this, too,
without involving so mvich watchfulness as is usually
considered necessary. Now, by the time a Vine has
thoroughly ripened its fruit, its principal leaves are ripe
also, and the support of the fruit in the shape of moisture,
from this time at least, gradually diminishes until, when
the leaves fall, very little moisture is received or required
by the fruit ; still the Vine continues to supply sufficient to
maintain the hemes and their footstalks in perfect con-
dition for months after being ripe if properly treated by
keeping them cool and dry. Any excess of moisture sup-
pUed to the hemes at this time and onwards, either thi-ough
the wood or air, is at the expense of the flavour and keeping
properties of the Grapes, and on tliis nicety in the supply
of moisture to the bunches when cut from the Vine and
in a room, as above mentioned, hinges the whole cause of
faUm'e or success in keeping them perfect for any length
of time.

The best practical information is very frequently gained
through faUm-es, and having failed, as already stated, I
determined to institute a series of experiments in order
to arrive at a just and safe mode of supplying such an
amount of moistm-e to the bunches through the wood as
would suiiice to keep them perfect without the danger of
supplying too much — in short, to follow nature as closely
as possilale ; and this I have proved can be safely done,
simply by half-charring the cut end of the branch upon
which the bunch hangs before putting it into the bottle of
water. By taking this precaution a great amoimt of
watchfulness, care, and labour is saved. The half-char-
ring the cut partially closes the pores of the wood, and
only a limited quantity of water can pass to the fruit.
I made in the autumn of last year some alterations in
Ko. 631.— Vol. XXTV., New Series.

the Grape-room at Belton, added two extra ventilators at
the lowest part of the room in the door and wall opposite,
with slides, stopped tlie one previously in the floor, where
I conceived moisture had gained access through the
grating, and laid a flow and return 2-inch pipe on the
floor round the room. Having done this I commenced
the experiment intended, and which I have been re-
quested by many gardeners to pubhsh, but to do this
would take up too much of your valuable space. How-
ever, it may be advisable to state a few failures by way
of showing "breakers ahead." Cu-cumstances enabled me
to keep the Grapes hanging on the Vines a month longer
than in 1871 ; therefore the first lot was cut on the 9th of
December. I had either to cut them then or lose them
through the wet contintially dropping, in some cases run-
ning into the bunches from the roof, therefore only those
bunches so circumstanced were cut at this time ; those
previously cut were for the purpose of experiment.

The bunches were placed in the water at various
depths, some scarcely touching it ; these required much
careful watching, some being shorf, some having too
much water, and to keep them for a month or five weeks
until they were required for use entailed too much labour
in drawing them out and then putting them back into
the water, cutting-out berries, &c. So practically this was
a failure, although by constant attention they were fairly
kept for this short time. Left hanging on the Vine they
would all have disappeared in the four or five weeks.
On the 14th of December twenty-five bunches were cut
and put into the water, little more than touching it ; three
of these were weighed at the time, and proved to be
2 lbs. 10 ozs., 2 lbs., and 3 lbs. respectively. "When re-
weighed on the 0th of January they had gained in weight,
and by the 20th the largest bvmch had gained a httle
over half aa ounce, but there was no appearance of
cracking or moulding, and for fear of this occurring, they
were all taken out, and remained out of the water twenty-
four hours. I then had cement mixed with hot water
rubbed into the pores of the Vine wood, and some of it
charred ; after this all were returned to the water, and
they kept well for the remainder of the time.

On the 18th of December another lot was cut ; half of
these had cement rubbed into the wood, and the other
half had the cut-end of the shoot half changed put into
the water. Three bunches were weighed, and then- stems
stuck deeply into large roots of Mangold. Three of the
cemented bunches were weighed, and three of the half
chaiTed. In four or five weeks those stuck in the Man-
golds were losing their footstalks, and in six weeks began
to shrivel ; they lost 1:^ oz. dm"ing the time. The three
cemented bunches when cut from the Vine weighed in
the aggregate 6 lbs. 10 ozs., and when weighed again on
the 14th of January then- weight remained the same ;
by February 14th they had lost tliree-quarters of an ounce,
but a few berries had been cut out. The three bunches
that were half-charred weighed in the ag.gregate .5 j lbs.,
and had neither gained nor lost on tho 14th of January,
but by the 14th of February they had lost a little over
a quarter of an oimee in the three bunches. This is,
i No. 128S.— Vou XLK., Old Semeb.

350

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t May 1, 1873.

perhaps, nearly what would have been the case had they
remained on the Vines ; and on the 14th of April Mr. Boulton,
jny successor at Belton, informed me these bunches were in
every way m splendid condition both in footstalk and berry,
and I am further informed that not a berry had been cut out
of the bunches from the first. This I consider is conclusive
as to the merits of half-charring the cut before insertion in
the water.

On the 3rd of January another lot was cut and half-charred ;
these kept beautifully to the last, lost very few berries, and
caused little trouble.

On the 11th of Februar,y another lot was cut, and in order
to satisfy myself as to the capability of the bark to take up
water the cut-ends of all those branches on which the bunches
hung were quite sealed up with a composition of shellac and
spirits of wine rubbed into the pores of the wood, when dry
rubbed over again with the same composition, and when
again dry the ends were put as deeply into the water as the
length of the branch would allow. By the 25th the foot-
stalks exhibited signs of distress, clearly showing that no
•water had passed through the bark. The sealed ends were at
once cut off, and the bunches put into the water ; they re-
covered in a couple of days, were then taken out and dried,
half-charred, and re-inserted in the water. After this the
Grapes kept perfectly as long as retjuired, and I had no more
trouble with them.

The last house of Grapes was cut on the 27th of February ;
the ends of aU the shoots were half-charred, then put into the
water irrespective of depth, as I had previously proved that
water did not pass through the bark. These kept perfectly to
the last without any further trouble, as, I believe, very few
berries had to be taken out. In all cases, by keeping perfectly,
I wish it to be understood that I mean the footstalks of the
herries remained gnen and firm and the berries plump, retain-
ing their bloom and flavour.

The varieties of Grapes kept as above at Belton were chiefly
Muscat of Alexandria aud Black Alicante, with Madresfield
Court, White Tokay, and White Nice. Madresfield Court did
not keep well after the middle of January. White Tokay kept
well, as also did White Nice, although the last-named were
large bunches, but when placed in the room their shoulders
were tied up. The Muscats kept perfectly when charred or
cemented ; when not so treated the skin of some of the berries
was discoloured, showing the effect of taking up too much
water.

I consider the past has been au unfavourable season for
keeping Grapes, owing to the unusually wet late autumn and
winter, and the mildness of the latter. From the 9th of De-
cember to the 15th of I''ebruary inclusive there were forty-nine
days on which the thermometer indicated 40° or upwards, the
highest being 53° on the 3rd of January. I ought to say in
conclusion that the Grape room was kept thoroughly dry and
as cool as the esttrual temperature would allow. Plenty of
air and light were given on all faioirable occasioas. The pipes
were used only to dry the room, and for this purpose the heat
was turned on during the early part of fine days, when plenty of
air could be given at the same time. In all cases the heat was
shut off by two o'clock in the afternoon, so that the pipes were
cool by the time the room was closed. I had canvas pads
stuffed with hay made to fit inside the windows and venti-
lators so as to be applied in a few minutes. In case of sharp
frost the doors and windows were also protected by thick canvas
outside, and by these means a considerable degree of frost
could be kept out without having recourse to the pipes, which
should be used only when other meaus fail. Mr. Nisbet says
very truly the three evils to be guarded against are damp,
frost, and artificial heat ; and I will add a fourth — namely, too
much water being taken up through the pores of the wood.
It is quite unimportant whether the bottles are stoppered or
not. — W. Moore, late Gardener to Earl Brou-nlow.

NEW ROSES AT SOUTH KENSINGTON—
AUEICULAS.
Why need my good friend who objects to my judgment write
with such acerbity ? Surely one may question the decision
even of the Floral Committee without benig considered pre-
sumptuous. One might almost imagine it was some newly
elected member, who, proud of his honours, was anxious like a
prrux clu'valier to defend his lady-love against all comers. I
am no way convinced by your correspondent's notes that I am
wrong, and time will show whether my judgment wiU be en

dorsed by Rose-growers generally. I do not think Lyonnais
or President Thiers worthy of the honours they received, and
I do maintain that, although Etienne Levet was slightly defec-
tive, it ought to have supplanted one of them ; and with all
humility I would here say that it is just possible that the judg-
ment of one who has lived among Roses may be quite as likely
to be correct as the decision of a heterogeneous C'ummittee,
many of whom, perhaps, never grew a Rose, however celebrated
they may be in other directions, and who decide by majorities
whether a flower is to be certificated or not.

Mons. Claude Levet, alluded to by your correspondent, I had
already so marked as a valuable Rose that I secured the bloom
to have a drawing made of it for publication ; and Mr. George
Paul's foreman, whose opinion I should be as much inclined to
take as that of anyone I know, says it is the best Rose of this
year that he has seen.

A word or two as to the Auriculas on the Ifith. If the show
last season was the best seen in London for many years, one
may without question say that the show this year was the
poorest. I have grown Auriculas for thirty-five years, and
never remember to have seen them so late as they are this
season. In all my collection I could not get six fully open,
and other growers were equally late, while as a rule plants,
though healthy, are not throwing up strong trusses. It is one
of those disappointments all growers of flowers must meet
with, even although their theories may be good and their-
practice correct. — D., Deal.

CULVEEKEYS.
The popular name for Cowslips in this part of Kent (near
Ashford) is Covekeys, the villagers never calling the CowsUps
anythmg else, while the Oxlips they call Cowslips. It seems
to me as near Culverkeys as any of the names mentioned in
the Journal, especially as they have curious modes of pro-
nouncing words, frequently leaving out letters entirely. — Edith
DoMBRiiN, If'cstwell Vicarage.

The term Culverkeys is in general use among all the poorer
classes of this neighboui'hood, and is applied to the Cowslip
(Primula veris), while the Oxlip (P. elatior) they term Cowslip.
Culverkey wine is a much-admired beverage. Of the deriva-
tion of the word I can give no opinion. — E. D. Swan, Hothfield
Rectory, Ashford, Kent.

The Culverkey is well known in Somersetshire, and applies
to the Bluebell (Hyacinthus non-scriptus). In Oxfordshire
and Essex the same flower is by some called Culvers. I trust
this may help to clear-up the mystery. — A Gaiideneb, llalsall
Heath, Birminijham.

[So far is our "Gaedener" correspondent, and our two
manse correspondents from clearing-up the mystery, that they
have made it more mysterious. If, in Kent, Cowslips are called
Culverkeys, then they are not tlje flowers that are alluded to
in the verses of Lennys in 1C12, for he distinguishes them
especially as being blue, " azor (azure) Culverkayes." Walton
expressly distinguishes them, for he says, " Looking down the
meadows I could see a girl cropping Culverkeys and Cow-
slips to make garlands." If, too, the Cowslip, Hyacinth non-
scriptus, and Meadow Orchis, are in various localities known as
" Culverkeys," then it would seem that our country-folk apply
the name to any flower having a cluster of flowers on the top
of a common stalk. Yet we do not swerve from our conclusion
that the name is derived from the ancient British, or Welsh,
and that the name in that language was appropriated ex-
clusively to the Meadow Orchis. — Ens.]

PRINCE ALBERT PINE APPLE.

Man-y thanks to Mr. J. Foden for his descriptive explana-
tion of the Black Prince and King Alfred Pine Apples. Any-
thing that has a tendency to popularise a variety of Pine
Apple is perused with interest. According to the account at
page 315, I am of opinion that Prince Albert remains distinct,
and has no connection whatever with Black Prince and King
Alfred — the two creditable productions of the deceased Mr.
Joseph Foden.

The great peouUarity or characteristic of Foden's Black
Prince, throwing-up its long fruiting stem without any appear-
ance of fruit for a long time, never occurs with the variety which
has so long retained the unquestioned name of Prince Albert.
I have a strong aversion, for obvious reasons, to the naked

May 1, 1878. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTIGULTDBE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

351

stem and invariable minimum produce of tlie pedestal type.
Including Prince Albert, the finest fruits in every respect are
produced by plants which at once show a vigorous formation,
and remain at a medium elevation from the socket. The
purple-tinted leaves of King Alfred I regard as no reliable
distinction. All varieties when exposed to sun and light are
of the same hue. It is to be regretted that Mr. Wright's state-
ments at page 218 are not corroborated by Mr. J. Foden. Mr.
Wright tell us, in the first place, that it is Prince Alfred, and
not Prince Albert, and refers to Mr. J. Foden for confirmation
of this, when Mr. J. Foden tell us, in the first place, that he
is not aware that there ever was a Pine Apple called Prince
Albert or Prince Alfred. Such being the case, how can he
agree with me that these two are the same, and they are only
Foden's Black Prince ? It is quite possible there may be a
Pine in cultivation which Mr. .J. Foden has never seen. I may
inform him that there are few of the principal Pine-growing
places in England or Scotland but possesses a variety named
Prince Albert. — J. M. C.

DWARF HAEDY PLANTS SUITABLE AS EDGINGS
TO YOUNG SPECIMEN TEEES.— No. 2.

Oxalis cornlculata rubra. — This is well adapted for edging
purposes, for although the plant dies down a considerable por-
tion of the year, its foliage is good all the summer months,
it is hardy, and accomodating enough for all purposes. Oxalis
Bowei I have never been able to make much of, but that, per-
haps, may have been from want of perseverance rather than
any defect in the plant, as when well grown it makes a lovely
bed.

PruiifUa optima. — A pretty purple-flowering dwarf plant of
compact habit, and strongly to be recommended. It is also
accommodating in every sense of the word, for although not a
gross grower, it seems to thrive equally well in sun or shade,
in moist or dry situations, while its flowers are very pretty.

Pansier. — In general I have not been able to flower these
well. Our hot summers seem to punish them so severely that
I cannot recommend them for duty in a dry situation ; laut in
a different situation most likely they would bloom well.

Pink. — Having alluded to this under the head Diajithus,
notliing more need be Slid, only that on calcareous soils, where
it thrives so well, it cannot be planted too extensively, for both
the character of flower and habit of the plant alike fit it for
the front place in a class of this kind.

Phlox verna and others. — This dwarf species with deep
rose-coloured blossoms makes a nice broad margin, and is
admirably suited for covering ground about a tree not branched
to the ground, as it is a spreading plant, and makes an excel-
lent carpet, more especially on a soil approaching to peat.
There are several varieties of it, but none better than that
which has flowers of a deep rosy-purple colour. Another
species, P. setacea or P. subulata, is widely different, but dwarf,
and equally eUgible. With it I have never been able to suc-
ceed well, nor have I managed P. prostrata well enough to be
able to recommend it. The tall kinds, of course, are not suit-
able for our present purpose.

Pidmo7iaria officinali.^ raricfiata. — The blotching of the foUage
of this plant equals that of many of our exotic Begonias, and
looks well all the winter ; the plant is therefore of service for
winter decoration. It is of rather strong growth, and perhaps
occupies more room when full-grown than can often be allowed,
but being accommodating, it may be planted where other sub-
jects will not grow.

Primroses. — I enter upon these with some misgivings, for
the whole family are such favourites that I fear I may be led
too far in my commendations ; moreover, they offer much
variety, and their flowering is spread over a great number of
months. Who is there, in traversing the shady lanes of a rural
district in March or April, but must admire the floral gems
that stud the hedgebanks ? and I am not sure that any of the
Primroses of our gardens are in reality more beautiful than the
wild one. At the same time our garden varieties have also
their especial claims to notice.

Before mentioning two or three of the most prominent va-
rieties I may say that the Primrose in general hkes a some-
what moist situation, and one partially shaded in summer is
an advantage. This, I believe, holds good of all the family,
the Auricula, perhaps, excepted. We also find that division of
the plants every second or third year is advantageous. Single
robust-growing varieties need division oftener than the slower-
growing d<Mible kinds, and as this mode of propagation is the

only certain way of insuring the continuance of the exact va-
rieties, it is well to practise it as early in the spring as con-
venient. Necessity has often compelled us to divide the plants
when they were in full bloom, which is not, perhaps, the best
time, but the plant is very accommodating in that way. Where
a rather shady piece of ground not too dry can be had as a
reserve or nursery, this plant may be extensively grown for
early spring gardening, and it can be transplanted with greater
ease than most things. It is also easily raised from seed,
which is often self-sown in unpromising places, and new va-
rieties are sometimes met with in such spots. A friend of
mine found a double yellow variety in a wood a long way from
any garden or cultivated ground, and brown and dark-coloured
varieties are not uncommon. If gardeners would take the
trouble to now and then plant a crimson or magenta-flowered
plant here and there amongst the wild Primroses, most likely
fresh cross-breds would be produced. I have often done this,
and hope to see some of the cross-breds by-and-by. I may
add that the crossing of the garden varieties certainly gives
us kinds partaking partly of the Polyanthus and Cowslip,
in conjunction with the Primrose, for it is not uncommon
to find plants having both single-flowering stems and also
well-formed umbels as in the Polyanthus, while the pendulous
habit of the Cowslip is also represented. Probably further
varieties will be produced when the new .Tapanese Primrose
shall have become more plentiful ; but as regards colour, our
home kinds give us all the colours that we have from the east ;
nevertheless, there is no doubt an important future before this
plant, and with such other species as P. cortusoides amuena
and P. erosa denticulata there is ample scope for hybridisation.

Siiifile White Primrose. — I believe I have on more than one
occasion expressed an opinion that this is the most useful of
the family, coming into flower so much earlier than all others.
We have frequently had a good display of this variety in No-
vember, long before the wild Primrose or the other kinds
showed any signs of flowering. Its flowers are of a clear white,
too, and the plant is a most abundant bloomer. Some we
have in bloom at the time I write have done duty for quite
five months. I think the season we had them in most abun-
dance in autumn was 1871. A spurious variety of this kind
appears to be more prevalent than the true early-flowering one ;
and I also find that of seedUngs some of them come ^vitli a
creamy white tint instead of the pure colour, thus showing a
tendency to revert to the wild form. When once a stock of it
is obtained it is best to propagate it by division of the roots ;
and it is well not to be in too great a hurry in doing this, as
small plants rarely attain sufficient size in one year to allow
of their being divided with so much advantage as when left for
two years where they are growing. This remark, of course,
holds good of all kinds alike.

Siiu/le Mauve Primrose— This, Uke the last, is a very free
bloomer, but is not by any means so early a bloomer, neither
does it look so well in the distance as the white. There are
several tints of this colour obtainable by seed, some of them
being much brighter than the original, and approaching to
magenta.

Sinflle Crimson Primrose. — A variety of this I have had some
years occasionally covered with umbelled flowers hke the Poly-
anthus, while a great number of the flowers are on single
stems. It is of a pretty clear colour, and well deserving of
notice, more especially if hybridising be attempted, for it is
likely to impart a useful colour to the progeny.

Sini/le Yellow of a deeper tint than the ivild Primrose. — I have
not been able to make much of this, and therefore cannot say
anything of it ; only if it could be made to grow as freely as
the first two named it would be an acquisition, as its flowers
are of a fine golden colour, but I fear it is miffy.

Single Primroses of Other Tints. — As there is no limit to the
colours that possibly may be obtained by seed, I need only
say that promising seedlings with violet, crimson, magenta,
and other coloured flowers are now and then met with, with a
bluish-tinted hlac, the latter, no doubt, destined to be the
parent of a better class of blues. Mr. Divers, gardener at
Wierton, near Maidstone, has many promising seedhngs, and
has for years practised fertilising this family with the Poly-
anthus, CowsUp, and wild Primrose, and his seedlings at flow-
ering time are intoresting, and doubtless will hereafter be
found valuable.

OxUp or Hose-in-Hose Primrnse.—l am only acquainted with
the yellow form of this, and it is exceedingly handsome, the
flower-stems being as long and as robust as the strongest-
growing Polyanthus, and the distinction between the two flow-

352

JOUENAL OP HORTICDLTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB.

[ May 1, 18T3.

ers clearly seen. It is very pretty and well worthy of notice.
I should much like to see a white aa well as other coloured
varieties of this distinct species, as it is so conspicuous when
■well grown.

Fulyanihuses. — There is great diversity, and as they produce
seeds even more freely than the Primrose, and these germi-
nate more quickly, the varieties are endless ; and now and
then flowers approaching the requirements of the florist are
met with, but in general they are less robust than the common
Polyanthuses, and consequently not so fitted to rough it for
the purpose liere indicated. I should much like to see a pure
white Polyanthus. Yellows there arc, endently akin to the
CowsUp, but I am not fortunate in having them.

Double Yelloto Primrose. — It may seem odd to make the
assertion, but I have assuredly seen more plants of this in a
cottager's garden quite fifty years ago, than I have ever met
with on any occasion since, and my own stock of it is very
limited. Like most of the family it requires more shade and
moisture than it otten receives in fashionable ijuarters, but
where it does thrive well nothing can be more handsome.
It flowers earlier than the Double White, and is, perhaps, a
better grower, but it is not multipUed so quickly as the single
one. Nevertheless, to those having a moister climate than we
have in Kent, I would strongly recommend it.

Double 3Iauve or Liliic. — This is certainly a more robust
grower than the yellow, is more frequently met with, and good-
sized plants look well when in full flower ; but in the distance
it is not so showy as the single varieties.

Double Jfhite Primrose. — This is, perhaps, the latest of the
whole family in flowering, and is the slowest grower, but when
fully out it is handsome, and as a variety is indispensable.

Double Potyantlms. — I liavo not been able to do much with
this, and, therefore, can only say its flowers are handsome,
and in other places it may thrive better.

I cannot close this notice on the Primulas I grow in quantity
without strongly recommending those intending to plant them
extensively to commence with the single kinds ; they present
endless varieties, and it is not too much to say they can be
multiplied twice as fast as the doubles, and as a batch of seed-
lings often bring out colours not previously known, the in-
terest attached to them is much enhanced. Perhaps the tints
most desirable now a-days are those bordering on blue, and
some of the kinds having a lavender hue might in time supply
US with the desired colour. A deep orange is also wanted.
One of the most important merits a Primrose can have, earli-
ness of flowering, ought also to have its claim to notice, and
as I have not met with any variety yet coming-in so early as
the single white alluded to (this may, nevertheless, be not
the case with all single whites), I need only say that for winter-
decorative purposes one that commences blooming in Novem-
ber or before, is worth a dozen that only come into use in
April.

Dwarf Double White Socket. — Where this grows well it
makes a neat edging, but it is not everywhere that it thrives,
and like the Double Yellow Primrose was possibly more plenti-
ful fifty years ago than now. I lost sight of it for many years,
and only accidentally met with it near Glasgow a few years ago.
I find it is not by any means a free grower, and is liable to
die-off at the neck. Perhaps our soil does not suit it, at all
events the tall Eocket grows fast enough, while this merely
exists. It is not more than 8 or 10 inches high when in full
flower, and is a neat grower.

lianuneulus. — I have only once or twice attempted them and
cannot say much on my success. The old Bachelor's Buttons
grows too tall for my purpose, and the bulbous kinds leave the
ground too long bare to merit notice.

Snntolina incuna. — This and its fellow, S. Chamcccyparissus,
are both good when an edging of upwards of 8 inches high is
wanted, for they soon attain that height and cannot well be kept
lower. A neat foliage of a silvery grey colour, with a sturdy
habit, renders this plant very suitable for the purpose.

Salvia argentea. — The thick blanket-like foliage plant is also
better for a large than a small bed. It is easily obtained from
seed, but in winter its appearance is not ornamental.

Sapoiiaria oeijmoides. — Having used this many years ago I
include it here, but fear I have lost it. As a neat dwarf plant
it well deserves a place, its blooms being also interesting.

Saxifraya. — Tliis very important family presents many mem-
bers all fitted for the present purpose. Some of them are re-
markable for the beauty of their flowers, while others and by
far the greater number are interesting from the character of
their foliage. They also differ widely in the latter respect,

perhaps no family more so, for while some have the tiniest
foliage imaginable, others as S. calendulacea have leaves
almost as large as a Cabbage. I shall not, however, have to
enter into the tall-growing kinds, but may say that amongst
the dwarf ones with neat foliage like frosted silver, S. Aizoon
and Aizoon minor, as well as S. pectinata, S. intacta, and
others look well regardless of all flowers, while another class
represents a section resembling in some measure the Lyco-
podiums of our plant houses. Amongst these S. hypnoides,
S. hu'ta, S.ca;spitosa,S.hirsuta,and S.Stansfieldii may betaken
as a sample. They have all deep green foliage of the neatest
possible form. Another section presents us with flowers of
considerable beauty, as S. oppositifolia, which, however, I have
not been able to do much with ; S. dentata, S. Geum, and
S. granulata plena, all good. That which I grow most has
leaves as long as the Willow and covered with hairs, giving it
a silvery tint ; the habit at the same time being very dwarf
and compact, although the flower stem, when it does flower,,
rises upwards of 2 feet high ; we have named it S. crassifolia,
but I am not sure of the name being correct.

Sedum. — This faniUy may also bo divided into two classes —
one remarkable for foliage, the other for its flowering qualities.
Amongst the latter S. roseum is pretty, as is also S. dentatum,
and better stiU S. kamtschaticum, the latter two being yellow,
the first-named rose-coloured. Then we have the succulent
class, as S. glaucum, a great favourite with the London park
gardeners. S. album is fast-growing, and so are one or two
others, while in the Stonecrop way S. Lydium and S. pul-
chellum have some resemblance to the well known S. acre.
All are of good habit of growth, and not particular as to site,
at the same time a dry situation suits them better than one of
an opposite character.

Silene Schafta. — A neat-flowering plant that oaght not to
be disturbed frequently ; it is also somewhat miffy — i.e., does
not like every place, and I am not sure that ours is the right
one for it, for I find it goes off very much.

Soldanella alpiiia. — As with the last-named we have not suc-
ceeded with it well. I imagine it wants a peaty soil.

Spiriea japonica. — This does remarkably well with us and
nothing seems to injure it excepting a sharp frost when it is
far advanced in growth, as was the case in 1872. It is occa-
sionally called Hoteia japonica, and the habit as well as the
flowers of the plant is so well known and so universally ad-
mired that comment upon it is needless. It is propagated
freely by division just as it is making a start to grow towards
the end of Mai'ch.

Sjnrira Ulmaria variegata. — A variety of this with golden
markings is very pretty both for pots and in the open ground,,
and it is as robust as the normal plant is when growing in
some moist ditch or other suitable place. The variegated form
is dwarf enough when growing ou ordinary garden soil in a
moderately dry place.

Spiraa Filipendula plena. — The very handsome foliage of this
entitles it to a place as an edging plant apart from its orna-
mental cream-coloured flowers, which, though somewhat tall for
small beds, are nevertheless excusable when the neat appearance
the foliage of 'the plant makes aU the year through is borne in-
mind. I strongly recommend it.

Stachys lanata. — Rather coarse, but useful where some other
thing wUl not do very well.

Stipa glanca. — A greyish-coloured Grass of compact habit,,
and more persistent than most Grasses are. I am not certain if
this be not the same as is called Festuca glanca, for although
I had both from respectable nurserymen I could not distin-
guish any difference. Stipa pennata is another plant al-
together, and not so well adapted for edging purposes, its
feathery form when in flower being its merit.

Sempervivum ealiforuicum. — This very convenient-growing
plant cannot be too highly recommended, and it has the recom-
mendation of not needing to bo replanted very often. I believe
we have edgings of it that have been in their present positiou
for ten years' or more, and a good broad edging, say a foot or
more wide, grown naturally, is prettier than the uniformity
that is met with in fashionable flower-beds, where only large
plants are used. When left to itself, the centre of the mass
is elevated a little above the edges, and a dense uniform tuft
is the result. It seems to like a good soil, but wiU also live
and do well in a dry situation.

.v. teetorum, the common Houseleek, is not so pretty as the
CaUforniau one, being smaller and more open.

i'. glubiferum. — As the name implies, this is globular, larger
than a walnut, and the foliage thickly set in the same uniform

May 1, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

3S3

way as the Califoruian species, only not so flat. It turns
brown in summer, but I do not think this any disadvantage,
and it is perfectly hardy.

S. ariichiioidfiiin. — Somewhat like the last, only apparently
-enveloped iu a sort of cobweb. It is of slower growth, and
possibly not quite so hardy, but I have not had much experi-
•ence of it.

S. li'iilfiana. — This, like the Oalifornian Houseleek, has a
thick fleshy leaf, but is greener, and more like the common
Houseleek.

.S'. BolUi is in the way of S. globiferum, but smaller, as are
also S. aaomatum and S. Beanii, but they seem to be perfectly
tardy. I fear, however, that there is some confusion in the
name of this plant, but S. BolUi is unquestionably good, and
with me, at least, the easiest of culture.

Thymus micdnx. — A very dwarf hardy plant, rather of a
iironze hue, neat and compact, with a slight odour.

Veronicas. — A variegated form of one of the hardy herba-
ceous kinds is good, and makes a neat low edghig. The
flowers that are produced, though upwards of a foot high, nre
excusable, as when they are removed the plant is dwarf and
compact.

Viola cornuta. — A permanent edging is just the place for
this plant, for, with all its merits, it is not adapted for the
flower-beds, where it has to be removed every year. It is too
■well known to require comment here.

Viola tricolor. — .\ hardy variety of the common Pansy, of a
bright yellow, has stood one or two summers with me, as did
^also a pale blue some- years ago. I am not in love with either
of them, but for variety they may be tried.

Viola odorala. — The double Russian or Neapolitan Violet
anay be tried, as may also the single land.

Besides the above many other plants are occasionally used.
"With Snowdrops, for instance, we have several beds edged, as
well as one or two with Lily of the Valley. Crocuses do not
succeed well with us, neither does the hardy Cyclamen, but
4hat is no reason why they should not thrive elsewhere. The
•object aimed at is to edge round each tree or shrub with a
neat compact plant that will in most cases look well all the
year round, or, if it do not do so, the plant ought to possess
more than ordinary merit at blooming time. I by no means
intend to imply that the plants noticed are the only ones
adapted for the purpose ; most likely there are many others
also good, which only want trying to bring them out. Choice
florists' flowers are not needed iu this case ; they are too often
of uneven growth, and not so accommodating as to site as
others of a less refined character. Plants that have a neat
appearance from January 1st to December 31st are inliuitely
better than objects which are only gay for a short time in
summer. — J. Robson.

PAINTING OF OECHAED-HOUSE TEEES.

This is a much better plan than simply brushing the trees
•over with a composition of lime, Ac, the chief object of which
is to exclude the air, and thus destroy animal life, also, pro-
bably, preserving the eggs of insects from hatching, as is the
■case iu the preservation of eggs in limewater. The mixture
of some vegetable oil, with something to give it body, seems a
good idea, and as to killing the trees there is no fear. One of
my under-gardeners used a mineral oil to kill the brown scale
on an orange tree, the effect of which was to cause nearly all
tihe leaves to fall off, though it answered well when confined
to the older bark. The oil paint recommended by Mr. Brehaut
•(an old schoolfellow of mine more than forty years since)
would have had the same good, without the bad effect. We
■use here creosote to keep hares and rabbits from gnawing the
bark of fruit trees, and there is no injury to the bark. I have
just cut off a piece of the bark of an Apple tree thus painted,
and find it has not penetrated further than the thickness of
paper ; it was applied the winter before last. The trees are
very healthy, and the creosote still protects them ; probably
winter is the best time for applying it.

As the quintescence of a lady's letter is often contained in
the postscript, so is the venom contained iu the tail of Mr.
Brehaut's article. Two years are hardly too long a time for
a tree to recover itself after having been overcropped. The
only thing to be said iu favour of the system is that " a bird
in the hand is worth two in the bush," but this must depend
Dpou the size and quaUty of the bird. — Obseevee.

I FOEWAKD my experience in painting trees with oU, such as

is used on cart harness, which sets like varnish. I have about
a dozen Apple trees which had been nearly killed by the wooUy
aphis. I tried other things, which proved useless, and this
autumn, after pruning, I painted every shoot. It has ap-
parently destroyed the aphis. We have had all sorts o£
weather this last few nights — wet iu the early part, and 3° of
frost iu the morning. This is rare here, as I believe we are
a Uttle higher than Wolverhampton, and we are near to the
highest tableland in England, so I am told. — A Novice, Wol-
verhampton.

THE WEATIIEE.

Accustomed as we are to regard east wind as an evil, yet
the very frequent prevalence of wind from that quarter and
from the north during the past month, by its retarding in-
fluence upon vegetation, will doubtless prove a real benefit.
The present unkindly aspect of the weather here (in Mid-
Sussex) is causing considerable anxiety, especially in regai^d
to fruit prospects. A sharp frost set in on the evening of
Wednesday, April 23rd, and continued to increase in intensity
during the night, reaching its maximum of 7° at 3 a.m., the
thermometer then standing at 25°. Frequent showers of snow
and sleet fell during Thursday, followed by a slight frost at
night ; on Friday the snowstorms became heavier, and evei'y-
Ihing at all exposed was encrusted with the snow which fell
during the afternoon, and so cold had the surface of the soU
become that the snow lay tDl Saturday morning, and the ther-
mometer fell to 23°.

Notwithstanding this untimely severity, the fruit trees
appear to have sustained very little damage ; both on Wednes-
day and Friday night the shoots of Peach and Nectarine trees
having the shelter of a wide coping were stiffened with frost,
yet the fruit escaped harm ; the fully-expanded blossom of
Pears, Cherries, and Plums is destroyed, \m\, that which was
only partially open escaped unscathed, with the exception of
a slight browning of the petals. Bush fruits are also un-
harmed. The young foliage of many Kalmias and hardy
Azaleas is destroyed, I conclude this was caused by the frost-
laden wind, from the fact of some other plants of both genera,
that were in some measure screened by high trees from the
wind's full force, being unhurt.

A striking instance of the value of wall-shelter is evinced in
a flourishing young plant of Akebia quiuata ; some of its shoots
projecting a few inches from the wall are cut off, while all
those that are quite close to it have sustained no harm. —
Edwaed Luckhubst.

TEEATMENT OF YOUNG VINES.
I WISH your advice as to the proper treatment for a vinery
started at the end of March, newly planted with eight Black
Hamburgh Vines. This is their first year, and I intend that
they shall run wild this season — that is, to allow eight or ten
canes to run from each Vine. I do not intend to fruit them
till the year after next. I want to kuow whether it is better to
give plenty of air on hot days, or the reverse. I take care to
keep the house moist, and wet all the paths, especially in hot
weather. I am afraid of giving too much air lest tlie Vines
should not grow fast enough, still I wish to adopt that treat-
ment which is the best. The house is a very fine one, south
aspect, quite new, about 2.5 by 15 J feet. The Vines are planted
inside the house iu a border prepared for the purpose. Some of
them have already made shoots about afoot in length. I shall
be glad if you ■will say whether Vines should be kept very dry
during their blooming season, and also whether you would
advise a Uttle heat at night during the time they are iu bloom
in order to get them through their bloom quickly. I should be
glad if you wUl say if 80" Far. is too hot for sun heat at mid-
da}'. — 0. Peecival.

[Although we advocate allowing young Vines to ramble rather
freely with two or three canes the first year after planting, yet
we are of opinion that eight or ten are too mauy by one-half
or more, and of these there will, doubtless, be one shoot stronger
than the rest. This should be trained in its proper position,
allowing the others to ramble at will, providing, however,
against injury of any kind. Those shoots that are not re-
quired should not be pulled or cut off, l)ut stopped by pinching-
off their tips. It is proper to keep the house moist and the
Vines syringed in hot weather, but not so much so in cold
sunless weather, otherwise mildew will make its appearance.
At such times gentle fire heat is almost a necessity.

In rearing a house of Vines the aim with us would be to

354

JOURNAL OP HORTICDLTURB AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ May 1, 1873.

encourage a Bhort-jointed, moderately ■vigorous growth, rather
than a coarse pithy one. To promote this result do not force
the growth too much at first, but give plenty of air as long as
the temperature does not fall lielow fiO', and if it advances to
75° or 80' at mid-day or later, with air circulating through the
house, no harm will arise. At the beginning of June, when
the Vines will be making roots very fast, 5° or 10° more heat
will be beneficial. This amount can generally be secured by
giving less air. Keep the Vines growing in this way until
September or the beginning of October, when some attention
must be paid to ripening the wood. No doubt the wood will
be turning brown at some parts before this ; however, the at-
mosphere of the house must be kept drier, but with heat and
air in a moderate degree the ripening will go on in a satisfactory
manner. After this has been secured, and the wood has be-
come hardened, the season will be so far advanced that the
Vines will show signs of going to rest ; all moisture may then
be withheld and plenty of air given, with less heat. It is not a
good practice to allow the frost to get at the Vines, as was
commonly done years ago ; therefore, during the winter, plants
may be kept in the house and fire heat applied to exclude frost.
Now, a few words with regard to water. In newly-made
inside borders with plenty of drainage, Vines can scarcely have
too much water, all through the growing season they will
take water once a-week ; it should be given with no sparing
hand, for it is astonishing the quantity of water necessary to
reach every portion of soil in well-drained newly-made borders.
For free-setting Grapes of the Black Hamburgh class keep the
Vines dry during the blooming, but in very sunny weather,
and at other times not too frequent, water may be thrown
about the heuse with advantage. For shy-setting sorts of the
Muscat class keep both the Vines and the atmosphere dry. A
little fire at night is a great help to Vines in bloom, but not
absolutely necessary to Black Hamburghs and some others that
bloom in the height of summer.]

FLOWEES FOR OUE BOEDERS.— No. 5.

RLBES ALBIDtlM.— White-flowered Corrant.

This plant is a variety of the red-flowered Currant, Ribes
sanguineum, a shrub now found in every garden of the smallest
pretensions, and was raised from seed in the gardens of
Admiral Sir David Milne, Inveresk, near Musselburgh.

From the perfectly hardy character of the parent species
and all its varieties, the ease with which they are propagated,
and the beauty of their pendant flowers, which enliven the
garden at a period when but few shrubs are in blossom, they
are well deserving the place they occupy in the public esteem.
The variety albidum, as well as sanguineum, varies in the
colour of its flowers according to the soil in which it is grown,
being palest in sandy soils ; but it is probable that much of
the differences observable in distinct specimens, may arise from
the natural tendency of the plant to variation when raised
from seed. The best varieties are slender-stemmed, and quite
deciduous, but we have seen a specimen with a coarse arbo-
rescent stem, dense foliage, almost evergreen, and flowers of
a far less ornamental character, followed by prodigious crops
of insipid black berries.

They wUl thrive in almost any soil, but succeed best in such
as is moderately rich and moist, the natural habitat of the
species sanguineum being often in the neighbourhood of the
Californian streams. Cuttings of the ripened year's wood,
taken off in autumn, and treated as those of the common
Gooseberry, will root readily in a sheltered border.

With the exception of the equally interesting Eibes aureum,
or Golden-flowered Gooseberry, the plant now figured, with its
sister varieties, are the only members of the Kibes family com-
monly found in cultivation, which, considering the beauty of
many of the remaining species, is a matter of surprise. Among
those less known, we may mention the elegant Ribes speciosum,
with red flowers and long projecting stamens ; the E. cereum,
or Wax-leaved Currant, with roundish glandular leaves, covered
with a thin layer of a wax-like substance ; the R. punctatum,
from Chili, with dotted leaves and greenish yellow flowers,
borne in erect racemes ; and handsomer still, the Snowy-
flowered Gooseberry, E. niveum, with flowers of the purest
white, and berries of a deep rich purple colour, which, unlike
those of the other flowering-species, are of an agreeable flavour,
and, according to Dr. Lindley, " when ripe, make delicious
tarts, and would probably form an excellent means of improv-
ing the common Gooseberry, by hybridising."

All who have ever gathered a Gooseberry — and who has

not ? — have, we do not doubt, heartily wished the bushes
Ihornless, but they would scarcely prefer the habit of another
of the family, Eibes Menziesii, published by Sir James Smith
under the appropriate name of E. ferox, ^hich he desciibes as
" a very remarkable species, whose branches are thickly covered
with tawny setaceous pricldes, about a quarter of an inch in
length, and armed under each bud with three very strong and
pungent ones, an inch long, having sometimes lesser reflexed
prickles at their base !" and what is worse, the young berries
are " covered with prominent glandular bristles, which harden,
as the fruit advances, into stiff sharp spines, so that whatever

its flavour may be, it seems perfectly inaccessible in the com-
mon way of eating Gooseberries." Another species, R. Cynos-
bati, the Dog-bramble Gooseberry, a native of Canada, has-
also prickly fruit.

Nearly all the Eibes grown as ornamental shrubs are natives
of the North American Continent ; one or two, however, are
found only in South America, and a few in Siberia, Hungary,
and other parts of Europe. — (W. Thompson's Enylish Flower
Garden.)

PLANTS FOR LEAN-TO GREENHOUSE.

I HAVE a lean-to greenhouse, and I have a moderately large
flower garden at the front and back of my residence. I want
my greenhouse to supply me with bedding plants for the gar-
den, and I also want to have a nice selection of the hardier
greenhouse plants, such as Primulas, Roses, Azaleas, Camellias,
Chrysanthemums, Geraniums, Fuchsias, itc. I have room for
about two hundred moderate-sized plants. Can I grow Ferns
in the same house, and in a bed under the front shelf, if so
state the names of a few suitable ? I have hot-water pipes in.'
the greenhouse, but do not wish to use them until the autumn
if possible, as I get too much heat ; my boiler is too powerful,
but in the autumn I will have other pipes connected with it to
warm a coil in my hall, and will thus be more under control.
I should also like some good variegated-foliaged plants for tha
greenhouse. I suppose a cold frame will be useful, and I am
about to have one made. — T. H.

[You do not give the dimensions of your greenhouse, but
there wiU be no difficulty in making use of it for the various
purposes you mention to a greater or less extent. A cold
frame as you propose will be useful, in fact, a necessity, for the
reajing of seedling Primulas, Cinerarias, and Calceolarias ; the
former two may be sown now or a week or two later, and the
latter in July. . The different plants named below include a
variety of colour and form, and are likely to be easily cultivated,
and interesting to you. Ferns will grow well in the position
you name.

Azaleas. — Beauty of Eeigate, Iveryana, Louise Margottin,
Admiration, Stanleyana, Vesuvius, Mars, Chelsoni, Due de
Brabant, Glory of SunuinghUl, Due de Nassau, Kinghornii,
I and for forcing Indica alba and A. amcena.

May 1, 1873. ]

JOUENAL OP HORTICULTUEE AND COIIACtE GAitDENEE.

355

Hoses. — Tea-scented: Gloire do Dijon and Marfobal Niel.
Hybrid Perpetuals : Gfant des Batailles, Victor Verdier,
Charles Lefebvre, Louise Darzins, Beauty of Waltham, Ba-
ronne PrevoBt, La Eeine, Jules Margottin, and Boule de
Niege.

Camellias. — Lady Hume's Blush, Fimbriata, Alba plena,
Imbricata, Wilderii, Jubilee, Bealii, Princess Bacchochi, Teu-
tonia. Countess of Orkney, and Opiima.

Geraniums. — i'Vok-Zi, Dr. Andry, Eugene Duval, and Madame
Charles Keteleer. SIiow, Celestial, Desdemona, Joan of Arc,
Mrs. Hoyle, Queen of Whites, and Etna. Fancy, Ellen Beck,
Delicatum, Madame Sainton Dolby, Formosa, ETcning Star,
and Cloth of Silver.

Fuchsias. — Pvose of Castille, Lady Heytesbury, Annie,
Minnie Banks, Venus de Medeci, Souvenir de Chiswick, Black
Prince, Beauty of Kent, War Eagle, Avalanche, Vaiuqueur de
Puebla, and Madame Cornelissen.

Chrijsanthe77iums. — Pompons, Cedo Nulli, Bob, Lizzie
Holmes, Duruflet, Golden Cedo Nulli, Aurora BoreaUs, Bril-
liant, Bijou de Horticulture, White Trevenna, General Can-
robert, Sainte Thais, and Surprise. Lart]e-floioered, Dr. Sharpe,
Julie Lagravere, Lady Slade, Princess of Wales, Little Harry,
Golden Beverley, White Globe, Jardin des Plants, Empress of
Lidia, Mr. Bruulees, Jewess, and John Salter. Japanese or
late-flowering, Eed Dragon, Wizard, James Salter, and Hero
of Magdala.

Ferns. — Adiantum cuneatum, formosnm, and trapeziforme,
Asplenium bulbiterum and lucidum, Cyrtomium falcatum,
Doodia caudata, Nephrodium uiolle, Pteris serrulata, serrulata
cristata, longifolia, and tremula. A few of the greenhouse
SelagineUas may be introduced, such as Selagiuella denticu-
lata, braziliensis, as well as S. Martensii and stolonifera.

Variegated-foliayed Plants. — Aralia Sieboldii variegata, Far-
fugium grande, Dracaana Veitchii, Osmanthus ilicifolius varie-
gatus, Bambusa Fortunei variegata. Yucca aloifolia variegata,
Abutilon Thompsoni, Coronilla glauca variegata, Agapanthus
umbellatus variegatus. Variegated Myrtle, Hydrangea varie-
gata, Arnndo Donax variegata.

The Chrysanthemums will not require your greenhouse till
the autumn ; your cold frames will grow them for the present,
afterwards grow themout-doois.)

THE POTATO DISEASE.

Answers to Circular addressed to Cultivators of Potatoes in
the Counties of Boss, cC-c. By Colonel J. A. Grant, C.B.
With Remarks hy Professor Church and Dr. Hooker. In-
verness : Printed for Private Circulation, 1873.

The Potato Disease : Its Cause and Remedy. By Samuel
Smith, M.E.C.S.E., &c. London: Smith & Allen, 1873.

Who was the " Man in the Iron Mask ?" Who wrote " The
Letters of Junius?" What causes the Potato disease? are
questions that have exercised the ingenuity of many minds,
but each has defied the inquirer. Leaving the question of the
disease's cause, our own conclusion, after reading nearly all
that has been written on the subject, and after many years of
experience in Potato culture, is this : — Whole large sets of the
earliest ripening varieties planted very early on a light soil
resting on a gravelly subsoil, and manured for the previous
crop only, usually afford Potatoes not affected by the disease.

The disease itselE we consider is a gangrene of the tuber, a
gangrene that affords a fitting nourishment for the parasitic
fungus which hastens and completes the destruction of the
tuber.

Colonel Grant's is by far the most trustworthy publication
we have ever met with on the subject. He sent a circular con-
taining twenty-eight queries to one hundred cultivators of the
Potato in Scotland, and had from them fifty-five replies. The
queries asked for a statement of the soil, drainage, elevation,
aspect, manure used, varieties least diseased, when and what
part was first affected, time of appearance, \veather, protection,
&c. Col. Grant gives this as the

" Summary of the Fifty-five Replies.

" Soil. — Light sandy loam upon gravel subsoil has proved to
be the best soil, and di-y moss probably stands next. It should
be well worked up in autumn, manured with suitable manure,
and left exposed in high drills during frost. In early spring it
should be well cleaned, manured with vegetable ashes (potash),
burnt earth, hme, guano, or artificial manure, according to the
soil, and no animals nor carts allowed to trample it down.

" Seed. — The best specimens of the tuber should be used as
seed. They should be kept in a dry weU-veutilated place, where

the temperature was not above 48", and not below 35°. They
ought to be of a kind which has not been introduced above
twenty years, and of a variety which is known to bear fruit
(plums). Before planting, the seed should be fumigated with
sulphur smoke or dipped in the solution previously given, so as
to destroy all trace of fungus upon its surface. The cattle
might be fed with all diseased ones, as they relish them, or the
fowls would eat them boiled. This is preferable far than allow-
ing them to reproduce a hereditary disease.

" The haulms contain the disease, and if they are carried to a
Potato field as manure, they communicate the germs to the
coming crop, but their ashes would fertilise the soil. Several
East Lothian farmers, in their able reports, write that they had
remarkable Wheat crops from the fields where they had not
raised their diseased Potatoes ; but this is owing, probably, to
the soil not having been exhausted rather than to diseased Pota-
toes being a superior manure, and, in principle, I am incUned to
condemn strongly such a process of planting the germs of a
disease. Upon tliis subject we have the advantage of an ex-
perienced chemist's opinion — Professor Church — who writes me,
' I think we may say that the disease could not be conveyed to
the next crop, say of Wheat, nor to the Potatoes succeeding in
the fourth or eighth year of the rotation, by ploughing-in the
diseased tubers, &c. But indirectly it might do some harm by
increasing the organic matter in certain sods, and in such cases,
perhaps, burning everything that could be collected would be
better. Often the Potatoes this year (1872) have been too rotten
to be lifted at all. Possibly, if "the crop were ploughed-in, and
next-year Potatoes grown in a contiguous field, there might be
some danger of theu' continuing the descent of the fungus.'

" Time of Planting. — Some have a preference to planting late
in autumn, saying the frost would not harm the seed ; and I am
rather in favour of this, as the soil would act as a deodoriser to
any existing fungus. But the main thing is to have fresh red-
tinted seed, producing dark green haulms ; to plant so early that
plums would be formed by the time the disease season generally
reached the farm, and never to hft till all the sap in the haulms
has descended into the tubers.

" Mode of Planting. — Wide apart, and upon the surface of the
soil.

" Manure. — There are as many kinds of manure as there are of
soils and opinions upon both. The returns in question 6 show
this ; and without the time of planting, the quality and nature
of the. seed and soU, state of the field, amount of rainfall, and
other causes only known to the farmer himself, it is impossible,
without laboratory work, as Professor Church writes me, to give
any particular Potato manure. But I have no doubt that a
beneficial manure may be selected from the column of farm and
artificial manures under question 0."

Professor Church, Eoyal Agricultural College, Cirencester,
after analysing the replies and observing ' ' they do not throw
any startling fight on the subject," derives from them these
conclusions : —

"The fulfilment of the following conditions conduces to the
health of the Potato and its resistance to the murrain : —

1. Good drainage.

2. A porous but fertile soU.

3. Free circulation of air above and within the soU.

4. The selection of sound and perfectly healthy tubers (not

too small) for sets.

5. The choice of new and early varieties of the Potato.

6. Where the land is heavy and wet, planting the sets on, and

not helow, the general level.

7. The use of artificial manures, such as kainite, nitrate of

soda, and superphosphate, with small quantities only of
farmyard manure, upon wet lands rich in organic matter.

8. The free use of ashes, including birrnt earth, leaves,

weeds, &c.

9. Earthing-up, so as to spread out rather than crowd the

haulms together.
10. Eemoving the haulms entirely if diseased badly, then sow-
ing soot and lime, &c., broadcast. If rain does not follow,
then rolling the field."

Dr. Hooker briefly replies —

" I cannot say that I can glean any definite practical conclu-
sions from the replies which are likely to be useful to farmers.

" It cannot be doubted, after the study the subject has re-
ceived both here and upon the Continent, that the disease is
due to the attack of a microscopic fungus, the development of
which is greatly facilitated by warm wet weather, such as we
had last year (1872).

" The conclusion at which you arrive at the end of para-
graph 17, appears to me to indicate the most reasonable chance
of escaping the consequences of this scourge for the future. If
we could get new kinds of Potatoes which would ripen not later
than the beginning of July we should be safe."

Mr. Smith's is a very small pamphlet. He does not think
the fungus, Peronospora infestans, constitutes the disease, but

356

JOOKNAL OF HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEE,

I May 1, 187S.

is its consequence, and his suggested practice to avoid its
occurrence is —

" Planting the Potato whole in light, loamy, and, if possible!
in sandy soils in situations -wliich permit of being properly
drained ; and also in not allowing the Potatoes to remain in the
soil even for one day beyond the time necessary to complete
their full gi'owth. So long as Potatoes are planted year after
year in the same soil, so year after year will the disease be re-
produced ; and so long as Potatoes are grown in heavy, and
especially in clayey soils without due regard to drainage, so
long will the Potato disease flourish iu spite of all attempts at
its extinction. Incidentally a clerical friend informed mo that
on one occasion his father grew Potatoes on raised ridges, and
planted Cabbage in the trenches formed by throwing-up the
ridges, with the most remarkable success, both in case of Pota-
toes and Cabbages ; the latter, requiring more wet than the
former, drained the superfluity from them, and hence the result."

THE SALE OF THE MANLET HALL
COLLECTION.

We some time ago stated that the celebrated collection of
Mr. Sam Mendel, of Manley Hall, Stretford, near Manchester,
was to come under the auctioneer's hammer ; and accordingly
it was disposed of by Messrs. Capes & Dunu, between the 7th
and 17th of April. A detailed account of this princely col-
lection of Orchids and Ferns, as well as of all that is beautiful
and rare among plants, was given by Mr. Wills in the 1.5th,
IGth, and 17th volumes of our new series ; and in proof that
the extraordinary riches of the place were not overstated, we
win just add that the amount realised by the Orchids alone
was £4,361 10s., while the Palms and other plants brought
JE1,225 Is. Od. The following are some of the highest prices
realised : —

Orchids. — Aiirides Schriideri, .£13 10s., RoUieson ; Cj'pripedium
Stonei, fine specimen, 13J gs., Williams ; Dendrobium nobile
cserulescens, 19 gs., Marquis of Westminster; Odontoglossum
Phalaenopsis, fine plant, i'll 10s., Broome ; Odontoglossum
Phalfenopsis, fine plant, 14 gs., Wright ; Miltonia Moreliana, fine
plant, 12 gg., Berrie; Cattleya Pincllii grandiflora, 10gs.,Veitch
and Sons; Oncidium coucolor, very rare, 18gs., Bockett; Vanda
teres, fine plant, £20 ; Dr. Ainsworth ; Aerides quinquevul-
nerum, splendid specimen, lOgs., W. Agnew; Vanda suavis,
very fine specimen, i'll, Morris; Acrides Veitchii, splendid
plant, 19 gs.. Garden ; Aerides nobile, splendid specimen, ,£11,
Dr. Ajnsworth ; Aerides Lobbii, very fine variety, i£10. Cross ;
Vanda insiguis, true, fine plaut of this rare species, 14 gs.. Lord
Londesborough ; Aerides Schroderi, good plaut, 20 J gs., Gaskell;
Cypripedium Dayanum, very fine plaut, rare, £1~, Carden;
Masdevallia Veitchii, very strong, .£1G, Berrie ; Sophronitis
grandiflora, grand plant, 13 gs., W. Agnew; Vanda Lowii, fine
specimen, 17 gs.. Lord Londesborough; Masdevallia species
(large yellow flowers), Sophronitis grandiflora, and Odonto-
glossum falcipetalum, 10 gs., Gaskell ; Crelogyne cristata, speci-
men plant, ,i'lG, W. Agnew ; Lycaste Skinneri alba, ^£16, Veitch
and Sons; PK-ione lagenaria, good mass, 10 gs., Agnew; Den
drobium Falconeri, grand specimen, 32 gs., Gaskell; Dendro-
bium Wardianum, grand specimen, 28 gs., Agnew ; Cattleya
exoniensis, fine plant, 26 gs., Berrie ; Dendrobium Devonianum,
grand specimen, 12J gs., Gaskell; Dendrobium McCarthisp, fine
plant, i£12, Williams ; Masdevallia Lindeni, strong, ±39, Berrie ;
Oncidium splendidum, rare, 41 gs., Williams ; Cattleya labiata,
very strong, 14 gs., Gaskell; Phalffinopsis Liiddemauniana,
llj gs., Agnew ; Epidendrum prismatocarpum, giand specimen,
free-flowering, 27 gs., Broome; Cymbidiiim eburneum, good
plant, 15 gs., Gaskell ; Dendrobium crassiuode, grand specimen,
13 gs., Gaskell; L;elia purpurata, fine specimen, 28 gs., Carden ;
Lffilia elegans, grand specimen, 13 gs., Veitch & Sons ; Cypri-
pedium Stonei, fine specimen, 13 gs., Bockett; Epidendrum
vitellinum raajus, superb variety, 13} gs., Williams ; Cypri-
pedium Iffivigatum, 10* gs., Williams : Sophronitis grandiiiora,
grand plant, lOJ gs.. Hurst; Dendrobium Wardiauum, fine
plaut, 11 gs., Carden ; La;lia cinnabarina, specimen plant, 17 gs..
Dr. Ainsworth; Aerides affine superbum, 10 gs., Williams:
Phaius Bensona;, grand plaut, 12 gs., O. 0. Wrigley; Cattleya
Mendehi, fine plant, veiy distinct, 34 gs,, Morris ; Odonto-
glossum PhaliBuopsis, very strong, 11 gs., Bockett; Angi'jBcam
sesquipedale superbum (the flowers of this plant measure
9 inches across), IG gs.. Rev. J. B. Norman ; Aerides Fieldingii,
splendid plant, IGJ gs., O. O. Wrigley; Masdevalha tovarensis,
strong, ±14, Williams ; Dendrobium filiforme, very fine speci-
men, l5 gs., Rollisson ; L.-elia anceps Dawsoni, nice plant, 10 gs.,
Berrie ; Aiirides Williamsii, 11 gs., RolUsson ; Saccolabium gut-
tatum superbum, grand specimen, i'lG, Dr. Ainsworth ; Cypri-
pedium Dayanum, rare, 10 gs., Broome ; Cypripedium Stonei,
superb plant, 3Ggs., Cross; Coelogyne cristata, specimen plaut,
£18, Rev. J. E. Norman ; Odontoglossum Phalfenopsis, fine
specimen, £12, Cross; Aiirides Dayanum,large specimen, 10 gs.,

Goodall ; Aerides Veitchii, fine plaut, two breaks, 23 gs., Berrie ;
-derides Schroderi, splendid specimen, 23 gs., Crosse; Cym-
bidium eburneum, grand plaut, showing seven spikes. Day's
variety, 57 gs., Williams; Aerides Fieldingii, 15 gs., Morris;
Aiirides Fieldingii, Hi gs.. Earl of Stamford; Dendrobium
Schroderi, 13 gs.. Cross ; Epidendrum prismatocarpum, ±7,
Lord Londesborough ; Miltonia cuneata, 12} gs.. Earl of Stam-
ford; Cattleya labiata, fine plant, lOJ gs., Berrie; Angrjecum
sesquipedale, fine variety, 11} gs., Cross; Angi'fecum sesqui-
pedale, grand plant, 14 gs., IJroome ; Cymbidium Mastersii,
12 gs., B. Hume ; Cypripedium Lowii, very fine plant, £1G lOs.,
Cross; Aerides afline superbum, 17 gs., Bockett ; Saccolabium
ampullaceum, very fine specimen and variety, 21 gs., O. O.
Wrigley ; Cypripedium hirsutissimum, fine plant, 12 gs.. Cross ;
Maxillaria luteo-alba, fine specimen, £14, Earl of Stamford;
Dendrobium chrysotis, £12, Shaw ; Odontoglossum Phalfenopsis,
fine plant, £11 10s., Earl of Stamford.

Pahiis and Miscellaneous Plants. — Cocos Weddeliana, 42 gs.,
Tattersall ; Cocos Weddeliana, grand specimen, £60, Cole and
Sons ; Gconoma Seemauni, fine specimen, 31 gs., Tattersall ;
.A.nthurium Scherzerianum £11, Williams; Anthurium Scherze-
rianum, grand specimen, 42 gs., Cole & Sons ; Gleichenia Men-
delii, 27 gs., Tattersall; Gleichenia flabellata, grand specimen,
38 gs., Kaye ; Gleichenia hecistophylla, 23 gs., Carden ; Adi-
antum farleyense, grand plant, 16 gs., ISackhouse; .\nthurium
Scherzerianum, gi'and specimen, 1'46, Carden ; Trichomanes
Luschnathianum, very rare, £16, Stewart; Gleichenia Mendelii,
very rare and beautiful, £31 10s., Shuttleworth ; Acrophyllum
venosum, 2 feet 9 inches by 3 feet 9 inches, 13 gs., WiUiams ;
Erica Massoni major, 3 feet by 3 feet, 15} gs., Stewart; Acro-
phyllum venosum, 3 feet by 4 feet, 11 gs., Jackson & Son ; Rho-
dodendron Gibsoni, 5 feet by 3 feet 6 inches, 10 gs., Haigh;
Acrophyllum venosum, 3 feet by 4 feet, 35 gs.. Cooper ; Ne-
penthes sanguinea, gi-and plant, £50, Veitch it Sons.

EXTRACTS FROM DR. R. SCHOMBURGHK'S
REPORT

ON THE ADELAIDE BOTANIC GARDEN AND GO'^'EENMENT
PLANTATIONS, 1872.

It becomes more evident every year that this establishment
promotes the advancement and taste for horticulture in South
Australia; and I cannot omit repeating apain in this year's
report the great advantage which this State horticultural estab-
lishment alTords in promoting such a taste. The number of
persons who now frequent the garden for instruction or study,
or who come to see what they have not, to compare and get the
botanical names of what they have, and so derive a certain
amount of knowledge, with the pleasure of seeing, I may say, a
permanent flower show in our green and stove houses, are in-
creasing every year. The number of our amateur florists is
also steadily increasing, which is proved by our annual flower
shows, where the number of fresh exhibitors is observable.
These shows testify also the improvement in the culture of the
plants.

Since the last few years an increasing taste for floriculture is
also visible amongst the working classes, and at our shows,
under the class of cottagers, we notice specimen plants which
exhibit the care and jiidgment spent on their cultivation, so that
even nurserymen may take a lesson from them.

Another jiroof that horticulture is muck appreciated is the
many tasteful cottage gardens which are now seen, not alone in
town, but in its environs, and this progress is only since a few
years visible.

Since the publication of the catalogue of the plants cultivated
in the garden, 1871, in which GOOO species were enumerated, ex-
clusive of the florists' flowers, 1479 species have been added to
the collection, comprising most eminently valuable and rare
plants, not alone of an ornamental, but commercial and medical
value, which imdoubtedly will benefit this colony in the future.

We never before received the plants in such good coudition
from abroad as during the last year, which may be accounted
for — the plants from E urope having come mostly per the monthly
mail steamer. The quick passage of these vessels secured the
safe arrival of nearly all the plants, so much so that, in some of
the consignments, ouly four or six of the plants had been lost,
and, in consignments per sailing vessels, only so many plants
were alive.

In the islands of Mauritius, Jamaica, and the Azores, where
the forests have been wantonly cut down, so that some parts
of those islands are now totally denuded of trees, the results are
felt most alarmingly. The rain has become less every year;
springs and rivulets, which before ran uninterruptedly, have
ceased to flow. The respective Governments of those islands,
convinced of the injury done to the country, have taken steps to
replant the forests ; in Mauritius, especially, the replanting has
beffun in full earnest.

If in tropical countries the influence of forests on the climate
is so apparent, how much more must it affect a dry climate like
South Australia?

May 1, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

357

Amongst the important iutroductiou of seeds which may be-
come staple articles stands foremost, the Esparto Grass (Ma-
crochloa tenacissima, Knth. ; (Stipa tenacissima, Lin.) a native of
Spain, Portugal, Greece, and North Africa. It has gained during
the last few years a great mercantile reputation in regard to its
valuable fibre, not alone for the manufacture of ropes and other
articles, but as contributing also an excellent material for the
best writing paper, without any other admixture, and thus, from
the great use now made of it by the paper makers, it has become
an essential article of import into England and other countries,
and a source of wealth to the countries producing it. The im-
port in 1871 into England alone is considered about 140,000 tons,
and that of Esparto Grass ropes, and other articles manufactured
from it, about 19,000 tons.

Notwithstanding this large importation of the raw material
for paper-making, and that the paper-makers use of late a good
many other substances for paper-making not used before, the
scarcity of material becomes more evident every day, and the
consequence is the constant rise in the pi'ice of the paper.

The value of dry Esparto Grass is about i.'.5 to ,i5 10s. per ton ;
and it is said that, under favourable circumstances, as much as
from ti to 8 tons can be obtained from an acre. It grows on the
poorest soil, especially limestone or sand ; in fact, where the soil
will produce no other vegetation the Esparto Grass will grow.
It grows even in the sands of the Sahara, on stony hills, and on
the very brink of the coast.

I have not the slightest doubt that the Grass will thi-ive with
us, and that the many thousands of acres of arid land, of a lime-
stone or sandy nature, we possess in the different parts of the
colony scarcely fit for pasture, by sowing with Esparto Grass
may become useful. Considering the similarity of our climate
with that of Spain, and, in fact, the north of Africa. I am sure
we have nothing to fear that our droughts would affect its
growth^aud how its introduction would benefit South Australia
if our deserts could be changed into productive districts !

It is now most extensively planted in the south of France ;
and it is said, that no other crop will pay better, so much the
more considering that it wiU gi'ow on the poorest soils. It is
propagated by seeds, and also by dividing the roots.

The celebrated Bunch Grass of British Columbia fEIymus
condensatus, Presl.), of which I received last year a few seeds
from Mr. Anderson-Henry, of Edinburgh, and raised a few
plants, seems to do well with us. The merits of the Bunch
Grass, both as an early forage, and abundantly productive Hay
Grass, have secured for it a highly prominent place among the
cultivated agricultural plants of England.

" In cultivating the Bunch Grass, it is recommended to sow it
in drills or beds, allowing it to grow there for at least one season,
and then transplanting it to well-cleaned land at a distance of
12 or 1.5 inches apart. The seedlings are of little growth, and
never bear seed the first season. It will be requisite throughout
the first summer, after transplanting it, to keep it free from
weeds, but afterwards the plants will be sufficiently strong to
ovei-power most kinds of weeds, and they will seemingly grow
on in full vigour for a long series of years, and, it is said, will
grow in good soils 6 to 8 feet high."

I was also successful in introducing the seed of another plant,
which supplies the material of a not uuimportant article — viz.,
American brooms, which are so largely imported, and for which
we send a large sum of money away, which could be retained in
the colony, as there is not the slightest doubt that the millet
will gi-ow just as well with us as the Sorghum saccharatum
does, and the skill of manufacturing the brooms might soon be
obtained.

There is no doubt that the MiUet will grow with us, especially
in the hills, and southern districts. It should bo sown in the
latter end of August, but rather thin, so that the plants grow
vigorous, and produce a greater development of the inflorescence,
which part is used for the manufacture of the broom.

This industry has aii'eady been introduced in Victoria and New
South Wales ; and, in the latter colony, especially in Newcastle,
the brooms are largely manufactured, and already exported to
South Australia. The Newcastle brooms are an imitation of the
American, but do not look so good, which cannot be expected in
the short time this new branch of industry has been started.

Another plant which might be cultivated -^vith profit, and
which forms at present a not unimportant article of export in
Brazil and East India, is the Ground or Earth Nut (Arachis
hypogtea, Lin.) It was shown the first time at the Agi-icultural
and Horticultui-al Society's Show last February, grown by that
indefatigable colonist, E. Eoss, Esq., Highercombe.

I received a quantity of seed last year from New Zealand, and
considering the lateness of the season when planted, it has done
uncommonly well. The seeds are not alone eaten in a roasted
state, but also a palatable oil is made from them.

The plant is an annual, but very productive ; it grows well in
sandy soil, and the acre produces from thirty to forty-five bushels.
I am able to distribute some of the seeds.

The true Opium Poppy seed (Papaver somniferum, Lin.), can
also be obtiiiued from the garden. It is a wonder that no en- '

deavour is made to manufacture opium here. South Australia,
so far as climate and soil are concerned, offers no difficulty to
the cultivation of the Poppy, and probably wo could produce a
good sample of the drug. Mr. G. Francis exhibited at one of
the February shows, not long ago, a sample prepared by hiin,
which was considered as fair a sample as could be derived
from the first experiment. Consider the enormous sum which
is yearly expended in opium — I will only mention Victoria,
where, according to the custom returns in 1871, opium to the
amount of it94,451 was introduced. The cultivation and manu-
facture can be undertaken by young people ; and, as the return
of the Poppy culture, whether for oil or opium, is within a few
months, this renders it highly desirable that an attempt should
be made for the cultivation of the Poppy.

Amongst the new medical jdants introduced last year, stands
foremost the famous Mikania Guaco (Humb. &Bonpi.), so highly
spoken of by Baron Humboldt as a sure cure for snake bites
from the most poisonous kinds. During my travels in South
America, this plant was siJoken of everywhere as an infallible
remedy. I myself had no opportunity of testing its effects,
although we were so unfortunate as to lose two of our men from
snake bites, not having the herb with us, which is only found
gi'owing on the banks of rivers.

For a long time the knowledge of the antidotal qualities of the
guaco remained a great mysteiy, and was confined to a few
native inhabitants of South America. However, the medical
qualities of the guaco are now generally known in all countries
where it is found. That part of the plant which is used for the
snake-bite is the sap or tea distilled from its leaves. The fre-
quent accidents and loss of life occurring from snake bites in
Australia, especially during the last few years, induced me to in-
troduce this valuable plant.

Notwithstanding that Professor Halford's method (injecting
ammonia into the wound) is highly spoken of, and has, indeed,
already saved many lives, we should try also the Mikania. True,
as a tropical plant, I fear it is not easy to acclimatise (at least,
out of doors) in South Australia, but may thrive in more genial
parts of Australia — viz.. New South Wales and Queensland. I
have the imported plant propagated ; and, when the young
plants are strong enough I will send some to Professor Halford,
in Melbourne, to test the nature of the i^lants.

The manufacture of scents and essences is one of the most im-
portant. If we consider that British India and Europe consume
annually about 150,000 gallons of handkerchief perfume alone,
and that the revenue from imported perfumes in England is
estimated at about i;50,000, we may judge of the immense
quantity of material used for perfumes. Most of the flowers
which provide the material for perfumes grow luxuriantly with
us — viz., Jasmine, Mignonette, Verbena, Rose, Lavender,
Acacia Farnesiaua, HeUotrope, Eosemary, Peppermint, Violets,
Oranges, it'c. I may^say these plants thrive, probably, in greater
perfection here than' in any part of the world. No doubt South
Australia should be a perfume-producing country, as we see here
flourishing some of the most valuable scent plants.

In proof of the value of perfumes to the countries, it may be
stated that one acre of Jasmine will produce flowers to the value
of £250 annually ; Eose trees, il;75 ; Grange trees, .5^50 ; Violets,
itlGO ; Casse trees (Acacia Farnesiana), £90 ; Geranium plants
(Pelargonium odoratissimum), £200; Lavender, £30, &c.

BELGIAN HOBTICULTURE.-No. 4.

II. LINDEN'S (GLONIR'S) GHENT.

In the " Autobiography of a Cornish Rector " is described an
Oxford sermon by Dr. Tathand. The doctor, who is com-
bating some notions of German theologists, is made to say
that " if I had my will jarman theology, and jannan philoso-
phy, and jarinan metaphysics, should all be biu'ied together in
the depths of the jarman ocean." The italics are the author's.
But what has this to do with the present subject ? Nothing ;
only it instances in emphatic language where most of my
Belgian notes have gone, and here is the promised reason why
I must omit many names and details of what might have been
of some pubhc interest, and I must in future rely almost solely
on my powers of memory in an attempt to reproduce some-
thing which presented itself last September during a six-days
sojourn on Belgian soU. On the passage home the good ship
" Leeds " was caught in the first brunt of the equinoctial
gales, which raged with more than their wonted fury, and
forced themselves into my berth and my pockets, and recon-
verted everything in the way of paper into its normal pulp.
Much, therefore, that was intended for The Joubn.u. of Hok-
TicuLTURE found its destiny in the German Ocean. As to my-
self and hale old companion, being of harder material, tho
greater portion of us arrived safe on shore, and I presented
him to his young wife, certainly a lesser, and, perhaps, a better
man. Jly loss was mostly pencil and paper ; his, on his own
calculation, averaged '2 lbs. per hour of himself during the

S58

JOUENAL OP HORTICULTUBE AKD COTTAGE GAEDfiNElB.

t May 1, 1878.

twelve hours the storm lasted ; but even then, putting the
young wife into the scale — as the trio would force a quarter of
a ton weight to kick the beam, and a little more — the loss was
of not much value, and he wishes me to tell the world that
" Waterloo was worth it all."

On leaving the establishment of M. Linden, Brussels, I
would advise all visitors to step over the way and inspect the
Musee Wiertz, and after admiring a feast of much that is rich
and rare in Nature's works, they may, perhaps, be astonished
at the wonderful examples of art which adorn its walls. It is
only two minutes' walk from M. Linden's, and is free to all.
For extravagant conception and marvellous execution many of
the specimens here have surely no parallel. This extraordinary
collection spoiled me for looking at pictures. It may not,
however, have the same effect on better judges, and I proceed
to inspect what I am a Uttle more competent to speak about
— viz., M. Linden's nursery in the Kue du Chaume, Ghent, in
charge of his able kinsman, M. Gloner.

From Brussels to Ghent, via Alost, is not more than an horn'
and half by train. The line is bounded by remarkably trim
fences, and the country traversed is principally pasture, and
is well, perhaps too well, wooded. The arable portion of land
is divided into small fields, and evidently better cultivated
than is the case south of the former city. The grass land is
devoted to beast-grazing, the country being too damp for
sheep, of which we saw only one flock in our whole tour.
These were lean, long-tailed, foxy-looking specimens, requiring
two looks to satisfactorily determine whether there was a dog
in charge, and which was the dog. Ai'riving at the old Flemish
city I found it very unlike Brussels, and I felt at once that
I had left a holiday city of pleasure and reached an industrial
centre.

Ghent is a mixture of the ancient and modern. The streets
are wide, the squares spacious, and the bridges numerous.
From its size, and turnings and twistings innumerable, a
stranger will have no difficulty in losing himself, and without
a guide may wander in idiotic bewilderment to find what he
wishes. A very able, and withal a very kind guide, Mr. Van
Houtte, jun., ushered me into the portals of Linden's, late
M. Ambroise Verschaffelt's, seat of business just as night was
creeping on, and instead of spending a day I could only give
an hour to see and miss seeing the profusion of treasures here
located. When we look at this, in conjunction with the Brus-
sels collection of plants, we have no longer need to wonder
at M. Linden's prominence as an horticulturist, or to be for a
moment surprised at the high honours he has won. At Brus-
sels would seem to be nursed-up the new-born gems, and the
ever-arriving importations, while at Ghent they are increased
and matured to the magnificent proportions that under skilled
management they are capable of assuming. Not many estab-
lishments, and especially in the matter of Palms, can present
such a scene of tropical luxuriance as flourishes in the very
acme of health and beauty as is here seen under M. Gloner's
care. A collection of Palms in exuberant health, and of the
varied conformations pertaining to the genus, has a charm
of its own, which forces itself on one's attention, extorting
admiration from even the most casual and unprofessional
visitor. They are a class which must and will find their way
into every stately home in this country, and will eventually
adorn the boudoirs of English towns and cities in the same
maimer as on the Continent. Ferns must yield to them, as
being too delicate and fragile for climatic vicissitudes ; and
gay-flowering plants, by their transient charms and frequent
unsuitableness under adverse influences of insufficient light,
insects, and the dust which apartments of urban locale ever
afford, must stand aside and make room for a few easy, elegant,
interesting Palms.

Palms are attractive in every stage of growth. If proof is
wanted of the infantile elegance of such things as Glaziova
insignis, Verschatleltia splendida and melanochietes, and the
refined grace of Cocos, especially C. Weddeliana — these, with
others, not omitting the useful table Palm Thi'inax elegans, are
here, in the aggregate, represented by — yes, thousands, and
speak for themselves. If we look for perfected forms we find,
besides fine specimens of the above, Latanias (with Cibotiums
20 feet across), towering Coryphas, Ai'ccas, and Stevensonias,
majestic Zamias, Ceroxylous, and Chamivrops, and striking
Jubieas, Welfias, and Kentias, and a hundred others worthy
of note, but less indelibly photographed on the memory. But
sufficient is said to indicate the riches in this order of plants
at M. Linden's celebrated Ghent establishment ; and yet this
is only one place amongst others having extraordinary collec-

tions. In the matter of Orchids and other things the English
are distinctly a-head of the Belgians, but in Palms they leave
us far behind. This is then- speciahty.

This place, however, is strong in other good things. Amongst
Aroids we find the distinct and beautiful PhyUota;nium Lin-
deni in fine form, telling examples of Dieffenbachia latima-
culata, and another new and good plant, Curmeria picturata.
Dracsnas are in strong force ; gloriosa, lutescens, Guilfoylei,
lie, showing to advantage amongst their compeers. Marantas
in great variety are growing with a vigour common to Cab-
bages, the new one, hieroglyphica, compelling a lingering
glance ; but there are others, if less rare, not much less
beautiful.

Outside the houses there was less to note. Azaleas and Camel-
Has were in good force, and planted or plunged in a bed in the
open air was a fine stock of the Abyssinian Banana, Musa Ensete.
A pair of very large specimens of Phormium tenax stand like
sentinels at the entrance, but outside show is here, as in other
( places, evidently little aimed at. The place is an enclosure of
glass, containing about thirty-sis houses of large dimensions,
and everything inside denotes skilful management. Mr.
Gloner's courtesy adds to the pleasure of a visit, and an inspec-
tion of his charge cannot but be enjoyable to any wandering
horticulturist. — J. Weight.

A CENTURY OP ORCHIDS FOR AMATEUR
GROWERS.— No. 8.

MASDEVALLIA.
In this genus we have several gorgeous-flowered species,
plants that are extremely popular ; indeed they are tlic Orchids

Mastlevallia \'citchiaua.
(Hot. Mag.).

of the present time. Masdevallias have been frequently in-
troduced, but seldom reached this country in a living state,

May 1, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

369

and should life still have been left when arriving, the life was
always starved out of them in a few short weeks. Many times
have I heard that plants of this genus were difficult to rear ; so
would anything be. so should we be ourselves if we were com-
pelled to live in a Turkish bath or an oven. Since, however,
we have come to understand the natural positions and sur-
roundings of these beautiful unorchid-like Orchids they have
proved themselves both quick and free in growth and profuse
in flowering. The soil we have recommended suits Masde-
valUas admirably. Keep the sphagnum growing around them,
and_ never allow them to become dry summer or winter, though
during the winter days water will necessarily have to be used
viith more caution.

M. Veitchiana. — The stem-like pseudo-bulbs of this species
attain a height of about 8 inches, bearing a thick, fleshy, dark-
green leaf. The scape bears a large solitary flower of a peculiar
shape, measuring about 6 inches across ; the three sepals are
ovate in shape, and lengthened out into tail-like points, but
the lip and petals are quite small and hidden by the sepals.
The prevailing colour is vivid orange scarlet, through which
runs a beautiful shade of yellow and purple, resembling shot-
silk. It blooms both early in summer and in autumn, and
should be grown by all lovers of Orchids. Its home is in the
mountain regions of Peru.

M. LiNDENii. — Truly this is a gem of gems. In general
appearance the plant resembles the previously-named kind,
and, like it, the flowers are solitary, and the dorsal sepal is
erect ; the colour is a rich violet rose or brilliant magenta,
a shade which is so rare and conspicuous as to attract the
attention of all beholders. This species does not produce
such large flowers as the other kinds, but it is perhaps more
chastely beautiful than any. Native of New Grenada. — Ex-
I'EKio Ckede.

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.
Dr. F. Arnold Lees and Mr. T. B. Blow propose to form a
club under the name of the Botanical Locality Record Clcb,
the object of which shall be to collect and keep a record of the
exact localities of all the rarer British plants, with the dates of
the latest observance of each, to be published yearly at the end
of each season. The yearly report, containing not only a de-
tailed list of the localities, but also a geographical summary of
each year's work, is to be published and distributed only to
members of the club, and to certain learned societies ; to the
former a subscription of 5s. wiU be charged. The names of
botanists desiring to become members are to be forwarded to
Mr. T. B. Blow, Welwyn, Hertfordshire. — {Nature.)

The supporters of the Wimbledon Horticultural and

Cottage Garden Society are energetic and liberal. There are
thirteen special prizes oiifered by private individuals, and they
include collections of plants ; table-decoration flowers ; Pelar-
goniums ; Grasses ; buttonhole bouquets ; arrangement of
flowers; cut Roses, Pansies, Pinks, and Carnations, and lastly
(added since the schedule was printed) " A Silver Medal
for thirty-four blooms of cut Roses, distinct ; open to all
comers."

Messrs. E. G. Henderson & Son, of Wellington Road

Nursery, have published a coloured plate of the novelties for
the flower garden they intend sending out this season. The
subjects figured are Sedum acre elegans. Lobelia Mazarine
Gem, Altemanthera amcena spectabilis, Altemanthera paro-
nvchioides major, Cineraria ceratophylla, and Golden Fleece
Thyme.

Sale of Orchids. — On the 17th ult., Mr. J. C. Stevens

sold by auction at his Rooms, King Street, Covent Garden, 588
lots of New Grenada and East Indian Orchids, &c. ; the gross
sura realised was £828. Among the lots were Masdevallia ele-
phanticeps, £6 12s. 6d. The Utricularia montana was sold in
lots of six and twelve, they realised about 6s. per plant. Mr.
Stevens had another auction of Orchids on the 24th, but these
were from Burmah. There were 443 lots, and they sold for £889.
Dendrobium thyrsiflorum, £13 and £8; Vauda cserulesoens,
£9 ; were among the prices realised.

of good temper on your face ; carefully root out all angry feel-
ings, and expect a good crop of happiness."

Gardening for Ladies. — The following condensed system
of gardening is recommended by a contemporary for the study
of ladies : — " Make your bed in the morning ; sew buttons on
your husband's shirt ; do not rake any grievances ; protect
the young and tender branches of your ifamUy ; plant a smile

WOEK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GARDEN.

Embrace every opportunity of destroying weeds and insects.
Clear away old Cabbage and Broccoli stumps as soon as done
with, as they only harbour one of the greatest enemies of gar-
deners. It is a common but bad practice with some gardeners
to cut away the weak as well as the strong shoots of Asparagus
until cutting is altogether discontinued; it is weakening the
roots unnecessarily, and therefore should not be persisted in.
As the weather brings Broccoli forward, some of it should be
pulled up before it is fully grown and laid in a cool place, so as
to prolong the season. Where the soil is very hard between the
autumn-planted Cabbages, it will gi'eatly benefit the plants to
dig between them, and after rain they should be again earthed-
up. Dig up the soil surrounding Cauliflowers with a fork, and
afterwards give them a good soaking with water, which must be
repeated twice a-week during dry weather. All the Celery that
is fresh pricked-out must be shaded and watered until it get
good roothold. If it is required very early, put siuRle plants
into some small pots, and set them in a frame until they get
roothold, when they may be fully exposed to the air, but must
be kept well watered, or the plants will be liable to run before
they attain any size. Where Cucumbers are grown on dung
beds, the frame will want raising to allow the plants room and a,
sufficient depth of soil. Trenches should now be prepared for
hand-glasses; they may be 2J feet wide, and 1 foot below the
surface; it should then be filled with prepared dung, leaves, and
short grass 6 inches above the surface ; prepared soil should be
put beneath the glasses, and the rest of the dung may be
covered with the soil that came out of the trenches. Give a
few of the earliest Lettuce plants a good supply of water to
bring them forward. Some of the Cos may be tied-up to cause
them to form hearts. Keep a steady heat of from 55° to 60"
where there are productive beds of Mushrooms ; continue to
form fresh ones for summer and autumn use. Sow both Long
and Turnip-rooted Radishes ; water those from which they are
drawn for use.

FRUIT gabden.

Strawben-ies ripening their fruit may be placed in a frame
where a free admission of air can be given. Wall trees must
now be attended to, as their welfare depends in a great measure
on their treatment at this season. As soon as insects make
their appearance wash the trees with tobacco water, in which
mix some sulphur, and apply it while the latter is in a state
of suspension. Head-down young wall trees, this being the
beat season for the purpose.

FLOWER gabden.

The drying winds and the present clear weather have rendered
it necessary to supply water to recently-transplanted trees,
shrubs, vegetables, and also seedling crops which are just making
their appearance, otherwise they had better be allowed to re-
main in a dormant state until we have rain, as continued water-
ing binds the surface of the soil into a hard crust impenetrable
by air, and is extremely prejudicial to the germination of seeds ;
this, however, may in some degree be prevented by shading
from the sun or covering the soil, so as to prevent evaporation
as much as possible ; frequent waterings are not then necessary,
and the soil is kept in an open porous state, which is of the ut-
most importance. When the nights are warm seeds and herba-
ceous plants of all kinds should be watered in the evening, so
that the soil may gradually imbibe the w-ater ; but if cold nights
prevail, the early part of the morning is the best time for its
application. Trees and shrubs recently transplanted should
be watered and immediately mulched with short litter, and rare
and choice kinds should be shaded and occasionally sprinkled
overhead with water in the morning. Some of the early-sown
annuals will now require thinning-out, in doing which remove
but five or six of the strongest plants, and those, if not very
strong, may have the terminal leaf-bud removed to make them
bushy. Stir the ground around the plants deeply with the hoe.
Many of the herbaceous plants will now require a little train-
ing, and in regulating them do not bundle them up Uke so
many peasticks, but tie the branches out separately as you
would a prize Pelargonium. Attend to young growths on
cUnibers before they get crowded, and remove any strong
branches which are not likely to produce flowers. Auriculas
are in most situations fully expanded, with the exception of the
northern counties, where they are somewhat later. In order to
presei-ve the bloom the pots must be removed to a cool place
having a north aspect, and should be placed on a neat stage,
" tier above tier ;" covered with an awning of calico, and regu-
larly watered, they wUl retain then- beauty for at least a fort-
night or three weeks. The direct rays of the sun have a pre-
judicial effect on the colours, causing the dark or body colour to
start or diffuse itself over the margin. Few spring flowers are

360

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE ARD COTTAGE GARDENER.

I M»y 1, 1873.

so beautifnl, or more -worthy of the trouble requisite to insure
their perfection. Tulips are rapidly throwins up their blooms.
In all probabiUty -we shall have some sharp frosts. The sticks
had better be inserted now in the blooming pots of Carnations
and Picotees, not only to support some varieties that have a
tendency to spindle early, but, if delayed longer, pushing them
down is apt to injure the roots. Keep "the pots free from weeds.
Dahlias are in many places already planted out ; protect with
))ots at night. Snails will sometimes eat through the stems ; a
little chaff or soot spread on the surface of the soil mil obstruct
them in their ravages. It is the safest plan to plant in the first
week of May. Examine Roses to see that the worm in the
bud is not at work, and dress them, if necessary, with tobacco
water and soapsuds to clear them of the aphis or green Uy.
Many of the strong-growing hybrid China and French varieties
will be the better of having some of the strong growths thinned-
out; indeed, no more branches should be left upon a Hose than
can be properly exposed to the sun and air. Remove the
strongest branches, which frequently run into water shoots ; the
middle-sized ones generally produce the finest flowers. In
sheltered situations some plants for masses may be planted, such
as Lobelias, Pentstemon gentianoides. Calceolarias, Verbenas,
etc., and if frost should occiu- a few boughs may be laid over
them or be stuck about the bed, which will now afford sufficient
protection. Recently-planted Box and fresh-laid turf wiU re-
quire water in dry weather. Roll and mow the la-n-n, and roll
the walks when somewhat moist.

GBEEXHOrsi; AND COXSERVATuRV.

^ The variable weather of April (so fully evidenced lately), its
fatful gleams of sunshine and cold searching winds, render the
task of sustaining an eiiuable temperature oftentimes difficult.
It must be remembered that the occupants of the greenhouse
have, under the excitement of a genial temperature, developed
their tender shoots ; therefore, direct injury would ensue from
neglecting the precaution of regulating air and sustaining suit-
able heat. Plants that are intended to be tiu-ned out against
walls should be hardened by being placed in a cold pit, and aU
woody plants may be placed in the same situation if convenient,
where they may remain the whole summer, and they will not be
liable to the evil consequences arising from placing them where
they are fuUy exposed to the sun. Give air freely to prevent
the plants drawing.

STOVE.

Many of the plants will still require potting, and this wiU be
the case more or less throughout the summer. Continue to pro-
pagate from choice plants, and keep all free from insects by the
means so frequently alluded to.

^ PITS ANU IKAHJiS.

Tuberoses should now be potted if not done before. Pot-off
rooted cuttings of Dahlias, and harden the early-potted ones ;
divide and pot the old roots. The plants are, of com-se, being
removed from these structures to temporary protection as fast
as possible. If they are not quite clean give them a good fumi-
gating before they are taken out. Pot-off all recently-propagated
plants, and see that you have sufficient stock of everything to
plant your beds properly, if not, put in some more cuttings
without delay, which wiU do admirably to fill up gaps in the
summer. — W. Ke.ane.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

The wind still continues to blow from the east, and the
average night temperatui-e for the week has been lower than
last week. On Friday morning the thermometer registered 5°
of frost, and on Saturday 4°. The ground is very dry on the
surface, which is much in our favoiu-. The earliest Potatoes
under the shelter of an east wall have suffered a little. We
threw some old shading material over a portion of them, and
that part is fuUy as much damaged as that uncovered. Indeed,
we never have done much good with any makeshift mode of
protecting. Where any good effect is to be produced, the pro-
tecting material must be an-anged in such a way that it will
not touch the plants when it is on, and it must not be dragged
over them when putting it on at night or in taking it off in the
mornmg. More damage is sometimes done to fruit trees on
walls by allowing the protecting material to flap against the
trees than if they had not been protected at aU. Protection is
necessary m our uncertain climate, but it is best done by placing
some stout poles in a leaning position against the wall at the
distance of 12 feet apart. The protecting material sliould be
bound round with some stout webbing. One side should be
nailed to the wall just under the projecting coping ; a short
length of tape must be nailed on to the top of each pole to tie the
material to when it is roUed up. It can readily be let down at
night and rolled up in the morning. A man with a ladder wUl
do aU the walls in a moderate-sized garden in a few minutes,
the under side of the material is nailed to the poles with a tack
or wall nail, and fastened at each corner to the wall, so that
when It is down it is quite tight.

The bedding jAants in turf pits have not suffered in the least ;
they had been previously prepared when in the pits by having
the gUss lights taken quite off in the day. The shrubby Calceo-
larias in trenches, such as Celery is planted out in, are looking
well; they have no protection whatever, but the plants are
never coddled in any way. In fine weather the lights are drawn
down every morning the first thing, and replaced the last thing
at night, throughout the winter months.

KITCHEN GAEDEN.

Sticking carlg Peas. — Last week we wrote abov t this. They
are now a foot high, but the sparrows will not let them alone,
and have seriously damaged our prospects of a crop. Some
white threads have been nin down and across the rows, but this
will not deter them for any length of time. We must now get
some netting and throw over them. The rows of Lettuce have
been covered with the pea protectors ; to-day one of them
had been knocked off, the sparrows' quick eyes noticed it before
we did, and very Uttle of the leaves but the midribs was left.
Our garden adjoins the farmyard, which accounts for the trouble
we have with them.

Little has been done in the kitchen garden, except hoeing
between the crops and weeding the walks : we like to have
evei-y weed destroyed early in the season. We also sowed the
third crop of Peas, sixteen varieties, but so many are sown
chiefly by way of proving the new ones. We think very
highly of many of them, having had ample opportunity of com-
paring them with the old sorts at Chiswick last season. Some
of the very latest we have not seen, but they were certificated
by the Fruit Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society;
and we have sufficient faith in that body to believe that they
would not have bad that honour passed upon them if they were
not worthy of it ; but we are never satisfied unless we have
them proved in our own garden, as varieties first-class at Chis-
wick might not be so here, our soil is so different.

FLOWER GARDEN.

Here the lawn mower is kept at work, and all the edgings
have been fresh cut with the turf-cutter and look very trim.
The lawn is ahvays cut very early in the season, as when the
gi-ass is left to grow too long before the first cutting, the lawn
shows the effect of it all through the season. The Hyacinths in
the flower beds are now over, but Tulips, Narcissus, Polyanthus,
and Primroses are very gay ; the latter are suffering from the
continued drought, and have been twice watered. Roses have
been looked over to destroy " the worm i' the bud," we go to
the work anned with a pin with which the rascals are picked
out. We also sowed Mignonette and Sweet Peas.

PLANT HOUSES.

We continue to fumigate until all the green fly are destroyed.
In one house the stage Pelargoniums are now coming into
flower, and though not an aphis was visible on them, the house
was thoroughly smoked. This is always done in the Pelar-
gonium house just before the plants flower, as should green fly
appear afterwards when the plants are in fuU bloom, to smoke
the house then would cause all the petals to drop. We have
also been looking over all plants in the stove for mealy bug.
During the winter season we can generally keep this pest pretty
well out of sight, but with the increased temperature in April
they have made an appearance on the Stephanotis, Ixoras, and
some other plants ; they must be thoroughly cleansed with a
sponge, soft soap, and rain water. Training climbers has
occupied the rest of the time.

PKUIT AND FORCING HOUSES.

Tying-down the shoots of Vines in late houses ; they are now
growing vigorously and show well for fruit. The Melons in the
eai-ly house are setting their fruit; the shoots trained to a
trellis overhead have required training and thinning-out. We
are always careful with the Melons to have as many female
blossoms expanding at the same time as it is intended to allow
on the plants for a crop, as should one or two fruit be set two or
three days before the others the later-set fruit will not swell
well. Constant attention has been given to airing, and much
caution is required during such trying weather as we have had.
— J. Douglas.

TRADE CATALOGUE KECEIVED.

R. Read, 35, Regent Circus, Piccadilly, Ijonion.— Catalogue
of Garden Engines, Pumps, Syringes, i&c.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

We request that no one will write privately to any of the
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing th«y
are subjected to unjustifiable troublB and expense. All
communications should therefore be addressed solely tn
The Editors of thf Journal of Ilorticultwc, dx., 171, Fleet
Sin'ct, London, E.G.

May :, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

?.61

We also request that correspondents will not mis up on the
same sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on
Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them
answered -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 next
week.

Seedling Primroses (.S.).— The dark is richly and the pale delicately
coloured. Thoy are superior to many of the numerous varieties.

Peas Eaten hy Slugs and Sparrows (Barn*'/).— To keep away the slugs
sprinkle lime over the leaves and soil ; to exclude the sparrows have small-
meshed galvanised iron netting arched over the rows.

Roses not THnI\^NG {Fanny Fern). — We will obtain the information you
need, but after long neglect we are not surprised at some failures. The fol-
lowinj extract is from a letter written by a lady who knows how to cultivate
•'the Queen of Flowers" — " Roses, as a rule, requiro more management and
understanding than are often exercised to train them up and bring forth their
beauties and gifts to advantage, just like human plants. Happily, like them
too, they n*xll sometimes thrive and be lovely, and give forth sweetness not-
withstanding lack of special culture."'

Cutting Asparagus (B. d- W.). — Do not cut the small shoots or sprue;
neither cut the fme shoots to a late period of the season. The stems and
leaves of this year have to elaborate and store np materials for the next year's
produce. This is so essential that we know of gardens where half the number
of beds are entirely uncut from every alternate year, tliough manured as
usual. The produce is strikingly improved in size and abundance by this
practice.

AccuBA AND Rhododendron Leaves Browned (J. Booth). — The leaves
of the " Variegated Laurel " (Aucuba japonica), and those of the Rhododen-
dron ponticum are browned by the frosts we had in February. They will fall
off, but the fresh gi-owth will be healthy. Evergreens have been much injured
by the frosts of February, the shoots having been unripe owing to the wet and
cold of last year.

Trassplakting Laurustinus (I. N., !r('((7Hmoii?ft).— November is not a
bad time to transplant this, but we prefer October, and showery weather
from the middle of March to the end of April. Laurustinus, as also many of
the more tender kinds of evergreens are much iujoi-ed by frost, and look
very brown and dead; they will, however, recover with brighter weather.

HoRSF. Chestnut Seedling (Flora).— It should flower in ten or twelve
years, but much depends on the Iccality and treatment of the tree. It ought
to be a large tree in fourteen years, and will no doubt flower soon. We have
known a Horse Chestnut be twenty years old before it flowered. We do not
know what shrub of aa evergreen character would thiive in your swamp,
except Spruce, which is a tree. Hemlock Spruce would also thrive if the
uroand is not very wet. Comus mascula, C. mascula variegata, C. sanguiuea,
Viburnum Opulus, Deutzia scabra, Salix, and Alders would do ; but they are
deciduous. The weed you sent us is an Autennaiia, probably A. dioica. Your
lawn is dry and poor. There is no remedy but to grub it up with a knife, and
to pick out the creeping stems. The flower we cannot name, owing to its
having reached us dried np.

Plant under Elji Tree {Coi/ojv?).— Periwinkle would grow, and give a
gi-een leafy covering. Vinca minor does even better than V. major. Ivy
succeeds well under trees, and covers the ground more quickly than
Periwinkles.

Azalea Repotting (T. H. B.).— Azaleas will thrive if in repottmg you do
not use "turf;" but if by "turf" you mean peat, then we can only say it is
essential for Azalea culture. Sandy peat three parts, and one part light
fibrous loam, with one-sLxth of silver sand form a good compost for Azaleas.
Turfy light loam, and a fourth of old dry cowdung, will also grow them well.

Watering Peas with Liguro Manure {Ohl Subscriber, A. F.).— In dry
hot weather liquid manure applied to Peas is desirable, pouring it along the
sides of the rows, and not directly on the rows or base of the haulms, for if
strong it destroys the crop. It should be weak, and applied along the sides of
the rows, giving a good soaking once or twice a-week after the plants are
bhowing for flower.

Pear Trees Unfruitful (Y. O.).— The past season, in fact the last two
years have been very unfavourable for the ripening of the wood of out-door
fruit trees ; they have i-un much to wood. Your trees being vigorous we should
root-prune them next autumn; the sooner it is done after the leaves fall the
better. If the trees are only moderately vigorous, it is likely that with a flue
summer and properly pinching the shoots it will not be necessary to root-
prune.

Pruning Fig Tree (Gardenia). — It was at one time a common saying,
*' that a pruned Fig tree never bears." It would not if the young wood was
cut back in the same way as an Apple or Pear tree is pruned. All the pruning
required is to remove superfluous old wood in the autumn after the fruit is
gathered. If your tree is much crowded with wood, you may remove some of
it now, but it must be done spai'ingly at this time.

CLiJTBEns FOR Arbour (H''m). — Clematises of the Jackmanni type, or some
of the climbing Roses, would be the best plants to cover your arbour. We grow
a verj' pretty climbing Rose, Princess Louise.

Spiung Fi-owers under Trees (Idem).— They succeed best under trees
and amongst shrubs. You may plant the different varieties of the common
Primrose, Anemone nemorosa, Rcilla non-scripta, blue, white, and flesh-
coloured; Lily of the Valley, Solomon's Seal, Snowdrops, Hyacinths, early
Tulips, and the diflferent species of Karcissus. Jlii some leaf mould or road
scrapings with your clay soil; a dressing of lime would probably do it good.

Peach Aphis (O. C).— Yours seems to be a bad case. Dissolve G oz^. of
soft soap and half a pint of tobacco liquor in two gallons of water, with which
wash the young shouts. When the leaves are much curled it is of no use
applying the wash with a syringe. The young shoots should be taken in the
hand, and the liquid applied with a soft brush, drawing it upwards. Vou
might winter-dress the trees with Gishurst compound, VIozh. to the gallon of
water.

Vines Failing (A Four-year^' Suhscriher). — Do you give your Vines
enough water i' If they are all right at the roots the shoots should not be so
stinted. We have seen similar examples to those you send, and have had a
few in our own garden ; we attributed it to the unfavourable season of last vear.

Give the Vines a good watering at the roots; follow in other respects the in-
structions given in the manuals you have, and we think the Vines will grow
out of it. Of course the roots of the Vines were imcoiled and laid out in the
borders when planted ; neglecting to do this is sometimes a cause of failure.

Self Pansies (C. Stuart).— They are all good for clumps, especially Bla-
nerne and the Claret.

Bocgaintillea spectabilis (G. G.). — Y'our specimen of the flowers and
their coloured bracts is very good, but gardeuers have long since learned how
to make it flower. That was not the case when the " Cottage Gardeners'
Dictionary " was first published.

Name op Fruit (W. Foir/^).— Your Apple is the West Grinstead Pippin.

Names of Plants (HI. P.).— The flower is Orobacche minor. Smaller
Broom-rape. We cannot name plants from leaves only. (W. H. Tillett). —
You did not number your specimens, so we could not refer to them. {J. Brad-
burif). — We cannot name varieties nor species from their leaves only.
(T. W. S.). — Amygdalus nana, or dwarf Almond. It is anative of Russia, and
introduced here in 1683. (ElroHge).~Yow: shrub is Cerasus japonica flore-
pleno, or Double-blossomed Japanese Cherry. It camo to this country from
China in 1810.

POULTRY, BEE, AlH) PiaEOI OHROIHOLE.

REFORM IN POULTRY EXHIBITIONS.

In' addition to the numerous i5uggestion8 that of late have
appeared in the columns of the Journal as to improvements in
the management of poultry exhibitions, allow me to add still
another practice that perhaps needs revision even more than
any yet noticed. I allude to the really objectionable feature of
holding shows without any protection whatever from unfavour-
able weather, either as regards the birds themselves or the
persons called upon to arbitrate. True it is that such shows
are mostly held in summer, when, if the weather prove favour-
able, there is, perhaps, but little if anything of which to com-
plain ; but can any person predetermine what may be the
weather at any fixed date in this truly variable climate ? It has
very frequently occurred that unexpected thunderstorms have
taken place, drenching to the skin both the poultry shown and
the arbitrators also, who may have been previously chosen to
decide on the respective merits of the fowls entered. This I
kno<7 that some years back I was confined to my bed for several
weeks consecutively from the effects of such a thorough soaking.
Again, Mr. Teebay, whose experience I know is quite in accord-
ance with my own, was laid up for some months not long since
owing to a similar wetting, so much so that, to use that gentle-
man's own words, " he scai-cely hoped to recover."

Nor are thunderstorms the only danger from holding shows
entirely open to the sky, thorough continued drizzling rain all
day long is perhaps equally injurious in its consequences ; and
I have repeatedly judged with parties thus situated, when, after
as we thought completing our duty, we found, to our utter
astonishment, that the pencil awards in our judges' books were
entirely obliterated or rendered barely distinguishable by the
incessant downpour. Hundreds of valuable show birds have
been irretrievably ruined from this cause alone, though some-
times in the case of the hardier varieties only after protracted
suffering. Nor is this the only cause for fearing injury. Direct
and unimpeded sunshine during the height of summer kills, or
at least irreparably injures, the plumage equally with constant
rain. Many of our oldest exhibitors will call to mind that the
extraordinarily good Buff Cochin cock (the best bird of his day,
and the winner of so many prizesj, was entirely lost to his owner,
Mr. Gueldard, of Aikrigg End, near Kendal, owing to the effects
of sunstroke when exhibited at Anerley Show in 18.jG. His
comb, wattles, and throat became a perfect damson colour, and
despite of all remedial measures, " he died off by inches," to use
the words of the experienced poultry-man who attended him.
Nor was he the only one by many that, to my knowledge, were
killed outright by the excessive heat of that day.

I think I may safely suggest, that calm deliberate arbitrations
cannot fairly be expected from judges thus situated. I do not
anticipate that this suggestion of having in all cases of field
shows, tents for the protection of poultry and visitors will be
adopted, for I know more than half a dozen committees who
state, " That if they provided tents they coulh not continue
their show, for the additional expense would bring them to a
dead standstill." Although I am well aware I am treading
on tender corns, I cannot but say, in my humble opinion, the
sooner this takes place the better. Few but such parties as
rear or purchase prize poultry know their actual value, or the
positive difliculty of replacing them wh*;n thus injured; the
only consolation, if such it can be called, usually offered to the
annoyed owners by the secretaries of these shows when troubles
have ensued is, *' I assure you the committee are very sorry ; it
was their misfortune, not fault (?) ; your birds were treated the
same as the others."

A certain remedy is in the hands of the exhibitors themselves
if they will avail themselves of it — viz., never to exhibit at all
where the poultry is shown entirely without shelter, and as in-
variably, where doubt exists, to inquire by letter whether tents
will be provided, and if not decline at once exhibiting. Perhaps

362

JOUBNAL OF HOBTIOULTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB.

[ Ma; 1, 1873.

now the ball is fairly set rolling, some of our poultry friends
may be induced to give us, in print, their views and experiences
on this really important subject.

Your talented correspondent, " Shropshiee Eector," gives a
very cogent hint to the judges as to the necessity of following
the popular feature of the day, " by striking and leaving in the
lurch such committees," as by negligence and delay abridge the
time appointed for judging. No doubt the effect would be as
conclusive as it is merited, but I am glad to say this short-
coming is far less frequent of late than heretofore. Another
good cause for " a strike " among poultry judges, however, arises
from the fact of non-payment of absolute out-paid travelling ex-
penses, even where the services were as gratuitously as willingly
rendered, under the specious excuse their funds were entirely
exhausted, or the secretary had " bolted," and suchlike apo-
logies for not paying what honour and justice alike demanded.
Several cases of pounds expended in such journeys I can easily
recall to mind, as can also one of my general colleagues. We
know the County Court is most likely a sufficient cure, though
another was hinted to me lately by an experienced hand, when
he said, " I never will go away now till they give me my money,
but dodge about until they pay me." It is at best an unpleasant
way of reinstatement of out-of-pocket railway expenses, and cer-
tainly suggests " a strike." — Edw.ibd Hewitt.

EXHIBITOES AT POULTRY SHOWS.
So much has been written of late about the discouragement
given to amateurs at our shows, that previous to reading a
grumble in your issue of the 10th ult. signed " Pickwick," I had
almost begun to think that there was something in the manage-
ment of our shows that demanded alteration, but the run of
thought which, though mostly skilfully concealed in the context,
can so easily be read between the hues of many of the grumblers'
letters was openly avowed by " Pickwick," with a frankness that
does him credit. The grievance of which he so bitterly com-
plains is simply this, if a man's means wiU admit only second or
third-class birds into his loft, the prize lists ought to be so
arranged that with them he may secure first prizes.

Mr. A. is a man with ample means for fancies and indulgencies ;
he decides to keep birds, say Carriers ; he knows the value of the
old saying, that " like begets like," and therefore determines to
lay a good foundation to his loft by commencing with birds of
unquestionable reputation. Innumerable ways are open to such
a man, so armed, to secure his ends ; without trusting too much
to the human nature of either dealer or breeder he resorts to
the leading shows and claims the best birds, or he goes to the
lofts of renowned breeders and buys there. To such an one, with
a fair knowledge of the laws of breeding and general habits and
requirements of the birds, success in some degi'ee is certain,
and if he be inclined to exhibit he will not be frightened from so
doing, because a dealer's bird may be in the next competing pen
to his, in fact, the dealer can only beat with birds bought from
his or similar lofts, and we cannot sell the pie and eat it too.

Mr. B. is a poor man with an available sum of cash not ex-
ceeding .£10, he catches the " Pigeon fever," and though without
any practical experience decides to invest his capital in "the
fancy," with what results everyone who has bought good birds
must know. I do not wish to imply that ±'10 will be insufficient
to lay the foundation of a good loft, but the process of expansion
from such a beginning would require too much patience for
nine-tenths of our amateurs. They want a shorter cut, flounder-
ing in which ninety-nine out of a hundred find themselves in
the hopelsss position of " Pickwick." Acting upon the idea of
getting as much for money as possible, cheered with the hope
of suddenly becoming "wholesale prizetakers," they buy with
the said ±'10 several pairs of different varieties, always carefully
extracting from the seller the remark that they are either "prize
birds or prize bred," fortified with which assurance they rush
to enter their birds at the next show. The disastrous effects of
this investment prompts them to find solace in attacking not
only the show committee but the most successful exhibitors.

Now, I ask, have such persons any real grievance ? Are not
the majority of the grumblers such-like fanciers ? They build
upon the sand, but blame others for the collapse, it is, in short,
inexperience and want of capital complaining that e.xperience
and capital beat them.

To remedy this " Pickwick," " Miles," and Co., propose to
banish the results of experience and capital from our sliows,
which would be simply carrying out the ironical suggestion of
" S.vpiENTissiMus " — viz., that our shows be conducted upon the
donkey-racing system, by awarding the prizes to the worst birds.
It may, and undoubtedly frequently does, seem hard to such-like
amateurs that they should buy so many prize birds, and yet
never succeed in netting anything better than " commenda-
tions " with which to furnish the loft, but there are two ways to
reverse such a hardship, the first is the one with which " P., M.,
and Co." try to accomplish the reformation — viz., to induce
show committees to adopt a set of rules, that will necessarily ex-
clude first-class birds. " Miles " argues that such birds ought to

be found at shows where the prices are limited to ilO, but that
argument is quickly disposed of by the well-known fact that
they won't be there, as proved at Dublin ; and is it desirable they
should ? If the prices of rare specimens which cost the breeder
so much patience and perseverance are to be " levelled down "
to those of birds that can be bred in grosses by the greatest
novice, will not one great goad to perseverance be withdrawn
from the breeder '? and will not the quality deteriorate '? Re-
markable birds cannot be bred every year, even by those who
can afford to recruit their breeding studs in the expensive way
Capt. Heaton has done his this season. Can it then be expected
that that which cost so much will be freely offered at our shows
for so small a sum ? and if not, will not the primary object of
shows be annulled by excluding them ?

But supposing this novel method of " levelling down " become
an accomplished fact, will " Pickwick," " Miles," and Go's.,
grievance vanish into thin air ? If all amateurs could afford to
give 4"10 for a bird, all could not have a Palace or Birmingham
cup bird, and those that had would avail themselves at the re-
duced risks to extend their operations as " wholesale prize-
takers," and still there would remain as now those who never
get beyond a commendation to complain that those who have
better birds receive the prizes. This remedy, then, I agree
is undesirable, though it would undoubtedly accomplish the end
for which so many wiite in your Journal. The second one to
which I refer rests with the amateur himself ; it is this, instead
of trying to "level down "other lofts to "level up" his own.
Am I far wrong in my oonjectm-e, that most of the would-be re-
formers who have written so much of late on this subject are
dabblers in many kinds instead of excelling in one ? and is not
this the root of half the failures '? I am surrounded with fanciers
of this stamp, and I find them subject to frequent attacks of
disgust at the fancy. I say. But why don't you keep one good
pair instead of so many inferior ? The idea is at once acceptable,
but they say the price of good birds prevents them can-ying it
out, but look in their lofts, you see ten pairs, the average cost
of which is 30s. a pair, total ±'1.5, with which they might have
secured the foundation of a loft that in a year or two would pro-
duce feeling's the opposite of disgust.— -Willlam Minson, St. lues,
Hunts.

BEAHMAS.

As several have given you their opinion of Brahmas, I will
tell you what I think of them and how I like them after several
years' acquaintance. The Light variety, which I have only kept,
are undoubtedly taking in appearance, especially so, if judged
from most specimens seen at shows ; but the pure white colour
soon turns to yellow if exposed to the sun, particularly in the
cocks, and both they and the hens soon look dirty if not scru-
pulously attended to. As to their useful qualities I have found
them fair layers of smallish eggs, with rather too frequent a
tendency to sit. For rearing chickens I find them docile enough
but dreadfully clumsy, and although I have set dozens of them
I have never yet got them over the twenty-one days without a
smash among the eggs ; this same clumsiness miUtates very much
against them when in charge of a brood, as if at all flurried they
are pretty sure to tread down some one of their young charge.
Apart from this awkwardness they are well enough to rear
chickens if size is not required, but if it should be, it is useless
to try and obtain it with them as they invariably desert their
chickens when the mother's warmth is mostrequirod. A Brahma
chicken on the table is veritably all legs ; it certainly may be
improved by the Dorking cross, but after all it is but a bad sub-
stitute for the Dorking pure. Brahmas wiU do in a small space,
and this is their great point, but if the birds can have their
liberty they cannot compare to the Dark Coloured Dorkings ;
the latter lay an equal number of eggs of large size, cannot be
beaten as mothers, and are unequalled on the table. What more
can you desire or expect'?— Miles.

BLACK COCHINS.

The Committee of the Great London Show have promised to
give a second and third prize and a class to themselves if a three-
guinea cup be offered. I shall be happy to receive subscriptions
to further the same, which will be duly acknowledged. — F, C.
H.^ss.vBD, Silverness.

I quite endorse Col. F. C. Hassard's opinion respecting Black
Cochins. I have myself been a breeder of this splendid variety
for the last seven years, and admire them not only for the
beauty of tlieir plumage but also for their good properties as
layers and mothers. They do better in a small place than any
other variety I ever kept, and do not show dirt in London as all
other lighter-coloured sorts do. I shall be the first to offer my
guinea towards a prize at the next Great London Show and I
am convinced that some excellent specimens wiU be brought
forward. They certainly do not stand the least chance against
Wliites or Partridge, and therefore I never show mine. I have

May 1. 1873. ]

JOUBNAIi OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

363

no idea of what Col. Hassard possesses, but beg to say that I can
show four cocks and two hens now, the pick of my stock, which
is considerable in proportion to the scarcity of the breed, that
would be utlinired by all amateurs of that breed. I have also
corresponded with several other breeders, and feel sure that we
shall be able to obtain a subscription large enough to otTer three
prizes, and perhaps a cup and two prizes should the Crystal
Palace Poultry Committee be agreeable to let us bring forward
our despised pets. — A. A. Vander Meehsch, Bosc ViUaj Morton
Jioad, Touting^ S.W.

ADOPTED CHICKENS.

The following "experience" may possibly interest some of
your readers. I had the other day two fine young Brahma-
Dorking hens confined in rips — No. 1 with eight chickens five
weeks old, and No. 2 with ten about four weeks old. They both
commenced laying within three weeks of hatching, but at first
continued to treat their chickens pretty well. They were both,
however, becoming restless, and at the time I speak of No. 1 was
allowed to join the otTier fowls, still keeping her eight chickens
with her. Naturally the charms of society soon led her to
neglect them, and iu the course of a day or two my gardener
summoned me to witness a curious spectacle. She had very
considerately given these chickens an extra meal in a cow house
devoted tn sitting purposes, and, after doing justice to this, they
were all found clustering round an old Brahma hen which had
been sut about a week. She seemed quite delighted with her
precocious offspring, and clucked to them as if she had hatched
them herself. Whether she or they made the first advances, of
course we cannot tell.

This hint was too valuable to be thrown away, bo I speedily
transferred her eggs to another hen, and installed her in the
evening ia No. 2's rip with eighteen chickens. The two broods I
should have said had long been playfellows. They are all as
happy as jiossible, and I probably owe their preservation during
the last few cold nights to this good old hen's fostering care. —
E. H. R.

FOWLS IN THE AZORES.

The climate is mild, the coldest nights in winter seldom as
low as -10^ and the summer temperature seldom over 80" in the
shade on the hottest days. Fowls seem to lay all the year round,
and there are always young chickens running about. Fowls
there are worth about li)d. each, and eggs are three for a penny.
— Ram.u.110.

[M. FouQUE continues, in the current number of the Revue dcs
Deux Mondes, his series of papers on the Azores, giving in
this chapter some account of the products of cultivation in the
islands, and of the various organic forms to be met with. It is
mentioned, that while in 1840 the number of cases of oranges
exported to England from San Miguel was only GD.UOO to 8U,000,
in 1850 it had risen to 175,000, and last year it was ,\bout 600,000.
A great pest in agriculture in these islands is the innumerable
multituae of grauivorous birds, and "sagorous means of defence
have to be adopted. The writer, in treating of the animal and
plant species of the Azores, rejects the theories founded on pro-
pagation of species from a distance, and inclines to the idea of
local origin. — {Emjlish Mechanic.^

WASHING A FOWL FOR EXHIBITION.

Aftek my old birds got used to it, I found I had hardly ever
to use the straps at all, but when put on the saddle they would
keep quiet of themselves. Finding such ease and comfort in
the plan, I took to giving my best birds a daily washing of face,
head, and feet ; and they became so tame and used to it that
they would allow me to pick them up in the yard at any time
except when feeding. One old cock in particular — a great pet
of mine — which had been used to the saddle for two or three
years, on my projecting it for use from the old dresser in my
stable, used to jump on the dresser top, and give a lusty crow
and flap of the wings, as much as to say, " Now for a good wash."
He would then eye me inquiringly, which I took to mean, "Are
you going to put me on ? " and if I still hesitated would step on
to the saddle and then wait a few minutes in a sort of forlorn
mood, till at length he brightened up, and called to me just as
if to his hens, at the same time making sham pecks at the pad,
as if thereon lay a most delicious morsel if I would but come
and see. I waited one day to see how he would conclude the
ceremony without a wash. After various marchings up and
down the old dresser, off and on to the saddle, calling, crowing.
Arc, it terminated in his attempt to mount or rather descend to
the saddle without assistance. The attempt I must say was a
very sorry affair, for after trying first to puc down one leg and
then the other for a score of times, he made an indescribable

attempt to slip down both at once, which brought liim quickly
to the floor. He was on his feet iu a moment, looking round
wratbfully indignant ; when his eye caught the saddle and he
tiew at it as if at another cock, with his spurs in the air. Being
too high he did not reach his aim, but found liiinsolf on his tail
again; when he rose iu a rather stately but subdued style, and
slunk off the scene, looking thoroughly disi^usted with me, the
saddle, and himself. — {From Wright's lllu&trateil Book of
Poultry for May.)

WALSALL POULTRY SHOW.

No one could be otherwise than pleased with the excellence
of the general arrangements of the Walsall Show. The Com-
mittee are evidently well disposed to work with a will, and what
is of equal importance — unanimously. The consequence was,
every arrangement was completed so promptly as to give the
Judges the whole of the time originally allotted for making the
awards. It proved, we are glad to say, quite a success, the new
Agricultural Hall being well suited to exhibit the poultry and
Pigeons to great advantage. Many of the exhibitors hailed from
very distant parts of the kingdom, and it was a pleasure to find
tliat not a few of them attended in person on the day of opening.
We need scarcely add the attention paid aUke to poultry, Pigeonp^
and Rabbits was unexceptionable. Few individuals anticipatea
.so good an entry precisely in the breeding season, and that may
possibly be assigned as one reason why the entries reachod five
hundred pens. The premiums offered were good, and in addi-
( tion to money prizes eleven silver cups were awarded.

The Dorking cock class was good, the principal winner being
sent from out of Hampshire. The hens uf this breed, however,
constituted a still better class, and the hen exhibited by Mr.
H. Lingwood proved, consequently, the cup-winner. In Buff
Cochins Mr. S. R. Harris, of St. Day, Cornwall, took the cup with
a very well-shown good coloured young cock sent in capital con-
dition, but which, if a little more heavy in the featUer, would be-
improved. The first in hens of this variety was taken by Mr. H.
Tomlinson with a superior-coloured bird, shown in very excel-
lent condition, but which certainly was not equal in size and
contour to some previously shown by that exhibitor. Messrs-
Aspden of Church, and Stephens of Walsall, had entered especi-
ally good Partridge-feathered Cochins, the hen shown by the
latter gentleman being a remarkably pure-feathered one. In
White Cochins, as might be expected, Mr. Woodgate, of Tunbrid^ fr
Wells, had all the best of the battJe to himself, though some
really good birds also competed from other yards. We cannoti
say much in favour of the Light Brahmas, the cocks as a rule
proving very yellow for so early in the season, whilot most of,
the hens were very cloudy in the hackle ; the first-prize hen^
however, was quite an exception to this general failing. The
breed as yet this year certainly does not show any marked im-
provement, but, on the contrary, somewhat of a retrograde move-
ment. Dark Brahmas, were, however, much better, particularly
the cup cock shown by Mr. Horace Ling^vood in first-rate feather.
Mr. Ausdell here showed both good cocks and hens, but cer-
tainly not in the same good show trim that has marked his
exhibits during many former years. The Spanish were unex-
ceptionably good classes ; even Bristol, Birmingham, and the
Crystal Palace Shows could not boast of better. Messrs. Boulton
of Bristol, and Jabez Walker of Wolverhampton, divided the
principal spoils with admirably conditioned specimens. In the
Game lists Messrs. Fletcher of Manchester, ami Mathews of
Stowmarket, were competitors with grand pens, both of these
well-known breeders showing birds hard as whalebone in the
feather, and which were evidently quite ready and no less
willing to have vindicated their right as Game fowls in other
positions than the show pen. A lovely-feathered Black Red was
the cup-taker, after a very lengthened inspection by the Judges^
against the first-prize Brown Red hen, she being equally fault-
less in every point ; the time thus occupied proved afterwards
thrown away, as both were the property of Mr. Fletcher. Tha.
second-prize Brown Red Game cock also belonged to Mr.
Fletcher, and was in his present condition very little inferior
to the cup-winner. In Hamhurghs, though Mr. Beldou won
three out of the four first prizes oflered for the different varieties,
Messrs. Duckworth, comparatively new exhibitors, carried off
the cup with a Golden-pencilled cock wonderfully neat and true-
feathered. French fowls were admirable. It is indeed but very
rarely any are seen so good ; in fact, in the cock class every pen.
obtained favourable notice, the prizes going iu this order to La
F'ieche, Crcve-Cceurs, and Houdans. In the hen class, though,
scarcely less praiseworthy, Creves here took everything. Golden-
spangled Rolands, Malays, and Black Hamhurghs took places in
the prize list for Any variety in the cock class ; and in that for
hens a marvellously well-developed Black Cochin hen, GoMen-
spangled Poland, and Silver-spangled Poland took precedenc&
in the order named. Some few good Game Bafitams were com-
peting, but the other varieties of Bantams were not so good as
they might have been. Aylesbury Ducks were decidedly at a
great discount, but the Rouens were good. A very fine-plu-

364

JOHENAL OF HOKTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

[ May 1, 1873.

maged pen of "Wliistling Ducks, sent by Mr. Tardley, took first
in the Variety Duck class ; and the Selling classes were replete
with good birds at low prices, many of which soon changed
owners.

The divisions appropriated to the Pigeons and the Babbits
were equally meritoriously supplied with first-rate specimens,
and did not lack admirers.

Although the weather proved very variable (changing from
snow to sunshine, ofttimes in even the space of a few minutes),
there was not :iuy lack of company during the time the Show
was open to the public.

P IGEONS.

The entries at this Show were not so numerous as we ex-
pected, there being only 125 pens. This to a great extent is to
be accounted for by our being at the commencement of the
breeding season, stiU the majority of the birds were good, and
we can safely say quality made up for quantity.

Pouters had a class assigned for each sex. In the cock class
a good Black was first. Blue second. White and Yellows being
the representatives in the hen class. Carriers also had two
classes. A good Black was first; this bird also won the cup as
the best bird in the first six classes of Pigeons. A Dun was
second. In the hen class both the winners were Blacks of good
quality. Barbs were a good class of nine pens; Black first.
Yellow second, which was immediately claimed at £0. Tumblers
(any variety), consisted of Almonds, Mottles, and Agates, the
former taking both prizes, and good birds they were. In the
Owl class, both foreign and English competed together. Blue
foreign first, and Silver English second. Turbits contained
three pens only ; all were lleds. Jacobins were a nice lot ; a
very good Red was first, and also obtained for its owner the cup
for the best bird in this and the six following classes. Yellow
was second, a good hood and frill bird, though large and coarse.
Dragoons were by far the strongest class in the Show. Good
Blues were first and second ; Yellow and Silver highly com-
mended. Some exliibitors in this class seem to think length
of bill is the only quality a Dragoon should possess. Antwerjjs
were not of the quality we expected to find them, excepting the
prize birds, which were SUver Dun and Blue respectively, and
singular to say none of the crack Birmingham breeders ex-
hibited. ii'a«(a(7s were a very good lot; White and Blue took
the honours between them. Nuns were a mixed lot; all of
them had the scissors freely appUed to them.

In the Any variety class. Black Mottle Trumpeter (new type),
first, Bloudinette second and third. In the SeUiug class for
Pouters or Carriers were some really good and cheap birds ;
White Pouters first and third. Black Carriers second. Selling-
class pairs were not so strong as the preceding class. Silver
Dragoons, Black Trumpeters, and Barbs being the winners.

The arrangements were good, with plenty "of light, the birds
being in two tiers along the side and end of the Hall. Turner's
pens were used, they were all well sanded down, and Carriers
fed out of pans. We hope the Show was a success, then, doubt-
less, the date of the next Walsall Show will be altered so as not
to fall at the start of the breeding season, as this appears to be
the only fault the Committee have made. They are the most
iard-working and energetic men we have met with for a long
time.

DoRKiMO.— Cocfc.— 1. T. C. Bumell, MiclieWever. 2, J. Walts. King's Heath,
Binjimgham. 3, A. Darby, BriUgnortli. Hch.— Cup. H. Lingwood, Needham
Market. 2, J. Watts. S. E. W. Southwood, Fakenliiim.

Cocnirs-Vuisi— Cinnamon or Uuff.—Cock.—Cn^. i. E. Harris. St. Dav. 2,
W. Bayliss. Walsall. S, T. H. Reaoman. c, H, Lingwood. Hcn.—l, H. Tom-
linson. Birmingham. 2, W. Bavlias. 3. W. P. Kvland, Erdington. Ac, J. Cattell,
Blrmiiigciam ; T. B.arne.tt. Walsall, c, J. Bloodworth.

OooniN-CHiNA.— Paitri.i.i,'.— Cock.— 1, T. Aspden. Church. 2, A. Bamtord,
Middlcton. 8. J. Stephens. Walsall, H«ii.-1. J. Stephens. 2,Eev.E.L Storey,
Bedale. 3, J. W. Taylor, Ulrereton. («-, J. Wood, ereston.

CoOHiN-CHiNi.— IfViiff,— Cock.— 1 and S. K. S. S. Woodgate. Pembury. 2
Mrs. A. Williamson. Leicester, lie Mrs. A. Williamson; W. Wbitvvurth, juu.'
Manchester, c, J. Blood worth. Hen. — I and 3, K. S. S. Wnodgate. 2, H.
Beldon. Bmgley. he, Mrs. A. Williamson ; C. Bloodworth ; W Whiuvorth. jun-

BBiHMA PooTRA.— Liij/if.— Cocfc. — I, T. A. Dcau, Hereford. 2 and S, Mrs. A.
Williamson, he, Kev. N. J. Eidlev, Newbnry. Hen.— 1 and S, Mrs. A. William,
eon. 2, S. Sarabrooke, Campden. he, J. Bloodworth. c, T. A Dean.

BRJiiMi PooTiiA.-Durt.-Cocfc— Cup. H. Lingwood. 2 and 3, T. F. .Vnsdell.
St. Helen's, c, J. Watts; T. F. Ansdell. ifen.-l and '2,1'. F. Ansdell. 8. E.
Pntcjiard, Wolverhampton, he, H. Lingwood ; E. Fearon ; J. Watts, c, Capt.
D. Lane.

Spanish.— Cocfc.— Cup and 2, J. BouUon. Bristol. 3. J. Walker. Wolverhamp-
ton. /i<;, J.Pitt; T. Andrews, c. ,7. Walker ; H. F.Cooper. Hen.— 1, . I. Walker,
Walsall. 2. Mrs. Tonkin, Bristol. 3, T. Andrews, Wolverhampton, c, H. F.
Cooper.

Game —Blaek or Brmn-hreaateA fleri.— Cock.- Cup and 2. J. Fletcher. Man-
chester. 3. S Matthews, Stowmarket. Hen —1, J. Fletcher. 2, H. E. Martin,
Fakenham. 3, Mrs H J. Bayley. Tenhury.

Game.— ^nj/ other colour— Coek— I, S. Matthews. Stowmarket. 2 and he, J.
Andrews. Worcester. 3, E. C. Gilbert, Pcnkridge. Hen.— 1, S. Matthews. 'J, J.
Forsyth (Duckwing). 3, E. Piigh.

HAMnnnciifi.— ffo/rffii or Sihun--fi}mn(ilrd—Cock.—l, H. Beldon. Biugley. 2,
G. & J. Duckworth. 3. T. Blakeraan, Wolverhampton. Uen—1, H. Beldon.
2. J. Bales. 3, U. Feast, he. Capt. W Coath, Walsall; W. M. Duignan,
Walsall; J. Freeman, c, T Plant, Walsall.

Hamburghs —tlohlen or Sitrer-}iencUled.—Coek—Cn\^, G. & .1. Duck-wnrlh,
€hnrch. 2, H. Beldon. s, T. B. Smith. Bristol, he, 1. H. Headman. Whitby.
ifcn.—l,H. Beldon. 2 and 3. T. H. Beadman. c, O. & J. Duckworth.

Frencu.— Coct.-I, Hev. N. J. Ridley, Newbury. '2, ,7. J. Maiden, Biggles-
wade. 8, H. Feast, Swansea, he. C. II. Smith; U. W. rTibbert; Miss E.
Williams, Montgomery; H. Feast; W. Dring. Hen.—l. O. W. Hibberl, Man-
ohester. 2, J. J Maiden. 3. W. Dring. ftc, G. W. Hibberl; H. Feast

An? otbeb ViBlETV.-Cocfc— Cup, H. Beldon. 2, Kev. N. J. EiJley. S, H.

Feast, he, J. Stephens, c, H. Matkery ; T. H. Rcadman. Ben.—i, A. Darby.
Bridgnorth (Black Cochins). 2. H. Beidon. 3, C. Bloodworth' Silver Poland)
he. S. E. Harris (Ancona) c, H. Feast ; J. Freeman.

GA3I.4 Bantams.— B/ac)f or Broicn-jrea^trit lltd.—Cn\), W. Adams, Ipswich.
2. A. Ashley. S.S.Smith, c. T. W. .\nns; T. Barnett: G. E. Small. Amj other
i'aivc/y —1, S. Smith. 2, J. Adkins. juo. S.W.Adams.

Bantams.— .-liii; variety not Oaine.—i, U. Mason, Walsall. 2, J. Watts. S, H.
Yardley.

VvcKs.—AyU'itburil.—l, T. Tomliuson, Burv. 2, Capt. V. Tongue, Aldridge.
Bouen. — l, K. Kendriek, Lichfi«kl. '2, J. Watts. 3, E. Smith, Timperley,
Cheshire. Any other variety.— I, H. Yardley. Birmingham. 2, J. Walla. 3,
Mrs. H. J. Bayley, Teubnry. he, Capt. W. Coath. Walsail.

Selling Class.— Cock.— 1, W. Perrin. Nautwich. 2. D. A. Dean. Marden,
Hereford. 3, S. Mills, c, .1. Forsyth, Wolverhampton ; J. Stepheua, Walsall (2) ;
H. Yardley ; A. Darby, Bridgnorth ; J. Cattell, Hirmiugham ; Mrs. A. William-
son, Leicester. Heii.—\, J. Stephens. 2. J. Butterworth, Rochdale. 3. J.
Bayley, Walsall. Extra S, H. F. Cooper, Walsall, lie, J. Pitt, Wolverhampton,
c, H. Yardley ; J. Freeman.

Any Vasiety of Poultry.— 1, H. F. Cooper. 2 and he, J. Stephens. S, J.
Bates, Walsall, c, H. Yardley ; J. H. Watkins.

PIGEONS.

Pouters.— Cocfc.—l, H. Pratt, Lozells, Birmingham. 2. W. Nottage, North-
ampton. /le, R. Fulton, London, c. H. Pratt ; Mrs. Ladd,Calne. ifert.- l.Mrs.
Ladd. 2 and he. R. Fulton, e. H. Yardley.

Carriers —Cocfc.— Cup and he. R. Fulton. 2. H. Yardley. c, S. A. Cooper,
Walsall. Heii.—\, H. Yardley. 2 and he, R. Fulton, c. H. Boebee, WalsaU.

Barhs.-I, K. Fulton. 2, W. Massev, Spalding. )ic, H. Yardley; R.Fulton.

Ti-MBLERB.- 1, R. Fulton. 2, II. Yardley. he, E. Fulton ; H. Yardley.

Owls.— I, E. Fulton. 2, S. A. Cooper, (ic, H. Vardley; S. A. Cooper (2). c,
W. E. Lee. ^

ToBiiiTs.— 1. J. Watts. 2, hT Yardley. )tc, R, Fulton.

Jacobins.— Cup and 2, R.Fulton. hcU. P. Hickman, Upper Penn, Wolver-
hampton, c, R. J. Goodwin, Stoke-upon.Trent.

Dragoons.— 1 and 2, H. Yardley. /ic, J.Walts; H. Yardley. C,D. Mitchell,
Mosele).

Antwf.rps — I, H. Yardley. 2, T. Edwards, jun., Wolverhampton, he, J. Cox,
Wolverhampton.

Fantails.- 1, J. Walker. 2 and c, H. Yardley. ftc, J. Walker ; J. F. Loreridge,
Newark.

Nuns.— 1. Rev. A. G. Brooke, Shrewsbury. 2, D. Mitchell, he, J. Watts, c,
S. A. Cooper.

Any othek Variety.— 1 and r/ic, E. Fulton (Trumpeter). 2 and 3, H. Yardley.
c, J H. Watkins, Hereford.

Selling Class.— PoHtei's or Carriers'.— 1. Mrs. Ladd. 2. H. Yardley. 3, W.
Massey, Spalding, he. H. Yardley; J. Watts, e. W. Nottage; J. Walls; W.
York, ^iiy oi/ier vai'iefi/.- 1, 2, and 3, H. Yardley, /ic, J. H. Watkios. c, W.
Bennett.

EABBITS.

Length of Bar.— Cup, J. Cranch. London (28^ in. by H in.) 2, F. Banks,
Loudon (-221 in.) 3, H. Attwood, Birmingham (211 in.) he, W. H. Webb, jun.,
Coseley. Bilston (2U in ) ; K. Biuerton, Darlaston (21 J in.).

Weight. — 1. J. N. Gilbert, Walsall (15 lbs. 12 ozs.). 2, W. M. Duignan,
Walsall (12 lbs. 10 ozs.).

All PuoPKRTiES.- 1 and 3, F. Banks. 2. J. Hume, York. )tc, W. Whilworth,
jun., Longsight, Manchester (2); T. Mlllington, Wednesbury; H. .\ttwood ('2).
c, W. Cux ; W. H. Webb. jun. ; G. Philps, London.

Selling Class.— 1, J. Cranch. 2 and S, C. King, London, he, W. H. Webb ;
G. Philps ; D. Maybury, Darlaston.

Judges. — Poultry : Mr. B. Hewitt, Birmingham and Mr. .1.
Martin, Worcester; Pigeons: Mr. J. Siddons, Aston, and Mr.
H. Allsop, Birmingham ; Babbits : Mr. H.YardJey, Birmingham.

THE PIGEONS AT THE DUBLIN SHOW.

Allow me, as one of the Judges of the late Eoyal Dublin So-
ciety's Show, to object to the inaccuracy of your correspondent's
report. He remarks in Pouters, *' second-prize bird was far
better but a little out of plumage,'* had he looked more closely
he would have seen something else. Mr. Yardley's first Carrier
cock was an excellent bird in head, although small. The cup
hen Carrier was worth far more than £5 as he states, being a
really good bird, and in bead far before the Dun ben he mentions.
Next, "The Tumblers were all Long-faced." The first and second
Keds and Yellows were Short faced, also a pair of Blue Beards in
the same class. In Fantails, Mr. Walker's winners instead of not
looking worth half the £8 claimed at were considered by many
fanciers (who really know the value of prize birds, and not only
pie rirbbish)-to be cheap, being a wonderful pair, far above any
hen iu 291 In Jacobins the first and second were better in cowl
and chain than 298, although all extremely good. There were
some excellent Turbits, which have shown their claim to the title
of prize-'mnners — i.e., having been mentioned at first-class shows.
These are designated " great rubbish." Next, three out of four
pens of Dragoons had nothing of the Carrier about them, the
winning Silvers and Mr. Yardley's Blues being very good.

I object to the rule of " limitation," and am glad to hear it
■will not bo repeated, but undervaluing any good bird that
happened to be shown is not the way to cure it. — C. F. Staun-
ton.

[Wo have other letters criticising our correspondent's too
severe notes on the Pigeons, but the above is all that need be
published. — Eds.]

An Indefatioaele Hen. — I have a Silver-spangled Hamburgh
pullet hatched on the (ith of October last, that commenced lay-
ing the second week in February, and laid twenty-seven eggs in
succession without missing a single day. She has now seven
chickens a fortnight old, and commenced laying again yesterday
(April 21st).— H. A. Mann.

Eeasonable Eefobm. — A reform which has been long talked
about ihas at last been effected in Massachusetts. The Great
and <3eneral Court has ordered that hereafter eggs shall bo sold

May 1, 1873. 1

JOUENAL OP HOSTICULTUBB AND COTTAGE GAKDENER.

365

by weight. It is fixed that a dozen eggs shall weigh 1 lb. 8 ozg.
— (New York Tribune.)

LIMITING THE PEICE OF PIGEONS AT THE

DUBLIN SHOW.

YoiTB correspondents on this subject should bear in mind that
this is strictly speaking an agricultural Show, and it is ouly
through pressure being brought to bear on the Committee that
they have permitted Pigeons to be included in the schedule.
Not knowing anything about the birds, they permitted three
exhibitors, resident in Dublin, to draw up the schedule. The
classes were arranged fairly enough, except that (as neither of the
three exhibitors keep them) they struck out Magpies, and put in a
class for Jacobins to suit Mr. Seale's birds (this is the only class
in the schedule in which colour is mentioned). They then made
np the price rule, which has been so much discussed. When I
got the schedule I at once wrote to the Committee and pointed
out to them, that whoever made the list of prices must have in-
tended the classes for himself or his friends, as the prices were
fixed without any reference to the recognised value of the birds,
and would exclude most of the leading exhibitors. I had a reply
that my letter was too late for this Show, but would be con-
sidered next time. Mr. Seale, who is responsible for the rule
about price, wrote through your columns, not avowing his posi-
tion, but defending the rule, and saying there was a large entry.
He was right as far as number is concerned, but of the 132 lots
shown, forty-four, or one-third of the entire number, were the
property of Mr. Seale ; the two other advisers had respectively
twenty-seven aud eleven, a total of eighty-two between the
three of them, leaving fifty lots to be divided between seventeen
exhibitors. One of your correspondents said the framers of the
rules had limited the price with one hand and given special
prizes with the other. We now see the result in Mr. Seale win-
ning the cup for Pouters, given by himself. I have authority
for saying the Society will have no such rule again, so I wiU let
the matter rest. — John Dowling, Blackrock, Cork.

GUINEA PIGS AS MEAT PRODUCEBS.

The Guinea Pig is extensively used in Peru as an article of
food, not merely by the higher classes as a deUcacy, but mainly
by the poor from its cheapness and abundance. It is an entirely
herbivorous animal, and a clean feeder, being there chiefly main-
tained on green lucerne or trefoil; but it would, doubtless,
thrive equally well on cabbage or lettuce leaves, and most sorts
of green garden stuff — in short, on the same food as the Rabbit,
to which it has many points of similarity. Its only similitude
to the rat is, that after the hair has been scalded off, it presents
an appearance not unlike what a large rat might do if similarly
treated — minus the tail.

For cooking it is not skinned, but the hair being scalded off, it
is split open and cleaned, and is generally fried entire in a
fryingpan, or sometimes grilled over the coals. Thus prepared
it is savoury and delicate, the flesh being white, succulent, and
nutritious, very superior to the Babbit, and it makes a most ex-
cellent dish. The cost of rearing and keeping them is next to
nothing, and their introduction into this country as an article
of food would prove an excellent and inexpensive addition to our
materials for the breakfast or dinner-table. — W. Mac.^sdbew,
Wcstivood, near Colchester.

Neglected Breeds. — I will join "Black Jacobin," in sub-
scribing towards a class for fowls for table pui-poses ; all birds
to be hatched in 1873, and either pure bred or the result of a
first cross. I am quite of opinion that the single-bird system is
preferable to that of showing pairs, especially for the Iftrge breeds.
— C. L. Sh-ibman, Church jind, North Finchley.

PouLTBY and Ostend E.iBBiTs. — An immense annual trade is
carried on in the importation of foreign poultry and Ostend
Eabbits. This year ah-eady the value amounts to i7V,679, being
a grejat increase on the preceding year.

NADIEING.

Pbactic-illy, I think, your correspondent " A Eenfrewshire
Bee-keepek " and I are agreed ; and yet, it seems to me, he
misapplies the term " nadir " in his remarks on this subject at
page 273. Surely he is speaking of an eke, for that, and not a
nadir, is ** merely an extension of breeding space." The nadir
is something different ; at least I have always understood it to
mean a distinct box placed under a stock, not for breeding pur-
poses, but with a Wew to obtaining honey. Therefore it is obvious
I am speaking of something quite different from your corre-
spondent ; and so I hold to the advice I gave in your Journal of
Mai-ch 2<Jth as both sound and iuteUigible.

I object to the use of nadirs altogether. The only occasion on
which I would make use of a box as a nadir is with a view to
tempt when we often cannot " compel " bees to "press up into
a super." My so-called nadir, therefore, is nothing more than
a super placed temporarily under a stock-box in order to induce
the bees to work comb in it, to which they may adhere after its
removal to its proper place over the hive. If your correspondent
had not confused the terms I should have agreed with all he
has said. Nothing can be more excellent than his advice, when
once bees have faii-ly taken to a super to eke (not nadir) the
stock, both to prevent swarming aud to augment the population,
so as to complete that and succeeding supers. Shallow supers,
too, should always be used. — B. & W.

BURGLAE AND FELON BEES.

You may remember last year you kindly telegraphed me in
the autumn, in reply to a telegram of mine stating that civil war
had broken out in my bee-house of ten stocks. I then asked for
advice as to how I could stay it, and you recommended moving
the skeps to different parts of the garden, which I accordingly
did with those that were fighting, and think it was the means
of saving some bees, though I lost four strong stocks by it. I
never saw bees fight so desperately. In a very short time they
had killed all the bees and taken all the honey out of a very large
and strong stock. I tried all sorts of means to stay them, and
was constantly driven back by their fury, though carefully
guarded by dress and gloves. A friend of mine had his bees
similarly disaffected, and he resorted to the brimstone pit with
most of those that were being attacked, and saved an immense
quantity of honey. I wish I had done the same.

But my object in writing you now is to tell you of a curious
circumstance which happened to a large strong stock in my
apiary this day. It was a thick straw skep with a flat top, 16 by
10 inside measure ; and when weighing my skeps this spring
I found it 60 heavy that I did not think it worth whUe to give it
any syrup, as I did to all the others, though some were nearly
as heavy. At noon to-day I found the skep was being attacked.
I had noticed the previous day or two that the bees seemed
rather sluggish, though previously they had looked well. I im-
mediately narrowed the entrance, but, finding it of no use, I
determined to drive the bees out without further delay. After
driving for about ten minutes I looked to see the result ; but no
bees having gone up I examined the combs, but could see only
a dozen or two of robber bees in the hive. Upon this I imme-
diately cut the combs out, thinking I should find them partly full
of brood, which would not keep till I could get a swarm ; but I
found not a single piece of brood comb, but lots of capital honey
— I should think at least 30 lbs., and plenty of bee bread. On
looking over the combs I found the queen alive, but she seemed
injured. I killed her with chloroform, and send her for your
inspection, as it seems a curious occurrence and one which I
cannot account for, unless the queen was old and unprolific and
the bees would not put up with her any longer, but left for better
quarters, though where they went I am not able to ascertain.
If you feel inclined to insert this and reply in your Journal I
should feel obliged. — B. B. Alexandek.

[Tour queen did not reach us. No doubt, as you suppose,
she was in a feeble condition and the bees deserted her. But
this is not the most usual course. Ordinarily they remain and
fight off all intruders so long as their life or their honey store
lasts.]

SPRING FEEDING IN COLD "WEATHER.

Let me give a word of warning to all bee-keepers to see that
their bees do not starve during these inclement east winds,
when honey is nowhere in the flowers. It would be a great pity
to lose valuable hives that have survived the winter, for want of
a pound or two of sugar syrup at this season. — B. A: W.

Peeventing Hens Eating theib Eggs. — If hens are put in
a dark jflace to lay, where they cannot see their eggs, they
cease from egg-eating. — Expeeience.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Books ( W. Hay.). — Our " Poultry Book for the Many," price Gd., vre think
would quite suffice fervour poult ryman. The best when completed will be Mr.
Wright's "Dlustrated Book of Poultry." Fourteen shilling nnmbers have
been published, and eleven more are to follow. [Ramalho). — The "Poultiy
Book." You can have it free by post if you enclose seven postage stamps
with your address,

CiuLDERDiTCH. — We ttre much obliged by your letter and enclosure. We
will answer it in full in a later number.

Dublin Poultry and Pigeon Show (0. P. S. T., and others). — Besides
the letter we publish to-day we do not think more need be stated.

Bantams at Dipton Show. — In the prize li^t Riven at page 847, the
names of Messrs T. & J. Rohaon, of Bishop Auckland, were accidentally
omitted as taking the first prize for "Bantams, any other colour."

366

JOUBNAIi OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ May 1, 1873.

Gapes in Chickens {Birdie}.— In our last number but ono {April 17th)
■wo stated all that we know on the subject. The origin of the worms is a dis-
puted point. They cause the gap^s, aud many (ourselves among the number',
believe they come from stagnant and impure water. No medicine is of any
avail, because the worms exist only in the trachea, aud the medicine does no't
touch it. They are, nevertheless, easily curable. When the chii-keus are old
enough give a pill of camphor the size of a garden pea. Camphor is the
strongest vermifuge, and its odour pcrvado.'i the windpipe while it lies in the
crop. Give the chickens only water strongly impregnated with camphor to
drink ; this is a certain cure, and we have never known it fail.

Poultry in Pai;Dock iC. -4.).— Enclose seven postage stamps with your
address, and order the '• Poultry Book." It wiU be sent by post. In it you
will find all the directions yon need.

Hatching Failcres (R. W.}.— The present will long be remembered as a
trying time for hatching. There have been more failuref than we ever re-
collect. We can only attribute it to the bad weather. It must also be horuo
in mind that early eggs do not hatch so well as later ones. The clear eggs
that, had not changed were not impregnated. The others had at one time had
the germ of life in them, but it had died, and they became rotten. Where
ftn egg has the white and yolk mixed, it is generally the result of frost. The
failure of many of your eggs was doubtless from chill in the early days
of iocabatiou, arising either from the hen being off too long, or from her
sitting hollow, or from being exposed to the cutting east wind. During such
weather as we have bad the hen should never be off the eggs more thau a
quarter of an hour, and she should always be shut in. You may give up eggs
if, when you feel them, they are cold. When eggs are put iu tepid water a
lew days before hatching, the good ones will wobble and be full of motion;
those that remain quiet on the top of the water ai-e failures.

Two-VEAit-OLD Brahmas (H. S. C.).— You may keep the Brahma hena,
hut not the cock. Our experience is decidedly against thrce-ycar-old cocks for
breeding. If the old bird is clean on his legs, good in comb, and bright iu
plumage, he is worth keeping or selling as a show bird. If not, he must go
■to the kitchen. Sitting hens lequiro to be well fed. Warmth of body is in-
creased by it, and the chickens are consequently stronger. We always give
ours barley, maize, and barleymeal. Millet is not good ; it has only fattening
properties. A sod of growing giass is always beneficial to hen or chickens.
The rip may he put on the grass. We never have any bottoms to ours, but
■while the nights are cold, and when the chickens are very small, they are
covered in with a hoai'd. We would sooner have the earth covered with grass,
or a gravel walk, for chickens than any artificial flooring. Grits are such as
are used for gruel.

8PANTSH Cock's Face Stvollen (Amateur).— 'We expect your cock has a
cauliflower face, and that which you call a swelling is simply natural growth.
In many cases it closes the eye entu-ely. It is sometimes washed with alum
and water with beoetit. In other cases the lids are fastened back with stick-
ing-plaister, but they are only temporai-y expedients, and the exaggerated
beauty becomes at last an incurable defect. There is an excellent Pigeon
book pubhshed at our office.

Fowls Feather-eateus and Elephantiasied (F.). — You do not tell us
Tvhether all your poultry are similarly affected, or only those that are shut up
for pure eggs fur sitting. We have suffered from both the complaints you
name, but never among our birds that are at liberty, only among those in con-
finement. The elephantiasis is comparatively a modern disorder, dating seven
or eight years back. The feather-eating is as old as poultry. We have cured
the first in its early stages by keeping the legs constantly oiled. We are at
present free from it, and never have it till the end of the season, when the
birds are naturally out of condition. It is also much worse in old than young
birds. The feather-picking can only be cured by giving the bu'ds their
hberty and removing any that are reaUy bare. We have seen them with only
their tail aud wing ft-athers left. Your feeding is unsatisfactory. You may
give meal in the morning, Indian corn mid-day, and meal iu the evening.
Thus you will give three meals instead of two, aud above all discontinue the
potatoes. The feather-ea'"ing arises from a diseased and disordered stomach,
craving for something the bird cannot get. Potatoes create much internal
fat ; this impedes the action of the gall and liver, causes maladies in both,
and probably inducei the habit of which you complain. Cannot yon manage
to let eaeh breed have a separate run, or to divide the day, each havlug six or
seven hours' run, and thus do away with the necessity of shutting any up ?

Detecting the Sex of Chickens (E. R). — At a few weeks old the sexes
ere easily distinguished. The cocks show a distinct comb, aud in many breeds
the plumage differs.

Chickens Dying in Hatching (J*. Y. C, Acton).— V,'e have no doubt your
chickens die in the shell from the eggs being too dry. For a week before
hatching they should be wetted every morning, or at any time when the hen
is off the nest. Failing this assistance the inner membrane of the egg be-
comes as har<i. tough, aud brown as Indian rubber. Few chickens can get
I jrough it. Whin the hea is off, dip your hand in water aud wring it over
the egg freely.

Promoting Feather- growth {New iJoss).— Rub the Dorking cock's neck
with coropouud sulphur ointment. He must bo put by himself. It is pro-
bable the hens have picked out the feathers. All eggs should be damped fre-
quently towards the end of the period of incubation.

YoLKLEss EGGB(ii. TK. C). — All such occurreuces as you mention are the
results of derangement of the egg-producing organs, and are sure to come
right. The only exception we ever knew was a ben that laid double eggs. She
did 60 two years in huccession, and we were obliged to kill her. 6ieu said
more than a thousand years ago they could tell the sex of the chicken by the
shape of the egg, but they never did so. Men are still under the impression
they can pick them out, but they never make their experiences public. We
do not believe anyone can dn it. We have given professors the opportunity
of choosing among any number of eggs, on the condition we were to be made
acquainted with the result. They never accepted our offers, nor will they.

Eggs Unproductive f.7. O. A. B.).— Under the circumstances wo think a
Bitting at half price sufficiently liberal.

Pigeons Parrot-beaked, &c, (.7. L. Jonfs). — We have known excellent
straight- beaked birds throw Parrot-beaked young ones, aud the opposite, so
that we should breed from such a bird. There is no cure for the beak itself.
Good beans and tares are the best food for Pigeoud.

Dandeuon instead of Hops — Some years back you inserted a letter
from Mr. Abraham Hardy, of Maldon, recommending the use of dandelion.
He said that a friend was making beer from it. I shall feel obliged to any
correBpoudent who can inform me how it in made. I am told that beer from
dandehon and nettles is quite common in LiverpooL — C. £.

White Paint (Su&.srri;>.r).— First mis in the pot the stiff ground white
leid, with a little spirit of turpentiue, into a smooth, uniform cream, adding
raw liuseed oil, and as much more turiientine as the puriiose the paint is in-
tended for may require ; finally, tinge it with a little grauiul Prussian blue, to
remove any yellowness, and, if wanted to set very quickly, mis in a UttU
sugar of lead in fiue powder.

WET EOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Square, London.
Lat. 61^ 32' -10" N. ; Long. O'' 8' 0" W. ; AUitnde 1 U feet.

Date.

9 A.M.

I.s- Tan Uav.

Shade Tem-I Radiation
perature. TtfUiperjitare.

1873.

Hygrome-
ter.

.1^

c ...

a
'5

April.

III On

»-■=- Dry.

Wet.

o-

^"~

Max.
deu.

Min.
deg.

buu. grass
deg. , deg.

Inches 1 deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

29.1]0j 42.4

SS.H

N,E.

419

j.ill

39.3

Iu7 3 1 31.2

O.UIO

Th. 24

'2'.».9,3

«.l

30 7

M.

47.7

.',0.9

Sl.l

14 3 28 9

0.012

80.108

44.9

S8 6

N.

46 1

51.0

29,9

1IH.6

26.6

HU ^66

4b.2

37 4

N.W.

462

51.2

30.1

93.2

27 0

0.090

sua 27

29.94J

45.0

43.1

W.

46.1

4U(i

S7.a

95 2

33 2

0.b28

, S.j.I5'2

47.4

43.5

N.W.

40.3

56.2

37 0

9i6

33 2

6.115

1 S0W9

41.9

46.4

N.

4e.6

55 4

441

91.0

40 1

0.016

Means

1 80.018

44.7

40 6

46.7

52 2

35.5

98 3

31.5

0,271

23rd.-

BEMARKS.
hail at 1.20, and again at 2.10 p.m.; but fine

Rather dull morning;

afternoon and eveniug.
24th. — Fine morning, snow at 11 a.m. ; heavy rain for a short time at 1 p.m. ;

sunshine and showers in afternoon ; tine evening.
25th. — Fine, but cold moruin . ; heavy snow at 11.30 a.m., and at 0.15 P.M. ;

very cold all day, but frequeut bursts of hue sunshine.
26th. — Fine morning; very cold all day, alternate sun and showers, some-
times of rain, sometimes of hail, aud sometimes of snow.
27th. — Rain in early morning, the hue heavy shower at 3.15 p.m., showery after

occasional hail.
28th. — Fair all day, but very variable, sometimes very dark, and sometimes

very bright.
29th. — Early morning wet and dull, showery before noon ; but fine aftex"nooa

aud evening.
Mean temperature nearly 8 ■■ below last week; repeated showers of snow,
hail, and soft hail, di-y northerly winds, and thi-ee successive nii^hts with
frost. — G. J. SYiiONS.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— April 30.
A CHANGE to more genial weather has brought a corre.spouding improve-
ment in the retail demand here, and a fall' supply of gjjd hothouse fruit
is now offered, comprising Peaches, Grapes. Strawberries, and Pines, the
latter beiug in good request at an advanced price. New Potatoes are now
coming-iu in large quantities from Malta aud Lisbon, prices ranging from
3d. to ijd. per pound. Good old ones are scarce and dear.

FRUIT.

Apples i sieve

Apricots doz. 0

Cherries i^ box 4

Cheatuuts bushel 0

Currants j sieve u

Black do. 0

Figs doz , 0

FiTuerts lb. 0

Cuba lb. 2

Gooseberries quart 1

Grapes, hothouse lb. S

Lemoua t^ 100 (j

Melons each 0

6. d. B.

3 Uto5
0 0 0

4 0 8
0 0 l>

0 0
0 0
2 6
2 0
15 0
10 U
0 0

Malberrlfls \>\h. 0

Noctarinta doz. 0

Oranges. ^ loo 4

Peached duz. IS

Pears, kitchen do^. i

deaaert doz. C.

Pine Apples 1 1>. 8

Plums 1 sifve u

Quinces doz. 0

Kaspberries lb. 0

Strawberries i+ oz. 0

Walnutii buihol 1&

ditto v^lOO 2

OtoO
0 0

0
0
0
0
0
6
0
0

1 0
8u U

2 t»

Artichokes doz.

Aspara^'us %^ 100

Freuch

Beans. Kidney ^100

beet, lied doz.

Broccoli bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums ^ iOO

Cnrri'ts bunch

Caalitlower doz.

Celery bi-udle

Coieworts.. do£. bunrhes
Cucumburs eaon

pickim[{ doa.

Endive doz.

Feuuel buuch

Garlic lb.

tierba buuch

Horseradish bundle

Leeks buuuh

Lettuce doz.

VEGETABLES.
. d. 8. d.

1^
2
3
1
1
0

1 6

a 6

0 6

0 0

2 0
0 3
0 6
0 8
8 0

0 2

1 0

MuBbrooms pottle 0

Mustard &, Cress.. puuuut 0

Unions ** bushwl It

pickling quart u

Parsley per doz. bunuhus 0

Parsnips doz. U

Peas quart 6

Potatoes bushel 6

Kidney do. U

Kouud du. 0

Radishes., doz. bunchus 1

Rhubarb bundle 0

Salsafy.. ^bundle 1

Savoys doz, 2

Scorzonera.... ^c bundle 1

Sea-kale baaket 1

tohallots.. lb. 0

Spinach bushel 2

Tomatoe* doz. 0

Turuips bunch i*

Vegetable Marrows 0

0to2
:d 0
0 6
6 U
0 4
a I

0 10
0 9

e. d.
0

0

POULTRY MARKET.— ApaiL 80.
We have still a scarcity, and a moderate trade. If the trade were as it used
to be, the supply would not be sulhcient.
d. H. d.

Lar^e FowU 6 0 to 7

Smallerditto S 6 G

Chickens 4 0 4

GoslmKs 7 0 ti

Guinea Fowls 4 0 4

Duuklmgtt 4 0 4

Pheasan'B
Piirtridges
llnrea ....
Kablti',s
Willi ditto

Piteous 6 U

s. d. B. d.
0 0 to 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
15 16
0 !( 0 10

I 10

May 8, 1873. ]

JOUBNAIi OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

3G7

WEEKLY

CALENDAR

•

Da.

Day

Average Tempera-

Rain in

Sun

Sun

Moon

Moon

Moon's

Clock

Year.

Month 1 Week.

MAY 8—14, 1873.

ture near Loudon.

13 years.

Rises.

Sets.

Rises.

Sets.

Age.

Sun.

Dav.

Night.

Mean.

Days.

m. b.

m. b.

m. h.

In.

h.

Days.

m. B.

8

Th

Eoyal Horticultural Socictj-'a Show closes.

62.G

89.6

ijl.l

IS

21al4

32»f7

2 3

16

8

12

3 42

9

F

Fermoy Horticultural Show.

62.G

S9.9

51.2

19

19 4

33 7

13 4

'£)

3

13

3 46

10

S

63.4

40.1

51.3

21

17 4

85 7

27 5

41

3

14

3 48

11

Soti

4 Sunday afteti Easteh.

02.4

40.9

51.6

19

16 4

37 7

44 6

65

3

15

3 61

131

12

M

Meet, of Eoyal Geographical Society, 8.30 p.m.

62.a

40..5

51.7

20

14 4 ( 38 7

4 8

12

4

O

3 62

13

Tn

63.5

38.8

51.1

20

13 4 40 7

24 9

S3

4

17

3 63

14

W

Koyal Botanic Society's Show opens.

63.2

40.S

51.7

16

11 4 41 7

42 10

S

5

13

3 54

134

1

Flora observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day temperatnre of the week is 62.8^ ;

and

its night temperature

40.0^ The greatest heat was 81'^ on the 12th, 183:5 ; and the lowest cold 2P, on the 8th, 185o. The greatest fall of rain was 1.14 inch.

1

AUEICULA CULTUBE.

^.W!"® ITH the permission of tlie Eev. F. D.
Horuer I forward you his letter, wliich,
without any view to its publication, he so
kindly wrote me. — Beauoh.vmp Stannus.
" I wUl answer your inquiries on the
Auricula in the order they arise, and in
what I write I simply give you what I
know, by long practice, to be successful.

" The Auricula undeservedly has a bad
name for being of difficult culture, and
for requiring mysterious treatment, but it is in truth a
flower very simple in its habits.

" I. 'What mixture of soil suits it best ?' Loam, leaf
mould, and very old dung in equal quantities, with rough
sand enough to keep it oj^en. The best loam is a fibrous
kind, yellow or darker, but not peaty : if you could procure
the top 4 or 6 inches of a pasture where Cowslips grow,
you could not do better for Auriculas. There is no
objection to the loam being rather heavy, but it must
be mellow and full of fibre. Dung to be so old as to
be a black earth. I have used both cow and horse ; they
do well in either. Frequent turning over of old hotbed
dung, where wet weather cannot reach it, soon mellows
it down to earth. Dvmg so fresh as to show any crude
material is not safe. Do not use silver sand, but some
rough clean-washed sand from a brook side, or, better
stni, charcoal the size of sjilit peas.

" II. ' Is pot-cultm-o recommended ? ' There is no
other method in use for the high-bred varieties. The
Auricula is a plant jieculiarly adapted for this. Though
a strong rooter, it does not care much for pot-room.
Then, again, in the dormant periods of its life it requires
careful protection from wet and damp, and this is best
afforded by pot-cultm-e. In June and July — the summer
rest — they require a diminished supply of water, and
hardly any at all in November, December, and January.
" III. ' What sized pots '? ' A .5-inch pot, inside mea-
sure, wUl grow almost all full plants : very few will
require more, though when in full fohage the plant will
well cover tliis. I have a few very large plants in 6-inch
pots ; younger plants in 4-inoh. I do not care for less than
3-inch pots. Plants too small for 3-inch pots I place at
the edge of that size, and two or three to the pot.

" IV. ' "Water, much or little ? ' Never much. Over-
watering is the most fertile source of mischief. In No-
vember, December, and January keep them, not indeed
dust dry, but certainly dry ; a little water round the rim of
the ]pot once in three or four weeks is generally enough.
If the fohage is flaccid, it is a sign of thirst. Do not
let this occur if possible. In February the heart begins
to look fresh and unfurls, then give them a moist, but
not wet, soil, and top-dress them with rich old cow dung
and a Httle leaf mould, removing an inch of old soil till
you come to the fibres ; be careful to hm't none of these.
In March, April, and Hay keep them in full growing
moisture, but not sodden wet, and not watered with
manm-e water. A good watering to go through the ball
No. 632 —Vol. XXIV., New Series

will last some time. Drainage to be as perfect as pos-
sible. Crocks plenty, covered with long moss, or, better,
rough, flaky, decayed leaves.

" V. ' Is a north wall of use '? ' It is nothing less than
necessary. They may even be grown the year round in
a north aspect, George Lightbody's plants were ; mine ai'e
under a north wall in fi-ames from the middle of May
to the middle of October. From the middle of October
to the middle of May they are in their blooming house,
which has a south aspect. Shade is requh-ed from strong
sun from the middle of March to the middle of May.
They must never be exposed to sun that causes them
to flag.

"VI. 'Removing offsets?' These are fit to remove
as soon as they have lost a few leaves, and have there-
fore a neck, and the best time to remove them is just
before the spring gi-owth. "Wait till you see the old plant
stir, at the end of Febniary or just before, and then
remove any offsets with neck, rooted or not. August,
just before the autumn growth, is another good time;
this is the time for the offsets iiot fit in the spring, as
spring is the time for those not fit in the autvimn. Cut
them off the parent at theu' connection, which is often
slight, rub the wound of both with charcoal dust, as
styptic and antiseptic, and pot the offsets, keeping them
in a close fi-ame and moist till they get roothold; give
au' in quiet warm weather, and freely when rooted.

" Do not plunge Auriculas. The plant is by no means
liable to disease imder a common-sense treatment. Bear
in mind it is an Alpine plant, fond of pure free air, and
delighting in a sweet open compost moderately rich, fi'ee
fi'oni nostrums, and made firm in the pots. Its wants
are few — sweet soil, sweet ahr and plenty of it, sweet
water, but never much of it, and never much sun.
Damp is its worst foe. The Auricula can bear any cold
of our winters, but none of our hea\'y wet. Frame treat-
ment is but to secure artificially what Alpine winters
give naturally — a dry rest imder the snow. There is,
of course, something to be said for the dehcacy produced
in cultivating the Auricula up to types that do not occiu-
in vrild nature, and would not long survive in a struggle
for supremacy on a mountain side. Our modern speci-
mens wUl not bear what wild ones will, but it is safest
to follow nature as far as possible. — F. D. Horner,
Kirkhi/ Malzeard, Bijjon."

FEUIT TEEE BLOOMING— SUPEEFCETATION

OP PEAR BLOSSOMS?
I WISH to ask whether there is anything unusual in the
blooming of the fruit trees, especially Plums, this season ?
In this neighbourhood (Chtheroe) — I am now more espe-
cially rcfen-ing to my own trees — the usually abundant
bloomers Victoria and Prince of "\\'ales have scarcely a
bloom upon them, whilst on seven Damsonfi, four of
thrim of large size, I have not been able to discover a
single blossom. On the contraiy, the Purple Gage, which
seldom blooms profusely with me, and Coe's Golden Drop
have been covered with bloom, and almost every bloom

No. 1281.- Vol. XLIX., Old Series.

368

JODENAL OF HOKTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAKDENER.

[ May 8, 1873.

seoms to have set ; if no farther severe frost occur, these trees
will require very severely thinning.

Pears on walls are full of bloom ; standarJs not yet opened
out ; indeed, some of my trees in the orchard had all the
blossom buds cut-off by the severe frosts of February. I may
specify Beurre Clairgeau, Seckle, and Beurrij d'Amanlis as
having their bloom buds entirely destroyed.

Whilst on the subject of Pears, I may mention what seems
to me to be a subject of some interest as touching on seminal
varieties. Some fifteen years since I noticed a fruit on a tree
of the Seckle of three or four times the usual size, and I saved
the pips, and raised two trees, which have now been bearing
two or three years. The interesting point to which I wish to
call your attention is, that although both these trees were
raised from the same fruit, they are completely different from
each other in flavour and appearance. One is an enlarged
Seckle rather coarse in flesh, but improves every year over the
quality of the preceding one, and this year I hope to be able
to speak of its quality double-worked on the Quince, and
grown in the orchard house. Hitherto it has only been grown
as a standard in a locality where the original Seckle has never
been anything better or larger than a small Crab. The other
Pear is a medium-sized melting Pear of high flavour, ripe in
October, having no resemblance to the Seckle whatever. The
tree from which these two were raised grew in close proximity
to a Beurn' de Eauce ; but as other Pear trees were growing on
the same waU, the blossom from which the fruit came may
have been fertilised by the bees from some other tree. The
singular thing, as it seems to me, is that there must have
been two distinct fertilisations in the same blossom, as there
is no resemblance in the leaf, mode of growth, appearance and
quality of fruit, or in anything else between these two fruits
raised from the same Pear.

Notwithstanding the excellence of its quality, I cannot re-
commend the propagation of the high-flavoured one, at least
in this neighbourhood, as it is not very hardy when in blos-
som, and does not hang very well in a wind; but, as even the
Beurrij de Capiaumont is little better here than a Crab if grown
as a standard, this might l^e well deserving of cultivation in a
more genial locality.

The other Pear, the enlarged Seckle, is a prodigious bearer,
about four times the size of the old Seckle when grown in
the orchard, and I hope it may prove of value when double-
worked and grown in the orchard ; and as to its bearing under
glass, I have a small tree double-worked on the (Quince which
had nine bunches of bloom upon it, on which nine bunches
sixty-three Pears set. I hope, therefore, to learn what double-
working and glass will do in improving the quality.

The small fruits (Gooseberries, and Red and Black Currants),
are so far promising, as the frosts of last week do not seem to
have done any damage to them. — T. G.

SEEDING OF MYOSOTIS DISSITIFLOBA.

Mr. Robsox, in his interesting and instructive notes on dwarf
hardy edging plants (see pagea.S3), remarks that he has failed
to discover this plant propagating itself naturally by seed. I
am happy to state that it seeded freely here last season, and
I have now a stock of strong self-sown plants, but as yet they
show no sign of flowering. I may add that the soil in which
the plants seeded has not been disturbed in any way since the
flowering period last year. — W.m. Gakdiner, Lower Eatiiujton
Park, Stmt ford-on- Avon.

HOES AND HOEING.

I SHOULD think it is well known that the hoe is one of the
most useful of garden implements, and I wish it were not
necessary to say that in many places it should be more fre-
quently made use of. To recommend that the hoe should be
frequently used among all garden crops is nothing new, and
I feel sure if this recommendation were fuUy carried out it
would be esteemed as sound advice as any handeil down to us
by our ancestors. To use the hoe only as a weed destroyer is
not to realise its full value, for, to quote Mr. Johnson's " Science
and Practice of Gardening," " hoeing facilitates the access of
air to the roots of plants by rendering the texture of the soil
easily permeable." The truth of this remark is easily proved by
the comparative progress of a crop that is frequently hoed and
one that is not. Some gardeners in practice rake the soil after
every hoeing ; this, I think, is not wise, for it reduces the valuo
of the hoeing by maldng the soU too fine, and it binds or

cakes on the surface more readily, and air is excluded. If hoeing
be properly done the surface may be left even enough without
raking. The above are a few facts which the oldest practi-
tioners were acquainted with from the beginning of their
career, and which, 1 think, were regarded by them as of more
importance than the rising generation of gardeners appear in-
clined to assign to them. The ornamental department of
gardening attracts the young gardener, and he is too apt to
leave a knowledge of the cultivation of the soU to be picked-
up piecemeal and imperfectly.

As regards hoeing and stirring the soU, I purpose giving
illustrations of some of the best and most useful implements
for the various conditions of the soil and the crops. I will
commence with the draw hoe.

Draw Hoes {fip. 1). — Of these there are several varieties
and sizes. That illustrated, and which is known in Norfolk
as the Bloomfleld hoe, is fastened into the handle by a strong
spike having a long narrow neck, terminating in a broad head,
to which the steel blade
is attached by three rivets,
whUst the handle is kept
from splitting by a deep
ferule. Another form of
draw hoe has a socket for
the handle, which should
be about 4 feet long. It
has a crane neck, to which
is attached a plate of iron
and steel C inches long
and 3 broad. These crane-
necked draw hoes may
vary in size considerably
for different purposes,
and are most admissible
for hoeing between crops,
as the small neck allows the soil to pass freely over the plate,
as well as between the foliage of any crop without injury. A
cheaper sort of draw hoe, but with the iron socket or eye
closely attached to the blade or plate, is often used ; these are
liable to clog in wet weather, and take much of a man's time
in cleaning ; nevertheless, they are useful for drawing earth to
plants as well as for loosening the soil before the rake is ap-
plied. It is, however, best to have several sizes of these on
hand, as a large hoe is not at all times the handiest tool to
ajji^ly to the job.

The Crajie-neclied Hoe (Jig. 2) is another form of draw hoe.
There should be several sizes, for they are very handy tools to

1. — Draw Hoe.

Fig. 2. — Crane-necked Hoe.

use in seed beds or for thinning crops. The largest size is not
more than 18 inches long, with a short wooden handle of
about 0 inches. The handle and neck are made of iron, and
the blade of iron and steel, about 3 inches wide. They are to
be used with one hand only. An active man will take one of
these tools in his right hand and roughly thin-out the bulk of
a row of Turnips or Carrots, and complete the thinning by
means of his left hand with remarkable speed.

The Ailjustahte Hoe (Jig. 3) is a draw hoe and thrust hoe

Fig. 3. — Adjustable Hoe.

combined. The plate is deep and strong, very similar in shape
to what is made by local blacksmiths for use in heavy soils, but
this tool it possesses the great merit of a contrivance to set
the plate at an angle to go deep or shallow. It is very cou-

M«y 8, 1873. )

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

3G9

venient, but it is not in general use. As a thrust hoe it is
useful in hard-bound soUa for eradicating weeds.
Fig. i is another combination, having all its edges sharpened,

of similar construction also in use. Now if these hoes are
serviceable to the market gardener, they will be equally so for
others, and will, doubtless, save valuable time and trouble.

The Drao Hoc {f'il- 8) is not, I think, in general use, but it
should be so, for it is quite as necessary to expedite work as
some others. Its construction is a horizontal iron bar attached

Fig. 4. — Draw-and-thrust Hoe.

and is used either as a draw or thrust hoe. I have used this
sort of hoe when living in Suffolk, and a man can easily go
over a large space of ground in a short time. Hoes of this
description are principaUy used for killing weeds and loosemng
the surface of the soil.

The Sci{/flt' Hoi- (fig. 5) is a
very handy tool, and although it
is sometimes used as a weed-
destroyer, it is more employed
for reducing the coarse surface of
the soil previous to planting, as
for Cauhflower or Cabbage beds
and the like, or to go over the
SOU before using the rake, and
for stirring flower-beds before
planting. It is a light easily-
used tool about a foot or more
in length and 14 inches wide, with
sharp-edged teeth on both sides.
Firis. 6 and 7 are Drill Hoes. There are two or three sizes of
t'lese. They are mostly triangular-shaped curved-faced tools,
some of them with the shoulders rouuded-off, making them
heart-shaped, with a socket to secure the handle, and a thin,
curved iron neck. They are necessary implements in well-

iig.

Fig. 6.— Drill Hoe.

Fig, 7. — Double-edged Prnssian Hoe.

■worked soils, leaving the drills even in width and of uniform
depth. Their length varies from 4 to 6 or 7 inches. The
double-edged Prussian Hoe {firf. 7) serves not only to destroy
the weeds, but leaves the ground level, thus obviating the use
of the rake.

Another excellent drill hoe I saw in use the other day in a
market garden in this neighbourhood. It is made stout and
strong enough of wood, excepting the teeth or hoes, which are
of iron. It is of the shape of a hay-rake, and nearly as wide
and long. The hoe blades are similar to fig. 6, but narrower
and an inch longer, slightly curving inwards towards the
operator. The hoes are fastened to the woodwork by a nut
screwed on at the top. The handle is fixed on in the same
way as for the hay-rake. The merit claimed for this tool is
that three drills can be drawn at once. There is a double one

5

Fig. 9.— Guernsey Prong

Fig. 8.— Drag Hoe.

to a socket for the handle. It is much like one of the steel
digging forks reversed, only the prongs have a much greater
curve. It is used principally in collecting from the ground
the refuse of any crop, and for that is very handy, as well as
for other purposes.

Dutch or TJiiust Hoes.— I am not acquainted with more than
two forms of these. The better of the two is a thin straight
plate of iron and steel attached to a bow of iron, with a socket
in which to fasten the handle ; the plate ia set at a suitable
angle for a person to stand upright when using it. These
hoes are made in sizes varying from 4 to S inches or more in
width, and are used either for loosening the soil or killing
weeds. They are easy to work, and are generally used. The
others simply vary in the shape of the plate ; some have a
pointed instead of a square front edge, others a square plate,
with all the edges sharpened ; but in my opinion there is no
advantage in these, therefore I will not further illustrate
them.

Prong Hoes. — I come now to another section of hoes. The
first is the Guernsey Prong {fig. 9).
It is very much in the shape of a
hammer, about 8 or 10 inches long,
attached to a handle 4 or 5 feet long.
One end is made in the shape of a
chisel, and the prongs are flattened
and sharpened in the same way, only
slightly curved. These tools are ex-
cellent for eradicating deep-rooted
weeds. The farmers use the same
sort of tool in their Turnip fields
to tear up the roots of Turnips left in the ground by the
sheep.

Next, there are the double and treble-pronged hoes. I think
they may not inappropriately be called digging hoes, for they
are made stronger, and are used for a much heavier kind of
work than any of the others before described. I have not
seen them so much used as in this part of the country. The
two-pronged one is about 5 inches wide, and 8 or 1) inches long,
with chisel-shaped prongs tolerably sharp, steeled at the ends,
and there is an iron eye at the top for the handle, which is
4 or 5 feet long. The three-pronged hoe is made in a similar
way, and is about 7 or 8 inches wide. These tools are capable
of penetrating the earth to a considerable depth and loosening
it about the roots of crops, or of preparing soil for planting
after digging. They are handy tools in any garden, and may
be used for several purposes. Farmers Ukewise patronise this
tool for cleaning their hedgerows, as it is not easily put out of
order, and when the prongs become worn down they may be
relaid or steeled again, and be as good as new. They will last
for years.

The above is a description of the most-approved forms of
hoes in use at the present time that I am acquainted with.
Other forms and shapes might have been illustrated, but for
construction and utiUty they are not equal to those described.
If any person having a hoe of distinct merit wUl kindly add
to my list he will be doing a service.

Now for a word or two about the handles. These should
not be too long ; from 4 to 5 feet, according to size, is a fair
length, and allows room for a convenient shifting of the hand ;
neither should the handles be too hea\'y, otherwise they are
burdensome to the operator. Generally the size and strength
of the tool, and the sort of work for which it is made, will bo
a good guide to the size and strength of the handle to be fur-
nished. The handles for the smaller kinds of draw hoes, as
well as Dutch hoes, may be made of good deal wood ; Imt the
tools for heavier work, such as the double and treble prongs

370

JOURNAL GF HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE.

[ May 8, 187a

and the Guernsey hoe, may be furnished with bandies of
quartered maiden ash ; this wood when well seasoned is lasting,
strong, and tough, as well as comfortable for the hand to grasp,
which is not the least important part in the working of tools ;
for if a workman has an imcomtortable- working tool his energy
for work is diminished, and he sooner becomes wearied. —
Thomas Recoiu>.

KOYAL HORTICULTUBAL SOCIETY.

May 7th and 8th.
The Rose and Azalea Show commenced at South Kensing-
ton yesterday, and will be continued to-day. Never there nor,
perhaps, anywhere else has there been such an assemblage of
magnificent pot Koses as is there to be seen ; larger competi-
tions we have often known even at this season, but, as a whole,
never finer. The plants perfect in symmetry, the flowers the
perfection of size and colour, and withal exquisite in their
freshness, what is there left to desire but their possession?
But there is not simply the Society's Rose Show, added to
it is Mr. W. Paul's Show, in which Roses are nobly represented
in their multitudinous varieties, and the two combine to make
one of the finest floral displays of one flower ever seen.
Unfortunately, ou the opening day the weather in the after-
noon was far from propitious.

In the nurserymen's class for twelve Boses in pots two mag-
nificent collections are shown. That which comes from Mr.
Turner, of Slough, and which took the first prize, consists of
specimeus which have certainly not been surpassed, if, indeed,
equalled. Charles Lawsou, measuring G feet in diameter and
about the same in height, is covered from below the rim of the
pot to the top with flowers averaging nearly 4 inches in diameter.
Paul Perras is about the same size, and equally splendid. The
remainder of the collection consists of fine examples of Souvenir
de Malmaison, Souvenir d'un Ami, General Jacqueminot, Alfred
Colomb, Madame de St. Joseph, Paul Verdier, Victor Verdier,
CC'hne Forestier, Baauty of Waltbam, and a splendid plant of
Anna Alexieft. From Messrs. Paul & Son, of Cheshuut, who
are second, come fine specimens of Souvenir d'un Ami, Madame
Thfirese Levet, Dr. Audry, Victor Verdier, Anna Alexieff, Marie
Baumann, Madame Victor Verdier, Juno, John Hopper, Horace
Vernet, and Elie Morel. These plants, though not so large as
some of Mr. Turner's, are very evenly matched in size and full
of flower.

In the class for six Eoses in pots Mr. Turner is also first,
showing, among others, beautiful specimens of La France
and Madame Thereso Levet, and a very large plant of John
Hopper.

In the amateurs' class for three Roses Mr. Ellis, gardener to
J. Galsworthy, Esq., Coombe Warren, Kingston, takes the first
place ; and Mr. James, gardener to W. F. "Watson, Esq., Isle-
worth, the second.

For twenty new Roses, the prizetakers are Messrs. Paul and
Son, Mr. Turner, and Messrs. Veitch. The best appear to be
Tea Marie Van Houtte, lemon, beautiful in brad; Perfection de
Montplaisir, pale yellow; Cheshunt Hybrid, Etieuue Levet,
Lyonnaise, Baronne Louise Uxkull, Coquette des Blanches, a
white Hybrid Perpetual, and Madame George Schwartz. Maxime
de la Eocheterie, full, maroon crimson, as well as several of the
preceding received certificates.

Of greenhouse Azaleas there is a very good show, and ou the
■whole there ia less of that stiff crinoline style so much com-
plained of in former years. The tendency seems now to be in
favour of a looser style, and there is more foliage seen.

In the nurserymen's class for nine Azaleas Mr. Tmner, Slough,
is second with a lot comprising round-headed dwai'f standards
and bush-formed plants in good bloom. For six, among amateurs
Mr. J. Herrington, Thornton Eoad, Clapham Park, is fiist with
tall pyramidal plants of ludica alba, Rubra plena, and others
very well bloomed. Mr. G. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Gold-
smid, Bart., Regent's P.ark, has a second prize for large plants of
Apollo, Wooleri, Stauloyana, and others in fine bloom. Mr.
Hill, gardener to H. Taylor, Esq., Avenue Eoad, Regent's Park,
is third. In the nurserymen's class Messrs. Dobson, Isleworth,
have a second prize. For three (amateurs) Mr. J. Ward, gardener
to F. G. Wilkius, Esq., Leyton, is first with splendid bushes of
Due de Nassau, Louise Margottin, and Sinensis ; Mr. Wheeler
being second ; and in the class for the same number, open only
to those who had not previously taken a j)rize for Azaleas, Mr.
Ward is first with Flower of the Day and Madame Miellez, white,
and Sinensis. Second comes Mr. Slogrove, gardener to W.
Tyser, Esq., Eeigate ; and third prizes are taken by Mr. Mar-
cham, gardener to E. Dates, Esq., Iver; and Mr. Eowe, Eoe-
hampton. The best single specimen is a fine bushy plant of up-
wards of .5 feet in diametrer, snd a mass of white blossom, shown
l)v Mr. Turner; Criterion from Mr. Cole is second, and Mr.
Ellis is third.

Of Auriculas, there is a numerous exhibition, and superior in
quality to that of a fortnight ago. For twelve show kinds Mr.
Turner, of Slough, is first, with Rev. F. D. Horner, Topsy,
Arabella, Alderman Wisbey, Mrs. Marsden Gibson, Col. Cbamp-
neys (very fine), Cantab, Lovely Ann, John Waterston, Charles
Perry, Apollo, and Eichard Headly. The Rev. H. H. Dombrain,
Westwell Vicarage, Ashford, is second, and Mr. James, Isle-
worth, is third. For six Rev. H. H. Dombrain and Mr. James
are respectively first and second. For twelve Alpines the
honours go to Mr. Turner, Mr. James, and Messrs. Dobson.
Mr. Turner exhibits a numerous and very fine collection of
show and alpine kinds in the miscellaneous class, for which an
extra prize was given.

Of herbaceous Calceolarias, the best gi'oup of six comes from
Mr. James — these are of a very fine strain. The second honours
go to_ Messrs. Dobson & Sons.

In the remaining classes Mr. Ward, gardener to F. G. Wilkins,
Esq., takes the first prize for six Orchids with fine potsful of
Phalienopsis grandittora, Cypripedium villosum with fourteen
flowers, Odontoglossum Phahonopsis, andDendrobiumFarmeri.
Mr. Denniug, gardener to Lord Londesborough, Norbiton, is
second in the same class with Cyrtopodium punctatum having
two gi'and compact spikes, Cattleya Meudelii with lovely white,
orange, and purple flowers, and Dendrobium infundibulum
covered with white and orange blossom. Mr. Bull is third. For
six Lycastes the prizes go to Messrs. Ward and G. Wheeler, the
former in particular having excellent examples of varieties of
Lyoaste Skinneri. For Mr. Peacock's prizes for Agaves, Aloes,
and Cacti there was no competition. Several boxes of beautiful
cut Roses are shown by Messrs. Paul & Sou, Turner, aud others,,
the first-named firm taking the first position.

Messrs. Carter & Co. offered prizes for their First Crop Pea.
Mr. T. Farrow, Brigadier Hill Gardens, Enfield, took the first
prize. The other competitor was Mr. G. Brown, gardener to
E. Mackenzie, Esq., Fawley Court, Henley, who was awarded a
second in-ize.

The subjects exhibited in the miscellaneous class are nume-
rous, aud several extra prizes were awarded, as will be seen
from the official list in another column. Mr. J. Aldous, Glou-
cester Road, South Kensington, sends a nice group of flowering
aud tine-foliaged jdants ; Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord Lon-
desborough, a group of very choice Orchids, containing Vanda
Parishii with sepals and petals pale yellow, spotted brown, Up
rosy purple (this had a first-class certificate from the Floral
Committee), Aerides Veitchii with a handsome spike ha-\dng ten
branches, aud Masdevallia Harryana. Messrs. W. RoUisson and
Sons, Tooting, have a choice group of Orchids and hardwooded
flowering plants ; Messrs. F. & A. Smith, Dulwich, a group of
Azaleas and Heaths ; Mr. J. Welch, Hollycombe Gardens, Lip-
hook, a group of plants of Habrothamnus Hawkshawiaua with
beautiful variegation; Mr. G. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. H.
Goldsmid, Bart., St. John's Lodge, Regent's Park, exhibits a
choice group of stove and greenhouse plants ; and Mr. C. Noble a
splendid group of his hybrid Clematis, which have been noticed
in detail iu previous reports.

From Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, comes a fine basket of
Spira-a palmata, one of the most elegant and effective of crim-
son-flowered plants, and moreover hardy. Mr. Bull has Coch-
liostema Jacobianum, one of the best of our recent intro-
ductions, in fine bloom ; also a miscellaneous group of Palms
and fine-foliaged plants. Groups of spring-flowering plants,
Show, Fancy, and Bedding Pansies, aud Succulents come from
Mr. Ware, of Tottenham. Messrs. E. G. Henderson exhibit a
grouj) of their useful Perpetual Carnations, also Caladium Albert
Victor, which had a first-class certificate from the Floral Com-
mittee. From Mr. James, Messrs. Dobson, and Mr. Bragg, of
Slough, come also several collections of Show, Bedding, and
other Pansies. Mr. Goddard, gardener to A. Chancellor, Esq.,
Eichmond, sends a number of Polyanthuses aud cut flowers of
Narcissi in competition for Mrs. Lloyd Wynne's and Messrs.
Barr & Sugdeu's prizes, are exhibited by Miss Florence Barr,
Tooting, and Mr. Ware. Mr. Lacy sends a collection of Cine-
rarias ; and Mr. Pestridge, Uxbridge, a group of Tricolor Pelar-
goniums. Mr. C. Bachhoffer, 41, Hatton Garden, exhibits flower-
vase aud Hyacinth glass-holders, ornamental as well as cheap.
These we hope, to notice more fully hereafter.

Feuit Committee. — Alfred Smee, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair.
Messrs. Watts & Son, Northampton, sent specimens of North-
ampton Hero Broccoli, which was considered to be not superior
to other varieties already in cultivation. Messrs. Waite, Bur-
nell, Huggins, it Co. sent specimens of Yorkshire Hero Broccoli,
a good close-headed variety, but with no merit superior to other
varieties. Mr. A. Parsons, of Danesbnry Park, sent Lauder's
Protecting Late White Goshen Broccoli, a good large variety.
Messrs. Hurst & Son, Leadenhall Street, sent Monro's Improved
Rably Ciu'umber, a variety not approved of by the Committee.
Mr. Jones, Royal Gardens, Frogmore, sent fruit of the Hedsor
Cucumber. Air. Frederick Perkins, Leamington, again exhibited
his Leamington Broccoli, which was admired for the protecting

May S, 1S73. ]

JOUEXAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GABD'EMER.

371

character of the leaves, ■which shade the head from the effects
of light.

Mr. Cole.5, gardener to W. K. Wigram, Esri., Tlie Chestnuts,
St. Margarets, Twickenham, sent a remarkably line dish of
Beurre de Bance Pears, well kept, well ripened, and of good
flavour. A cultural commendation was unanimously awarded.
Mr. Gardiner, gardener to E. P. Shirley, Esq., Lower Eating-
ton Park, Stratford-on-Avou, sent a collection of Apples, to
which a cultm-al commendation was awarded. Mr. Jones, Boyal
Gardens, Frogmore, sent dishes of Black Hamburgh and Buck-
land Sweetwater from pot Vines one year old. These were ex-
<;elleut esamj)les of early forcing, and received a cultural com-
mendation. Mr. W. S. Stevens, gardener to J. B. B. Elliott,
Esq., Chesterford Park, Essex, exhibited a dish of Strawberries,
to which a cultural commendation was awarded. A similar
-award was made to a dish of Dr. Hogg Strawberries, sent by
Mr. Hopper, gardener to E. D. Lee, Esq., Hartwell House,
Bucks, which were universally admired for the meritorious cul-
iaxe bestowed'upon them.

Floh.il CojnriTTEE. — "W. B. Kellock, Esq., in the chair.
Messrs. Veitch exhibited a plant of the anxiously-looked-for
•Odoutoglossum vexUlarium. It had two spikes with toui- flowers
on each, of a lovely pale but pleasing rose, white at the base of
the lip ; flowers 3J inches long by 25 across. It is an introduc-
tion from Antioquia, and succeeds well with O. citrosmum,
•O. Phalienopsis, &c. The Messrs. Veitch expect to have a plant
with two spikes and six flowers on each for the first show in
-June. This received a first-class certificate, and is decidedly
the finest Orchid introduced of late years, though in intensity
of colour it must yield to the brilliant Masdevallias. From the
same firm came also Azalea Triomphe de Woudelghem, a free-
flowering variety with large semi-double salmon red flowers ;
this received a first-class certificate, as also did Phojnix rupi-
-cola, a species with handsome deep green recurved leaves.
Platyloma brachypterum, a smaU-growing species with very
neat, pale green, deeply-divided fronds, had likewise a first-class
certificate, as well as Platyloma bellum, a very nearly allied kind
with smaller fronds. To Sempervivum triste, a very neat semi-
tufted species with dull purple leaves red at the base, a firat-
•class certificate was likewise given.

Mr. Deuning, gardeu'ir to Lord Londesborough, sent a very
fine form of Masdevallia Harryana, the flower rich glowing
crimson. It received a first-class certificate.

Mr. C. Turner, The Eoyal Nurseries, Slough, sent six new
Azaleas. Apollo, a large waxy-white red-striped flower, received
a first-class certificate. The Eev. H. H. Lombrain, Westwell
Vicarage, sent Auricula C. E. Brown, raised by Mr. Headley,
and which is a very fine grey-edged flower. A first-class certifi-
cate was awarded.

Mr. W. Bull sent the following, which had first-class certifl-
■cates, Colax jugosus, creamy-white petals, the sepals and lip
densely spotted with bluish purple ; and Begonia Sum'ise, a
variety with rosy-red flowers. Besides the above he had Gon-
gora portentosa, and Polycycnis lepida, with very peculiar
spikes of flowers. Zonal Pelargonium White Clipper came from
Mr. Must. The flowers are well-shaped, and the trusses thrown
well above the foliage. It received a first-class certificate. Dr.
Denny, who exhibited the preceding for Mr. Must, sent two
splendid seedlings, the one scarlet and the other scarlet beauti-
fully tinged with magenta, having flowers 2 inches in diameter.
As these were not entered they had to be passed over.

Odoutoglossum Phalienopsis was sent by Mr. T. Hubbersty,
Bridge Hall, Bury ; this was a magnificent specimen, which
received a cultural commendation. Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea,
sent fine varieties of Odoutoglossum Alexandrse and O. Pesca-
torei ; a magnificent specimen of Epidendrum cnemidophorum,
and a particularly well-flowered specimen of Camarotis pur-
purea, which had twelve spikes of delicate rose-tinted flowers.
The plant was trained to an upright raft of teak wood. Athyrium
Fiiix-fcemina virgatum, a nicely tufted species, was sent by Mr.
-J. Chambers, gardener to . I. Lawrence, Esq.,Beddington, Surrey.
The same exhibitor sent a box of cut flowers. Messrs. F. & A.
Smith sent Pelargonium Digby Grand, a free-flowering variety,
which will be useful for cutting from. Mr. Webster, Gordon
Castle, sent a collection of hybrid Echeverias. .A collection of
the different varieties of Mignonette was sent from the Society's
gardens at Chiswick.

FuxEBAL Flowers in New Yobk. — In all our large cities
flowers form a large source of revenue to florists who make
bouquets, itc, a speciality. In New York, the aggregate sum
spent yearly on flowers is immense. Upon funeral flowers,
especially, large sums are expended. The following will show
the prices paid for leading sorts in winter : The price of a
handsome basket is from five to fifty dollars. Bouquets can
be made at from three to twenty-five dollars. Single Bose-
bnds cost twenty-five cents, and Carnations twenty cents.

Smilax is sold at one dollar a yard, and Violets by the dozen
at twelve cents. One spray of Lilies of the Valley costs tweuty-
five cents. — [Horlkulturist.)

MB. WILLIAM PAUL'S SHOW OP ROSES AND
HARDY PICTORIAL TREES AND SHRUBS.

As previously announced in our columns, this commenced on
Saturday last, and will continue open to inspection until the lOth
inst. The place of exhibition is this year not the Crystal Palace,
but the Gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society, at South
Kensington. There, in the large tent where the great summer
shows are held, is arranged the grandest collection of pot
Roses we have ever seen, and interspersed among these, and
elsewhere grouped, are Launistinus, Hollies, Yews, Golden-
leaved Oaks, Acer Negundo variegatum, variegated Elms,
pyramidal Ivies, here and there a Palm, in the centre circle an
Araucaria excelsa, and round the sides Euonymuses, Tricolor
Pelargoniums, Clematises, and Lily of the Valley, while at
various parts of the picture standard Rhododendrons and
Double Crimson Thorns come in with telhng effect. The
terraced turf banks never looked more verdant than they do now,
and the natural effect of the complementary colour to the many
shades of red, predominant among the Roses which form
the leading feature, is to enhance their brightness, though in-
deed they need no borrowed light, for never have we seen Roses
fresher and brighter. Roses there are in large specimens, such
as we are familiar with at the tournaments between the great
growers, and Roses in compact little bushes densely clustered
with blooms, or bearing fewer flowers of a size that seems al-
most incredible. Wo are not going to inflict on our readers a
long list of names, of which they will find ample store in
another report ; the old favourites and the new aspirants to
fame are both freely and well represented.

Among the deliciously-scented Tea Roses, the rich yeUow
Madame Falcot, the delicately rose-tinted white and ever-
beautiful Alba rosea ; Mdlle. Cecile Berthod, sulphur ; Per-
fection de Montplaisir, pale sulphur yellow, blooming in
clusters like a Noisette ; Adrienne Christophle, yellow suffused
with coppery crimson ; and Madame de St. Joseph, another
deep-coloured Rose, are especially conspicuous. That fine old
Bourbon, Souvenir de M^almaison, is magnificently bloomed in
several examples ; while of Hybrid Perpetuals, Duke of Edin-
burgh, Mdlle. Marie Rady, Mdlle. Eugenie Verdier, Lord
Napier, Marquise de Castellane, Marquise de Mortemarte,
Princess Christian, La France, Cceur de Lion, Etienue Levet,
Lyonnais, and many others there are numerous finely bloomed
plants. Princess Christian, which we beUeve we were the first
to call attention, is truly magnificent. It not merely maintains
all that has been predicted of it, it has surpassed all that could
have been conjectured. Mr. William Paul has brought a
garden of Roses to the very doors of the London dweller ; let
us hope that it will not be allowed " to blush unseen, and
waste its sweetness on the desert air."

NEW PICOTEES.

" WnAT a fine lot of new Picotees were shown this year ! "
So I wrote to one of our oldest florists, the Rev. C. Fellowes,
of Shottesham, near Norwich. "I'es," was his reply; "but
never, perhaps, again shall we have such a year for saving seed
as we had two years ago." Indeed, I think Mr. Norman, of
Woolwich, another very successful grower, said he had saved
that year nearly a pound weight of seed. Certainly never have
so many fine varieties been exhibited or received so many cer-
tificates, while to all appearance they are robust in habit.

It is a great pity that this lovely flower is not more culti-
vated in the neighbourhood of the metropolis than it is. In
other p.arts of the country — at Oxford, Bath, and iu the north
— it is very extensively grown, but the growers of it in or near
Loudon are very few. Days are altered since the great com-
petitions that used to take place rivalled almost the northern
exhibitions, and the comparatively easier work of bedding-out
has eclipsed this and many another florists' flower. As it is
now a good time to obtain the new varieties, I would briefly
notice those which Mr. Turner, of Slough, is now sending out.

Alliance (Fellowes). — A heavy bright purple-edged flower.
The petals are broad, the white pure, and the size large.

Bertie (Turner). — One of the medium red-edged flowers.
Very fine, and a good grower.

Chanticleer (Fellowes). — A flower of good substance, with
heavy purple edge.

372

JOURNAL OF HORTICtTLTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

[ May 8, 1873.

Ensiiin (Fellowes). — Large, full, heavy red-edged flower, and
a good grower.

EiUth Domhrain (Turner). — One of the most distinct flowers
that has been raised of late years, the colour a beautiful soft
magenta rose, heavy edge. It has been deservedly certificated
both at the Crystal Palace and Boyal Horticultural Society,
and will be a universal favourite with all Picotee growers.

F.dith (Fellowes). — Medium purple, full flower.

Juliana (Turner). — A splendidly coloured, heavy-edged,
scarlet flower, petals smooth. The edge has no bar whatever,
and in every respect is first-rate.

Mrs. Harnhy (Turner). — A narrow red-edged flower of fine
quality; the white remarkably pure, and, as far as my judg-
ment goes, the best narrow-edged flower wo have.

iilisx Small (Fellowes). — Red edge, heavily marked; white
pure, petals large and smooth, and the habit excellent.

Mrs. Krynes (Fellowes). — Pure white, the edge medium
depth ; petals broad and smooth.

Medina (Fellowes). — Heavy bright edge of lively purple.

Mrs. Fordham (Turner). — Rose-edged, medium depth ; petals
large and smooth. The flower is full and very beautiful.

Xor/oll: llrauti/ (Fellowes). — A very distinct flower, heavily
edged with purple of a beautiful violet shade. Flower not so
large as many, but at the same time a very desirable variety.

Frinci'ss of Walts (Fellowes). — A remarkably fine heavy-
edged purple flower, very large and full ; and fine as Admira-
tion is, I believe that this wiU be considered a stUl more
beautiful flower.

S///('i'(( (Fellowes). — Heavy red-edged flower, but not equal,
I think, to Miss Small.

It will be seen that two of onr most famous raisers have
contributed to this new batch, and their names alone would be
a sufficient guarantee of excellence ; bnt as I have had the
opportunity of seeing the flowers, and indeed of naming some
of them, 1 can avouch that they are the finest set of Picotees
ever sent out at any one time ; and in this judgment I am
confirmed, not merely by the fact of the numerous certificates
they have received, but by the judgment of many who have
grown this lovely flower for many years. — I)., Deal.

EEAEING CALCEOLARIA PLANTS.

I FORWAKD a few of my Calceolarias from cuttings put-in in
a cold frame during the first week of November. They have
been aired to the freezing point, and this year only covered
with the lights, even when we had IC" of frost.

I have this day (April 30th), planted out my stock, forking
the borders well, opening the soil with the trowel, and insert-
ing the plants. A little fine soil was placed about them, and
then was given a regular swill of water, which they wanted,
for I kept them dry purposely. I then closed the soil around
them, leaving the tops 2 or 3 inches above ground. I prefer
shaking out the plants and giving them a free root-run into
better soil than that in which they have been struck ; and if
no rain come, the syringe will help them along, sun or no sun.
They are wet enough at the roots at present. The two small
plants are from the shrubbery, put in unprepared and left to
themselves. They are in any case rendered very hardy from
the cutting stage, biit become less so after growth has com-
menced. Fancy a fine plant early in March coddled till June,
shifted with a ball (a trouble), roots near the surface, and
two days' hot sun — the result is too well known. I shall be
surprised if my plants be not in good health and well rooted
up the stems, and they will give some better result than cutting
over and one crop of bloom — viz., bloom in all weathers from
July to November. — Charles Pbinsep, Goldthorn Hill.

[The plants are sturdy and full of growth.— Ens.]

FLOWERS FOR OUR BORDERS.— No. G.

DEUTZIA CrRACILIS.— Slender DEnziA.
Amonost shrubs of a deciduous nature perhaps one of the
most interesting is the elegant little Deutzia gracilis ; its
graceful habit, the abundance of its snow-white flowers, and
the readiness with which they are yielded even by very small
plants, entitle it to rank with deciduous shrubs of the first
class. The free-flowering habit of this and one or two other
species is indeed so remarkable, that a cutting of the young
wood struck in summer will produce flowers in the following
spring, when the plant is but a few inches high ; and facilities
are thus afforded for their cultivation in pots, which greatly
enhances their value.

The genus Deutzia, originally represented in our gardens
by scabra only, now includes at least seven additional spe-
cies— viz.,crenata, canescens, sanguinea, undulata, corymbosa,
staminea, and gracilis, all hardy, white-flowered, deciduous
shrubs. The best known, and we may add one of the most
valuable, is the D. scabra, so named from the asperities of the
leaves ; its habit is more robust than that of gracilis, and its
foliage and flowers of a larger size. Crenata is a fine species,
of somewhat taller growth than the preceding, with which it is
sometimes confounded ; it may be distinguished by its larger
flowers, and by the teeth at the margin of the leaves being
rounded, or crenate, those of scabra are sharp and saw-hke ;
this species is not much cultivated at present, at least in this
country. Canescens is so named from the branches and nnder-
surface of the leaves being covered with a whitish down ; of its
merits we know but little. Staminea is an abundant flowerer,
but is somewhat dwarfer than those wc have mentioned.

Dcntzia gracilis.

Corymbosa was highly spoken of at its first introduction, but
it has proved a shy bloomer, which is the more to be regretted,
as its flowers are very sweet-scented. With sanguinea and
undulata we are acquainted only by name ; that of the first
alludes rather to the reddish purple colour of the ripened
shoots than to the tint of the flowers, which arc, we beheve,
white, like those of the other species.

From those now enumerated, gracilis differs in nothing but
its slender habit ; its foliage is more acute than that of
scabra, and is entirely destitute of the roughness peculiar to-
that species and crenata. The utmost height it will attain we
are ignorant of, as most of the specimens are yet small ; but it
will, probably, not exceed 8 or 4 feet. Its cultivation, whether
in pots or the open ground, is of the simplest character, the
chief point requiring notice being the mode in which the shrub
is pruned. All the Deutzias produce their flowers on the
wood of the previous year ; if, therefore, the ordinary mode of
shortening the shoots were adopted, most of the flower-buds
would be pruned oft ; the young shoots should therefore be
left untouched, but the old wood must be thinned out in
autumn, as well as all cross shoots which interfere with the
regularity of its growth. The taller-growiug species, such as
scabra and crenata, may bo trained to a single stem, all
suckers and the lower shoots being cut away.

Where there is a choice of soils, a mixture of peat and loam
will be found to suit not only gracilis, but all the species ; in
the absence of these, any good friable soil, in a well-drained
site, may ba used. Increase may be effected, either by layers,
or cuttings of the half-ripened wood under a hand-glass, in
the open border ; a sUght bottom heat will be advisable when
the cutting is not taken untU late in the season. Most of the

May 8, 1873. 1

JODRNAIi OF HOBTICULXURE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEE.

o73

species^throw np suckers, which offer a ready mode of increase,
and it is probable that gracilis may be multiplied in the same
way. In the open ground this species flowers about the be-
ginning of June ; but when growu as a pot plant, it may be
had in bloom at almost any period of the winter and spring,
where there are facilities for forcing. With no better accom-
modation than that afforded by a good window, it might easily
he made to yield its flowers six weeks earlier than in the open
borders. The temperature of an ordinary apartment will be
sufficient to excite it into growth ; but it must be confessed
that the dry atmosphere of a room is somewhat injurious, both
to the foliage and flowers ; it should, therefore, when in
bloom, be kept cool and moist. Specimens cultivated in pots
should be repotted after flowering, and exposed during sum-
mer and autumn in the open air ; they will require to be
pruned in the manner explained for the larger plants.

The Deutzias are very closely allied to the genus Phila-
delphus, of which one species, the common Syringa, or Jlock
Orange (P. coronarius), is generally found in the shrubbery.
In the Syringas, the sepals and petals are each four; the
stamens numerous (more than twenty), and the style one ; in
Dentzia, both sepals and petals are live in number, the
stamens ten, and the styles three ; there are, therefore,
abundant marks of distinction. The stamens are alternately
longer, the shortest being opposite the petals, and all of them
are curiously winged and somewhat forked at the summit, or
rather three-toothed ; the anther being seated on the central
tooth ; in D. staminea, this peculiarity is so marked, as to
have suggested the specific name, broad-stamened. Nor is
this the only noticeable feature, for a close examination will
reveal the presence of a yellowish ring within the circle formed
by the stamens, termed by botanists the disk.

The leaves of scabra are remarkable for their roughness,
and under the microscope this is seen to be owing to hairs of
a stellate form, which are supported upon a short stem, the
whole presenting a mushroom-like appearance. According to
the Dutch botanist Kffimpfer, the wood of this species is much
prized by the Japanese cabinet makers for making pegs of the
finest quality, it being very hard and tough. And if, gentle
reader, you may chance to be of the fair sex, it will, perhaps,
interest you to know, that when Orange blossoms are scarce,
the flowers of the same species may be employed as a sub-
stitute in the formation of the bridal wreath — a hint for
which we expect nothing less than a pah' of white gloves.

To complete our sketch of these interesting shrubs, we have
only to add, first, that gracilis, and most of the species are
natives of Japan and China ; corymbosa and staminea are
from the Himalaya ; secondly, that the not very euphonious
generic appellation was confei-red in honour of a Dutch patron
of botany, John Deutz, of Amsterdam. — (W. Thompson's
English Flower Garden.)

SHEPHERDIA ARGENTEA AND OTHER
BERRY-BEARING SHRUBS.

I HAVE just read your notice of Shepherdia argentea with
great interest, as I have a large bush of it nearly twenty years
old. 1 am glad that people have an English name for it,
as I dislike unnecessary pedantry. I had some doubts about
the fact of its bearing fruit till I saw it confirmed in page 334.
My plant is 6 feet high and the same across, and has been
frequently trimmed-in. It grows very much in habit like a
Lilac bush, and stools-out in the same manner, from which, no
doubt, plenty of suckers or layers might be obtained. It is
perfectly hardy, and has not had a twig browned during the
late terrible spring, which has blown away nearly every Straw-
berry in the country, and blighted, as with a flame of fire,
common Ivy and Holly.

My Shepherdia produces every seasoti an abundance of small
flowers about the size of those of the Elder tribe ; but these
have never been succeeded by any appearance of fruit. I
have noticed several other specimens of the plant in public
pleasure grounds, but never in fruit. Is it possible that we
have hitherto only had a plant of one sex ? — perhaps the barren
female — as was the case with the spotted Aucuba, which never
fruited till a few years ago, when we got the male plant from
Japan. As the Shepherdia has been in the trade for many
years, I hope some of our leading firms will give us informa-
tion whether they have had it in fruit. I think not, or I must
have seen it.

These remarks apply as well to the Ruscns (Butcher's Broom).
When I lived in London, eating my terms for the bar, I re-

member well the branches of it, which were used to decorate
shops at Christmas time, bore a bright red berry, and children
buying such in Covent Garden used to ask for " a piece of
Cbiistmas." It had such a lively appearance that I procured
a great many plants of which I have large patches in my
grounds. They have never fruited, and nurserymen about
here tell me that it does not bear a berry at all, but that is
quite incorrect. Is it possible that we have hold of barren
plants of this shrub also ? I have Euscus aculeatus, our native
plant, and B. Hypoglossum. There are two others in cata-
logues— viz., R. HypophyUum and E. racemosus, sometimes
called the Alexandrian Laurel, which I am not familiar with.

To use the Shepherdia as a hedge seems to me absurd, ex-
cept as a screen to conceal some eyesore in summer, as it is
very lax in its habit, very tender in texture, and very brittle.
The Osage Orange was much puffed as a desirable hedge plant
many years ago. I raised a great many from seed. In this
country it wUl only live behind a wall, and grows in a very
crooked straggUng manner like the Pyrus japonica.

I was a very hard-working member of the Acclimatisation
Society whUe it existed, and was very anxious to introduce
hardy game birds, such as the praiiie fowl, ruffed grouse, d'c,
instead of cockatoos and kangaroos, and at the same time
urged the introduction of ben-y-bearing shrubs suitable to our
climate, and which these birds fed on in their native habitat,
but no one but Mr. H. Burr, of Aldermaston, would listen to
me. From what I read in botanical works I am quite con-
vinced that there are many plants in the wilds of America
which might be introduced here with great advantage both as
ornaments and as food for game and other birds. — Jaceson
GiLLEANKS, Cumherland.

P.S. — Since writing the above I have looked into Loudon's
" Encyclopedia of Gardening," which states (p. 935) that this
shi-ub (Hippophaii of Lin.) is called by the Indians Eabbit-
berry and Beef-suet trees, and that it was said to have borne
fruit at Loddiges' arboretum ; also that the fruit of another
variety, H. rhamnoides, is much eaten by the Tartars. To
show the long duration of winter here, we have still large
patches of snow on Skiddaw and the adjacent hills ; thick ice
every night. Plenty of woodcocks still in the country, though
the cuckoo has commenced calling. May 1st, 1873.

[We think it very probable that our coiTespondent's speci-
men is barren on account of its being either a male or female
plant, as the Shepherdia belongs to the Linnaean order Dioecia.
We join Mr. GUlbanks in the wish that some of our readers
win inform us if they have ever in this country known the
Shepherdia argentea ripen its fruit in the open air. The
Euscus is also a direcious plant, and may be barren from the
same cause. It certainly beai's berries in this country when
the male and female plants grow near each other. — Ens.]

MALINES.
The MiJisioN of M. F. de Cannart d'Hamale, Sexateur.

From the earliest days of our gardening history, the city of
MaUnes, in Belgium, has been associated with the study of
botany and horticulture. Here it was that Dodoens was born,
and resided as physician to the Emperor Maximilian and his
son Eudolph II., till, through jealousy, he was compelled to
leave the court, retiring to Antwei-p, and finally becoming
Professor of Botany at Leyden. Here, too, in more recent
times resided Major Esperen, devoting his time to the study
of pomology, and the raising of new fruits, leaving behind
him a name enduring as long as those deUcious fruits with
which it is associate wUl last. .A.nd here also Uves in our own
day one of the most prominent patrons of Belgian horticulture
and native industry, the Senator M. de Cannart d'Hamale,
author of " Monographic Historique et Littfraire des Lis,"
well known and as highly respected wherever European horti-
culture is found. , , n i.

In the garden attached to the mansion of M. de Cannart
d'Hamale is a collection of plants of much interest. The
garden itself is a bijou, of limited extent, but so skilfully and
so tastefully designed as to appear considerably larger than it
is. Here are cultivated all descriptions of plants, mcluding
Orchids, Camellias, Azaleas, Ferns, Pahns, and those which
are so much admired for their fine foliage. There are five or
six glass houses adapted for the different classes of plants,
and in all of them we were struck with the tasteful arrange-
ment and the skilful cultivation. In the Grande Serre, which
is the prominent object in our second illustration, Ferns and

371

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Mar 8. 1873-

fine-foliaged plants are grouped so as to produce a charming | represented on the left of this large bouse is a gigantic pyramid
effect, the whole of the back wall of the bouse being covered Pear, 30 feet high, a perfect model of that kind of training,
with rockwork, which is clothed with vegetation. The tree | but to which our artist has not done anything like justice.

\'IEW OF A PORTION OF THE LAKE AND THE LAKGE MAGNOUA.

The collection of large Orange trees in tubs, and which are
kept in an orangery in winter, are arranged during summer in
various parts of the grounds with admirable effect.

Immediately behind the mansion, of a portion of which our
first figure is a representation, there is one of the finest speci-
mens of Magnolia couspicua we have ever seen. At the time

VIEW OF GRANDE SERRE.

of our visit it was in full bloom, and formed a great distaff I excellent Araucaria imbricata is on the same lawn close ad-
30 feet high covered with its glorious cup-shaped flowers. Au | joining it, and in the small lake are many aiinatic plants of

May 8, 1873. )

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND OOTTAGE GARDENER.

great interest. Here and there in nooks ami corners are pieces
of statuary, and in prominent positions are to be found busts
of Dodoens, Clusius, and other old world botanists and bor-
ticnlturists whose names and memories M. de Cannart delights
to honour.

We have given this general account of a charming town
garden, to show how much can be done in a small space, and
how much enjoyment and instruction may be concentrated
even in the centre of a large city, when there is a mind capable
of devising, and a will to cairy out so desirable an object.

CONCERNING EOSES.

One word about certificates. No Rose should be certificated
upon hearsay. It should be a specimen in front of adjudi-
cators. It should not only be a good Rose, but distinct and
better than those we have in the same line ; and here I must
ask permission to thank the French and English raisers for a
glorious lot of Roses.

It is not uncommon to hear persons talk of the new Roses
as a pack of trash. Such persons do not know how difKcuIt it
is to raise a Rose as good as its parent or parents. It might
take a man many years to raise as good a Rose as the worst
that comes out annually. It is not a nurseryman's work, but
that of an ardent, laborious, and most patient amateur. More-
over, it takes four or five years before you can be sure that
your seedling is worth anything. Roses grown under glass
with solar or fire heat are oftentimes very different in character
and attributes from the same Roses grown out of doors. For
my part, till Roses are on strong stocks I do not much care to
have them. I bought only two last year, from which in my
vinery, planted out, I never obtained a flower- — viz.. Baron de
Bonstettein and Baronne Louise UxkuU. The former is now
in beautiful bud (eight buds), and the latter, a more growthy
plant, promises me three or four buds to judge from. I ^viil
then report, but it will be an under-glass report.

I have looked over the Usts of novelties of the year, and as
far as reading and guess go I think the trump cards will come
out of these. Tea. — Perle de Lyon, Madame Dr. Jutte.
Noinrtte. — Madame Caroline Kuster. Hi/hrid PerpeUials. —
Claude Levet, Princess Beatrice, Firebrand, Madame Lacharme,
Pierre Seletzsky, and AmClie de Pays Bas.

The Roses here (Dorset) have wintered well. I have lost
only one Rose out of 18.51 plants. I have raised the rosery up
to 2060 plants ; they are in forward bud. I have just finished
the spring priming. I have cut out many shoots with good
buds, as it is not well to take a full crop for the first series.
It stops continuous blooming. The Roses here lasted in an
iinexpanded form till the first Sunday in .lanuary. The last
four buds, very fine, were cut from M. de Montigny, one of the
finest Roses in its line of colour ; it is the only Rose of which
I can say I never lost one. I had originally, many years since,
sixteen plants of it, and they are all alive now and in good
condition.

It is good to be " on with the new love before we are off
with the old." I have great respect for some of our old Roses
which have been given up by some people, such as M. de Mon-
tigny, Caroline de Sausal, Baronne Pruvost, Triomphe de Paris,
La Ville de St. Denis, Gloire de Vitry, Madame Knorr, and
W. Griffiths.

" A living dog is better than a dead lion." We want strong
growers with hardy constitutions, no others will last any time.
Such Roses as Louis XIV., Madame Furtado, Marquise de
Mortemart, and some others, are very beautiful and may do
under glass, but they will not do outside of it. The two best-
constitutioned Roses in the world are Gloire de Dijon and
Jules Margottin ; nevertheless, Madame Levet, deep buff, is
better than the former, and Edouard Morren is better than the
latter. They seem equal to them in other attributes. — W. F.
RAPCLyrrE.

BALSAM CULTURE.
The common garden Balsam is now one of the most beauti-
ful of our summer decorative annuals. It is of East Indian
origin, consequently tender. Its position should be in the list
of subtropicals. It, like most flowers taken in hand by the
florist, has been very much improved, and none but the very
best strains should be grown. There are still a number of
flimsy trashy varieties sold, of lanky habit and indescribable
colour, like the bulk of German Ten-week Stocks ; therefore
the first consideration in starting to grow Balsams is to obtain

good seed; and when a good strain is secured, seed should be
saved from picked plants.

It is no great exaggeration to call many of the better varie-
ties Camellia-flowered. The last two years we have h«d some
white flowers that were quite reflexed in the petal, and im-
bricated, and perfectly double, like Camellia Imbricata, from
seed got at a respectable London house; the colours very fine,
various shades of red, pink, and almost crimson, white, and
mottled, as well as good purples, alongside of which common
strains,or indeed no strain at all, would not have been looked at.
The quality of flowers, however, depends much on culture.
Under the best management it wUl be observed that plants
which have yielded vei-y fine flowers when in their progressive
stages will, when on the wane, produce flowers quite single,
though the colours will be still distinct ; then is the time to
secure seed — to obtain a crop of good plump seed in this
climate by planting out a selection of the earliest plants, which
have flowered in pots, on a bed of rich soil, in the blaze of the
sun in the open ah'. This is, however, not necessary to seed
saving, only it saves labour in watering and house room ; and,
moreover, a Balsam in a seedy state is not ornamental in-doors.
The Balsam should be quickly grown when taken in hand ; it
requires plenty of sun and air, so that it is not advisable to
sow the seed very early in the season. The plants should
never be drawn by want of light or room, and not starved for
want of pot room if large plants are wanted. A large Balsam
can be grown in a comparatively short time under good condi-
tions. A bright sun and plenty of air are essential to mature
the growth as it progresses. We therefore do not advise to
so\: the seed before the first week in April for the first lot ;
later sown will even be better. As the sun increases in power
and the plants in size, air may be given with more freedom
with the advancing season.

If seed be scarce, we prefer sowing single seeds in small pots,
or, if plentiful, more seeds to the pot, selecting one plant and
pinching out the rest, ^^'hen they are well up, the pots are
placed in a dung frome or warm pit near the glass ; and at once
guard against overmuch moisture aud closeness, as the seed-
lings will get drawn in one day if forgotten or mismanaged.
From the beginning the pots would be better plunged in saw-
dust or tan, thinly, but more especially as the plants advance
in size, when more air is given ; a steady temperature of from
75° to 80" at the root is immensely in their favour ; the top
heat may fluctuate very widely without any harm.

If the seeds have been sown in 3-inch pots, the first shift
should be into 6-inch, with one large crock over the hole.
They should be shifted when the roots have well hold of
the ball of soil but not matted. The plants will be by this
time short sturdy fellows if they have not been coddled. Some
do not mind their being a little long in the stem, as the balls
can be kept low in the pots at the time of shifting, aud the soil
brought up to near the first pair of branches ; but we do not
advise the practice, because it should not be necessary. When
shifted, they must be again plunged, but not in much bottom
heat ; the heat of the sun on the plunging material, whether
sawdust or tan, will be sufficient in tA&y and onwards.

At this first shift it will be necessary to speak of soil. We
prefer turfy loam of a sandy nature, which has been stacked
for a few months with layers of dung put np with it ; the turf
will have absorbed the good qualities of the dung. We chop
it up rough on the potting bench, and to it we add a third of
horse-droppings, which have been prepared for the mushroom
liouse, with the bulk of its good qualities remaining, but
sweetened for use; old mushroom dung is poor stuff. If the
soil is not sufficiently sandy — that is, if it be of a close texture
— a small portion of gritty river sand should be added, or sharp
pit sand ; fine silver sand is not necessary to such a coarse-
rooting plant as the Balsam, although it will do perfectly well.
We, however, prefer for coarse-rooted plants a coarser eand.
The sand in this instance is not necessary simply to keep the
soil open mechanically ; sand is necessary, we believe, as a
feeder or digester, especially in very rich soils. A plant will
sometimes be found not to root in pure dung, but add a por-
tion of sand to the dung, and it roots in it directly. With the
above soil the plants may be potted rather firmly.

Increased attention will now be required to air-giving. The
plants must have plenty of room, to allow of a free circulation
of air about them, and prevent them shading each other — the
lights of the pit tilted half way down the side, not top and
bottom, to avoid draughts. They will now make very rapid
progress and sturdy growth. Water cautiously for a few days
after netting, and always with water of the same temperature

376

JOUKNAL OF HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENEE.

( Uaj 8, lt>73.

as the plunging material. A comfortable condition of the root,
not actually bottom heat— as usually employed, that expression
is apt to lead astray — but a steady warmth, is one of the most
essential points in the culture of tropical and subtropical
plants ; for although the atmosphere may vary in temperature,
there is a steady rise or decline in the heat of the soU with
the season in most climates. Watering with cold water is a
serious evil with plants in pots, and very soon ruins a Balsam.

The next shift may be into 10-inch or 12-inch pots, if
large plants are wanted ; 8 or 9-inch pots are large enough for
general decorative purposes. If into 10 or 1'2-inch pots, room
should be left for an after top-dressing of dung — sheep's dung
we prefer — keeping the plants plunged until they are large
enough to be moved into the show house.

Some pick off the early blooms with the view of retarding the
general Howering and strengthening the plants, but we do not
think there is much gained ; if the plants be quickly and liber-
ally grown, this will not be found necessary. If they have
been checked or starved for want of room or water, this picking
off the blooms will not make up the difference.

Some also pick and tie out the plants. We have done the
same, but the Balsam is a stubborn subject under training; it
resists it obstinately. If done at all, if must be done with
much caution and coaxing, like tying down the young shoots of
the Vine when vigorous. A specimen Balsam should be grown
without pinching or tying. We think when a Balsam is mani-
pulated in this fashion, its character is spoiled directly.

When the plants are removed from the plunging material to
the show house, care must be particularly taken not to over-
water, especially if in large pots ; yet they must not be allowed
to flag. Most of the feeding roots will be near the sides of the
pot ; water should be given round the circumference rather
than close to the stem, where it maybe allowed to become com-
paratively dry. They must never be shaded or crowded, but
have plenty of air and no draughts. Plants often sicken off
when removed to the greenhouse ; this is owing to the check of
removal from the plunging material in a highly cultivated sub-
ject ; hence the caution required in watering.

The Balsam can be grown to a huge size, with attention to
potting and grovring on. We have seen them in 18-inch pots
from .3 to 4 feet through every way, but we never grow them
that size. We once saw a Balsam, grown by a cottager and
exhibited at one of the leading provincial shows, which was
the above size, and was the wonder of many. The first-re-
ferred-to were about a dozen in number ; they were grown in a
lean-to house, an old pine stove. The plants were plunged in
the pit in front, under the lower sashes of the house, and the
upper sliding sashes were entirely wanting ; so that the Bal-
sams enjoyed themselves perfectly; abundance of air, no
draughts, comfortable at the roots, and the full blaze of the
sun. They were grand plants, were neither tied nor pinched,
but stiff and short-jointed, the centre stems as thick as a man's
wrist.

When the pots are filled with roots after the last shift, and
while the plants are still plunged, they may have a little
manure water every time. It is needless to say that the Bal-
sam is a gross feeder, and capable of appropriating large
quantities of stimulants imder a hot sun ; but when removed
to the show house, manure water must be administered with
more caution, and none at all when the weather is dull and
wet. A Uttio top dressing is better, as they wiU root up to
the warm surface. — (The Garih'iwr.)

HEATING BY THE AID OP A LIME-KILN.

The principle of the system consists in the combination of
a lime-kiln and a hot-water apparatus. One method of ar-
ranging these I have actually at work, but I can arrange in
any way I choose, so long as I manufacture lime and heat the
buildings by hot water. I have two apparatus at work here, one
in use for the last seven months, the other for three months.
The first-named heats three good-sized houses at some dis-
tance from each other, and the other heats a range of vineries
200 feet long and IG feet wide. I use ordinary saddle boilers
in both cases, and they are suflicieatly powerful for the amount
of work which they have to do, but I calculate that with the
aid of my improved boiler they could easily do twice the amount
of work with the same arrangement. The lime produced fully
pays for the fuel, raising the stone, and conveying it to the
ppot, so that the heat is actually obtained for nothing.

The boiler is placed on the top and built-in in the usual
■way. All material is put into the kiln at the top and drawn

out at the bottom, just as kilns are usually treated. I may
mention that chalk is still better adapted to the purpose than
limestone, and that anthracite coal is the best fuel. Coke
will also answer well. — John Cowan.

NEW EOSES AT SOUTH KENSINGTON.

From " D., Deal's," judgment on Eoses as well as other
things there is seldom any occasion to differ, but with re-
spect to the Floral Committee and Kose Lyonnais I would
like to pass a sUghtly different opinion. Lyonnais has just
Uowered with me in a cool greenhouse without any forcing.
My note of it is, " Light rose, with crimson rose centre, similar
in depth and shape of petal to Victor Verdier. It is a larger and
fuller flower. A grand Rose." Etienne Levet is a splendid
Itose, and as exhibited by Mr. W. Paul, of Waltham Cross, at the
Koyal Botanic (jardens, it well deserved the first-class eertih-
cate it received. Another Eose exhibited at the same time by
Mr. Paul, Star of Waltham, will be the star of many gardens
for a generation to cume. The flowers are of immense depth,
of a rosy crimson colour, and the substance of the petals is
something remarkable. It i-s a finely perfumed Eose. It well
deserved the first honours it received.

Then, as to the constitution of the Floral Committee. I do not
know where a body of more celebrated horticulturists could be
found ; I may be excused a quotation from an old song —
" Gentle shepherd, tell me where." Of course they need no
defence. The Rose is represented by a Paul ; florists' flowers
of the old style by Turner ; the Hyacinth by Cutbush ; the
Pansy, Phlox, Pentstemon, &c., by Laing; stove and green-
house plants by Baines ; Orchids by Pilcher, &c. There may
be, and no doubt are, mistakes in awarding certificates, but we
may rest assured that the awarding of certificates cannot be
left in better hands. — J. Dodglas.

EXTRACTS FEOM ADDRESS

DELIVERED BEFORE THE GERMANTOWN HOBTICULTHKAL
SOCIETY, BY THE PRESIDENT, JOHN JAY SMITH, Esi).

Many persons think they are too old to plant. This is an
absurdity. Men at even seventy do not hesitate to lay up
means for their children ; then why not plant for posterity,
and why give up to self what was meant for mankind ? It is
founded on a vulgar error, on mistaken and prejudiced notions.
Many trees only ten years planted are known to be between
30 and 40 feet in height. At 30 feet, a tree, practically speak-
ing, will effect all the general pui'poses for which trees are
j)lanted. It will then afford shade and shelter. It will dis-
play individuality of beauty and character, and confer expres-
sion on landscape scenery, while during all the period of its
growth, it wUl give pleasure and inspire hope. Very many
trees bear fruit in a much shorter period than ten years.

The uses of trees is a large subject, on which time will not
now permit us to enter. One instance must suffice. There is
a variety of Gleditschia called horrida, which has a tremendous
crop of ugly spines attached all over its body, thrice as nu-
merous and dangerous as the triacanthos. It is put to a moral
use. When a man has committed a crime against society, he
is stripped and sent to the top on a ladder. The ladder being
removed, he gets down as well as he can. This mode of
punishment is said to be more effectual of reform than even
the famed Delaware whipping post, and might be economi-
cally substituted.

Our ancestors were too hasty in cutting down. Hence our
great problem in America is how to replace what has been
ruthlessly wasted. We must provide shelter for the prauies,
and with our great stretch of sea coast, we want to know what
trees will flourish near salt water, exposed to pitiless winds ;
and we want information regarding the suitability of different
vegetations in our variable climates. All this is being studied
and made known. I do not despair of seeing the transactions
of the society pubUshed, containing such knowledge as this,
and much more that our young country is yearning to know.
Here is work for a horticultural society to employ its extra
means on experiments of world-wide interest.

We see the necessity of the gardener, tho horticulturist, the
nurseryman and the landscape gardener ; for very few will under-
take the importation of the plants or trees of each kind re-
quired. We must have large magazines of plants, eo to speak,
from which each can draw his limited supplies.

The landscape gardener is appearing in America wherever
his services are demanded. We have good artists among us

May 8, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOKTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

377

in this line, and perhaps a few pretenders. Sir Joseph Pax-
tons will not be wanting as demand creates supply. His art
should always be called in where the best permanent effects are
desired. He can tell to what size a tree will attain. Without
him a few years must bring into recpiisition the dreaded axe
and the knife. If it is almost as difficult to keep money as to
make it, so we may say it is more difficult to know what to
plant than to bring numerous specimens together. On the
subject of planting it is still well to remember Cicero's advice :
" When to build is the question, a man should reflect a great
while, and perhaps not build at all ; but when to plant, he
should not reflect, but plant immediately." Much time is fre-
quently wasted, and years lost, by not commencing with trees
the first year your property is in possession.

We must take care that Europeans do not surpass us in
new introductions as they have in the skill with which they
cultivate what they call " American plants," including one of
our greatest and most neglected glories, the Ehododendron.
The Yew grows more rapidly here than in England. Suppose
our predecessors of two hundred years ago had planted Ger-
mantown simply with Cedars of Lebanon, Rhododendrons, and
Yews ! These alone would have made our district the admira-
tion of the world, and shall we, because they grow but slowly,
deprive our successors of the next two hundred years, of this
imposing beauty — this joy ? Loudon immortalises the planters
who introduced Cedars ou their domains. A Scotch Duke
planted his bleak hills with the Larch, and lived to see ships
launched from the timber, and now the Larch plantings are
yielding immense profits, from the demand for railroad ties.
The Marquis of Blandford, afterwards Duke of Marlborough,
did not hesitate to pay enormous prices for everything
beautiful, and he is remembered for this single act of
bounty to his country, and for this alone. Let us imitate
all this.

The advance in horticulture is one of the great triumplis of
our age. This period of a few decades has seen the products
of the whole world, once unknown and despised, brought to
our doors and cultivated. Manufactures and the arts are
vastly indebted to the garden for their success. We have em-
ployed new grasses for useful purposes, and even subdued the
hard trees of the forest for paper.

There can be no man here who is not cheered to-night by
the presence of the ladies. Woman's rights are sometimes
discussed, but there is at least one right she shall never be de-
prived of — the right to possess, to control, to work in, and to
thoroughly enjoy a garden. Tliey do not require, and do not
want defenders. In a new translation of Aristophanes, by an
English clergyman named Collins, I find the following free
lines from the women's chorus of a Greek play, which run so
trippingly, and are so appropriate, that with them I close these
hasty remarks, which have already detained you too long.
But the subject is really inexhaustible.

Without the presence and approbation of the ladies, no
horticultural society, no garden would be attractive. They are
the best p,atrons of the advanced gardener. They are the best
of creation, our household gods, in fact the fairest flowers we
have, or can hope to see : —

" They're always abusing the women

As a terrible plasne to men ;

They say we're the root of all evil,

Ajid repeat it again and again.

" Of war, and quarrels, and bloodshed.
All mischief too, be wliat it may ;
And pray, then, why do you marry us.
If we're all the plagues you say ?
" And why do yon take such care of us,
And keep us so safe at home,
And are never easy a moment
If ever we chance to roam ?

" "When you out;ht to be thanking Heaven
That your Plague is out of the way.
You all keep fussing and frettini: —
' "U'hei-e is my Plague to-day ? '
*' If a Plague peeps out of the window,
lip go the eyes of the men ;
If she hides, they all keep staring
Until she looks out again."

-{American Gardener's Monthly.)

NOTES ON HAEDT FLOWERS.

AquUffiia auren.—This is a new introduction from the Rocky
Mountains. It is closely related to A. canadensis, and in
habit of growth, foliage, and height resembles that species.

The flowers are, however, pale straw-coloured ; and being a
free-flowering plant, it will form a very desirable contrast to
the blues and reds of other species and varieties. It appears
to be as easily cultivated as any of its congeners, and quite as
hardy.

FritiUaria tuUpifoHa. — This is one of those hardy flowers
that may be described as peculiar and strildug rather thau
beautiful or ornamental ; but being a spring flower, it wiU be
of interest to amateurs and others who delight in variety of
character independently of showy colours. The flowers are
solitary, drooping, large, and like an inverted Tulip, very dark
or brown purple inside, and milky blue outside. It is very
hardy, and grows freely in common garden soil. Native of the
Caucasus.

Campanula Medium calijcanthema. — -The Canterbury Bell,
though a favourite flower, and cultivated of old with more zest
than now, has not improved, nor had any very striking feature
added to it till within the last few years. The pale-rose
varieties are the most marked improvement in colour that
have been introduced for a generation or two, but we can now
speak of an alteration in the calyx in the present subject,
which adds a new interest and value to this old-fashioned
flower. In this new variety of Canterbury Bell, the calyx is
petal-like in colour, and to some extent it approaches the petal
in size also, being much enlarged. At present the calyx is the
same colour as the petal — blue or white, as the case may be ;
but a rose-coloured calyx and white petal, or a blue petal and
white calyx, or vice ccrsii, may be amongst the possibilities of
the not very distant future.

Mi/osotis alpicola. — This is a diminutive but very pretty
Forget-me-not. It forms a neat tuft about 3 inches high, with
small, dark-green, hairy leaves and deep blue flowers, slightly
fragrant — the latter quaUty most noticeable at night. It is
best adapted to pot-culture among choice Alpines in a cold
frame. The protection of a frame in winter is of most import-
ance, because it is apt to perish of wet in the open ground. In
summer, when making its growth, it will bear abundance of
water, and must have it in plenty if free growth is to be en-
couraged, but the drainage should be very good. On well-con-
structed rockwork it will succeed better thau on level borders,
and may be left out in winter if care is taken to cover it in
prolonged wet weather with a cloche or bell glass. Gritty
loam is the most congenial soil for it. It is an old plant, but
rare.

Pentstcmon hcterophijllum. — Beautiful and numerous as are
the species and varieties of this favourite genus, the present
species lately introduced to cultivation is scarcely equalled in
point of colour by any of the older and better known ones. It
grows about 18 inches high, in neat compact style. The leaves
are narrow-lanceolate, pale green, or glaucous. The flowers
are produced on long racemes, borne on slender stalks, and are
brilliant sky-blue. From seed, the plant varies somewhat in
colour in the depth of the blue, and occasionally in being
reddish purple. It is a native of Cilifornia. I cannot speak
from experience of its hardiness and cultivation, but it does
not appear to be more difficult than that of other Pentstemons.
In wet, cold locaUties, stock should be struck in autumn in
pots, to keep over winter under protection.

Primula elatior magnifica.— T:h\s is one of the most beau-
tiful of the elatior tiibe of Primroses. It has the compact
tufted habit of all the breed. The flowers are large, about
the same size, and fringed in the way of a good type of
Chinese Primrose, bright gold in the centre, and shading
into clear primrose yellow on the margin. They are sup-
ported on stout stalks high above the foliage in great pro-
fusion, and are very fragrant. It is a beautiful plant for
spring bedding, being very showy and effective in masses at
a distance, and withal neat. For pot-culture, for the purpose
of greenhouse decoration early in spring, it is very desirable,
as it bears forcing very well, and lasts a considerable time ia
bloom.

Saxifrarja pcltata. — One of the most extraordinary and dis-
tinct of its family. It produces large lobed leaves 8 inches
across, attached near the centre to strong stalks 18 inches or
2 feet long, and bearing striking resemblance to an umbrella,
in consequence of which it is popularly called Umbrella plant.
The flower stalks rise to the height of 2 feet, bearing cymes of
large, white, rose-tinted flowers. It forms strong fleshy creep-
ing stems, and is found growing on the margins of streams in
California, with the stems fre(iuently submerged. This at
once suggests its fitness for ornamenting the banks of streams
and lakes in this country, and that abundant moisture is an

378

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AXD COTTAGE GARDENER.

f May 8, 1S73.

essential condition to its successful culture anywhere. — W. S.
—(The Gardener.)

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.
The thirtieth anniversary dinner in aid of the funds of the
Gardeneus' Kov.vl Benevolent Institution, is appointed for
Wednesday, .July 2nd, and the Right Hon. Lord Henry Gordon
Lennox, M.P., will jjreside upon the occasion.

The splendid collection of hardt Rhododendrons be-
longing to Messrs. J. 'SVaterek ct Sons, Bagshot, Surrey, which
for the last twenty-three years has proved so attractive at the
JRoyal Botanic Gardens, Regent's Park, will this year be ex-
hibited at the Alexandra Park, Muswell HiU, where a lai'ge
space is being covered for the purpose. From the appearance
of the plants the show promises to be one of the best ever
seen. We understand that Messrs. Lane, of Berkhampstead,
■will furnish the show at the Regent's Park this summer.

With a rapidity which is very unusual in the publica-
tion of continental reports, we have before us " Les Fetes
Jlorales de Gand," which is an elaborate account of the
recent Gbeat Hokticultdkal Exhibition at Ghent. We can-
not but commend the industry of the authors of this report,
who have set an example to the rest of our continental friends
as to how and when such reports ought to be prepared. We
have frequently referred to the tardiness with which these
formerly made their appearance. It seemed to be a matter of
indifference us to when they were published, so long as they
some day or other saw the light, and it was an ordinary occur-
rence for the report to be first circulated six or nine months
after the event took place. We have here, however, a very
full and exhaustive " Compte-Kendu " of the Great Quinquen-
nial Exhibition of 1873 presented to the Cercle d'Arboriculture
de Belgique, already in the hands of the pubUc ; and for the
expedition with which this appears we are indebted to a body
of energetic enthusiasts, well known to all lovers of hor-
ticulture and arboriculture — Messrs. Oswald de Kerkhove de
Denterghem, Fred. Burveuich, Ed. Pvnaert, Em. Rodigas, and
H. J. Van Hulle.

The seventeenth edition of Mr. Rivers's " Miniature

Fruit Garden " has been sent to us. May it and its author
continue to be with us for many years more.

WORK FOR THE WEEK.

kitchen garden.
Where any main crops have failed, no time should be lost in
getting-in more seed; if the soil is mederately moistened by
rain, so much the better for putting in the seed, but it should
not be waited for, as if seeds are sown when the gi'ound is dry
and warm the first shower will be of more service than if they
are sown after it. Basil and Marjoram, if forwarded in pots
or boxes, may be transplanted on a rich border as soon as
there comes a shower of rain. Make another sowing of Loag-
pod or Green Windsor Beans, or any other approved sorts,
and earth-up the early crops, but if the weather continue dry
give them a good wateriug previous to doing so. The seed-beds
of Broccoli should be frequently sprinkled with soot, wood-
ashes, or dust of some kind to preserve the young plants from
what is commonly called the fly. The young seedlings sometimes
disappear without any apparent cause, but it they were exa-
mined about ten o'clock at night with a lighted candle the cause
would show itself iu the shape of slugs; to destroy them sprinkle
quicklime over them. Thin and water the Carrots required for
early use. If the first main crops have failed, sow seed of the
J3arly Horn immediately. When the linings of the beds of
Cucumbers are removed, care must be taken that the heat is
not great immediately round the sides of the frame ; as a large
portion of the roots of the plants wiU be found there, water
sliould be more frequently given at the sides than at other parts
of the bed. As soon as the ridges are ready for the plants these
may be planted out beneath the glasses ; they must be kept well
covered with mats during the night. Thin the early-sown
Parsley as soon as it is up. Select some old plants that are
well curled to leave for seed. Earth-up and stick the advancing
crops of Peas, but previous to doing so they should be watered
if the soil is dry. Make another sowing. Water Potatoes in
frames during dry weather ; hoe and stir the soil bet%veen the
rows of the early out-door crops. Thin the crops of Spinach
as early as possible after it is up. If this is neglected it runs to
seed in a very short time. Make a sowing of Scarlet liunncrs
iu the open ground to succeed those that may be forwarded in
boxes, and which will be ready to plant out the latter end of the
week. If the Tomatoes were raised in heat at the time I re-
commended, they wiU now be strong and fit to plant out at

the end of the week; but one plant should be planted in a
place, and they must be kept well watered till they get roothold.
Thin the advancing crop.5 of Turnips, and make another sowing
of Stone to come-in in July and August.

FRUIT GAKDEN.

Wall trees now require especial attention ; disbudding should
be performed at an early stage of growth, and immediately
afterwards the trees should be washed with clean water if there
is no appearance of insects ; if there is, use tobacco water and
soap suds in which some tlowers of sulphur is held iu sus-
pension. This mixture by being timely applied will effectually
destroy all insects that infest wall trees, with the single ex-
ception of scale. It is by early neglect that wall trees are so
frequently injured, for if the growth of the first shoots is de-
stroyed the after ones scarcely ever ripen, and the following
winter generally destroys them. Gooseberry bushes must now
be narrowly watched; the caterpillar has begun to make its ap-
pearance and promises to be as numerous as 'last year. If the
soil was not removed under Gooseberry and Currant bushes in
the autumn, as recommended, and some lime and soot strewed
and covered with the back of a rake, which would destroy the
eggs, the only good remedy now is to gather the leaves which
have eggs upon them and burn them. The parents, of which
many will be found about the bushes, should also be destroyed.
Thin Apricots to about one-half the crop where the fmit have set
very thickly, regulate the shoots and remove those that are not
wanted. Attend to Vines against walls, disbud them as soon as
they break. Alpine Strawberries now deprived of their llowers
will produce fruit in August. Water Strawberries if the weather
is dry. Attend to the disbudding of wall trees.

FLOWER GARDES.

The importance of grouping plants in flower gardens accord-
ing to their complementary colours has been so repeatedly in-
sisted on in this Journal, that it would scarcely be worth while
to advert to it if it were not for the great accession of subscribers
during the present year. The leading principles of this system
of management are contrast and symmetry — contrast such as
will be produced by placing the complementary colours pretty
close together, as scarlet with white, purple with yellow, orange
with blue, and so on with the various shades of these colours
ad infuiitiim; and symmetry, such as will result from each bed
having a corresponding one iu form and disposition, and these
beds planted with flowers of the same colour. In borders which
are seen throughout in their length and breadth, the colours
should be repeated at regular intervals, as scarlet, white, purple,
yellow, blue, orange, and so on to the end ; and where beds are
placed on grass, and without a corresponding one near them,
they should be belted with the complementary colours, as blue
with an orange margin, purple with yellow, and scarlet with
white ; or, as green is the proper contrast for scarlet, beds of
that colour may be left without a margin, and white under such
circumstances used as a distinct bed. Where beds are on gravel,
which is a warm colour, cold colours should be the most used,
as blue, purple, or white, which for floricultural purposes takes
the place of green; or, if warm colours must be introduced, it
is indispensable that they be margined with cold colours. In
large gardens, where there is a great preponderence of green, as
large lawns, or trees, extensive lakes, and more especially if the
trees are sutEcieutlj' large to throw considerable shade upon the
scenery, nothing but warm colours should be used, as scarlet,
orange, and yellow, and these should be planted in large musses,
and stand out prominently in the foreground, and especially
near the water. Whoever has walked through the metropolitan
parks will have noticed how much more cheerful is the aspect
of the lake in St. James's Park than it is in Regent's Park or
Kensiugton Gardens, and this is because the water is surrounded
by gravel, w^hich gives warmth to the scenery. As I observed
last week, all blooming Auricula plants ought to be under
awnings in a northern aspect. Keep the pots free from weeds.
The green fly is often troublesome at this season, getting into
the hearts ; examine them daily, and remove the insects with a
camel-hair brush. Polyanthuses require soma attention just
now in shading, wateriug, &c. Watch seedhug plants as the
blooms pass through their various stages of development and
decay, and observe whether the lace or edge keeps its colour
(which ought to be similar to the centre) to the last. This is an
essential property often overlooked by beginners. Mauy persons
are watering Ranunculuses, a practice I would not recommend if
the beds are properly made, as I am persuaded it has at the pre-
sent time an injurious tendency. Top-dressing with very rotten
cow manure is far more beneficial. Some genial showe?s would
be most acceptable to Tulips. In addition to heavy complaints
of the number of bulbs which do not flower, there is a greater
proportion with distorted petals than usual.

GREENHOUSE .AND CONSERVATORV.

Where there is a general collection of plants in one house it
is diificuit to adopt measures suitable to all. Mauy plants now
require an abundance of air, while the CamelUas need extra
heat to assist the formation of flower-buds ; the latter should le

May 8, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTIOULTUEE AMD COTiA-jS GAj-vDENER.

379

shaded from the direct rays of the sun. The plants will be
benefited by an occasional syringing.

STOVE.

Tonn; seedling plants must be shaded from the snu ; as soon
as they are large enough pot them oil. Recently-sown seeds
may be shaded by a sheet or two of paper. Great care should
be taken in watering small seeds ; in the absence of a very fine
rose a brush may be dipped in water and the hand or a slip of
wood drawn along the bristles, so as to cause a shower of spray
to fall upon the seeds. Give air at all favourable opportunities.

PITS AND FRAMES.

Bepot Balsams, Cockscombs, Globe Amaranths, Ice plants.
Sensitive plants, and most tender annuals ; the soil for the pur-
pose should be light andrich. Cut the flowers from the Balsams
while the plants are small. Pot-off cuttings as soon as they are
rooted, and put them in a close frame for a few days, keeping
them shaded. Put in cuttings of Cinerarias. Pot suckers, and
put in cuttings of Chrysanthemums. — W. Keane.

DOINGS OP THE LAST WEEK.

A CHANGE of wind has brought us fine weather, but we have
had a very slight rainfall, so that our rain-water tanks in the
hothouses, though much larger than they are at many places,
are mostly empty ; we have been using pump water, which is
not good. Last year we obtained aU our supply for the fruit
and plant houses from the rain-water tanks. We do not see any
damage that has resulted to the fruit-^ree blossoms from the
frost, and we hope that there will yet be a full crop.

KITCHEN GABDEN.

Keeping the hoe at work amongst aU the crops. There are few
weeds, but the hoeing does good in many ways ; it exposes the
larvffi of insects and other enemies of our crops, which are picked
up by the feathered tribe.

Asparagus. — We are cuttingexcellent shoots from young beds.
The Asparagus was planted rather differently from the usual
plan, which is to lay the ground out in 4 or 5-feet beds, with
alleys between. The plants are put out 9 or 12 inches apart ;
this is far too close to allow them to develope themselves. We
had the ground trenched in the usual way to the depth of 2^ feet,
and when the pUnts had grown a few inches they were planted
out iu rows 2i feet apart, allowing a distance of 18 inches from
each other. Managed iu this way we get a larger produce
of better quality from the ground. In last week's Journal Mr.
Keane says, "Do not cut the weak shoots." We have always
done so, thinking that by allowing them to remain they would
run away with the strength of the plant, and strong shoots
would not come so freely. This seems feasible, but we should
be glad to hear what is the practice of others. Asparagus treated
as it is here does not throw up many weak shoots.

We sowed Longpod Broad Beans ; it was more for comparison,
as only one sort is used in the kitchen here. It has been grown
for more than half a century at this place ; it is the best Bean
I have yet seen. There are seldom more than three beans in a
pod ; they are very large, and of excellent flavour.

FRUIT AND FORCING HOUSES.

We are stiU working amongst the Vines in late houses. All
the shoots have been pinched and the bunches thinned to one
on each shoot. The bunches are very large, and there is not
one that is malformed in any of the houses, all the varieties
showing an abundant crop. The outside borders are not covered
in any way during the winter, unless the frost is very severe,
when we place a thin coating of stable manure over them. A
little frost is beneficial. Peaches, Nectarines, and Plums are
an abundant crop in the orchard house. The shoots have been
stopped and thinned-out. The trees are syringed thoroughly
with a garden engine before 8 a.m., and when the house is shut
up at four in the afternoon. The trees are now requiring copious
supplies of water at the roots, as all of them are in pots. Pears
have not set well, indeed they never have set freely with us ;
we do not know what is the cause, whether it is the construction
of the house, which is a large span-roof running east and west,
or the treatment they receive.

The Melons are setting pretty well; the plants have been
trained to the trellis, the shoots pinched-back and thinned-out
where too thickly placed. Cucumber plants have been looked
over, some of the old shoots cut out and young ones trained into
their places. We are cutting plenty of fine fruit, and shall do so
from the same plants for twelve months.

Early Peaches. — We have picked ripe fruit of excellent flavour
from a pot tree of Early Beatrice Peach. It was placed in the
Cucumber house about the second week of January. The plant
had been plunged out of doors up to the last week of December,
and it had no artificial heat whatever until it was placed in the
Cucumber house. A plant of Early Pavers treated iu the same
way will give us a dish of nice fruit next week. We merely
mention this to show the great value of these Peaches for pro-
viding a dish or two of early fruit.

CONSERVATORY AND PLANT STOVE.

The conservatory is now very gay with flowering plants.
Herbaceous Calceolarias are coming in, and are very fine this
year ; the cool and rather wet season last year just suited them.
As a rule our summers and autumns are too dry and hot for
them ; we cannot grow them here as we did in Fifeshire many
years ago, when we used to grow large bushes of named sorts.
We never attempt to cultivate any but seedlings now ; but we
miist say the strains suppUed by the seedsmen are excellent.
Cinerarias are at their best, as the weather has been so cool,
but a week of hot drying winds will sadly disfigure them. These
we also grow from seeds annually.

Deutzia gracilis has been the admiration of all visitors, the
plants are literally sheets of snowy whiteness. They are grown
all the year round in pots, and we are careful with them while
making their gi-owth. Those forced early are kept growing
under glass until the middle of May, when they are turned out
in a sheltered position, and repotted early in June.

In the plant stove much time has been occupied in looking
over plants infested with mealy bug. Six weeks ago it required
a searching investigation to find one in the house, now Gar-
denias, Ixoras, Stephanotis, tSjc, are covered with minute speci-
mens ; they come like this when other work is pressing. W©
have been repotting and rebasketing all Orchids requiring it ;
those in good health are let alone. There are some sorts, not
usually gi-own well, in perfect health with us, that have not been
repotted for six or seven years. Many Orchids are injured
through over-potting ; let the pots and baskets be small for the
size of the plant. We put in cuttings of Bouvardia Vreelandii
and B. j&sminiflora; they strike best in an ordinary hotbed
with a moderate bottom heat. The old plants were cut over
and will receive careful attention, as our stock is small ; they
are of great value to us all through the winter months. Eran-
themum pulchellum is also being propagated, it produces abun-
dance of its pretty blue flowers all through the winter.

FLOWER GARDEN.

The beds are in readiness for the bedding plants, and nearly
all the plants are ready for the beds. The Calceolarias, Zonal
Pelargoniums, and other hardy subjects will be planted out next
week. If the weather is favourable we invai-iably commence
bedding-out in the second week in May. Of course, Coleus,
Iresine, Altemantheras, and other tender plants come last, and
do not go out for two or three weeks later. We were short of
boxes and pit room, and many Verbenas have been planted out;
as previously recommended for Calceolarias. — J. Douglas.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*,* We request that no one will write privately to any of th&
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing th«y
are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. AU
communications should therefore be addressed solely to
TJie Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, dc. 111, Fleet
Street, London, E.G.

Wo also request that correspondents will not mix up on th&
same sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on
Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them
answered promptly and conveniently, but write them or»
separate communications. Also never to send more than
two or three questions at once.

N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until next
week.

Carpet Flowek-bed Planting (IT. J.}. — Your plan seems very good,
only we would omit Sednm azoricom variegatma, and simply have Echeveria
Gecunda glauca as a bordering in single line ; then two or three lines of
Golden Feather Pyrethnim, and lill-in the centre with Iresine Lindeni, or if
the bed is very gmall, one of the best varieties of Altemanthera may be sub-
stituted for it, as the cutting-in of the Iresine always shows the use of th&
knife. In general we like to have one floweiing plant in each bed, and if you
had substituted a dwarf blue Lobeha for the Iresine or AJternanthera wo
should have liked it as well ; nevertheless, we are aware that at the present
day foliage is often preferred ; and we have ourselves planted several beds
during the past spring with hardy plants intended to produce a similar
effect to that to which you allude, using Sedums, 1-empervivums, Arabis, and
other plants. We have a difficulty, howeter, in Unding anything with th&
high colouring of Iresine Lindeni.

Suckers from Raspberries (.V. H.). — The suckers from the base of the
canes which were planted a year ago and died to the ground in summer, will
give you strong canes this year, and we should thin them to sii or eight,
leaving the strongest. The canes made this year will produce fruit another
year, and be in every way better than any you may plant in auttunn.

Blfe BEDDtNG Plant ihiem). — Lobelia speciosa is very showy. Imperial
Dwai-f Ageratum is also good and quite as showy. Blue Gem Veronica is also
a good light blue bedder.

Fruit Tkees Blossoming only at the Shoot-ends {T. H' W.). — la
general all our hardy fruits as Apples, Peai-s. and Plums produce most fruit
near their extremities, the sp\u-s bearing the fruit blossoms being most
abundant on the wood that is two. three, or four years old, the older portion
of the tree becoming less fruitful, although not entirely so if pruning be
attended to. In all cases the wood of greater age than that alluded to, bears

380

JOURNAL OF HORTICOLTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t May 8. 1373.

more sparingly than that which is younger. Traininj,- young shoots from the
centre of the tree, if it is against a wall, will in a nieasnre restore frnitfulness
in places where wanted, but it is not so successful with open stanJarda;
nevertheless, much may be done by pruning, still in most cases the greatorit
quantity of finjit and that which is best is produced near the extremities,
and we see no objection to this iu the case of the kinds of fruit alluded to.
Go^d management ought to insure an even crop of Peaches all over the tree,
and the same may be said to be the case with MoroUo Cherries, Gooseberriea,
and Currants. Much, of course, depends on the health and vigour of the tree,
the character of the season, and other features.

Thick-necked Onions {T. H. TT.).— There are various causea contributing
to this deformity; one being spurious seed; another a wet, cold, or late situ-
ation ; and auother the insects, only the latter evil results in a sort of bladder-
like formation rather than a thick neck. In general, if good seed be obtained
and sown sufficiently early on dry ground, and the leasou becomes moderately
di-y and fine, Onions of proper size and shape will be formed, either larger or
smaller as the character of the giound and their cultivation iu attended to.
But if the Bituatiou is damp their growth is prolonged too late iu the neason,
and a number of thick-necked ouly half-ripened bulbs will be the result. In
such places a good di-essing of chai'coal dust at the time of sowing will be
beneficial, in addition to thorout.:h drainace and as much road sand as cau be
had, or anything that will tend to make the ground drier and more porous.

Golden-leaved Fuchsia Tukning Green {Amntt ur).— Islosi likely your
plant is turning green in consequence of having been recently potted in a
richer material than that in which it was before, whereby a degi-ee of
grosBuesB is induced fatal to variegation both in this and in many olher
plants. Via are uuablo to maintain the golden colour in our Japan EuonymuB
when they are planted out of doors, and it is the same with many other
plants. In the case of your Fuchsia, if it is not placed in too large a pot we
would not disturb it now, but wait until the pot be filled with roots, and most
likely the proper colour wUl be restored as the plant's vigour becomes checked.
^\ater also sparingly, and do not let the plant flag.

Geranium Shoots Long-jointed, and Sappy (.rfmnYcur).— Perhaps your
Geraniums, if of the greenhouse class, have been potted in very rich soil,
and, aided by heat and moisture, grow too rank. The most natural remedy
to this, or rather the remedy that will come by degieea, is the pots becoming
better filled with roots, and the growth being consequently checked. If they
have been recently potted do not give them much water, and, of course, avoid
manure water. Expose the plants as much as possible to free currents of air,
do not let them stand too thickly together, and most likely the evil you com-
plain of will cease. Long-jointed shoots are often caused by too much
coddling, and, perhaps, an absence of light ; but the season is at baud when
there need he no more occasion for this, as the plants will very soon stand out
of doors. We need hardly say you must inure these to the open air by degiee?.

Dectzia gracilis [M.S.).— In our columns to-day we hope we have pub-
lished what you require.

Grafting and Budding on Thorns (F.).— Besides the Medlai- and Quince,
the Pear will succeed, but we do not know of any other fruit.

Plants by Pathway in Conservatory (Id€m).~ln winter we should
have bulbs in pots so as to be removed when not in condition, and shrubs as
Deutzias, flowering Peaches, Spirieas, Thorns, Lilacs, Weigelas, also Dielytra
spectabilis; to be succeeded by Cytisus, Lily of the Valley, Azaleas, Pelar-
goninms, Fuchsias, and the hardier kinds of greenhouse plants, not forgetting
Camellias, Boses, especially Tea-scented, Mignonette, Violets, Ac. Vie have
no idea now of yuur former query, and we cannot he so explicit as we could
have wished from your not giving us any present data. Write us again if
tfhere be anything respecting which you wish for special information.

Camellia in Greenhouse under Vines iH. r.. 3/.).— Camellias will
succeed under the Vines in your greenhouse, with fire heat in winter to keep
out frost. It is well to sprinkle plants overhead mornmg aud evening when
making fresh gi-owtli, but not after it is completed, when fiowerins, or in
winter. After repotting, it is well to use a rose a few times until the soil
become firm. At all other times water should be applied without a rose, winter
and summer, directly at the roots, syringing in addition.

LiLiuM AURATUM { T. W'hetldon).—k long article on its culture by Mr.
Eobsou is in No. 594 of this Journal, published August 15th last year.

Syrian Vine {J. DabelD.—Grow it on its own roots. The following in the
description in Dr. Hogg's "Fruit Manual "—•' Bunches immensely large,
kroad-shouldered, and conical. Berries large, oval. Skin thick, greenish
white, changing to pale yellow when quite ripe. Flesh tiim and crackling,
sweet, ami when well ripened of good flavour. Thia is a very good late Grape,
and generally produces bunches weighing from 7 lbs. to 10 lbs. ; but, to obtain
tlie fruit iu its gieatest excellence, the Vine requires to be grown in a hot-
house, and planted in very shallow, dry, sandy soil. Speechly states that he
grew a bunch at Welbeck weighing 20 lbs., and measuring "iilj inches long
and 19i inches across the shoulders. It is a strong grower aud an abundant
bearer."

Lucerne— Italian Rye-grass (E. R. P.).— April is the best month for
sowing them, hut you may sow row. The Lucerne should be sown in drills,
for it should be frequently hoed. Tne Bye-grass may be sown broadcast.

Spring Bedding-plant Seed Sowing (£.w).— The seeds of all the plants
you name ought tu be sown from now up to June in rich, light soil in a shel-
tered position, and when large enough to handle the plants should be pricked-
off in light rich soil about 8 inches apart, and in autumn either be planted
whei-e they are to flower or he transplanted to double that distance apart,
moving them with balls in spring.

Epiphyllum Treatment (Wrni).— Bepot them in spring after flowering;
or, if they do not flower, in April. Provide good dramage, and a compost of
eandy fibrous loam and sandy peat in equal pai-ts, and one-fourth of silver
sand, pieces of charcoal, broken pots, and leaf soil or old di7 cow dung. They
are best giafted on Pereskia stocks. Grafting is easily performed bv cutting over
in a slanting direction the stock and putting on a shoot of the" Epiphyllum,
securing it with a thorn of the Pereskia, tying with matting, and covering
lightly with moss. It may be dune iu spring before growth, or after the
growth is complete. "Water the plants moderately, but when growing aJfori
moisture, and in winter give water only to keep them fresh. Afford & lignt
airy position, only when growing slight shade is preferable.

Fungus-like Excrescence (F. H.I.— The singular hard sijrescences on
the branches sent are due to insect agency, for on making a section a fine
live larva may be seen in each nodule.

Sowing Asters out of Doors (S. F.).— You may sow the seed of Asters
this month in the open ground, choosing a warm sheltered border of light

rich soil, which should be made we\y fine, or the surface covered with about
3 inches deep of loam and leaf soil mixed. Sow the seeds in shallow drills
about S inches apart, drawn with the finger. Scatter the seeds evenly half an
inch apart, aud cover them about a quarter of an inch deep. It wuuld be
well if the bed were protected by a mat, kept from resting on the soil by sticks
hooped over the bed, and which may remain on until the seeds are up, and
should then be withdrawn iu the day, but replaced at night. If water be
needed to keep the soil moist, apply it iu the morning, through a fine-rosed
watering-pot. They will come on slowly, but will make sturdy plants, which
if planted out in June in rich soil will flower finely in autumn. The covering
at night will only be wanted in frosty weather during May.

Belladonna Lilies not Flowering (Constant Reader). — "U'e advise yoa
to keep the pots on a light aiiy shelf in the greenhouse, and constantly oa
saucers or pans of sand kept wet. Do not allow the sand to become quite dry
even when the plants are dormant in summer. The flowers are produced late
iu summer or autumn without the leaves, which come afterwards, and con-
tinue to grow throughout the winter, during which time they should be kept
moist, a'so in April aud May, tlien reduce the amount of muisture as the
leaves turn yellow, aud discontinue watering altogether when gi-owthis com-
plete, still keeping moist the sand on which the pots stand, and not watering
ai^'ain until they flower and grow. Do not repot until the roots split the pots.
Vine Leaf Diseased (-7. T. I.). — We have not in all our experience seen
a similar disease on Vines to that on the leaf you liAve forwarded to us.
The under side is thickly blotched with a white fungoid growth, which must
be highly injurious to the Vines. "We would dust the leaves with flowers of
sulphur, and also paint the hot- water pipes with the same mixed in water to
the consistency of thin paint. A little suft soap may be dissolved in the water
to make the mixture adhere. The pipes must be made tolerably hot to cause
the sulphur to take effect. We fancy you do not ventilate your house suffi-
ciently.

Bed DoYENNii Pear on South Wall (Centui-ion). — This does well as a
pyramid on the (juince in ihe south of England. We think it would be im-
proved by being grown un the wall.

Zonal Pelargonitm Leaves Diseased (Amateui-). — Wo have seen the
disease before. Our first experience with it was on a plant of une of the new
double varieties, and on examination it was found that the roots were also
affected. Turn your plants out of the pots, and shake all the soil from the
roots. Bepot in smaller pots in a compost of turfy loam, leaf luould, and
silver sand. The plants will gi'ow out of the disease with careful treatment.

SU3IMER Treatment of Pear and Apple Trees {F. J.). — We would
not pinch hack the shoots of Apple trees before midsummer, unless the young
wood was much crowded. Pear trees require to be pinched eai'lier in the
season. We notice some wall trees in our uwn garden which will he pinched
when we can spare the time. Most of them will not bo gone over until June.
They all requiie to be looked over again in the autumn.

Diseased Grape Vines {J.'.H.). — You are giving too much water. The
border being outside could not possibly requii-e any water so early in the
season, aud using diluted liquii from the cow-shed would make it moi'e in-
jurious. Wonever give manure water until the fruit is set.

Cherry TitEES Gujimed (J. P., Brintol). — Gumming is caused either by
the roots penetrating iuto unsuitable soil, or by an injury to the bark. If it
does not arise from injury, you must lift the roots out of the subsoil and
replant them in turfy loam, if it is to bo had. The top spit of some old
pastm-e is the best.

Vines not Breaking Regularly (J. HoUand).— You ought to examine
the roots of your Vines. If they are unhealthy that will account for not
breaking well. If the border is unsuitable it should be renewed. The treat-
ment you have jriven them is correct, hut if the rods are very long they ought
to be bent down before the house is started. A young rod ought annuafly to
be trained-up from the base of one of the Vines to renew the old ones.

Heating a Fern House {M.S.B.). — A Fern house might he heated by
an Arnott's stove without injury to thu Ferns, provided a supply of water
were kept on the top, and the path watered daily.

Muscat Grapes in a Late Vinery (.-iHinNHr). — In general these Grapes
do not succeed well in the same house with the Black Hamburgh, but
we have known them do very well witli Lady Downe's and Madi-et-field
Coui't, Grapes that require more ripening than the Black Hamburgh. We do
not like the Bowood Muscat so well as the old Muscat nf Aleiaudria, aud in
a Muscat house wo are weediug-out both the Canon Hall and Bowood
Muscats, as they set badly ; although the bunches show with stouter necks
and more vigour than those of the old Muscat of Alexandiia, they do not
finish satisfactorily. Wo are surprised at their doing badly in your earliest
house, whereas in most cases they succeed best wlien forced early, as it
gives them a longer season. We feai' there is something wrong with your
plant in the early house, otherwise it ought to produce more. In general the
Muscats show more hunches than otliur kinds of Vine, certainly mox-e than
Madresfield Court and Barbarossa. Was the wood well ripeued last year '.'
That is an important point. The number of bunches on a '\'ine entirely
depends on its strength and the space it occupies. Some Vines have a rafter
20 feet long or upwards, and a space more than 3 feet wide, while others have
loss than half the above area. The spot on the Black Hamburgh may have
been caused by rude handling at thinuiug time, and if so will wear off as the
berries swell; but if it ariso from another cause, as imperfection iu setting,
or some other defect, which puzzles the most practical men of the day, we
can give no opinion. Sudden cold draughts are often blamed for this, aud
we are strongly inclined to coincide in this view.

Poisoned Wheat (C, Northumberland). — It is made by soaking Wheat iu
a strong decoction of nux-vomica, or in a solution of arsenic. Its use is now
illegal.

Plumrago capensis Dying Back (J., Devon). — The appearance is cer-
tainly uusi^'htly, otherwise it is better not to cut back the Plumbago, or, iu
fact, any other plant until its wood becomes ripened or neaily so, and most
likely yours has been cut back too soon. We think, however, there is some-
thing else the matter, as it dies hack by degi-ees after growing a few inches;
3-5rhaps it has had too much water, or has been injured in some other way-
( it it3 tendency to die still further back continue, wo would advise that the
pliat be taken up, potted, aud plunged iu t^outlo heat for a time, and that from
the place where it has been gi-owiug all the old soil be removed and replaced
with fresh, affording sutbcieut drainage before the plant is replanted. We
have known a plant of this kiud die from being too much crowded ; and if the
soil it is growing in is invaded by the roots of some neighbouring Acacia or
other strong-growing plant, the Plumbago may have succumbed through sheer
starvation, which wo have known mere than ono plant do. An examinatiou

May 8, 1873. ]

JOUKNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

381

of the soil will, perhaps, reveal the cause of the evil, and the remedy will
remain in youi' hands.

IxsECT IN Kaspberry Cvnes {J. Coles).—Th6 red ffi'ubs are the larvfB of
a very small moth called the Ra:^pberr>--bud moth. The egg is laid by a moth
in a bud, and the grub from thee^-geatsitK way into the cane. Entomologists
now call the moth Lomprouia rubiella, Linnitus called it Tinea corticoUa. We
know of no mode of prevention except cutting off and buniiug all the parte
of the canea which give evidence of having grubs within them.

Name op Fruit (Harrhon d^ Sonn). — Holland Pippin.

Names of Plants ID. C. M.).—\, Thujopsis borealis; 2, Cupresaua Law-
soniana ; 3, Wise's Holly ; 4, Toius pyramidaUs ; 5, Retiuuspora obtusa.
(/f. it'.).— Probably Dalechampia rosea, but the specimen is very bad. (D.).—
1, Stellaria Holostea; H, Veronica serpyllifulia; ;J, Myosotis coUina; 4, Vale-
rianella olitoria; 5, Luzulacampostris; 6, Aspidium augulare; 7, Nephrodium
cordifolium ; .S, Spannauuia africana. (T/^owi-i).— Acacia Drummoudii, or
some nearly allied species. (/•'. IC. H.).— 1, Probably Oxalis megalorhiza,
Jat-'y., but specimen unsatisfactory; 2, Indeterminable, it does not look like
A Liuum. ( Jlac.).— 1, Hypnum undulatum ; 2 and ;J, Fumaria hygrometrica ;
4, Weissia curvirostra. {T. J. H.). — Common Ribbon Grass, or Gardiiuers'
Garters, Phalaris arundinacea. (A. C). — We never heard of either Athro-
podion or Sarana. We imagine Arthropodium and either Sanrauja or Saraca
must be meant.

POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON OHKONIOLE.

FOWLS PAST AND PEE SENT— THE LAW OF
DEVELOPMENT.

As " CoRNiBH DucKwiNG " siipposes, I am very glad if any
remarks I may at any time make are the means of causing dis-
cussion upon any puint connected with our useful and pleasant
hobby. A man who has no taste and no opinion of his own,
will never come to much good in the poultry fancy, since the
very essence of success in it is, the stamping of his own ideal
upon a race of birds, which, of course, he cannot do if he does not
really possess any. I have fought hard and perseveringly for
my own type of Brahma, and like to hear any other man for his
own type of Game. But I am not quite sure that either " Old
Black Red " or " Coknish Duckwing " have altogether under-
stood the remarks I made, aud hence I reply botli to them and
some other remarks upon other subjects which have appeared,
not so much as defending any particular disputed proposition,
as by way of further illustrating very simple laws which do not
yet seem thoroughly understood.

On some matters of fact I should be disposed to differ from
" CoBNiSH DrcKWiNo" — not on his Game facts, respecting
■which I know him to be an authority not lightly to be called
in question ; but as regards Spanish and Dorkings, I lived for
years at the very stronghold of the Spanish fancy, and I feel
compelled to say that as far as my iudi\adual opinion goes, the
faces are considerably inferior now to what they were years ago.
They used to be bred to a quahty that needed little preparation,
whereas now the dark room, tweezers, and other treatment
have to supplant the breeder's art to an extent which would
make any breed delicate. The best specimens are put time
after time in their dark house, and go from the warm confined
atmosphere to the show, and after this being repeated on many
occasions the birds are bred from. Would any fowls fail to pro-
duce weakly chickens after such treatment ? It is not " breed-
ing" for face, but " treating" for face, that in my opinion has
done the mischief. At all events the modern faces are far in-
ferior to those of even half a dozen years ago.

Then, as to Dorkings, my strong impression is, that their con-
stitution is, on the whole, better than formerly, and that bumble-
foot is not owing at aU to increased size (else why do not Cochins
aud Brahmas have it), but solely from fixture of the fifth claw,
which in the old Coloured Dorkings was far from constant.
Now it is, and we see the result. That many birds are coarse
I admit. I have seen evident traces of feather on the legs, but
these crossed birds ought to be, and probably are, more hardy,
and are not allowed to take prizes. The celebrated Holmesdale
strain certainly was neither delicate in constitution nor coarse
in eating.

But this case of the Dorking opens-up and curiously illustrates
& general question, which is virtually touched upon by ** Cornish
DucKWiNG," when he suggests that while my review of the
poultry of 1872 may be " satisfactory to the fancier," other
readers who *' breed for use," may think what we have gained
in size and feather has been dearly purchased. Many other
people are constantly asking, " What have shows done ? " and
seem to think it hard not to say wrong, that their effect is not
rather to increase the production of eggs and the edibility of
the flesh. They virtually argue that the tendency of shows
ought to be to encourage improvement in these respects ; and
it seems so true that many people never think of questioning it.
Tet a very little thought will show that the thing so desired is
from the very nature of the case a simple impossibility. Take
any show. Here are a lot of fowls all in pens, and here are the
gentlemen who have to judge them. Now, how can they possibly
do this judging except by having sole regard to points, which
they can either feel or see upon the spot ? It is manifest they

cannot. One Hamburgh hen may be a much better layer than
her neighbour in the next pen, but how can the judge know
that ? Would anybody trust testimony as to such points ? I
fear moraUty is not high enough for that, aud by no other meaus
can such things be known. If the good layer is an ugly and
faulty bii-d, and the worst layer the handsomest in the class,
the latter must get the prize simply because prizes must be
given, and only can be given for certain points which can be
made evident in the show-pen itself. This, of course, necessi-
tates certain understood standards of perfection, and whatever
these may be, they must be equally arbitrary. People ask
sometimes why a prize fowl must be so-and-so ? If it was not
that, it must from the nature of the case be bred to some other
standard just as fixed and arbitrary, so we may as well have
the present as any others. If anyone can see how such stand-
ards may bo avoided in live fowls (I use this qualification for
reasons which will afterwards appear), I shall be very glad to
see the matter discussed, but for my part I confess I have
thought long and anxiously over the matter, and can see no
escape from the general conclusion I have expressed. If it can
be avoided, any further than by the attention to size, health,
and apparent vigour which a good judge always gives and is
expected to give, the discovery would be of the greatest im-
portance and benefit.

Now, see how the Coloured Dorking illustrates this. Here
was a fowl which it was said should not be a " fancy " bird, ^yo
would have one breed judged only for the table and by its fit-
ness for it. Colour and feather were mere " arbitrary" points
and should find no place in judging our Dorking. The fowl
then was of a medium size, of all colours, though usually a grey
speckle, and bred if anything oftener without the fifth toe than
with it; hence, was comparatively free from bumble-foot to
what it is now. How was the fowl judged then ? and how did
the plan work? The reply is a most curious commentary as to
the absolute necessity for " fancy points." At first our fowl
was judged almost exclusively by size ; the largest and heaviest
birds carried the day, though even then some regard was paid
to colour, for cocks with breasts almost white, which were often
bred in those days, were rarely shown and hardly ever won.
But as crosses would give this size, which was of so much im-
portance, some safeguard was needed for purity of race. We
would not be particular as to colour, &c., but the Dorking must
really be a Dorking, of course. Now, to determine purity of
race we have really no guide whatever, but external characteris-
tics of some sort ; as we would not have colour we must have
something else, and it was enacted that our Dorkiug must have
the fifth toe. So to avoid a standard of colour, which may be
perfectly natural though arbitrary, and could iu itself have no
evil result, we were forced to insist upon a point which is not
only arbitrary but unnatural, and can be demonstrated to be
actually injurious and the parent of disease ! As we would not
have an ordinarily artificial standard, we were forced to adopt
one which is positively the most unnatural and artificial of aU !
In a "fancy" breed this would not be at all remarkable any
more than the Polish crest is ; but this was to be the practical
table fowl ! We may laugh at the absurdity, but the truth is it
was inevitable for the reasons I have tried to point out. I
might add, that by degi-ees a very evident standard of even
colour has crept in, and this being so, although I fear my voice
will be of Uttle avail, I do not hesitate to say that the formal
recognition of such, if combined with the casting-out of the
fifth toe, would be the greatest boon to the breed which could
possibly be, for that toe is a curse to it which must cause
bumble-foot so long as it is retained, since excess in structure is
always accompanied by weakness of function.

We see, then, that judges must in live fowls have before their
minds some ideal external standard by which to make their
awards. I wanted to make this very plain, because it lies at
the root of a general law, the beautiful simplicity of which has
appeared more and more clear to me for many years past, and
the understanding of which in thorough reality will always
make a successful breeder. This we wiU endeavour to examine
on another occasion. — L. Wright.

BLACK COCHINS.

I HAVE been glad to see the letters of Colonel Hassard and
" Black Jacobin," in your Journal on the subject of Black
Cochins. I have reason to believe that there are more birds of
this variety in the country than are supposed, but owing to there
never being classes for them they seldom appear, having to con-
tent themselves with the variety class, or compete against other
more established breeds of Cochins. I think if committees of
shows would only give this variety a trial, they would find the
class fill well. I shall be glad to subscribe to, and further in any
way I can, a class at the Crystal Palace or any show.— Alfred
Darbv, Bridgnorth.

1 iuvE much pleasure in stating that the cup required by the
Crystal Palace Committee has been subscribed for by three

382

JOURNAL OF HOETICDLTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

t May 8, 1873.

members only, and therefore there will be a special class for
these birds, and a second and third prize given at the next Show.
I find there are many breeders of tliis variety that have hither-
to bred them li{*ht — dark, perhaps, would be a more fitting term,
and I would suggest that the subscription list be continued to
give prizes for chickens and adults, so that we may have a chance
of seeing what there is in the counti-y. 5s. subscription would
be ample, if all would help. — F. C. Hassabd, Slieerness.

AIDING A CHICKEN'S BIRTH— BEAHMAS.

I SEND with this an egg-shell from which a chick has just been
hatched. If you examine it you will find it a double shell. I
do not mean to say that the hen laid it so, but I forward it as a
successful dodge by which I think I saved the life of a chick.
Yesterday morning the hen, in returning to her nest, trod upon
and thoroughly crushed the original shell. I think it was weak-
ened by a previous small crack in the narrow end, which I had
covered with a little bit of postage-stamp edging. I was certain
that the chick would die if left, as, if not crushed, the skin would
bind it and dry to it; but it would probably have been crushed
between the other eggs, as I have often had happen. They were
due to hatch to-day, and I therefore thought that an outside
shell might preserve it for the necessary time ; so I took an
egg-shell that had been used at breakfast, rasccd it a little, and
slipped it over the small end, and joined it to the original top
(which was not much injured), with postage plaister, and put it
under the hen again. It is very roughly done, as a clergyman
with three services on Sunday has not much time for surgical
operations ; but it was successful, as I found that egg and another
hatched this morning, and the shell just as I forward it to you,
though it will probably be rather more crushed in the post. I
have written this account, because the plan may be useful to
others iu similar cases. AJid now, if you will spare me a short
space, I should like to add a few words de quibusdam aliis.

"With respect to the merits of Brahmas, my exi^erience of them
for the past two or three years has not been favourable, and I
have now returned to my old loves the Silver-Grey Dorkings.
The Brahmas are said to be hardy, early and good layers, great
weight, lire. Hardy I found them, but not very early layers, nor
could I get any weight that was of much use for the show pen,
but then I could not afford to buy the monsters that may be
necessary for this. DorJiings are thought tender and compara-
tively poor layers. Mine have been laying well ever since
January 1st, not only pullets, of which I have but two, but old
hens also. Several old hens were certainly laying in January,
and I have never found Dorking chicks, if hatched early enough,
tender. I hatched some (very few, I am sorry to say), in Feb-
ruary, and reared them all, and since that I have lost but two
or three. Late broods of anything I detest — even late June
birds are seldom healthy. I think the weather is too hot for
their chickenhood, and they remain stunted and probably get
roupy iu autumn. My first chicks this year were hatched on
Februai-y 1st by a Turkey lieu. She had laid four batches of
eggs since the previous April, being then a pullet. I set her on
fifteen eggs, but only three were hatched : they are alive and
well. I have just weighed two of them. The cockerel weighs
3J lbs. and the pullet 23 lbs., which is, I think, pretty well for
eleven weeks old, and the coloiu's promise at present all that
could be wished. Hatching this spring has been with me very
bad. I could get no hens to sit for some time, though I tried
all the neighbourhood ; and the broods have been very small —
three, two, and from a Black Red Bantam, which breed usually
hatch every egg, a grand brood of one. Eight is the best I have
had yet. I hope for better broods now. — E. S. Tiddemas, Chil-
derditch Vicarage.

[We carefully noted the two shells, and admired your inge-
nuity. We also rejoiced at your success, because you deserved
it. We have often mended a cracked egg with the border of
postage stamps, but we had not the thought of putting on a shell.
Jumping from one end of your letter to the other, we can tell
you you have only neighbours' fare. It has been a bad hatch
hitherto this season. There are always reasons why early eggs
should not hatch as well as later ones. Iu the winter the cocks
are not as attentive to the hens as they are later in the year ;
many eggs are spoiled by chill and frost before they are laid ; the
hens are allowed to be off the eggs too long at feeding time ; the
eggs are kept too dry. Accidental exposure of an egg for a time
is fatal to hatching. For early chickens, according to our notions
the eggs should be the produce of a walk of a cock and three
hens (we speak of January). The hen should sit on nine eggs ;
she should be well fed, but never allowed to be off her eggs at
that time of year more than ten or twelve minutes. While
Bitting she should be thoroughly protected from draught. It may
not be your case, but we are convinced that in nine cases out of
ten eggs are prevented from hatching, and often condemned as
bad, when the only fault is they are too dry. All bii-ds iu our
country naturally moisten their eggs. Nature has taught them,
from the Pea fowl to the Wren, including the whole feathered
tribe, to leave their nest at daybreak to feed, iSre. At that time

the grass is wet, and after walking or hopping about for ten
minutes or a quarter of an hour in the dew, and in that state
they return to the eggs, thoroughly wetting them. They always
hatch. Take all sorts of Game — take every description of Duck
and Goose — take our domestic poultry, a hen or a Turkey with
a stolen nest — they are seldom or never seyi off feeding, but
they bring off all their eggs, and they are generally the strongest
chickens we have. Two or three days before the time is up for
chickens to hatch, the eggs should all be tested in warm water.
A pail should be three parts filled with warm water. The eggs
should be taken from under the hen and put in it. As soon
as the chicken feels the warmth of the water it begins to move
in its shell; its antics increase as the warmth makes itself felt,
and it becomes positively ridiculous to see the eggs elbowing
and bumping each other. This is not only a test as to the good-
ness of the eggs, but it facihtates the operation of hatching.
The thorough wetting is very beneficial. To make sure of
success this should not be the only process. For ten days before
hatching they should every morning be thoroughly rinsed with
cold water; the neglect of this causes us to hear so oft-en of
chickens dying in the shell owing to their weakness. It is
nothing of the sort. From heat and drought the inner mem-
brane of the egg becomes as dry and hard as gutta percha, and
it is next to impossible any chicken can extricate itself. Even
one shell is too much for its strength.

It is refreshing to hear some one speak up for our old friends
the Dorkings. We believe that where the spot and its conve-
niences are fitted for them they are the best fowls in the world.
More than average layers, excellent mothers, and unequalled on
the table. But they wOl not do for a confined spot. They want
a range, and having it they do well. So far from being tender,
we know no chicken will rear more easily in the winter than a
Dorking having a little care bestowed upon it. Kone will make
so much money, or secure such a certain market as a Dorking.
They will not do in confinement. Cochins and Brahmas will;
but it is difficult to make any satisfactory return where fowls
are kept in confinement.]

POULTRY REFORM, BRAHMAS, &c.

During the jjast few weeks letters have appeared in the
Journal on the above subjects. Several remedies on the causes
of contention have been proposed, but there is no likelihood
of any of them becoming law, as there is no tribunal in the
poultry fancy to insist on their observance. I was much sur-
prised when Mr. Wright wrote on the subject of a formation of a
national poultry club, to find but one or two of the principal ex-
hibitors supporting his proposition.

I firmly believe, if such a society were formed, it would prevent
the numerous cases of trimming now reported as taking place
at some of the shows. The offenders could easily be punished,
and the chances of small amateurs winning prizes would be in-
creased, as they would show oftener when they found there was
a probability of the names of the trimmers being held up to the
public gaze.

The " dealer" question could also be settled in the same way,
though I fancy it is very severe on a man who gets his living by
selling articles if he is not allowed to obtain as much as possible
for those articles. The question I would ask is, " What is a
dealer ? "

Concerning the controversy on Brahmas I dare say there are
good as well as bad laying strains. Two years ago I bought two
sittings of Dark eggs, one from a noted exhibitor, the other
being from birds of really good strains, and mated with a cock
bought of one of the best breeders of Dark Brahmas. From the
former sitting the pullets proved really good layers, both when
pullets and also now as hens. The other sitting produced pullets
ready to sit within a month of laying their first egg. From this
it woiild appear that with careful breeding the really good strains
may be made nearly non-sitters.

Ajiother subject I wish to call your attention to, and I have
done. Many of the birds whose portraits have appeared in Mr.
Wright's poultry book, have names. Now if they have names
at home, why not at the show '? It would be the means of giving
many good lessons to inexperienced amateurs. I will explain
this. In the south-western counties there are few good sliows
(Bristol excepted). A year ago (in 1872) both the Dark Brahma
and also the Buff Cochin Cockerels which wore first at the Palace
were at Bristol. Now, had they been named, any one who had
read the prize list in any paper would have been able to have
seen the champions, and to have examined them thoroughly.
Hoi-ses, cattle, sheep, dogs, and pigs are named, and their names
inserted in the catalogue, then why not fowls? The single
bird principle would no doubt answer best in this respect, though
a pair could be named as well, and I fancy if breeders have
names for their pets they shoiild be known to all. — A Worcestek
L.U).

New York Natiox.'LL Coluhe.abi.uj Society. — A meeting was
held on April 9th, at 14, Murray Street, for the purpose of form-

Hay 8, 1S73. ]

JOUBNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

383

ing a National Pigeon Society, at which Mr. W. Simpson, jun.,
of West Farms, New York, was chosen President, Mr. A. B.
Estes, Corresponding-Secretary, with Vice-Presidents and other
officers in many of the States of the Union.

ADOPTED CHICKENS.

Ox reading the article entitledas above in last week's impression
of our Journal, it occurred to me that it might interest some of
our readers were I to relate an incident in the history of adoption
which took place at Laurencekirk last year. A lady residing in
the outskirts of that town, a fancier of poultry, found two of
her chickens close by the garden wall in an exhausted state,
cold and quite wet, they had been unable to follow the hen and
the stronger members of the brood, as they had never thriven
like the others. Having no hen ready at the time to tend sach
a weakly charge, her first impulse was to place them on the rug
at the parlour fire ; the poor things were in the last stages of
misery. On the same rug already lay in all ease and comfort
the old house cat ; I hate cats, but must immortalise this one.
With half open eyes she watched the miserable atoms of life, and
listened to the melancholy chirpings which they uttered. The
eyes of the owner of the three were upon them. In a short time
pussy, I can hardly write such a kindly word as " pussy," rose
half up, put out her paw, and drew first one and then the other
to her breast, where they nestled in her fur, and by the altered
and contrasted tones of voice the chickens soon gave evidence
that they had been drawn into comfort. Of course this feline
wretch could neither teach them to eat nor drink as a hen could
do, but these they managed themselves, carefully and tenderly
nestled and defended by the cat. They by-and-bye became in-
dependent, having grown large and strong, and able to fight
their way with others of their own species. The cat made many
attempts to lift the chickens as she would have done a kitten,
but at each time failed. This is no made-up natural history
story, I can vouch for the whole facts. Whether the cat had
lately lost her kittens or not I was not made aware. — J. Hcle.

LARGE VERSUS SMALL HIVES.

ToTTB esteemed correspondent "R. S." (page 347), speaks in
most unqualified condemnation of large hives for the district in
which he resides. He gives as the interior capacity of the hive
which he states as " very suitable to Kirkcudbright and Wigton-
shire, bat, as I can testify from personal knowledge, it is too
large for Haddingtonshire," one measuring 12^ inches in width,
by 10* inches in height, having a slightly flattened crown. Now,
if my calculation is correct, this gives an internal capacity of
less than 1090 cubic inches, which to my mind is so absurdly
small that I cannot think it suitable to any district whatever,
however poor it may be. By the same method of computation,
I find the Pettigrew hive, 16 inches diameter by 12 inches in
depth to contain about 2040 cubic inches. The box hive which
I have had very largely in use for more than ten years contains,
without the frames, 2033 cubic inches. With the frames the
actual comb-building space is 1610 cubic inches, but the real
Capacity of the hive is larger, as the spaces between the frames
and the sides, top, and the bottom of the box are always
crowded with bees when the population is strong. Having
used these hives in tJiree situations simultaneously, in the
country, a fair honey district, in the heart of a large city, and
in a garden in its immediate suburbs, I can speak most con-
fidently as to their suitability in point of dimensions for each
locality.

When I commenced bee-keeping, too many years ago to look
back upon with entire complacency, it was with box hives
of Dr. Sevan's dimensions. Cotton's diminutive collateral boxes,
and small straw hives fitted for supering; and I used to think
myself fortunate in obtaining supers of 20 lbs. Now, thanks to
larger hives, and the bar and frame arrangement, I think little
of supers under 40 lbs. or 50 lbs. weight in moderate seasons,
and look for much larger in very favourable seasons.

" J. S." thinks that if large hives, such as recommended by Mr.
Pettigrew, had been really advantageous for the neighbourhood of
Edinburgh, Mr. Lowe would certainly have introduced them to
his apiary, but he has not done so. Bearing in mind the extra-
ordinary assertion made by Mi-. Lowe, which I now quote from
his own words — ** Only grant the two necessary conditions —
good weather and good pasturage, and strong hives — whether
domiciled in a palatial hive of the most costly material and
elaborate construction, if both of proper dimensions will show
results, C(€teris paribus, equally good." I cannot say that I
have much confidence in the infallibility of Mr. Lowe's judg-
ment on this point. For " a palatial hive of the most costly
material and elaborate construction," read, " a properly-made
and proportioned frame box-hive, or a pile of Stewarton com-
partments forming one hive " and for " in the simple common
straw," read, " the poor UtUe skeps commonly in tise, according

to ' J. S.,' in Mr. Lowe's neighbourhood ; " and I have no hesi-
tation in asserting that we can compel our favourites to augment
their sweets. The kind of hive has a very considerable infiaence
on the results of the honey harvest. There are a few systems of
hives and management, which, by equal skill shown in their
several necessary manipulations, will command good and toler-
ably equal results; on the other hand there are hives and
systems, which, by the greatest skill that can be brought to bear
on them, will never prove productive or remunerative to any
great degree.— S. Bevas Fox.

ANOTHER BEE HIYE.
We have to announce the invention of yet another bee hive,
which has been patented in the United States, and which has
been described in the Scientific American. It appears that the
new hive combines improved arrangements for permitting the
examination of the bees and comb frames, and also for utihsing
the animal heat of the insects for warming the honey and boxes.
The construction is such that the objectionable space between
the frames and sides of the hive, which in winter affords passage
for currents of cold air and in summer becomes choked with

wax, is avoided. The parts of the floor A are at right angles
and incline upon and from the centre. In the removeable sides
B are openings, one of which is shown closed by the door C.
The side D and that facing it are composed of narrow vertical
boards E, aU of which, with the exception of the middle one, are
detachable. Each board is as wide as the distance from centre
to centre of the comb frames F, and is provided with a rib, G,
on the inside, to fit into the space between the said frames. By
this means, a side is obtained which, while sufficiently hght, is
readily removeable, piece by piece, when it is desired to inspect
the interior of the hive. The sides are held together by the cap
H, and bars I; and the boards E are further secured by metal
plates arranged in their upper extremities, not shown in the
illn5tration. The comb frames F conform in shape to the angle
of the floor, shghtly above which they are supported by stud
pins. By similar means they are separated from each other, the
interstices thus formed giving access to the bees. J is the honey
board, receiving the square honey box K, within the space occu-
pied by the bees, so that it will be warmed in cold weather by
their natural heat. Entrance to the latter is afforded through
the holes L.

It is claimed that all the advantages of moveable comb hives
are here combined without the attendant defects. Ready access
to the combs, when it is necessary, is gained by removing one or
more of the detachable boards— an operation wliich, it is clear,
will not disturb the bees so much as if the whole side were, as is
usually the case, displaced. There are eight separate comb

384

JOURNAL OF HORTIClTiTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

{ May 8, 1373.

frames, each one of which, with its comb and bees, may be lifted ' the bir\J will not eat this, some rice boiled la milk and sweetened should be
o-Jt and transported to another hire without exposini; the insects P^^ ^ *^*^'^ ^ *^^ P'**-*« o* ^^^ ^°V- Perhaps " c. D. ' will let us know exactly
in adjoining portions except at the place of division. The in- ; ^^^^ '' Si«n to the bird, that we may be able to tell what causes the
ventor further states that the hive can be opened and closed i ^ ,, , . ^,, „ ^ .^ » ». . ^ .i.

without killing a single bee or causing a drop of honev to run. Bee Pasturage (An Old Syfttcrib^-V-Lune trees wherever they grow
J *.\ i. -i ». V c»'= wc^ vx ..auoiu^ c 3 5 J , - ill", I j^ffgj^ honev. Honev-dewis the same everywhere — an exudation from the

and that it has been proved excellently adapted for purposes of leaves. Beea certainly flv to pastmuge? four mUes distant from their hives,
artificial swarming, dividing, equalising, and other apicultoral bat they confine their di^'hts to a much smaller distance if honey is there to
operations, — [English ^fech.2nic and JVorld of Science.) j be obtained.

OUR LETTER BOX,

Books (J. H.
them.

J.). — Apply to any bookseller near yoa. He can obtain

MET EOBOLOGICAIi OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Square, Lon'dox.

Lat. 51* 32' 40- N. ; Long. 0^ 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Wai^aix Poultht Show. — The third prize for Cochin cocks was awarded
to pen 32, belonging to Mr. J. Bloodworth, Jersey Cottage, Cheltenham.

Crossing the Phkasaxt and GAire Fowl (T. TX — The cross between
the cock Pheasant and common hen has often been bred in England. We
believe we are correct in saying it is very rare to hear of a similar one between
the common cock and the hen Pheasant. We know none from our own ex-
perience. Ton ask the result. A hybrid deficient in beauty or brii^htness of
colour: almost always of sombre plumage; a dasky mixture of brown and
red, and sometimes nearly black ; long straight tail like that of the hen
Pheasant, but being self-coloured : dull spiritless expression of face : no sexes,
bat one biril is larger than the other, and hence they are called cock and hen.
The only object the so-called cock has in view is to watch the laying hens.
and t.ibe to sittinc as soon as one has J-aid an egg. We think it a waste of
timo, food, and biri-s to produce them.

Black Cochixs (E. S.).—lt is easier to describe the points of Black
Cochins than to tell you where they may be had pure. If we can find the
address in time for the press we will send it. The points are the same as the
other colours of this breed. They must not be vulture-hocked. The great
difticnltv is to cet the cocks pure- coloured. It is almost impossible to get
thoroughly black plumage in adult cocks. Some throw white, seme red
feathers, bat hardly any pure black. We had much to do with them some
years since. It was then said they were accidentally produced by a cross
between Buff and White. We have since imported them. The under feather
of the Black cook is always white ; his hackle and saddle are frequently, we
may say generally, miieil with red and white. We never saw a purely black
adult cock in our lives, nor do we expect to. The pnllets and hens were
always black. It was a great point formerly to set them with bright yellow
legs. This was difficult, except in chickens. Like the Whites, the bright
yellow disappears witli maturity.

BciEBLE Feet fA ConMant lifatUr). — Dorkings and Creve-Cceurs are more
sibject to bumble feet than any other breed, bat it is generally when they get
old and very heavy; also, when they are allowed to roost at will, they always
choose high perches. But, after all, the disease is quite the exception, and
cases arc very rare now as compared with former years. We have never
had it in chickens, and we are disposed to think yours with the split
ball has accidentally cut it. In bumMe foot the skiii is never broken
except in the case of an old bird. If your birds perch high, give them
lower perches. If the flooring of their "house is of ashes or anything that
may cat or peirce the tender skin of a chicken's foot, alter it, and lay down
gravel or road grit.

MovixG SiTTisG Hens. — Having been informed that when a hen in her
sitting has been taken off her nest and removed to another, more con-
venient, that she will forsake it, I tried the experiment, and moved four
hens at night to other nests, and every one continued sitting very well,
and have hatched (two Brahmas, one Cochin, and one crossed Game and
Dorkingt.— EsPER.

Deat-ears axd Red Combs (Snbseribfr). — The white deaf-ear and the
bright red comb depend much on condition, but it is necessary to add, no
amount of condition or health will make a red deaf-ear white. It is one of
the characteristics of high breodinir, and is only developed by health. Neither
of the breeds you name will benefit by shutting-up, but that which will bear
it best is the Malay. You must show them in very hard feather, and you will
help this by feeding on some white peas once per day. Choose the comb flat
and well fixed on the head, the tails drooping, the crop, throa'. and wing ends
bare. Xour Spangled Hamburghs must have well-made combs, quite firm on
the head, and well piked, well spangled breast?, and clear taUs well mooned.
They must have white deaf-ears, Tfie Black Bantams should be small, close-
feathered, white deaf-ears, and the cocks should have long sickles. Do not
shut them up. Feed on grouni oats slaked with water tyrice per day, morning
and evening. Give table scraps and odd pieces for a mid-day meal. We
know no Spangled Bantams. The Sebright s. Golden and Silver, are laced —
i.e., every feather Is edged with black, if spangled it would be merely tipped,
.and the bird would be worthless. Laced Bantams when they ore bred out
become spangled.

Brahmas' Sests {A Beginner). — Brahmas' nests require to be like others.
The nest itself should be straw, put either in a basket or in a butter- tub with
the head knocked out, and if the bottom also so much the better, as nests are
always healthier and cleaner when they are on the ground. Lids or covers
mast be provided, as a sitting hen should always be shut in. It not only
prevents her from sitting badly, but it sectires her from interruption from
other fowls. The egga should be plentifully wett^ for eight or ten days
before hatching. Tou may keep eggs for a fortnight or three weeks, and they
will then hatch, but it is always thought the fresher the egg the stronger the
chicken.

E3G Within an Egg (Gardenia). — We are mnch obliged by your note
and drawing, bat it has been so frequently noticed as no longer to cause
surprise.

Xat Flight. — It is some time since we heard anything of Macclesfield
Tipplers. We do not at present know of any. The last we saw were at
Birmingham.

Pigeons at the Dublin Show. — We not only have several letters dis-
puting our " Correspondent's " report, but also his reply to Sir. Statmton's
no*e. The report we believe to have been unbiased, and we must decline in-
sar;ing any more letters on the subject.

Parrot's Digestion Disordered (C. D.).— Tou should for a few days
discontinue to give the Parrot any water at all, and instead put in its water-
tin a little bread soaked in cold milk, and sweetened with a httle sugar. If

Date.

9 A.1I.

Is THE DiV,

1873.

■1= ' u

« =* 33 i H yprome-

S-i

^

Radiation

April

3 a

". a

perature

Temperature.

d

and

1 a_x ' '«'''-

S?

»__.

»

SSgS

In On

M.y.

s- =- Dry. Wet

s =

deR.

Max.
depT

Min.

Acg.

»-un. grass

Inches dejr. ! deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

We. SO

30.U0 , 52.3 17.3

N.W.

46 3

5S.6

33.1

94.1

33.4

—

Th. 1

80.116 , 59.5 54.2

N.W.

4S.0

67.3

50.1

113 8

45.2

—

Fri. 2

S0.059 5S.') ' .US

N.W.

499

66,9

41.0

118.1

353

—

Sat, S

IS 6S19 64.6 476

N.W.

51.1

61.0

413

IIS.U

390

0.026

ban. 4

29.749 46.1 4S.5

N.

50.S

585

4L0

107.0

40.8

6.136

Mo. 5

23.530 , 47.6 46.5

S.W.

50.3

55.2

42 8

96.5

40.0

0.U8

Ttt. 6

1 29 542 1 49.0

44.5

w.

49.4

5S3

39 9

1139

36.2

0.02O

Ueans

\ 29.SS5 j 52.4

47.7

49.5

60.9

42.1

1CS.1

38.6

0.290

REMARKS.

30th. — Rather dull morning, and very dull all day ; slight shower at

4.30 P.M.
May 1st. — Fine morning, fine and bright thronghont the day.
2nd.— .Mother beautiful day ; it looked rather stormlike between 6 and 7 p.m.,

but soon passed off.
Srd. — Fine morning, wind rather strong, and cold sharp shower at 0.15 P.st, ;
hail for a short time from 1.15 p.m.; very stormlike between 5 and 6,
but no storm here, and fine afterwards.
4th. — Fair, but rather dull; rain at 11 a.m. and between Sand 4 p.m.; fine

evening, lunar halo at night.
5th. — Rather dull, rain in early morning and cold after.
6th. — A very fine morning, and so continued all day.
The earlier part of the week was much warmer than the previous one,
though not so hot as some days in April. The latter part has again been cooler
under the influence of northerly winds and occasional showers. — G. J.Symoxs.

COVEXT GARDEN MARKET.— May 7.
Prices remain nearly as last week, and the supply is well k;pt up. Vege-
tables coming very much better, and the Continental ones have also very
much improved daring the past week.

Apples J sieve

Apricots doz.

Cnernes %* box

Chestnuts bushel

Currants J sieve

Bl.ick do.

Figs doz.

Filberts lb.

Cobs lb.

Gooseberries qaart

Grapes, hothouse lb.

Lemons t* lOO

Melons each

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus ^100

French

Beans. Kidney ^ 100

lleet,Red doz.

Broccoli bundle

I Cabbage doz.

] Capsicums ^100

Carrots bunch

Cauliflower doz.

Celery bcndle

Coleworts.. doz. bunches

Cucumbers eacfi

picklmg doz.

Endive doz.

Fennel bunch

Garlic lb.

Herbs bunch

Horseradish bundle

Leeks bunch

Lettuce doz.

s. d. s. d. I

s. d. s. d.

8 Oto-S 0 Mulberries i^ lb. 0 OtoO 0

0 0 Nectarines doz. 0 0 0 0

6 0 Oranges V 100 4 0 10 0

0 0 0 0 Pe'iches doz. 18 0 30 0

0 0 0 0 Pears, kitchen ooz. 10 3 0

"00 dessert doz. 6 0 IS 0

0 0 PineApples lb. S 0 12 0

0 0 Plums 4 sieve 0 0""

2 6 Quinces doz. 0 0

•2 0 , Raspberries »>. 0 0

0 15 0 Strawberries V oz. " "

0 0
4 0

0 0 0 0

0 0

0 0
■i 0

1 0

0 10 0 ' WalnnU

0 6

e 0

0 0

0 0

1

S 0 15 0

bushel 15 0 so 0

ditto flUO 2 0

VEGETABLES,

B. d. 8. d.

5 0to6 0

4 0 S 0

6 0 12 0
1 6 2 G

0
6
6
0

Mushrooms pottle

Mustard A Cress. .pimnet

Onions ^bushel

pickling quart

Parsley per doz. bimches

' Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

, Potatoes bushel

I Kidney do.

Round do.

I Radishes., doz.bnnches

I Rhnbarb bundle

I Salsafy ^bundle

I Savoys doz.

I Scorzonera.... ^ bundle

1 Sea-kale basket

I Shallots lb.

I Spinach bushel

I Tomatoes doz.

j Turnips bunch

I Vegetable Marrows

8. d. 8. d

0 0to2
0

POULTRY MARKET.— Mat 7.
There are indications of a partially increased supply of certain goods. TVe
are looking for them, as the present high prices being caused entirely By
scarcity, are beneficial to no one.

t Large Fowla 6 0 to 6

Smallerditto 4 6 5

Chick<>ns SO 3

, G.-slinff'* 7 6 S

[ It Qtuea Fowls 4 0

I Duckling 3 G

s. d. B. d.

Pheasan's 0 0 to 0- 0

Partridges 0

Hares 0

Rabbi's 1

Wildditto 0

Pigeons 0

0

0 «

0

0 n

5

1 1

9

» lu

a

« 10

ilMj IS, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OP HOETICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENEE.

385

WEEKLY

CALENDAR.

! D.7

1 of
1 Mooth

Week.

> _.-..- ' ATerage Tempera- Eain is

gnu 1 8u

Maos

Moon

Mooo't

Clock Dar
after ^»f
Bun. Year.

iSAY 1&— 21, 1873. tore near l/oudou. 42 yeara.

Kiaes. Sets.

Uiaea.

bets.

Age.

Dav.

Night.

Mean. Days.

m. b. m. b. ' m. h.

m. b.

Dayi.

m. fl.

Til

Boyal Botanic Society's Show close*.

64.8

41J.7

52.7 IS

10al4 43af7

50 11

45 5

19

3 S3

135

16

V

66.0

43.3

54.1

15

8 4 44 7

mom-

4;j C

20

3 53

136

17

S

Crystal Palace Show.

05.7

41.U

53.4

16

7 4 46 7

42 0

57 7

21

3 51

137

18

BCM , 5 SfSDAV AiTEK EAfiTEE.

G6.2

42.2

54.2

17

5 4

47 7

19 1

21 9

22

3 50

138

19

M ' Caubrid;;e Term di-.-ideB.

67.0

42.7

54.9

14

4 4

48 7

46 1

48 10

c

8 47

139

ao

TtJ Zoological Society's Meeting, 8.80 p.m.

6C.9

4.3.4

55.2 20

8 4

50 7

6 2

after.

21

3 44

140

21

W Boyal HoiiicoUoral Society's Fruit, Flotal,
(and General Meeting.

G6.3

41.7

55.5 19

2 4

51 7

23 2

39 1

25

3 40

141

From observatlonB taken neaj London during forty-three jears, the average day temperatnre of the week is 66.1= ; and its night temperafcoie

its'. The greatest heat was 80', on the 15th, 1833 ; and the lowest oold 25-, on the ISth,

1*50. The greatest tail ol rain was 0.7C inch.

1

EVENING JITJSINGS FOE PLAIN PEOPLE.— No. 4.

VLVES AND OTHER TOPICS.

N previous evenings consideration has been
given to the different classes of plants suit-
able for culture under the shade of Vines,
and if so cultivated they cannot fail to give
plea!;iu:e. I ■will now notice -what, in con-
junction with Vines, cannot fail to give
profit and -which entail the least possible
amount of skill in management.

It is an admitted fact that the last ten
years have ■witnessed extensive erections for
Vine-culture by way of profit, partially or solely. PubUc
incUnation is still groviing in this direction, and even
many tradesmen have a disposition to give some of their
spare time to an exercise which they deem enjoyable,
and especially if it is profitable. One can hardly err in
encouraging a disposition of this kind, both on account
of the fuller supply of the best of aU fruits at a reasonable
price for town and city consumption which ■will result,
and also in fostering home pursuits pure and pleasurable
in their nature. As it may be more practical to muse
on what has been done, rather than what may be done, I
will give a brief history of the beginning and completion
of a structure for Vine-culture, with a notice of the general
results not merely attainable but actually attained.

Five years ago a neighbour solicited my advice in the
matter of building a vinery on a plot of ground, which by
many years of hard work he had won as his own. Like
many others, he wanted to see his way to a httle gain
rather than loss by his undertaking. He had no doubt
as to the Vines eventually being remunerative ; but wliat
until they became so, and what of the lost space in the
house ? If I could teU him how to turn to account and
utilise to a profit this space at once he would commence
building forthwith. The house, a lean-to, -with a 19-feet
rafter, and nearly 70 feet long, was?, to him, no small
undertaking. It is erected, is in full profit, and is a suc-
cess, but not until after some failures.

It may be useful to notice these. The first was a
Cucumber failure. Owing to the length of rafter a pur-
line was necessary. This is supported by a row of pillars.
These were made the framework for a temporary trellis
on which to grow a hedge of Cucumbers. The height,
12 feet, and length approaching 70 feet, were calculated
to carry a large amount of frmt. This was to give the
first interest on outlay pending the growth of the ^'ines.
A ridge of good soil was provided, and stout plants put i
in it at the end of Slay. He had instructions respecting
airing, watering, and syringing, and especially as to fresh
appUcations of soil as the roots reached the surfece. The
progress of the plants was remarkable, the trellis was
covered with luxuriant gro-wth, hundreds of &uit were
swelling, several had been cut. A reward appeared cer-
tain. Perhaps the freer growth begat negligent atten-
tion ; at any rate he forgot to add sufficient soil to the
roots or to water them thoroughly, and a burning day
in AusiiKt save the plants the coup de grace. When the |
No. ess.— Vol. XXIV., New Sbeizs

patient was dead he ran for the doctor. On arriving, the
' soil was beautifully moist at the surface generally, but
in a puddle round the stems. Underneath it was dry as
dust, and the extremities of the roots— the feeders — were
shrivelled and dead. It was man — well, not quite — but
Cucumber slaughter, certainly. A few recovered, but the
loss was signal. Had he acted exactly according to^in-
structions that crop of Cucumbers would have paid him
better interest on his outlay than any building he had
before erected, and such were not a few ; but he de-viated.
I slightly as he thought, but ruinotisly. JFrom such sUght
deviations, shpping instructions, not fully and completely
carrying out orders, a presumptive superiority of know,
ledge — arise failures generally. Young gardeners may
think of this and beheve it to be true. Old gardeners
know there is no doubt about it. Ncghgence of what is
erroneously regarded as little things is the root of half,
and more than half, the evils that flood the world. The
old tale of master and coachman is suggestive. " How
near can you drive to danger'?" "A toot, sir.' "And
you?" " An inch, sir." "And you?" " I drive as far
off as I can, sir." " You are the man for me." He who
makes friends -with risk and chance is in dangerous com-
pany. He who would achieve success must act precisely,
exactly, and at the right time. It may be useful tor young
professionals and inexperienced amateurs alike to keep
this in mind. To be safe, drive as widely as possible off
danger. To succeed, adhere rigidly to instructions. Do
not say of an apparently simple order, " There is no sense
in it ;" it ■will be far more sensible to accept it as neces-
sary and carry it out. W"hen a man, by inattention,
only loses his own, as in the case of the Cucumbers, it
does not so much matter ; but how many men — young
men — have the property and reputations of others in
their keeping? On these it is absolutely incumbent to
act in strict obedience — accurately, promptly, cheerfully,
and correctly.

By incorrectly or only half obeying instructions my
pupil lost his Cucumbers, but by the same cause had a
far greater loss than this in bis essay at Grape-growing.
That loss will be noted by-and-by. He has surmounted
both and succeeded. I have no occasion now to teU him
twice over what to do. A hint is no sooner given than
acted on ; he has bought experience by failure, and finds
it no longer safe to play experiment with necessary ad-
vice. If he had done this first instead of last, it would
have put pounds in his pocket. Too many find the same
thing out only when " too late."

Alter recording a failiire I ■will now record a success.
On clearing out the withered Cucumbers the soil was
levelled, and other good material mixed in, and in the
autumn the enthe border was planted with early Pota-
toes, and sowed over ■vriih Eadishes. The success of this
in the spring was a complete atonement for the Cucumber
massacre. Besides the pleasure of tending a prosperous
crop, it brought interest for the money — a good return on
capital invested in the erection. Up to the present time
the owner continues the Potatoes. Although the Vines
cover the roof and carry hxmdreds of pounds of Grapes
Ko. 1285.— Vol. xi.ry , old Sebies.

386

JOURNAL Oy HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

I Maj 15, 187S.

yet he has his crops of roots cleared off and sold before his
Vines are in bloom, and this spring he has sold thousands of
Radishes at 7rf. per score, and Potatoes at 3s. per pound. That
is making a vinery pay without the Grapes, of which there
will soon be 400 to 500 lbs. ready to eat and sell. These
Vines are very tractable, and require no removiug from the
roof to break regularly. They stai't at the bottom first, and
when the bunches nearest the root are thinned and swelling,
those at the tops of the Vines are just setting their- fruit. I am
now interrupted, and will resume another evening. — J. Weight.

THE FORESTS OF NEW ZEALAND.
The primeval forest has indescribable charms for the natu-
ralist. There generations of venerable trees hasten to their
decay, and more youthful saplings shoot joyously up around
the old moss-clad patriarchs. The almost death-like stillness
which prevails in these regions makes a deep impression upon
the mind. Not a sound is audible save from time to time the
dull thud of a falling tree or the shrill scream of a bird of
prey, for the song-birds enliven with their notes only the out-
skirts of the forest, and never visit its gloomy interior. Whilst
the deepest quiet reigns around the graves of the fallen trees,
the foliage of their living brethren is like a vast sea, continually
moved by the wind.

Almost all the indigenous trees of New Zealand are clothed
with evergreen foliage; and as the colouring of the leaves
presents a great variety of hues, this peculiarity contributes
much to the beauty of the landscape. It is also to this cir-
cumstance that the comparatively great scarcity of timber-
yielding trees in New Zealand is 'to be attributed, since the
quaUty of the wood is deteriorated by the continuous flow of
sap. It is in spring, not in autumn, as in Europe, that the
New Zealand forests present the greatest variety of light and
shadow, for the budding leaves display far brighter colours
than those which have for some time attained maturity. Upon
the whole, the forest bears an exceedingly tropical aspect, and
unfolds its greatest beauties in the uuderwood, which possesses
those luxuriant forms of leaf and blossom, and that freshness
of colouring, which are only to be found in the warm zones.
It is upon the outskirts of the forest especially that vegetation
attains its highest development, and it is there that the plants
characteristic of New Zealand — viz., the Fern tribe, appear in
their grandest forms. There the graceful tree Ferns with their
deUcate trunks covered in the most uniform manner with the
triangular marks of the decayed leafstalks, attain a height of
20 or 30 feet before spreading out their picturesque crowns
with their finely shaped leaves. There the majestic Nikau
extends its Palm-like shade ; there the Tree Fuchsia displays
its gorgeous clusters of blossom and well-flavoured fruit ; there
flourishes the Laurel-like Kawaka, with its dark green waxy
leaves and bright yellow berries ; and there is the sweetly
fragrant Manukau and the slender Poroporo.

The mountainous structure of New Zealand and its essen-
tially insular climate are the primary causes which render its
forests so devoid of variety in shape and formation. There
forest, and woodland, and meadow do not alternate as in Aus-
tralia ; there one does not perceive those isolated clumps of
trees which have, not inappropriately, been termed " wood
islands ;" and finally, the individual varieties of trees and
other plants have not there an opportunity to develope their
characters freely and uniformly.

If the traveller desires to penetrate into the interior of the
forest he will find his progress attended by many diflicultiee,
if not altogether stopped by the density of the underwood,
through which in many places it is necessary to cut a way
with the hatchet. Innumerable varieties of leaves, twisted
into the closest network, stretch from tree to tree, forming
dangerous snares for arms and feet. Shoots of every species
mingled with strong runners, creeping plants with sharp
prickly leaves and thorns, rotten branches, and fallen trunks
— all these form natural barriers, which are only to be sur-
mounted by the greatest trouble and determination. In many
places the traveller will sink Icnee deep in the soil by acci-
dentally treading upon the grave of one of the forest giants.
Grasses and Mosses are rare, and only found upon open spots,
as their growth is choked by the Ferns, which thrive luxu-
riantly everywhere, even in places where the sun's rays never
fall. Forest flowers are never to be fouud upon the damp
overshadowed ground, but generous mother Nature has sup-
plied their place by a flora which, firmly rooted in the trunks
of the old trees, unfolds its gorgeous blossoms high over the

earth. The kinds of Orchids are numerous and rich. Rai'e
indeed is the large tree upon whose trunk, they do not grow,
and from whose branches they do not hang down in green
garlands, enveloping their gay flowers in luxuriant foliage.
The immense tips of the trees and their density render it im-
possible for the sun, even in midsummer, to exercise its due
influence upon the atmosphere of the forest ; even at noon a
greenish twilight and a low temperature prevail in its depths.

In opener places — i.e., where the parasitic plants have not
obtained a firm footing, and where the spectator has a wider
view, a stupendous spectacle is presented to the eye. The
thickly-standing trees with their massive pillar-like trunks
and their green peaked tops, give to the entire scene the look
of a huge old temple with an aijrial dome through which the
light of day but scantily penetrates. But, on the other hand,
a peculiar uncomfortable feeling takes hold of the spectator.
The whole atmosphere seems impregnated with damp, and the
earthy smell and cold slimy temperature produce an oppressed
feeUng in the chest, which is only to be removed by sunlight
and warmth.

The majority of the trees shoot-up straight and branchless
for a considerable height, and then spread out more or less
regularly their huge crowns, which are always composed of
the densest foliage. A strange peculiarity is presented by many
trees which divide into branches either far surpassing, or, at
least, equalling in size the parent trunk ; this feature gives
the tree an unnatural appearance, and by no means tends to
beautify it.

Although amongst the forest trees of New Zealand there are
at least forty kinds which at a certain strength of growth
attain a height of 100 feet and above, yet, as has been said,
there are comparatively few among them which deserve the
name of timber trees, and as such possess a high value. These
I will briefly name before proceeding to a description of the
more useful and better-known kinds ; — Aka, Akeake, Kinau,
Kahikatea, Kauri, Kawaka, Kohai, Kohekohe, Maire, Mangiao,
Manukau, Mapau, Matai, Miro, Puhutukawa, Pukatea, Puriri,
Rata, Rewarewa, Eimu, Tanekaha, Taraire, Tawa, Tawhero,
Tawhia, Tipau, Titoki, Titongi, Tortoa, Totura, Towai, and
Uharangipu-on.

The Kauri (Dammara australis), is from its majestic appear-
ance justly styled the giant and king of the New Zealand
forests. Its usual height varies between 99 and 1G5 feet, but
it has frequently been met with as high as 198 feet. The
thickness of its trunk is in symmetrical proportion to its
height; a diameter of 8 feet 2 inches, or 9 feet 10 inches, is
by no means rare. What lends the tree its greatest beauty is,
that its trunk, usually as straight as an arrow and imdis-
figured by any excrescences or decaying branches, attains more
than two-thirds of its height before putting forth its colossal
boughs. Like the Pine tree it is usually met with in extensive
forests, but it is also frequently found amongst other trees in
the primeval forest. From the summit of a high hill the
traveller may see the conical tops of these trees rising hke
islands from the green sea of foliage. The bark of the Kauri
is quite smooth, lA inch thick, and of a silver-grey colour.
The leaves bear a striking resemblance to those of the Box
tree, are of a dark green colour, which becomes yellowish upon
the reverse side, and are IJ inch long by 1 inch broad. They
grow pair-wise upon the ends of the small twigs. The tree
bears cpnes from 2 to 4 inches in length. These are simul-
taneously found in the most different stages of development,
so that it is impossible to assign the flowering season to any
particular mouth of the year. It is the only indigenous Conifer
of New Zealand. All parts of the tree contain large quantities
of a pecuUar kind of rosin, which when it flows from the wood
is quite transparent, of a white colour, and strongly opalescent ;
with age it acquires a beautiful amber colour. The rosin is
rather brittle than hard, is easily crushed, is of a bitter as-
tringent taste, and possesses a very small specific gravity. It
is very inflammable and burns with a bright flame, giving forth
thick clouds of smoke. This Kauri gum, as it is called, is fre-
quently found in large quantities at a depth of 3 or 9 feet
underground, upon the eastern slopes of the hUls, which in
early times must have been almost all clothed with Kauri
forests.

Of late years this gum has become an important article of
exportation for New Zealand, as it is much employed in the
manufacture of varnish, and in this respect has entirely super-
seded copal. Its price in the European markets, of course,
depends wholly upon its quality, and varies between £10 and
£120 per ton. These high prices have naturally made gum-

May 15, 1873. )

JOUENAL OP HOBTICULTDEE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB.

387

digging an important department of colonial industry; it is,
however, a very wearisome occupation, requires much patience,
and the results depend entirely upon chance. The rosin
which flows in astonishingly large ijuautities from the trunk
and stump of a freshly-felled tree has scarcely any value in
commerce, as it is impossible to congeal it either by artificial
heat or otherwise without destroying its essential properties ;
yet when submitted to a process of distillation it yields a
superior sort of oil resembling spirits of turpentine. The
leaves of the tree also contain a fine ethereal oil. The trees
are usually feUed shortly before the beginning of the rainy
season, and cut upon the spot into logs of from 20 to 32 feet
in length. The mountainous nature of the country renders
theu' transport to the coast impossible for cattle, and, conse-
quently, the vicinity of a mountain stream is always selected
as the basis of operations. Across the mouth of this stream,
which flows either into a larger river or dhectly into the sea,
a strong dam is constructed in order to gather all the water.
When all the timber required has been cut down and rolled
into the valley, and if there is water enough to float it off the
dam is opened and the logs, often many thousands in number,
shoot down into the larger creek or du'eot into the sea, whence
they are then conveyed to the respective saw-mills. It fre-
quently, however, happens that the dam has not been suffi-
ciently secured, or that too much water has gathered and a
premature departure of the logs takes place. In such cases the
loss to the owners is often very heavy, as the logs are driven
far out to sea, or, perhaps, entu-ely lost.

The first rank amongst the timbers of New Zealand is held
hy that of the Kauri. It is usually divided into two sorts, red
and white. Like almost all the timbers of the country, it
possesses the peculiarity of contracting or expanding in length
as well as in breadth with the various changes in temperature.
When converted into planks the wood has in general a smooth
compact appearance, free from all knots and scare, and is of a
very close grain. The quantity of rosin contained by it causes
it, especially the red variety, to give way rapidly under strong
pressure. On account of this brittleuess it is not easily worked,
and requhes to be well seasoned before being cut up, especially
if the tree has not been thoroughly " bled." It requires to
be pai'ticularly sorted for joinery, which trouble, however, is
richly rewarded, as pieces are to be found which in beauty of
grain and wavy lines far surpass mahogany, and also take on
a fine poUsh. For naval requirements there is scarcely any
other tree which can be compared with the Kauri. For these
purposes it is exported in great quantities, as its durability,
its length, and its elasticity have procured for it the first place
in the favour of ship-builders. — X.

AURICULAS AT SOUTH KENSINGTON ON

MAY 7th.

The very exceptional character of the season may be gathered
fjom the fact that while, as a rule, Auriculas are at their best
about the 2Uth of April, there were so few exhibited at the last
meeting. At this meeting three weeks afterwards there was
a very good collection, and as far as I am personally concerned
I can safely say I never remember such a time. Two of the
plants I exhibited to-day were shown three weeks ago, and of
some kinds, such as Kichard Headly and Lancashire Hero, I
had only one plant to send. The only regret one can feel is
that there are not more competitors ; and if people would only
beheve that a simple and natural course of treatment will
insure for them good and healthy plants, I think there would
be a larger number of persons taking pleasure in the growth
of one of oiu' most beautiful and refined flowers.

Mr. Turner, of Slough, exhibited as usual a large number of
wonderfully fine plants, grown very strongly, and many of
them in oonsequeuce, to a critical eye, out of character. There
can be no doubt that if they are grown too strongly the body
colour, as it is called, becomes larger and the flower coarse,
and that refinement which in the eye of a connoisseur is one
of the great charms of an Auricula, is done away with. An
exceedingly beautiful purplish blue self, called after our la-
mented friend Charles Perry, was amongst his collection, and
obtained a first-class certificate. It is of fine habit, and novel
in colour ; the paste is a little too angular, but in all other
respects it is a first-rate flower. The fine green-edge. Alder-
man Wisbey, which he exhibited last year, %vas in good condi-
tion, and will be a valuable addition to that somewhat limited
class. Colonel Champneys maintains its character as a first-

rate stage plant, although wanting in some of the points
necessary for a show flower ; there is too much colour, and the
colour is apt to run out to the edge, but there is such an at-
tractiveness about it that it will be sure to be a favourite for
the home stage, especially as it has such a good habit and con-
stitution. Charles Edward Brown, which I myself exhibited,
and to which a first-class certificate was awarded, is a seedling
of Mr. Headly's, the raiser of George Lightbody, and is a
flower of great refinement. It was sent out by the late Mr.
Lightbody a year or two before his death, but has never been
exhibited in the south before. It is unquestionably oue of
great merit, very smooth and circular, the eye and paste both
good, and the colour- well defined ; it was also exhibited by
Mr. James, but not in good condition. Lightbody's Sir Charles
Napier was shown in a good state ; it is a peculiarly neat
flower, with a well defined grey edge, and in this state is
deserving of a very high place in the florist's estimation. I
sent up with the plant of Charles Edward Brown a very extra-
ordinary bloom of Fletcher's Ne Plus Ultra, for which I can-
not account. It was a truss of five pips, each pip measuring
more than 2 inches across, with an immense amount of colour
and great coarseness of texture. I do not grow my flowers
richly, never give them any liquid manure, and I think I may
say that their general condition is not so much of size as
of great refinement. This plant received the same treatment
as the rest, and yet it produced this truss, which anyone would
have pronounced to be the effect of over-stimulating; but the
strange thing is that the plant did the same last year, so that
it is one of those sports for which there is no accounting.
PoppleweU's Conqueror, an old and generally coarse flower, I
had very good; in fact, a veteran in Auricula-growing, Mr.
Butcher, of CamberweU, told me that he had never had it so
good and refined. The best of all those shown was George
Lightbody, as, indeed, it was last year, and I question if ever
a flower wiU be raised to beat it. I had another curious flower
in my lot, a perfect gem, Lancashire Hero, which generally
comes as a grey-edge, but was in this case a pure pale green.

It was gratifying to Auricula-growers to see the manner in
which the flowers were admired by those who were without
the pale, but who were attracted by the peculiar beauty and
singular colouring ; and although many of the observations
were such as made one smile, yet it could not be mahciously,
for then' expressions were the index of true admiration. Let
us hope the time may come when there shall be such gather-
ings for competition as one remembers in early days, when the
" Horns " at Kennington used to be filled with eager exhibitors
and appreciative visitors. — D., Deal.

BESSIE JOHNSON ROSE.
In a recent issue of your valued paper some remark was
made to the effect that the new Hybrid Perpetual Rose Bessie
Johnson was too similar in colour to Abel Grand. Being
myself a grower of Eoses and successful exhibitor, and having
had abundant opportunity of judging as to the distinctness of
this truly beautiful and sweet Rose, allow me to state that I
have seen it at the Devon Eosery in quantity, both under
glass and in the open air, side by side with Abel Grand, and
can assert that it is quite distinct from that Rose, being a
true pale blush in hue, between La France and the superb but
scentless Madame Rothschild. It is superior in shape to Abel
Grand, and surpassingly fragrant. I feel sure Messrs. Curtis
will exhibit their beautiful Rose at the Crystal Palace, so as to
fully settle the question of its distinctness. Bessie Johnson
will, undoubtedly, prove a great acquisition and a general
favoiuite, it has so many desirable qualities — size, colour, ex-
treme sweetness, hardihood, and a fine habit, never giving a
barren shoot. — Eoeekt Eobson, Torre Park, Torquay.

THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S

SHOW AT BATH.
The Royal Horticultural Society's show-ground, of which
the accompanying engravings are the plan and sections, is
situated in the Eoyal Victoria Park, Bath, in the midst of one
of the most favoured spots for picturesque beauty in the west
of England. It occupies an area of about 13 acres, and is on
the western side of the city, about a quarter of a mile from the
new station of the Midland Railway Company, and three-
quarters of a mile from that of the Great Western. It is the
intention of both these Companies to run excursion trains

388

JOtJBNAIi OF HOKTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ May.is, 1873.

SCAU^ 0 t2 !*J6 <B fc>72 e*96r:E l!0 l« tllFEET

'-- I I I.I I

GEODND PLAN OF ROYAL HOItllCCLTUBAI. SOCIETX'S SHOW GEOCN'D AT EATH.

May 16, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICLTOtraE AND COTTAGE GARDENEK.

389

O'S S3S'/H]

0 ■*■ snvj

o-c oiyvj

•J^«iii

^-%

from the principal towns on their
lines of railway during the Show.

The Local Committee are work-
ing with a right goodwill, and are
now sending out thousands of small
bills auuouucmg the Show, and
placarding the principal towns and
railway stations with large posters.
The model garden, which has been
skilfully laid out by Mr. Eyles, is
neai-ly completed, and a large por-
tion of the space for horticultural
buildings and implements has been
already applied for. The refresh-
ment department has been entrust-
ed to Mr. E. B. Cater, of Bath,
who is thoroughly competent to
provide for the wants of the visit-
ors, and the Society may look for-
ward with every confidence to the
forthcoming Show as one of the
most attractive and successful yet
held in the provinces.

OT S11VJ

a i-

o-ji> goavd

REFEUESCES TO GROUND

I'LAX AND SECTIONS.

1

1.

Entrances.

10. Council Koom.

2.

Tent for Fmife and Cut
Flowers.

11. Tent for Table Decorations.
12, 12. Horticultural Buildings.

3

3.

Band-stands.

13, 13: Horticultural Implements.

4

4

4.

Promenade Ground.

14. Carriages and Iiaplemeats.

5

5

5.

Light Kcfrcshnients.

15, 15. Refreshments.

6.

First-class Befreshments.

16, 16. Gentlemen.

7.

Ladies' Koom.

17. Lake.

8

Grand Tout tor Show, 260 feet
by 130 leet.

IS, Second-class Hefreshmcnts.
19. Cottagers' Teat.

y.

Office.

A B. Ground Line.

BOTAL BOTANIC SOCIETY'S SHOW.

May 14th and 1.5ih.
This is one of the best of the May Shows that have been held
at the Regent's Park of late years. Some of the collections are
remarkably fine, there are few to "which exception can be taken,
and the arrangement is excellent. On the forenoon of the open-
ing day their Majesties the King and Queen of the Belgians,
together with their Highnesses the Duke of Teck and the
Princess Mary, made a lengthened inspection of the Show.

In stove and .greenhouse plants Mr. Baines, gardener to H.
Micholls, Esq., Southgate, took the foremost place, both for
groups of nine and for six. In these Anthurium Scherzerianum
with twenty-eight spathes ; several Eriostemons ; Erica ventri-
cosa coccinea minor, .5 feet in diameter and covered with blos-
som ; Azalea Magnificans, a snowy mass nearly 6 feet high ;
Ixora coccinea with superb heads, some of them 8 inches in
diameter — these form objects well worthy of Mr. Eaines's name,
and are conspicuous among a lot of plants admirably grown and
splendidly flowered. Mr. Ward, gardener to F. Li. Wilkins, Esq.,
Leyton, is second for nine ; and Mr. Chapman, gardener to J.
Spode, Esq., takes the corresponding position for six. In the
nurserymen's class for the same number Messrs. WiUiams, Rol-
lisson, and W. Cutbush are the prizetakers.

Azaleas are very well represented in a collection from Mr.
Chapman, inclitding closely trained but beautifully flowered
specimens of Leopold I. and Juliana, and in groups from Mr.
Turner, Messrs. Jackson & Sons, Ivery & Sons, and Lane.
Messrs. Lane and Mr. Eowe, Eoehampton, have excellent groups
of Rhododendrons ; while in Heaths Messrs. Ward, J. Wheeler.
G. Wheeler, and Jackson & Sons take the lead. Show Pelargo-
niums are not on the whole nearly so fine as we have seen them,
Roses were noticed fully last week in the report of the Show
at Kensington, and, as might be expected, most of the finest
specimens there exhibited again put in an appearance. Mr.
Tm-ner, of Slough, and Messrs. Paul & Son are first in groups
of six and nine respectively, while for twenty the awards went
to the same exhibitors and Messrs. Veitch.

Of Orchids, Mr. Ward, Mr. HQl, gardener to R. Hanbury, Esq.,
The Poles, and among nurserymen Mr. Williams and Mr. Bull,
have good groups, for which they are placed in the prize-hst. In
Mr. Williams's group is Cypripedinm caudatum with nineteen
flowers, and a fine mass of Cypripedium barbatum superbuni.
The best single specimens of Orchids are Dendrobium infundi-
bulum from Messrs. Jackson, Cattleya Mossise from Mr. James,
and Phalasnopsis graudiflora from Mr. Chapman, all of which
are excellent.

Mr. Ware, of Tottenham, sends collections of Lihaceous plants,
hardy herbaceous plants, fine-foliaged and flowering plants, cut
blooms of Fancy Pansies, and a charming horseshoe group of
flower-garden plants near the fountain in the centre of the tent,
and producing an admirable eiiect. For this a first prize was
awarded ; and first-class certificates were likewise granted to
the same exhibitor for Polyanthus Parisina, Pansy Pluto almost
black, and yellow Polyanthus Crcesus.

Messrs. E. G. Henderson likewise exhibit a collection of
flower-garden plants arranged for efiect, including numerous
Tulips. Certificates were awarded to that firm for Aralia
Sieboldi am-ea reticulata, with pale yellow variegation, and for
Canna Tricolor with cream-coloured variegation, and the blade
of the leaf edged -with red. Mr. Turner sends LiUum am-atum in
fine bloom; Mr. C. Noble his new Clematises, among which
Mrs. V. Lister had a first-class certificate.

Of new plants groups are shown by Messrs. Veitch, Williams,
and Bull. Messrs. Veitch take certificates for Platyloma beUuru,
P. braehypterum, Oncidium fuscatum, JIasdevallia Lindeni,
Daemonorops fissus, and Ptychosperma KuhUi; Mr. WiUiams
for Colax jugosus ; Mr. Bull for the same Orchid, Yriesia reticu-
lata, Encephalartos regahs, E. ampliatus, and Dracasna splen-
dens. Mr. Ware has certificates for Iris austrahs and Primula
acaulis The Giant, double yellow; and Messrs. E. G. Henderson
one for Spu-aea japonica aurea reticidata, with neat yellow- veined
foHage. Rose Madame Lacharme and Azalea Apollo from Mr.
Turner had likewise certificates.

Bouquets of Eoses. — On the occasion of the recent visit
of Her Majesty to the International Exhibition bouquets of
Eoses, consisting chiefly of varieties raised and named after
Her Majesty and the Eoyal Princesses by Mr. W'. Paul, of

390

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ May 15, 187S.

Waltham Cross, were presented to the Queen and Princesses
by Mr. Paul's children (bouquets of Eoses as well). The
entrance to the school of cookery was decorated with Roses by
Messrs. George Paul A- Son, of Cheshunt.

BELGIAN MOLE TRAP.

On a visit we recently paid to the extensive nurseries of Mr.
Tan Houtte, at Ghent, wo saw a singular-looking implement
lying at the foot of a hedge, the use of which we could not
divine until we were informed by Mr. Van Houtte that it was

Belgian Mole Trap.

a mole trap. Our figure, for which we are indebted to Mr.
Van Houtte's courtesy, will convey a very correct represent-
ation of this curious contrivance. It consists of a block of
wood armed on its under surface with long iron spikes. This
block of wood is raised in a frame in which it is kept in place
by a groove on each side, into which the sides of the frame
are let in. A string fastened to a hook on the upper surfuce
of the block passes through a hole in one of the sides of the
frame to a piece of wood, which is set somewhat like that
used in setting a figure-4 mouse trap ; and the oblique notched
lever in which it is set communicates with another lever, the
end of which where it joins the notched levsr is let into the
mole's run, and when the animal passes where this is set it
pushes up the lower lever, which disengaging the piece of
wood in the notch the spiked block descends and immediately

kills the animal. Though this is a formidable-looking in-
strument it is also a humane one, and causes death more in-
stantaneously than the other method of slow strangulatioa.
usually resorted to by the use of the wooden barrel traps.

THE NEW ROSES AT SOUTH KENSINGTON
ON '2nd OF APRIL.

I CEET.iiNLT did say that possibly the judgment of the Corc>-
mittee was as much to be relied on as that of " D.," and I
still think so ; but I do not think there was any " asperity."
" D." must know that there are men on the Committee who
also " live amongst Roses," as he expresses it, and grow them
by tens of thousands. If there were anything in " D.'s "
objection to the Committee's awards in the new Roses on the
score that only some of the members are well acquainted with
them, it would be impossible to escape the conclusion that the
certificates of the Committee are worthless in every case.
That is the logical inference from " D.'s " objection.

" D." appeals to the future to justify his opinion. I need,
not point out that in doing this he goes quite beside the ques-
tion, which is, Were the specific Roses which " D." speaks of
as respectively certificated and passed-by by the Committee
deservedly so certificated and passed-by or not '? " D." pits
his opinion against that of the Committee, and evidently con-
siders his own opinion as most reliable. Your readers must
judge for themselves as to this.

With regard to Etienne Levet, " R. D." confirms my state-
ment about the bloom submitted to the Committee, and even
" D." admits that it was slightly defective. I go further, and
I say vvithout hesitation that such a bloom would not have
counted at any exhibition in England with a judge who knew
his business. I may, I suppose, mthout being guilty of breach
of confidence, state that when this Rose was brought on the
table there was only one of the Committee who thought it
should be noticed, and that this gentleman afterwards admitted
that he thought he had been a little too fast, and that in pro-
posing a certificate he rather had in mind what he had seen
the Rose to be last autumn than the bloom shown.

I am glad to find that Mr. Douglas has proved Lyonnais to
be so good. I found it equally good in the open ground last
autumn.

As to President Thiers, I append an extract from a letter I
have just received from a friend. " Prijsident Thiers as it
bloomed here last autumn on started buds was sijlendid, some-
thiug in the style of Countess of Oxford, and as bright as
fire." As it bloomed equally well with me in the open last
autumn, I can confirm my friend's statement in every par-
ticular.— A Member of the Flobal Committee.

[We think this controversy may now close. Each 'is en-
titled to his opinion, and they may amicably agree to differ.
—Eds.]

REMOVING L.\RGE TREES.

With reluctance, but from a sense of duty to myself and
the public, I feel bound to reply to an article which appeared
in your Journal on October "ilth, l.S7'2, on " Moving Large
Trees." I had heard of it, but yesterday was the first time I
had the opportunity of reading it.

We all owe a debt of gratitude to my worthy friend Mr.
Pearson when he writes to the purpose on subjects with which
he is familiar, but when he professes to teach your readers
what he has never had any practical knowledge of, and what
he certainly does net understand, I with others feel that he
should have more consideration for the time of his friends. I
do not charge him with any intention to mislead the public,
but if they believe what he says he does, they are much misled.
As the gist of my friend's hypothetical article is contained in
the first paragraph, I need only deal with it. He says, " I
have long thought that moving large trees is a mistake, and
generally involves a waste of money. Where funds are forth-
coming it is easy enough to build houses, but timber trees are
tilings of the past as well as of the present, and ancestral
Oaks cannot be bought except as felled timber. Even ever-
green shrubs cannot be planted too small if the finest speci-
mens are desired in the future. In making a new garden, were
the same money expended in manuring and trenching the
soil as is spent in large shrubs over and above what small ones
would have cost, I believe that in five years the advantage
would be obvious to anyone. Most shrubs make great pro-
gress in five years ; large shrubs transplanted often take that

May 15, 187S. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND OOTTAGE GARDENER.

391

time to recover, and nearly as long to die ; but in tho case of
timber trees I can hardly think anything moro unlikely than
that they can be moved of large size and afterwards make per-
manent trees." In the case of " large shrubs transplanted
they often take five years to recover, and nearly as long to die,"
hero Mr. Pearson speaks positively, and if this has been the
result of his experience he may well advise his friends to stop.
On the other hand, I as positively declare that for more than
forty years I have transplanted large shrubs with uniform
success. In the re-
moval of large trees
he only ventures his
opinion. Now, in
order to prove that
" moving large trees
is" «oJ" a mistake,"
I shall only refer
your readers to a
few out of many
practical proofs

which cannot be con-
troverted. Whilst
Elvaston Castle re-
mains undisturbed,
it alone affords an
unanswerable con-
tradiction to what
Mr. Pearson has
written on " movuig
large trees." Can
it be possible that
he has lived within
about seven miles
of this place ever
since he commenced
business, and has
been eyewitness to
the undeniable suc-
cess and remark-
ably vigorous growth
which has attended
the numerous large
trees removed ou my
machines, and has
forgotten aU ?

In May, 1852,
my " British Winter
Garden " was pub-
lished ; in that I
gave some diagrams
of very old trees
of great size some
hundreds of years
of age, and some
of them brought as
much as twenty-live
and thirty miles
even in summer.
They never showed
signs of removal,
and are now healthy
and vigorous. In
the above httle pub-
lication I gave the
progress made in
twenty-one years by
the first four Cedars
of Lebanon which I
ever transplanted as
largo trees, and this
day I have been privileged to measure the same trees at the end
of another twenty-one years, and they are as follows : —

Three Cedahs Moved Februahy, 1831.

Height

ol
Trees,
1831.

Circum-
ference of
Trunks,
1831.

Height

of same

Trees,

1852.

Circum-
ference of
Trunlss,
1852.

Heights

in

1873.

Circum-
ference of
Tnmks,
1873.

28 feet
82 „
85 „

4 feet

i;;

46 ft.

56 ft. G in.

58 ft. 6 in.

6 feet 1 in.
6 feet 3 in.
6 feet

64 feet
67 feet
70 feet

8 feet 1 in.

9 feet 8 in.
9 feet 6 in.

The first of the three was planted on tho south side of an

avenue running east and west, and shaded by tall Limes, their
roots also impoverishing the soil. The last two had full light
and fair play at the roots.

Cedar of Lebanon Moved November, 1831.

Height in 1831 83 feet. CircumXerenco of trunk, 1831, 6 feet.

„ 18.V2 44 feet. „ 1852, 7 feet 10 in.

„ May, 1873 53 feet. „ May, 1673, 10 feet 1 in.

Notwithstanding the progress made by this tree, it has not
been so favourably situated. AU four are now in fuU vigour.

A Horse Chest-
1- nut, transplanted in

\) ^^ an avenue in 1850, at

that time was over

12 tons in weight,

with a circumference

of stem a httle over

6 feet. The same

tree I measured this

day (May 2nd), and

,^^_. found it 0 feet 8 ins.

I likewise examined

an " aneestral Oak,"

'M^tuifiL'jtsAi which I removed

from the centre of a

- plantation on the

''"' ■i&^'MM'*^^'^^ 4th': of July, 1855,

* '^^^^^ii^^F.' during a broiUng

^B^W^a^^ ■ sun. This 'tree was

hi >>^ii: map ^'^ ^^^^ ^ ii"^l"^s bigh

'liwi'^aatfa* MisiilMSe'^ ^mj j^ fyjj jg^f^ ^^j

had no previous pre-
iS<^SK?^SMtej*^i*. paration. It never

iiP^^^^J^g^jHSfe^ / flagged a leaf, it has

greatly increased in

size, and is now in

fine health. Others

of different kinds

have been moved in

?it*?!!Si?ffiKBHWj^^ summer with equal

'■'' success. But as it

~^f has been said, " any-

Jj^^' ^ thing will grow at

Elvaston," I enclose
a circular of testi-
monials from four-
teen counties, and
if not intruding on
your space, I have
marked six, each
bearing particularly
on different points at
issue, which I should
like you to give as
proofs of successful
planting. Mr. Pem-
S berton, of Millichope

iV -sAsik. ._»t»*. Vj Park, Church Stret-

ton, Shropshire, who
had two and three
of my machines for
three years, wrote
.io*iilMlJllte;;j,;*. eight years after we

had finished as fol-
lows :—

" I have much pleasure
in certifying as to tho
great success of the ope-
rations in tree-moving
which were carried on at
this place under yom-
directions between tho
years 1858 and 1861. During that period there were moved here on your
system, without any regard to time of year, a great number of trees of all
sorts and sizes, but mostly evergreens, a good many of these beiu:i Yews ol
large size and gi'eat age. From my experience of your system, I have no
hesitation in saying that if tho directions given are duly carried out in oU
respects, complete success may be considered a certainty."

In this testimonial I attach great importance to the con-
cluding paragraph. Very few people understand how to re-
move large trees in accordance with their requirements, and if
the du-ections given are not duly carried out in all respects,
complete success cannot be expected.

" Thornhill, Cowes, Isle of Wight, June 4th, 1869.

" 1 have gi"eat pleasure in bearing testimony to the success which hoa

302

JOUBNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENER.

r May 15, 1873.

attended the removal of some hundreds of large trees upon your system at
my place, LUle-iden, io Kent, and to the perfect efticiency of your machines,
and the intellicence and zeal of the men you send with them. The beauty
of my place has been increased, under your aid, in a degree which, under any
other plan, must have been the result of a century. — I refliain, sirs, your
obedient servant, Edwabd Loyd, of Lillesden, Lieut. -Col."

All here mentioned was accomplished in one year, and,
according to Mr. Pearson's notion of things, it would take five
years. Then let anyone of taste and judgment compare the
two results, and I feel sure, as my friend puts it, " the ad-
vantage would be obvious to anyone." — Willliji Baheon.

[With the preceding communication came a woodcut of a tree
on the transplanting machine employed by Mr. Barron, who
is the head of the firm at the Elvaston Nurseries, Borrowash,
near Derby. This woodcut we here reproduce, and in relation
to it Mr. Barron observes : — " This is not a fancy picture, but
is taken from a photograph which I enclose. This photograph
was taken of one of our machines as exhibited in the show-
yard of the Royal Agricultural Society at Leicester, in July,
1868. The tree is a Scotch Fir. It was lifted by the machine
on the Friday before the Show week, and removed on a
rough and bUly road over eight miles on the Saturday ; it
stood on the machine the whole of the show week, and on the
following Monday it was taken five miles out of Leicester and
planted. Hence it was ten days on the machine in the middle
of summer under a cloudless sky and a broiling sun the whole
of the time. The tree never went back, and is now growing
well. It was, when removed, 41 feet high."]

THE EXCRETION OE OXYGEN FEOM ROOTLETS.
It was the opinion of Professor Lindley that gas did not
exude from the rootlets of plants, but there is no doubt about
this, at any rate from aquatic plants ; and in his "Theory of
Horticulture " we find it stated that gas, in union with sap,
was observed to escape rapidly from the cut end of the root of
a Bii'ch tree. I could never see any reason why oxygen should
not exude from the rootlets. It would be a clever mode of
conveying it to the soil where, independent of atmospheric
air brought down in solution with water, or any other mode, it
would act on carbonaceous matter, converting it into carbonic
acid, and on inorganic matter, rendering it soluble, and capable
of being absorbed by the same rootlets from which the oxygen
exuded. This seems feasible. Oxygen can be observed to escape
from the rootlets of aquatic plants, and can be collected and
burnt. Take a glass receptacle and place it in water of 100'
temperature, and in it some of the Anacharis weed ; breathe
into the water through a tube for five minutes, place the whole
in the sun, in a few minutes you can perceive by means of a
powerful lens very small bubbles escaping from the rootlets ;
these do not rise to the surface, but enter into solution with
the water. In order to see the gas escaping with the naked
eye you must cut the stem of the Anacharis across, when
bubbles will be seen to rise rapidly to the surface, which, if the
experiment be carried out on a large scale, can be collected in
the usual way, and a red hot wire inserted in the gas ignites.
The reason why I heat the water is to excite the plant to de-
compose more rapidly the carbonic acid breathed into it from
the lungs. — Obsekveb.

THE VIENNA EXHIBITION.

Besides, and almost beyond the Exhibition building, the
flower show was the point of attraction. Quite on the southern
outskirts of the grounds, behind the Japanese buildings and
garden, the grounds have been laid out with shrubs and flower
beds, which, however, are not yet filled, as a foreground to a
semi-circular combination of wood and striped canvas, consist-
ing of a central and two side pavilions, connected by a semi-
circular passage. This is intended to accommodate a perma-
nent flower show. The arrangement cannot be called a happy
one, although in outward aspect it is very pretty. Fii-st uf
aU, it is very questionable whether some more solid construc-
tion would not have answered much better. Everyone knows
the miseries of such canvas structures in wet weather, and
although on Sunday this one stood the test better than your
tents in the Horticultural Gardens, umbrellas were not a
superfluity. But the chief drawback in this first flower show
has been that the canvas building did not afford sufliciont
shelter against the cold night. The whole show has suffered
from it, most of the flowers looking shrivelled and sickly. The
semi-circular slope, too, is scarcely favourable for such a show,
because you can get no effective view of the whole from any

point. In the passage there is only just room for the stands.
Only in the paviUon is grouping possible, and here two foreigners
and one Viennese make the most effective display — Linden,
from Belgium, in the westerly pavilion ; Abel, from Vienna, in
one corner of the middle paviUon ; and Seidel, from Dresden,
in the easterly pavilion. Azaleas predominate in each of them,
some of them fine specimens, no doubt, which could hold their
own in any flower show, but nothing that would strike as a
novelty in colour or variety.

While these three have arranged more general displays,
others have taken to specialities. Thus the Botanical Gardens
and the Garden Society exhibit large plants — Palms and Coni-
feraj. Rodeck from Vienna shows fine Rhododendrons and
Begonias. The gardener of the Duke of Brunswick sends
choice Infants from the conservatories at Heitzing — stock
Fuchsias, Draca;nas, and Gloxinias ; Matzaetter, a collection
of Calceolarias ; Klaring, a selection of Pinks. The most in-
teresting among these special shows is that sent by Mr. Flatz,
who has collected four hundred Alpine plants, and exhibits
them on a table, a most interesting microcosm of the Alpine
Flora.

Besides the flowers there is a show of fruit and vegetables.
Of course, the former shows mostly the produce of last year in
Apples and Pears ; one man, Runkel, of Kremsmiinster, a
town which has a name for fruit, exhibiting ninety varieties
of Apples and twenty-five of Pears. Of forced fruit there is
scBrcely a trace, for the few Strawberry plants scarcely deserve
mention.

In vegetables the display would scarcely excite much asto-
nishment either in Covent Garden or at the Marche des Inno-
cents.— (Times.)

Owing to the limited space placed at the disposal of the
British Commission, exhibitors have had a great difficulty to
provide a suitable and effective display. Messrs. Carter have
adopted a very ingenious style. At a cost of between £600
and £700 they exhibit a very handsome show-case containing
nearly eight hundred distinct samples of agricultural, vege-
table, and flower seeds, most of which have been grown on
their own seed farms in England. They also exhibit some
models in papier machc of then- prize roots, including Mam-
moth Long Red Mangel, Warden Orange Globe Mangel, Im-
perial Hardy Swede, Robinson's Champion Drumhead Cabbage,
&c., all of which are faithful representations in size, colour,
and form. Messrs. Carter & Co. have also supplied a large
quantity of their lawn grass seeds for forming the turf sur-
rounding the ch;ilet of H.I.M. the Crown Prince of Prussia,
and other portions of the Exhibition grounds.

IS A "REGULAR" AND A "PROFESSED"

GARDENER THE SAME?
Will you or any of your readers define what a " regular "
gardener is '? Some of the horticultural societies divide their
schedirles into two classes — First, gentlemen and their gar-
deners ; second, gentlemen not keeping a regular gardener. I
always construed the words to mean a gardener in constant
employment as opposed to a jobbing gardener ; but at one of
our western shows a friend of mine, who keeps more men than
m;[self, showed in both classes, and on inquiring I found he
construed the words to mean " a professed gardener," and to
avoid mistake he got the schedule altered the next year ; the
word " professed " takes the place of " regular " gardener. As
I do not keep a •' professed " gardener, but only men that were
employed previously on farms, and now look after my farm
also, I showed in the same class at the Sherborne Show, and
after winning the first prize in both classes for Roses was dis-
qualified for the latter (on an objection made by the man who
came next to me) on the ground that I kept a regular gar-
dene: . The Grantham Horticultural Society has just issued
its schedule, dividing the entries into the same classes, and as
I think of showing there and elsewhere, where the same
division is made, I should like some one of authority to decide
what a regular and what a professed gardener means. — John
B. M. Camm.

'Wo know of no distinction between a "regular" and a
" professed" gardener. The only object in awarding separate
prizes to those who do not keep a gardener and those who do
keep one, is that the former may not be oi>i)03ed by those who
have more skilled assistance. Any gentleman who constantly
employs a man in cultivating his garden ought not to exhibit

May 15, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

393

in the same class with gentlemen who only have occasional
help. It may be true that the man constantly employed is not
a skilful gardener, but it would open the door to difficulties
and unfairness to attempt to define the amount of skUl per-
toissible. — Eds.]

IBERIS GIBEALTABICA.

I LATELY saw in a collection of herbaceous plants, one named
Iberis gibraltarica i-era. I know there are several different
plants in cultivation under this name, and this which professed
to be vera produced white flowers. On reference to the " Bo-
tanical Magazine," t. 124, I find the plant there figured with
flesh-coloured flowers, and with the following description : —

" This plant is easily raised from cuttings, and easily pro-
served; it may be kept through the winter in a common hot-
bed frame, and in mild winters wUl stand abroad, especially if
sheltered amongst rockwork. Its greatest enemy is moisture
in the winter season ; this often proves fatal to it, as indeed a
long-continued damp atmosphere does to many others. The
nurserymen about London complain of losing more plants the
^ last mild winter, from this cause than they generally do from
severe frosts. In a little greenhouse which I had in my late
garden, Lambeth Marsh, most of the plants became absolutely
mouldy; in such seasons then, though in point of cold the
plants may not reqnu'e it, we must dissipate the superfluous
moisture by a gentle heat."

Can this be the same plant as grows so freely now in open
borders and produces white flowers ? I shall be glad if some of
your correspondents will give their views on the subject. — K. A.

POETEAITS OP PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND
FRUITS.

Ph.uus BLDMEira?'. Beknaysii. Nat.ord.,Ovchidace8s. Linn.,
Gynandria Monandria. — Native of Queensland. " P. Blumei,
var. Bernaysii, whether a species or variety, differs from aU
others in the sulphur-coloured inner surfjice of the petals,
sepals, and lip; its tending to a triandrous column, which it
shares with P. Blumei, is rather an abnormal condition of that
organ than a specific character. The spur is shorter than in
the figure of grandifoUus. P. veratrifolius, Lindl., of Silhet,
is stated to be yellow-flowered, and Blume describes a P. flavus
from Java, so the colour is not peculiar to P. Bernaysii.

" This beautiful plant was communicated from the stoves of
Messrs. Veitch, with whom it flowered early in the present
year. It was named Bernaysii by Dr. Rowland, in compliment
to A. Bernays, Esq., one of the most active promoters of the
Acclimatisation Society of its native country, Queensland, and
a valued correspondent of Kew." — [Bnt. Slag., t. 6032.)

XiPHioN HisTEio. Nat. ord., Iridacese. Linn., Triandria
Monogynia. — Native of Mount Lebanon. Flowers purple,
variously spotted and blotched with darker purple. " Mr.
Berberey states that it is the Lis Libani of his late lamented
friend M. Renter's manuscripts, and was sent about ten years
ago to M. Boissier by M. GaiUardot, who found it on Mount
Lebanon and on Mount Gerizim, in Palestine ; as also that its
nearest ally is X. reticulatum, M. Bieb., from which it differs not
only in structural characters but in its paler colour, in flowering
fully six weeks earUer, and in being inodorous. A comparison
with X. reticulatum shows that this is further abundantly
different, in its much smaller size, copious finely-reticulated
sheaths of the corm, much fewer shorter broader stout leaves
often not exceeding the scape, broader spathes, and differently-
shaped inner perianth-segments, which are notched at the tip.
It is a very beautiful plant, but whether hardy in this country
remains to be proved. As a pot plant it cannot faU to be
highly prized."— (rt/d., (. 6033.)

AcKAXTHDs AR.icHNiiis. Nut. Ord., Orchidaceaj. Linn.,
Gynandria Monandria. — Native of Madagascar. Flowers yel-
lowish green. More curious than handsome. — [Ibid., t. 6031.)

Htpoxis LONGIFOLIA. lYflf. or<Z., Hypoxldacese. Lj?!j!.,Hex-
andria Monogynia. — Native of Algoa Bay. Flowers yellow.
" A vei-y distinct species of Hypoxis, brought by Mr. Cooper
from Algoa Bay when collecting for W. Wilson Saunders, Esq.,
remarkable for tlie great length of its narrow, flaccid, grass-
like leaves. Our plant flowered in the Royal Gardens, August,
1S71."— {Ibid., t. 0035.)

Crocus Sieberi. Nat. ord., Iridacea;. Linn., Triandria
Monogynia. — Flowers some purple and some white. " A com-
mon Greek plant, and, in fact, the commonest Crocus of that
country, found at an elevation between 1000 and 7000 feet,

according to Professor Orphanides ; also occurring iii Bosnia,
Crete, and Herzegovina, flowering frequently near the melting
snow. It is a very early blooming species, and Dr. Hooker
received flowering specimens from Giles Mumby, Esq., Messrs.
Ware of Tottenham, and the Iloyal Gardens, all about the
middle of January and beginning of April. The very closely
allied C. veluchensis of Herbert, which inhabits the Morea and
Transylvania, differs chiefly in wanting the orange colour on
the throat."— (Ziid., t. 603C.)

Primrose — Violet Gem. — " The new hardy Primrose called
Violet Gem was exhibited by Mr. R. Dean at the meeting of
the Floral Committee on March 5th, and then received a first-
class certificate. Violet Gem is remarkable for the dense rich
violet hue of its flowers, and its charming bouquet-like habit
of throwing its blooms up in a rounded bunch, which is well
protected by the foUage ; still it is a pin-eyed flower, but the
pistil is so far down the throat of the tube as to be quite out
of sight. In other seedlings both the thrum-eye and excellent
form are found combined with pure white, sulphur, lilac, rose,
rosy red, magenta, purple, crimson, and various intervening
shades of colour, all of them true Primroses, and as early to
flower as are the commonest kinds found in our hedgerows.

" These new forms of the Primrose are not only perfectly
hardy, but under proper cultivation can be easily propagated.
The greatest danger to the Primrose arises from drought at
the roots during the heat of summer ; but if the soil in which
they grow be moist, then they bear solar heat with considerable
impunity. In the case of scarce kinds it would be wise to
grow them in pots for a year or two, keeping them in a cool
frame in the winter, or in the greenhouse when in bloom, and
then having them plunged in ashes under a north wall in the
summer, and kept well watered.

" In autumn, about the end of September, the plants should
be carefully divided, and be either repotted or planted out into
beds, and they will get well rooted and throw up good heads
of bloom early in the spring. In any after-cultivation care
should be always taken to keep the plants growing all the
summer, as that is the great secret of successlul Primrose
culture. When the foUage is bui-nt up by heat the old crowns
become stunted, the young ones cease to grow, and the plants
rapidly become smaller. Therefore, where possible, in hot
weather give a little shade, but never allow the plants to suffer
from the want of water." — {Florist and Pomologist, 3 B., vl., 97.)

LATE GRAPES.

I HAVE always liked Mrs. Pince's Black Muscat, and as your
readers know have contended that it was a really good Grape.
It has always done well with me, and has kept better than
Lady Downe's every year since it first fruited here. I have to-
day eaten pai't of a bunch grown by that veteran Grape grower,
Mr. Hill, of Keele Hall, who says he considers it the best of all
late Grapes. I can only say I never eat any so good at this
time of the year in my life. When a new variety of fruit fails
with any of us it would be well to think twice before condemn-
ing it, I am convinced many a good thing is thrown away be-
cause the treatment it requires is not understood. I destroyed
Golden Champion in a pet, and afterwards saw it so good at
Mioat Bank, with Mr. A. Bass, that I felt vexed at my pre-
cipitancy, and if it were not that I think the Duke of Bnccleuch
an improvement on it in every respect, should be inclined to
try it again. I thought so much of the Duke at Mr. Thomson's
that I bought fifty plants of it. — J. E. Pearson, Chilwell.

TEACHERS OF CULTURE— LIEBIG.— No. 1.
Bt Cdthbert W. Johnson, F.E.S.
When, on the evening of AprU 20th, amid the tears of his
fellow citizens, with his coffin deeply covered with wreaths of
flowers, the grave closed over the Baron Justus Von Liebig,
the agriculturist — nay, all classes of men, lost one of their
ablest and most laborious friends — a true philosopher, who
only laboured for the elucidation of truth. His researches in
organic chemistry wiU be long recorded as indeed invaluable
to the cultivator. Let us only remember one of his great and
enduring services to the farmer — viz., the introduction of
superphosphate of lime. It is true that he did not discover
that salt. Phosphate of lime, the basis of bones, was dis-
covered by Scheele, a celebrated Swedish chemist, in the year
1774; and it was not until the year 1795 that two eminent
French chemists, Fourcroy and VauqueUn, by adding sulphuric
acid to bones, produced the salt to which they gave the name

394

JOUENAL OF HOGTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

r May 15, 1873.

of superphosphate of lime. It was long, however, after the
phosphate of lime in boues had boeu used by the Lincolnshire
farmers as a manure for Turnips, and by the Cheshire graziers
as a dressing for then- pastures, that anyone ascertained the
value of the superphosphate. In 1839, however, the discovery
was made, and the discoverer was Liebig. It was in his valu-
able work on " Organic Chemistry," translated by Dr. Lyon
Playfair, that at page 184 he remarked — " To manure an acre
of land with 40 lbs. of bone dust, is suflieient to supply three
crops of Wheat, Clover, Potatoes, Turnips, &c., with phos-
phates. But the form in which they are restored to the soil
does not appear to be a matter of indifference ; for the more
finely the bones are reduced to powder, and the more inti-
mately they are mixed with the soil, the more easily are they
assimilated. The most easy and practical mode of effecting
their division is to pour over the bones in a state of fine
powder, half of their weight of sulphuric acid diluted with
three or four parts of water, and after they have been digested
for some time, to add one hundred parts of water, and sprinkle
this mixture over the field before the plough. In a few seconds
the free acids unite with the bases contained in the earth,
and a neutral salt is formed in
a very fine state of division.
Experiments instituted on a soil
formed from grauwacke, for
the purpose of ascertaining the
action of manure thus prepared,
have distinctly shown that nei-
ther Corn nor kitchen-garden
plants suffer injurious effects in
consequence, but that on the
contrary they thrive with much
more vigour." Here, then, are
the first recorded trials of super-
phosphate of lime as a fer-
tiUser. It is true that after the
appearance of Liebig's work
patents were taken out, and
manufactories established, for
the preparation of the super-
phosphate, but from Liebig the
idea originally came. And he
moreover suggested the substi-
tution of muriatic acid for the
sulphuric in its preparation, as-
signing as a reason that the
muriatic acid formed with the
lime of the bones a very de-
liquescent salt, known to che-
mists as the muriate of lime,
which by absorbing from the at-
mosphere its moisture would be
beneficial on dry soils.

The labour's of Liebig were
long devoted to the investigation
of the food of plants, and, what
is nearly the same thing, the
manures by which their growth is promoted. It is true that
this involved him in controversies with other chemists who
dift'ered from him in some of his conclusions; but these
differences never induced Liebig to swerve from his course;
controversy had no charms for him. It was a quarter of a
century after his discovery of the use of superphosphate of
lime that he observed (.Journal of the Royal Agricultural
Society, vol. xxv., p. r.Ol) " There is something degi-adiiig
from a scientific point of view at the bottom of this contro-
versy, but there is nothing humiliating to me, although much
that is highly annoying, for I am not so proud as to think
myself humbled when I am fulfilling the vocation to which I
have devoted my life— that is of instructing others." He
seemed to speak with great foresight, when thus writing in
18(34, he added, " every doubt must disappear by the crea-
tion and progress in all European countries of an immense
branch of industry— the fabrication of artificial manures from
inorganic or mineral substances, which are now extensively
employed."

It was not only to the introduction of artificial manures that
the great German chemist directed his attention, his researches
extended to " The Cliemistry of Pood," in which in a work
published in 1847, and translated by Dr. W. Gregoi-y, he gave
the result of his valuable researches, not only upon the chemi-
cal composition of organic matters, but upon their cooking

JrsTrs VON Lieeic.

and upon the chemistry of digestion. Here again his anxiety
to servo his fellow creatures displays itself. In his preface he
observed: "As my experiments include the changes which
flesh undergoes in its preparation for food, I trust that not
only men of science, but also the lovers of a rational system of
diet, will find in the following pages many observations worthy
of their attention."

His researches on the chemistry of food led to his initiating
the preparation of the essence of meat in a manufactory over
which he presided tiU his death. But it would be idle to
attempt to follow him through all his laborious experiments ;
the reader will remember his inquiries upon the best modes of
utilising sewage for agricultural purposes, and other great
questions, the mere enumeration of which would fill one of our
columns.

In all his valuable investigations Liebig had one great object,
the guiding beacon of the true philosopher, the elucidation of
truth — and he was ever ready to award the meed of praise to
those who had preceded him in his important labours. In his
preface to his "Organic Chemistry," he said: "Since the
time of the immortal author of the ' Agricultirral Chemistry '
no chemist has occupied himself
in studying the application of
chemical principles to the growth
of vegetables and to organic
processes. I have endeavoured
to follow the path marked out
by Sir Humphry Davy, who
based his eonclusions only on
that which were capable of in-
quiry and proof. This is the
path of true philosophical in-
quiry, which promises to lead us
to truth, the proper object of
our research." And then he
adds, when expressing his obli-
gation to Dr. Lyon Playfair,
the now member for the Uni-
versities of Edinburgh and St.
Andrews : " I cannot suppress
the wish that he may succeed
in being as useful by his pro-
found and well-grounded know-
ledge of chemistry as his talents
promise."

In concluding this brief no-
tice, the reader will feel^with
us, that when the citizens of
Munich, high and low, rich and
poor, headed by the representa-
tive of the King of Bavaria, at-
tended to his grave one of the
greatest of chemical philoso-
phers, they were paying the last
sad tribute of admiration to
him, who belonged not only to
Bavaria — not only to Germany,
but to the whole civilised world. — (Marh Lane ExjircKx.)

THE GERMINATION OF PRIMULA JAPONICA
SEED.

Some correspondents assert that it will germinate the same
time as other Primulas, but this is contrary to my experience.

I gathered hero some seed perfectly ripe in July, 1872, sowed
it on the 27th of the same month, and placed it in the late
vinery, thinking it would be up in a month. However, I was
disappointed. I let it remain in the same place until January,
1873 ; I then put it into a temperature of (i;j° to 70".

About the middle of March a few seedlings made their ap-
pearance. As they were not very crowded I let them remain.
About a month after the remainder of the seedlings came up as
thickly as possible, so that the seed took over eight months to
germinate. I would advise others that have sown it not to
despair under a twelvemonth.— J. W. Sedoley, The Cedars,
Leaminriton.

ODONTOGLOSSUM VEXILLARIUM.

We this week have the pleasure of producing a correct re-
presentation of this superb new Orchid which created such a
sensation when exhibited by Messrs. Veitch, of Chelsea, at

IS, 1878. ]

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

395

the Eoyal Botanic Society's Spring Show on April 23rd, and
still greater enthusiasm at the Eoyal Horticultural Society's
Show last week. On tho former occasion the plant )iad but
two flowers, on the latter it had four borne on two spikes, and
measuring MJ inches long by "2,5 in breadth ; and undoubtedly
Buch skilful cultivators as Messrs. Veitch wiU yet astonish the
world horticultural, as the plant grows stronger, with au as yet
nndreamt-of development of its beauties. The colour is a beau-
tiful soft lilac rose, with the base of the lip white and yellow.
Poor David Bowman who weut out a few years ago as a

with the same treatment as Odontoglossum PhaJnanopsis and
0. citrosmum.

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.
The following are the subjects selected for the Flor.^l Com-
mittee's TrialCollections in the Eoyal Horticultural Society's
Garden at Chiswick during tho present year — viz.. Novelties
amongst bedding Pelargoniums ; salmon and other light-
coloured Zonal Pelargoniums to be grown under glass ;

OiloutoglosRum vexillarium.

botanical collector to South America, and, like so many others
who have trodden the same path, perished in enriching our
gardens, was the first to discover it on the Andes of New
Grenada. Subsequently Wallis and Eoezl sent home plants,
but they all died either before or shortly after arrival, and it
was left, we believe, to a Mr. Chesterton to have the honour of
introducing last year the specimens which are now flouiishing
at Messrs. Veitch's. This Odontoglossum, even in its present
state, is magnificent, and yet nearly all Orchids on their first
introduction give but a feeble idea of what they ultimately
become. AVhat, then, will this be? What it is already we
know ; its blossoms are surpassingly lovely in colour and enor-
mous in size,']whilst ^the plant is of free growth, succeeding

Fuchsias, in continuation of last season's trial ; bedding
Tansies ; and hybrid flowering Begonias. Contributions to-
wards making up these collections should be addressed to Mr.
Barron, Superintendent, Eoyal Horticultural Society's Garden,
Chiswick.

As an evidence of the great interest taken in horticul-
ture by their Majesties the KiNd and Queen op the Belgians,
we may state that since their arrival in England tliey have
twice honoured the establishments of the Messrs. Veitch and
Sons with their presence. The first visit was to the Chelsea
Nursery, where, having much admired tlie various attractions
of this establishment, their Majesties expressed a wish to see
the hardy trees and shi'ubs at the out-door nurseries at Coombo

396

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ May 15, 1873.

Wood, Kingston Hill. On botli occasions their Majesties were
pleased to convey to Sir. Veitch the sense of their appreciation
of the high cultivation displayed in their nurseries. We may
add that their Majesties also visited the Eoy.vl Horticultukai.
Society's Rose Show last week, as well as Mr. William Paul's
Exhibition of Roses, &c.

Wood is seven to twenty times stronger lengthwise than

transversely.

On the 6th inst. the Central Chamber of Agriculture

held a sitting at the Salisbury Hotel, Salisbury Square, Fleet
Street; Sir Michael II. Be.'icli, M.P., presided. On the motion
of Mr. Hodsole, seconded by Mr. Hicks, the meeting agreed to
the following resolution : — " That the present state of the law
with respect to the ch-VROEAEility of jiarket garden's to tithe
is unsatisfactory and requires amendment, with a view to such
a settlement of the question as, while just to the tithe-owner,
shall not act to the discouragement of the agriculturist."

Everlasting Flowers. — The ImmorteUi' of the East

(Helichrysum orientale), a native of Asia, has been known in
Europe since 1C29, but was only first cultivated in gardens
about 1815. Its flowers, the symbols of friendship, or tribute
to talent and genius, serve to make the garlands of immortelles
which ornament the tombs of the dead in Roman Catholic
eouutrios. It is cultivated in France, in the communes of
Lower Provence, where the soil slopes towards the Mediter-
ranean. It- succeeds very well on the slopes of Bandols and
Ciota, which are exposed to the south and enclosed by walls of
stone. It blossoms about the month of .June. It suffers from
heavy and continuous rains and strong dews, and only vege-
tate? well on light, stony, and permeable soils. It is propagated
by offsets, which are separated from the old stocks. The
gathering of the flowers is made iu the first days of June, be-
fore the bursting of the buds. As the flowers which are in-
sufficiently formed or too full blown are rejected by the trade,
it is important not to cut either too soon or too late. The
collection is made by women, who tie them in small bundles,
which are ordinarily dried on the walls of the enclosure. Finally,
young girls are employed to remove the down which covers the
ramifications. A kilogramme (nearly 2^ lbs.) of these plants
contains about four hundred stems, each containing about
twenty flowers. Each growing tuft of immortelles produces
sixty or seventy stems. A hectare (two acres and a half) will
contain 40,000 tufts, producing annually 2,400,000 to 2,800,000
stems, yielding 16,000 to 20,000 bundles, or SJ to 6J tons in
■weight— {Eni;lish Mediaiuc)

Melted snow produces about one-eighth of its bulk of

water.

At a depth of 45 feet, the temperature of the earth is

uniform throughout the year.

■ A GENTLE3IAN, says the (American) Western Huralist,

anxious to ascertain the effect of transplanting at night in-
stead of by day, made an experiment with the following re-
sults : — He transplanted ten Cherry trees while in bloom,
commencing at four o'clock in the afternoon, planting one
each hour until one o'clock iu the morning. Those trans-
planted during the daylight shed their blossoms, producing
httle or no fruit, while those planted in the dark maintained
their condition fuUy. He did the same with ten dwarf trees,
after the fruit was one-third grown. Those transplanted dur-
ing the day shed their fruit ; those transplanted during the
night perfected their crop, and showed no injury from having
been removed. With each of these trees he removed some
earth with the roots. Tlie incident is fully vouched for ; and
if a few more similar experiments produce a like result, it will
be a strong argument to horticulturists, &c., to do such work
at night.

Yesterd.ay, 12th inst., at Lowestoft, the 100th birth-
day of Lady Smith, widow of Sir James Edv:ard Smith, once
President of the Linne.au Society, was celebrated by a dinner
to one hundred of the oldest people of both sexes. — (Times.)

SEEDS EETAINING VITALITY.
In the .Journal for March 6th, page 210, 1 find a list of seeds
furnisUed, stating the greatest age at which tliey germinate
freely. To my own knowledge I can vouch for Parsnips ger-
minating freely the second year. The Student seed gave an
abundant crop. Peas, Lean's, and Kidney Beans all do well
the second year. I keep all my seeds in boxes made of tin.
I think the reason of seeds not germinating is from the place

where they are kept. A warm and dry place is the best for
their preservation. — S. A. Beenan, Fomnoy.

THE BEDDING-OUT SEASON.

The bedding-out season is again with us, and according to
the manner — efficient or otherwise — in which we form our
plans and mis the many varieties of plants together so as to
form a very harmony of contrasts in the distinctive colours of
the blooms, and the disposition of the many kinds of oma-
mental-foliaged plants, the future success or otherwise of the
whole summer's display depends.

Nor should any be too hasty in their efforts to bed-out at as
early a period as possible, there being no assured certainty that
immunity from frosts that may injure will be ours until after
the 20th inst. Indeed, apart from the destruction of the
plants, the thermometer may fall so low as to materially in-
jure, as will be evidenced by the subsequent very slow progress
of the plants. I say, therefore, do not begin planting-out in
exposed situations before the above date. Even then commenco
with hardy subjects alone, such as Calceolarias, Ageratums,
Alyssums,&c., leaving always such subjects as Coleus, Tricolor
Zonal Pelargoniums, and the Uke untU last, or about a week
later, which will land you very nearly in assured safetj' — viz.,
.June 1st.

I have drawn attention to this subject thus prominently,
owing to the knowledge I have that it is almost invariably the
wish of growers to be as early as possible, and that the very
anxiety so displayed put into practice, as it frequently is, pre-
vious to a cold period, really throws th^m weeks behind what
they would have been had they been less hasty.

Tliose who afford themselves the treat of having their beds
filled with early spring flowers wUl have less excuse to " bed-
out " early this season, owing to its lateness, as even at this
period beds of Forget-me-not, Silenes, Wallflowers, Pansies, &c.,
are masses of lovely bloom, and cannot be uprooted just yet.
Do not, however, in the meantime permit the summer occu-
pants to suffer in then' pots. Keep them well watered, and
give an occasional soaking with manure water besides, to sup-
port them against being permanently checked, which greatly
destroys the early bloom prospects where permitted.

As regards the annual preparation of the beds, for these
their summer occupants to make a really efficient display
scarcely any two beds should be prepared alike, excepting iu
so far as plants of given or kindred sorts are concerned. For
instance. Calceolarias, owing to the manner iu which they
suddenly die off during summer, should have then' beds pre-
pared by digging and mauuriug to a depth, where possible, of
A feet, more or less. Strong-growing kinds, such as Agera-
tums, Petunias, and the stronger types of Zonal and other
Pelargoniums, though they need not have this deep soil-pre-
paration, should not, besides, have manure too abundantly
worked-in on digging them, and then only the milder kinds,
such as leaf mould, etc., should be used.

Let us now turn our attention to the more immediate ar-
rangement of colours. The remarks I make must, I scarcely
need add, be qualified with the statement that, as individual
tastes vary greatly, I bpt give the results of my own previous
opportunities of judging of the best effects to be produced, and
state what some of the happier contrasts are formed of. Though
I am a great advocate for quiet or neutral colours, I neverthe-
less refer first to " telling " contrasts afforded by a few of the
more showy or warmer colours. Scarlet Geraniums, or Pelar-
goniums, whether Zonal or otlierwise, though they should
never be allowed to predominate in any garden or tastefully
arranged parterre, hold first rank. With these must be associ-
ated the warmer tints of yellow, Coleus Verschaft'elti, Lobe-
lias, variegated and Tricolor Zonal Pelargoniums, Iresine Lin-
deni, Amarauthus melaucholious ruber. Golden Feather Py-
rethrum, and intermediate tints of Pelargoniums, varying as
they do to a very great degree at this period. lanthe, Waltham
Seedling, Lord Palmerston, Indian Yellow, Orange Nosegay,
Duchess, Lady Kirklaud, Blue Bell, and Hogarth are good
kinds. Each and alt such bedding plants as enumerated may
be planted in properly balanced contrasts to form either showy
beds or ribbon borders, &c.

Turn we now to a few quiet pleasing contrasts, amongst
more neutral tints, consisting of such as Cerastium, Lobelia,
blue and white, Pyrethrum Golden Feather, variegated Pelar-
goniums, and such as have white flowers (especially Pelargo-
niums of the pink or Christine sections) , amongst which Beaton's
Silver Nosegay is especially good, all being extremely efi'eotive

May 15, 1873. ]

JOUEN^U^ OP HORTICDLTUKE ANU COTi'A'c^E GAl^DENER.

397

and pleasing. Indeed, can more pleasing contrasts be found
than is seen in white, Christine or pink, yellow (as in Pyre-
thrum), and the purple of Purple King Verbena ? Always allow
the pink or cerise of the Christine tint and a good white to
slightly predominate over their before-named associations.
Thus, whether as exhibited in beds or ribbons, the most fas-
tidious will approve.

Finally, with the aid of Amaranthus ealicifolius, Zea varie-
gata (Variegated Maize), Cannas (Indian Shot), in variety,
and the many kinds of ornamental-foliaged plants — which
should be planted in more central positions or with well-selected
surroundings, so as to afford a contrast of most pleasing green
in multiplicity of graceful forms with the more gaudy flowers
around — a tone and a contour will be attained in close copy
of Nature's inimitable displays, but with the handiwork of the
able culturist stamped in indelible features thereon. — Williaii
Earley, Valentines, Essex.

WHITE CLIPPER PELARGONIUM.

Persiit me to correct a little clerical error that occurs in
your Journal of to-day (Hay 8th), relative to an award of the
Floral Committee of the Koyal Horticultural Society to the
Pelargonium White Clipper.

It is therein stated — first, " that White Clipper came from
Mr. Must," and subsequently " that it was exhibited by
Dr. Denny, for Mr. Must." Neither of these statements is quite
correct. On the occasion to which the notice aUudes I entered
for the Floral Committee's opinion two Pelargoniums of very
considerable merit — viz., Mrs. George Smith and White Clipper;
the former had many months previously been kindly presented
to me by the raiser, the latter I pm-ehased in the ordinary way
of business of Mr. Must, in the first week of March. The mis-
conceptions to which I allude doubtless arose from the fact of
the award given to White Clipper, being (at my request) placed
in the name of the raiser, while the exhibit stood in mine. I
adopted this unusual course of procedure from a desire that
credit should be given to whom credit was due, considering it
to be incompatible with that generosity of spirit which I trust
invariably accompanies the love for horticulture, to permit
one's name to usurp the place that by right belongs to another.
— John Denny, Stoke Newington.

AMARANTHUS SALICIFOLIUS.

THE FOUNTAIN PLAXT.
Despite the adverse circumstances which may have produced
its failure in some locahties, the general testimony seems to
be in its favour, and the Amaranthus saUcifolius is a success.
It appears to have met with more success in northern latitudes
than in southern ones. We notice that the most enthusiastic
commendations come from gardens located along the Hudson
river, or in Vermont and Massachusetts — uniformly wherever
the soU has been sandy. On the grounds of Hon. Horace
Fairbanks, near St. Johusbury, Vt., there was raised last year
by Alfred Parker, his gardener, a plant which was 7J feet in
height, and 10 feet around the branches, with a stem U inches
in circumference. (So says the Vermont Farmer.) The seeds
were sown in a pot in the greenhouse in March, came up well,
and grew slowly for awhile. Mr. Parker then potted them
separately, and they soon began to grow with surprising ra-
pidity. Some of them were kept under glass all summer,
others upon the verandah, and others still in the open ground,
and they have done equally well in every place. No one can
see these fine plants without being struck with their graceful
habit of gi'owth, their long, pendulous, and beautifully waved
and crinkled foliage, as well as the striking and finely- varie-
gated colours of the whole plant. The stems are a dark red
with a fine polish, the leaves at the tips of the main stem
and branches form plumes of mixed crimson, yellow, and
green, very clear and vivid in colouring always, but varying
in shade and tint with the degree of exposure to direct sun-
light. The older leaves are mottled red and gi'een, growing
darker and somewhat duller with age, but never shabby or un-
pleasing in hue. So far is this plant from requiring a cool
atmosphere and shelter from the sun, that Mr. Parker's plants
did not begin to grow rapidly until warm weather began, and
those that have had the most sun have grown the best and
exhibited their desirable characteristics the most satisfactorily.
Altogether we pronounce the "Fountain Plant" a decided
success, and a valuable addition to our list of ornamental

plants for either in-door or out-door decoration. — (The Horti-
culturist.)

WORK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN CIBDEN.

When Peas and such-like crops have been sown between
ridges, let them now be levelled down ; it wiU give a neat and
fresh appearance. Thin-out seedling crops where the plants
are small, and if it should be necessary to stand in amongst
them, let the soil be afterwards looseued-up where it is troddep
down. Thin the plants of Beet to a foot apart while they are
small, fill-up the vacancies with those plants that are drawn
out, they will produce plants equally good with the others. If
the first crop has altogether failed, it is not yet too late to sow
another. Make another sowing of both early and late sorts of
Broccoli, the former to come in in October, the latter late in
the spring. Earth-up those Cabbages that were planted early
in the spring ; tie-up the leaves of a few of the forwardest of
the autumn-planted in order to form hearts for early use.
Plant Cajpsicums out on a warm rich border, water them during
dry weather throughout the season. Chervil and American
Cress, make another sowing of each. Continue to prick out seed-
ling plants of Celery. In planting-out a second time before
finally transplanting into trenches make a bed of equal parts
of rotten dung and loam, about 4 inches thick, on a piece of
hard ground, so that at the time of planting the whole of the
earth may adhere to the roots after the spade is passed between
each of the plants. Particular attention is required to keep the
Cucumber plants in a bearing state. Stopping the shoots is the
most important part to be attended to ; the plants should be
looked over every fine morning about an hour after the frames
have been uncovered and the plants have had a little air. Sow
a little Endive seed for an early crop. Plant out Dwarf Kidney
Beans that were sown in pots or boxes, in rows 2i feet apart on
a warm border. Another sowing should also be made. Make a
sowing of Leeks to plant out for winter use. Plant out a few
Lettuces about once a-week, thin the plants in their early seed-
l)ed to a foot apart, and if any were sown on the Asparagus beds
they will require the same attention. Woodlice are geuerallj
exceedingly troublesome about the Mnshroom beds at this
season. The best traps to catch them are boiled Potatoes put
into a flower-pot and covered with a small piece of moss, the
pot then to be placed on its side, and by examining it every
morning and destroying all the live stock by emptying them into
some hot water, they may in a short time be considerably
lessened in numbers. The weather is now favourable for plant-
ing-out some of the autumn-sown Onions, avoid covering any
portion of the bulbs. Earth-up the early crops of Potatoes, and
those which have just made their appearauce above ground will
be greatly benefited by a hoeing between the rows.

FKUIT G.UiDEN.

Proceed with disbudding and removing yoimg shoots from
Peaches and Apricots. Where the fruit of the former is too
thick a number may be cut off, those of the latter will be useful
for tarts. In disbudding use a small sharp knife, as pinching
the shoots off is apt to cause the wound to gum and canker.
Where wood is wanted pinch off the tops of strong shoots, as
several good bearing shoots may be thus obtained. Where a
shoot will be too strong and only one is wanted, cut back so
as to secure a good lateral. If strong shoots appear where
they ai'e not wanted, or the tree is over-luxuriant, allow a num-
ber of tham to run their full length, takiug off the leaves from
the under parts of the shoots as they advance. They will thus
form channels for the extra sap, and will not shade unnecessarily
the wood you intend for bearing. In removing shoots at this
season, thin them gi-adually so as ultimately leave no more than
can be exposed to the sun and air. Many wiU now be busy
with their snuff and nux-vomica dusters, for banishing if not
exterminating the green fly.

rLOWER GAEDEK.

See that all Rose trees have due attention to disbudding,
stopping, &c. Watch the buds inserted last August, rub off those
on the stock in a progressive way, and let all Hoses, whether
standards or d varfs, intended fur forcing next winter be well
top-dressed with good rotten manure, fairly covering the pots.
As Crocuses and other bulbs wiU now be nearly over, patches of
biennials which have stood the winter may be placed close
beside them ; when the annuals arc decayed, the bulbs, if neces-
sary, may be removed at the same time. One of the most im-
portant matters in this department at this period is the pre-
paration of half-hardy stock for masses. No pains must be
spared to have this in good condition for planting out. Rustic
baskets and vases may now be filled with soil, which should be
of a rather retentive nature and the plants turned out, placing a
few branches round them. Flowers of a drooping habit are the
best suited for baskets, as Fuchsias and the like, and Calceo-
laria viscocissima with Anagallis cicrulea grandiflora depending
round the sides of the basket wUl not be unsightly objects.

SOS

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

t May 15, 1873.

GBEENHOUSE AND CONSERVATOEY.

The usual routine of watering and keeping the plants clean
and properly trained is all that is necessary here for some time.
Some few plants may want shifting now and then, and all the
young stock must be shifted by degrees as they advance, but no
particular time can be pointed out for this work; the whole
depends on the state of the plants and the moans of the culti-
vator. Keep down the temperature in the conservatory by
all possible means, in order to prolong flowering; and as the
syringe would soon injure the appearance of plants in flower,
the rose watering-pot must take the place of it. Flood all spare
Iiarts of the house morning and evening. Continue to encourage
the greenhouse plants to make rapid growth all this month, and
keep the atmosphere always moist at night during this stage.
As few plants are allowed to flower in this house where there is
a conservatory, the syi-inge may be used freely in the aftei'noon
of fine days. Training and regulating the growth of all pot
plants, as well as watering and killing insects, must be attended
to while the plants are growing.

STOVE.

The climbing plants in this department usually grow with
such vigour, that without constant attention to stopping and
tyiug-in they smother other plants and become quite unmanage-
able ; this should therefore be timely attended to. As plants
are removed from the greenhouse, some of the more hardy
stove plants may take their places. Have'an eye to the propa-
gation of stock for succession or winter-flowering in due time.
Take care to secure cuttings of such plants as Brugmansias,
Clerodendrons, Erythinas, Poinsettias, Eranthemums, and of
those useful winter-flowering plants. Euphorbia jacquiniwflora
and Gesnera buibosa. As regards Orchids, those who have only
one house to grow their whole stock in must make a compromise
in point of temperature between those which are natives of hot
moist countries and those which come from cooler regions. To
accomplish this a free circulation of air should be kept up during
the earlier part of the day, and even a little .at night, if possible,
accompanied with a great amount of atmospheric moisture ; and
to accommodate with as little sacrifice as possible such Aerides,
Saccolabiums, Dendrobiums, &c., a considerable amount of heat
should be shut up early in the afternoon.

FORCING PIT.

Most of the spring-forcing plants are now done with in this
pit. Roses will now bloom in any close house, pit, &o. There
are many plants, however, that may be more or less forced for
the conservatory all the summer through, especially those called
intermediate or half-stove plants. Camellias, Azaleas, and Rho-
dodendrons that have been early forced may be grafted as soon
as the young wood begins to grow hard. Of all modes of pro-
pagating rare plants, grafting is the easiest, and requires least
time and trouble. All Roses intended to be forced before Christ-
mas should be worked on the Boiu'sault or some variety of
Noisette, but Bourbon, Tea, and China Roses are better forced
on their own roots. This is about the right time to get them
from nurseries. The great growers can always tell the best
sorts for particular purjjoses.

PITS AND FRAMES.

Those containing cuttings recently potted-o£f should be kept
close until they have made fresh roots ; they must be shaded
during the day. Tender annuals require much attention to grow
them well ; they require some bottom heat, but must at the
same time have a liberal supply of air to keep them from draw-
ing; they should also be placed near the glass. These struc-
tures in some places will almost be done with for this spring's
planting, but they must not be idle, as it is time to commence
propagating for next year. Cuttings of dwarf Phloxes, Alyssum
saxatile, Arabis, Ac, must now be got in, and those who are very
enthusiastic in flower gardening may try their hands at pre-
paring such as Leschenaultia formosa, biloba nana, and Baxteri,
Cytisus racemes us, canariensis, &c., for bedding-out nest season.
They will root freely now, and will make strong plants by the
autumn. I yet hope to see masses of our finest Chinese Azaleas,
such as Lateritia, Variegata, and Gledstanesi turned out for the
spring decoration of the flower garden. — W. Keane.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

DuKiNG Wednesday the 7th inst. 0.58 of an inch of rain fell,
and we had a smart shower on Thursday; the ground, which had
been hoed over twice or thrice, was ready to receive it. It has
done much good to the kitchen garden crops, and we have taken
the opportunity to begin amongst the bedding plants. Zonal
Pelargoniums, Calceolarias, Blue Lobelias, Centaureas, &a., have
been so thoroughly exposed that a degree or two of frost cannot
injure them.

KITCHEN GARDEN.

The ground being wet we took the opportunity to weed the
walks and trim the Box edgings. The walks are never hoed : we
hope never to see them so full of weeds that this operation will
become necessary. It is astonishing how much can be done by

hand-picking ; when the walks are wet one man can do as much
as two are able to do when the ground is dry, and makes a better
job, the weeds being more easily observed. Before commencing
to cut the Box edgings, the gravel should be drawn off with a
hoe or spade for the space of 1 foot from the edging, and the soil
to the depth of an inch or two from the other side. The clip-
pings can be readily swept up when the soil and gravel are re-
placed, and the workman leaves no trace except in the neat and
trim appearance of the edging. We planted out the spring-
sown Cauliflowers ; drills are drawn as for rows of Peas, 2 feet
apart, and the plants put out 2 feet apart in the rows. Being
partially below the surface level the plants are to a certain ex-
tent protected from east winds. We pricked-out some more
Celery plants. The first lot did not succeed well, owing to the
drying winds many of the plants died. When young Celery
plants are pricked-out in the open air, a little shade is necessary
during bright sunshine.

FRUIT AND FORCING HOUSES.

Pine Apples. — We have been repotting these, and renewing
the beds with fresh tan. The suckers were potted last autumn
in (3 and 7-inch pots, they have now been potted into 10 and
ll-inch pots. They will fill these well with roots by midsum-
mer or later, when the plants wUl be rested preparatory to start-
ing them into growth for winter fruiting. The sorts are Smooth-
leaved Cayenne and Charlotte Rothschild ; 10 and 11 inch pots
may seem small for such robust-growing varieties, but practi-
cally they are sufficiently large. It was, we think, Mr. David
Thomson who first called attention in the pages of this Journal
to the over-potting of Pines, and exemplified in his own practice
the superiority of small over large pots. As a rule our beds are
always renewed when the plants are potted, and then if the
bottom heat do rise over 100^ the roots will not be injured, but
will rather start into active growth. The tan beds are only
20 inches deep, and are furnished with hot-water pipes for
bottom heat. We can always command 85° from the pipes
alone.

Vines in all the late houses have had the lateral shoots trained
into their places, and have been stopped two leaves beyond the
bunch. All secondary shoots wiU be stopped at the first leaf as
soon as they are formed; it is bad practice to let the shoots grow
out of all bounds, and then cut them out in armfulls.

Melons have not done so well as usual in the earliest house;
first one plant and then another has died off. We have been
puzzling ourselves to find a reason for this, as no sign of canker
could be observed on any part of the plants. The first one was
taken up, and the roots were white and sound, but on cutting
through the main stem a foot above the ground it was slightly
decayed at the core. The first sign of anything being wrong is
that the x:)lauts flag in the sun (we do not, as a rule, shade either
Melons or Cucumbers), and growth ceases. It was ultimately
ascertained that the men, though told to do so, did not empty
the water out of a copper used for heating water in the winter ;
and the water had been used for the Melons after remaining for
weeks in the copper, and must have been poisoned with sulphate
of copper.

Cueiimhers require looking over once every week to thin-out
and regulate the shoots. The old wood is cut-out and new wood
laid-in where practicable. Treated in this way, and the shoots
trained to a trellis, the same plants will bear fruit and remain
in perfect health for twelve months.

Orcluiid House. — The pot trees are growing vigorously ; the
young wood is being pinched-back, and the fruit thinned. We
always thin well at this time, and never find the fruit drop-
off during the process of stoning. Some of the Pear trees have
been turned out of doors. All those that have little fruit upon
them are turned out first, and as the season advances Peaches,
Nectarines, and Plums are also'put out of doors. It is very
unwise to crowd the house with plants. If sun and air cannot
act upon the fruit it will not be of good quality. Strawberries
in the same house are now in full flower ; the trusses have been
thinned where forward enough. Not a dozen blind plants wore
turned out from three hundred pots, except in the case of one
sort (and it was the same last year), Lucas, of which 25 per cent,
failed, but we only had fifty plants of it altogether. It is a
grand fruit, but it will not do to force, and is rather shy out of
doors. The orchard house is syringed twice a-day, but the
Strawberry plants are not deluged when in flower, though a
slight dewing overhead helps the setting of the frmt.

CONSERVATORY AND PLANT STOVE.

Deutzias, CamelUas, and Cinerarias are now past, but there
wUl be no lack of flowers to supply their places. We have been
training and placing sticks to the herbaceous Calceolarias ; it
was quite time, as the flower trusses were bending the stalks,
and they will, if not tied up, break over at the neck. They have
been thoroughly fumigated, so that there is little danger of
green fly appearing before they finish flowering. A few of the
stage Pelargoniums will require to have sticks placed to the
flowers, but this will only be necessary for those of a weak
straggling habit ; compact-growing sorts are left to themselves.
The Fancy sorts require no sticks. None of the Azaleas have

May 15, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OFHORTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

390

been forced this year, save a few of the white ones — the old
white and Fielderi ; they are very late this year, bat as most
of them are required about the middle of June they will be
early enough for us.

Boses are very hne, and those that were pruned early are now
in flower without any forcing. The later sorts are much in-
fested with the bud worm ; they have to be looked over daily.
Amateurs ought to know that a succession of bloom can be ob-
tained by pruning at intervals of three or four weeks. Our
earliest-pruned, in November, are now in flower, the latest-
pruned, in the last week of February, will come in before those
out of doors. None of them have been forced.

In the plant stove we have been training and thinning out the
shoots of climbers, destroying mealy bug, and repotting Gala-
diums and all other hardwooded and softwooded plants requiring
it. The Stephanotia, Ixoras, Gardenias, Orchids, ttc, supply UB
with plenty of fine flowers.

FLOWER GARDEN.

We commenced bedding-out last Friday, and before this shall
have appeared more than half of our plants will be out; the
plants are going out well. The beds had been dug up roughly,
and since the rain the lumps fall to pieces with a touch of the
rake. The rain caused us to begin, as we like the ground to be
in a moist state. All the plants are well watered before being
put out. It is very bad practice to water them as soon as they
are planted. We plant deeply, and press the soil firmly round
the roots, placing some soil more loosely round the neck of the
plant. In many places the " bedding-out " is done in a hurried
and careless manner, the workmen not caring whether the
plant is put in deep or shallow; they fill the soil over the roots,
and with both hands press firmly round the neck of the plant,
as if they meant to strangle it, which they are very frequently
successful in doing. It is of little use to hurry over the work,
even if the work is beliind, "as the more haste the less speed."
We are planting out a large proportion of Zonal Pelargoniums
Wellington and lanthe this year. When these shall have be-
come better known some of the older sorts will give place to
them. They are both very distinct and excellent sorts. Vesu-
vius has also taken a prominent position ; the habit is good, and
the trusses stand up well above the foliage. Jean Sisley is a
glowiug distinct scarlet, but the trusses do not stand up well,
and the habit is not first-rate. — J. Douglas.

TRADE CATALOGUES RECEIVED.

Dowuie, Laird, & Laing, Forest Hill, Loudon, S.E., and
Edinburgh. — Retail List of New Pelargoniums^ JPhloxes, Gala-
diums, d'C.

E. G. Henderson & Son, Wellington Road, St. John's Wood,
London, N.W. — Catalogue of Stove and Conservatory Plants^
Orchids, Ferns, and Bedding Plants.

W. Bull, King's Road, Chelsea. — Uetail List of New, Beauti-
ful, and Bare Plants.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*,* We request that no one will write privately to any of the
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing th'?y
are subjected to unjustifiable troublo and expense. All
communications should therefore be addressed solely to
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture y (tc, lIl^Fleet
Street, London, E.C,
N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until next
week.

Books (A. C. C). — Thompson's "Gardener's Assistant" would snit you.
(J. Carr). — We know of no English work devoted to the culture of Succu-
lents. " The Cottage Gardeners' Dictionary " includes them.

BnoccoLi. — We have received from Messrs. Watts & Son specimens of their
•'Northampton Hero." The heads when ready for boiling weighed between
4 and 2 \h^. They are hajidsome in form, deUcate in flavour, and the leaves
turn over the flower sufficiently to be protecting.

AsPAUAGUS (H. C). — We never yet met with any variety that we could not
equal, by rich cultivation and not escessive cutting, with the common Purple-
topped. The most gigantic Asparagus if ill-cultivated dwindles down to one
of the common varieties.

Peaoh Leaves Dropping Off (J. II.). — The treatment of your trees is
right, aud the leaves would not di-opoff if the roots were in good health. Has
the tree suffered from want of water at the roots ? That would be the most
likely cause as far as we can judge from your communication. It is not con-
stitutional in any Peach tree to drop its leaves.

Treatment of Vines before Planting (Black Bamhurgh). — Turn the
Vines out of the pots as you propose, and disentangle the roots, laying them
out straight in shallow boxes. We advise you to pull the sides away from the
boxes when planting them, to avoid disturbing the roots. They will succeed
in any house; until your vineries are ready do not force them to grow. Plant
three Black Hamburgh, oue Buckland Sweetwater, and one Golden Champion
in the early house. Xou should train two rods to a Vine.

Pelargonium Leaves Diseased {R. L. D. ami J. Harrison.).— It is not
caused by insects. See answer to "Amateur" last week.

Primrose Violet Gem (Vcnj Old Subscriber). — Mr. Dean has no more

stock of this fine Primrose than the plant he exhibited at South Kensington.
In all probability Jlr. Dean will send it out himself when sufficient stock of it
shall have been worked up.

Pansy Blooms (J/. Clu(tfrhuck).~The flowers sent have no merit; you
could raise scores of better from a packet of good seeds.

Fig Culture (E. M. M.). — Superfluous shoots should be thinned out after
the summer growths are made, and the wood should nut become crowded at
any time. It is bad policy to allow auy fruit tree to become a thicket of
young wood at the very time sun and air should have access to it, bo that the
wood may be matured. Any winter pruning required should be done early in
spring, before the trees beyin to grow. The leading growths ehould bo stopped
when they have made four or five leaves. Do not allow suckers to grow from,
the roots.

Grapes Rusted (F. O.). — After the fruit is affected there is no remedy ;
the Grapes are most easily affecte/i when in a young state, at the time they
are thinned, aud during the next fortnight. It is caused by cold winds if the
ventilators are too much opened at the time, by sulphur on the pipes, or too
much vapour In the house. When the berries are stoning, and onwards, there
is little to be feared. Tou must exercise caution when the berries are young.

Watering Vines (H. H.). — Water at intervals of five weeks, and give
three hundred gallons each time. The paths and surface of the border ought
to be sprinkled with water twice n-day. and more frequently in veiy hot
weather. The Vines seem to have done very well, and you appear to under-
stand their treatment.

Fumigating a Greenhouse Avtart (H. T.). — Where there are plants in
flower fumigation is better than syriuging, but in your case, where a green-
house is united to a dwelling, we shnuld prefer syringing. In vei^ many in-
stances wo syringe with soft soap and water, omitting tobacco altogether ; but
it is better to have both. Our plan is to mix 1 lb. of soft soap in about a
gallon of hot water, and add eight or nine gallons of cold water to it ; and if
tobacco be used we pour some hot water over it, aud mix the liquor with cold
water. Boiling the whole would be better, and in your instance wo should use
tobacco in addition to the soft soap. As your building is not large, the liquid
may be about the coloiur of weak tea ; and in syriuging avoid the flowers
as much as possible. If moving your birds be not convenient, a cloth rnay
be thrown over thein for the time, the smell not being much. Fumigating
maybe done without costly furaigators; and for want of a better apparatus
take au old flower pot— a partly broken one will do— sot it on two or three
stones or bricks on the floor, so that the hole at the bottom maybe clear; then
put in a few stones or broken crocks, over these a few hot cinders from the
lire. If you have a small quantity of well-diied sticks or small split wood
that will ignite freely put them ou, and as soon as alight put on the tobacco,
and over that a little dampened moss. If this be done properly, you have
nothing more to do but escape by the door, and your enemies will be routed.
This operation is best done in the evening, the house being closely shut up,
and it may be repeated two nights afterwards. Better not use the tobacco
too strong at first.

Ants (J. Belts).— A broad baud of wool round the stem of a standard tree
prevents the ants ascending. To prevent their ascending a wall, a line of tar
along the entire bottom, and along the top may be made eMcient, but the tar
must include the stems of the trees against tho wall.

New Boiler (N. R. P.). — We cannot advise. Show your plan to some
head gardener, and he will probably tell you whether your idea is good, price
of pipiug, &.C.

Seedling Plants from St. Helena (Suhgcriher).—'We do not know the
fir=t of tho tlu-ee plants named. The second. Purple Granadilla, is probably
Passitlora edulis, which has purple egg-shaped fruit ; or it may be P. quad-
rangulaiis. which has purple pulp. If it is the first, it will fruit well in a
vineiy; if it is the second, it requires a stove. Both are best planted out in
borders and the shoots trained to the roof at about a foot from the glass. They
should be allowed to run, and be thiuned out where much crowded. The soil
should consist of turfy loam two parts, leaf soil and saudy peat one part each,
and half a part of sand. Good ilrainage must be afforded. The plants, if
grown in pots, are the better of bottom heat. The flowers should be artificially
impreguated; look over tho plants about noun alter flowering begins, take
one or more of the anthers, and apply them to the face of the stigmas. Seed-
lings will flower In the second year ; and your plant sown last year, if encou-
raged, ought to flower this. We do not know the " Scarlet Thorn " of St.
Helena.

Cissus DISCOLOR LEAVES SPOTTED ((?. L.).— The Icaves are white-spottcd ;
this is common in the leaves when mature. Your plant is not in free growth,
the soil being probably sour and the roots inactive. See to this, and give the
plant bottom heat after repotting. Afford moisture abundantly without
syringing the foliage, aud shade from bright sun. We presume the plant has
been kept dry and cool during the winter. The last edition of the *' Cottage
Gardener's Dictionary " is that of l8t»H, aud it contains all the new plants up
to that date. It may be had by post from our office for 7;*. 2(L

Myosotis dissitiflora and Viola cornuta Mauve Queen Culturk
(TF. F., Hertford). — Hovi the seeds uf both now in pans or boxes of light rich
loam three parts, half a part each leaf soil and sandy peat, with one-sixth of
silver sand, draining well, and placing the roughest of the compost over the
drainage. The soil should be made fine and sifted. Make the surface smooth,
and scatter the seeds evenly, ju^it covering tho Myosotis seed with fine soil,
and the Viola seed about the eighth of an inch deep. Water gently and placo
in a cold frame or greenhouse, shading from bright sun and keeping just
moist. When the seedlings are up admit air and keep them near the glass,
and when well above ground place them outside in a position shaded
from the midday sun. When large enough to handle prick them out in a
border of rich light soil at 3 inches apart every way, shading them from sun
until established, aud water them in dry weather. In October they may be
planted where they are to flower, removing them with balls, or be planted
double their former distance apart, in a sheltered border, whence they can be
transplanted in spring to their blooming quarters.

Rogiera GRATissiMA LEAVES 'Browned {Coiistant Reader).— ThQ leaves
have beeu and probably are infested with thrips, which should be destroyed
by fumigation with tobacco whenever seen. Plants much infested should bo
fumigated two nights consecutively, and twice a-week for a month, as though
one or two fumigations may destroy those then existing, no amount of tobacco
smoke will destroy the eggs, and from these emerge in due comrse mora
insects, hence the necessity for repeated fumigations.

Cabbages Grub-eaten (Dumbarton).— The plants' stems are eaten by tho
lanie of the Daddy-longlegs, Tipula oleracea. Gardeners usually call tho
grubs Leather-jackets. Tho only way to destroy them is to have tho surface

400

JOURNAL OF HOKTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE- GABDENER.

[ May ID, 1S73.

of the gi-oTind round each plant stirred with a knife, and the gmbs tiirned up
killed. The Tipula deposited its egi,'B in the soil of the pasture.

Treatment of Cucumbers {A Reailtrl—Allo^inf^ the main shoot to grow,
with stoppiuj:;, to the roof is right; but the side shoots we should not have
pinched off at the second joint, but have let them ^-ow to the fourth or fifth,
■when they would probably have showu fruit, and then have pinched them to
that ; or, if they showed fruit at two or more joints consecutively, we would
have taken the point of each shoot out at the last show for fruit. If no
fruit show before the fourth or fifth joint, we should stop at the fourth
01- fifth, and it will produce shoots that would no doubt show fruit freely.
The after-training will consist in training-in young shoots, cuttmg-out the
old weak shoots and those that have fruited, encouraging the young aud
"vigorous to take their place. Stop at the fruit. The washing- of the roof
glass wiih a thin wash of whitening and milk is good. It will keep the
leaves from being scorched, but it should be put on thinly with a brush, so as
to afford but a slight shade. Lime placed about the plants to destroy snails
Trill do no injury.

Bottle-brush Plant Flowering (A Constant Subscriber). ~^epot the
plant, if not already done, in a compost of equal parts sandy peat and fibrous
loam, with a quarter of leaf soil, a few pieces of charcoal, and one-sixth of
silver sand, with good drainage. Give only a moderate shift, and keep the
plants rather dry until the roots are working well in the fre^h soil, then
water freely, and encourage gi-owth by frequently sprinkling overhead. It
should have a light airy position in the gieenbouse, aud after July should be
kept cool and airy, but fully exposed. Maintain a sufficient amount of
moisture in the soil, but do not over-water, and in winter keep moderately
dry, aii-y, and well exposed to the light. This is the treatment we give ours,
and it flowers freely. We cut out the old long base shoots after flowering.

Cephalotus follicularis and Dion.ea MusciPUXA Culture (A Constant
Headfr). — The Cephalotus should be grown in a wai'm part of the greenhouse
and in a compost of chopped sphaguum and sandy Sbrous peat, providing
extra good drainage. Keep the plant rather high, and just cover the roots.
It is well to insert the pot in one of larger size, filling the interval with
sphagnum, and cover it with a bell-glass fitting the inside of the outer pot.
Take it off and wipe it dry occasionally. In summer the pot may be set in a
eancer of water, kept full during that time, lessening the amount towards
autumn, and keeping the saucer empty in winter, with the bell-glass tilted or
slightly raised. The compost must be kept wet in summer, but less so, yet
moist, in winter. The Diontea also requnes a warm gi-eenhouse, and a com-
post of chopped sphagnum and fibrous rough peat in equal parts, with a
Jourth of silver sand and pots broken rather small. The plant should he
potted rather high in the centre of a ih or 6-incb pot half filled with drain-
age, and the pot placed in one of lai-ger size, the interval tilled with sphagnum.
Set the pot in a saucer of water, covering the plant with a bell-glass, but
not resting on the moss all round; raise it a little on one side. Take it off
and wipe it 6i-y occasionally. The position should be Hght, but shaded from
direct sun. The saucer must be kept full of water; lessen the amount in
winter, but even then keep the plant moist.

Names of Plants [J. Bryan). — We cannot name plants unnumbered.
Ton must send fresh specimens, with a number attached to each. (E. C. A.).
— Richai-dia lethiopica, foi-mcrly and still best known as Calla a^thiopica. It
helongs to the Arum family.

POULTET, BEE, AND PIGEON OHEONIOLE.

INSTEUCTIVE CLASSES.

At shows young fanciers see what standard to breed np to,
and I would suggest the institution of a new class that would
show them how to arrive at that. What I mean is to give a
■class for a pen of fowls matched-up for breeding, either cockerels
or pullets. Birds not exactly up to show points, but good for
breeding if judiciously matched would be entered, aud young
fanciers would have an opportunity of procuring birds properly
mated to breed with. It certainly would be a good substitute
for the selling class, which might be more properly called the
"rubbish class." Toung fanciers would gain many a good
"wrinkle " in Ksteniug to the criticisms and remarks as to the
judiciousness of the mating and the likelihood of what the birds
would breed. Many young fanciers get disheartened at having
to labour through a lot of experience and loss of money before
they arrive at anything like a knowledge as to how to inate-up
for feather ; but a little timely help would keep their courage
up. Of course a gi-eat deal must be learned by practical ex-
perience, but in these go-a-head times one would like to hasten
the acquisition of poultry lore by hearing something the men
with " hen heads " could tell lis. I think that end would be
gamed by my suggestion. A class of the kind could be tried at
the Crystal Palace or Birmingham as a beginning. Mr. Wright
carries out my idea in his "Poultry Book," for he not only
tells you what fowls ought to be, but also how to breed them up ;
his is the first book that ever went deeply and thoroughly into
the mating and breeding for feather. With Mr. Wright's book
to guide him, a young fancier would, I am sure, arrive at a
knowledge, working practically at the same time, in one-fourth
the period that it would take him to do so without its assistance.

Young Pigeon fanciers are in the same boat as far as the need
of some help goes, to tell them how to mate-up for properties,
especially feather. They want a book written on the same
principle as Mr. Wright's showing them how to do. In fact,
there is a greater want felt in this respect than in poultry. As
it is not always possible to buy perfect birds to breed from, one
has to work with Pigeons not quite up to the show standard of
colour, and in no book is one told how to breed from feather from
off colours, or, indeed, from perfect ones. If aU well-known
breeders were to give their experience on the subject in a book

thoroughly exhaustive of the subject, it would be a great boon. —
Toi' SA^^■\'Eil.

BEAHMAS.

I WILL state my experience of these fowls during the last
seven years. Mine are Light Brahmas. I have found them
hardy and healthy, having only lost three adult hens from
disease during that time. I have generally kept ten or twelve.
Last year I had five pullets and five hens ; in January tliey laid
171 eggs, and during the year 168 eggs each, and I brought up
sixty-nine chickens.

As regards their sitting so much, it is not invariably the case ;
and with respect to their laying so few eggs before wanting to
sit, I know of one that laid fifty-eight eggs before doing so. I
have one hen, my best, that has never wanted to sit. I am so
well satisfied with them that I have gone in rather extensively
for an amateur, ha-4-ing hatched 117 chickens, some of them in
January and February. During those months I lost a good
many, the weather being very cold. Since then I have lost
scarcely any, having upwards of 120 fine healthy chickens, with
which I hope to take some prizes this season.

The reason why I took to Brahmas at first was, that they are
such quiet fowls, easily kept out of the garden, and are good
winter layers. — Philip Haines, Diss.

BLACK COCHINS.

In your reply to "E. S.," you say the great difBculty is to
get Black Cochin cocks. The two cocks I have are as black
and lustrous as Black Hamburghs. Am I to expect them to
turn all the coloms of the rainbow? Perhaps Messrs. Vander
Meersch and Howe will give their experience. In former daya
they were, as you describe, of various tints, but I think that
difficulty has been got over, perhaps at the expense of the very
yellow legs, a point I should wish to retain, if possible, in con-
junction with black plumage. — F. C. Hassakd, Sheerncss.

Theke seems to be a great deal of misapprehension about
Black Cochins, and still some doubt as to whether there are
such birds. Several years ago I obtained a cock and two hens
direct from Shanghai; they were perfectly black, and never had
the vestige of a white or coloured feather. I have bred from
them largely, and the chickens though light when first hatched
become black and remain so. I observe it is stated, at page
381 of your last week's Journal, that the under feathers of the
cock are always w'hite. This is a mistake, there should be no
white nor coloured feathers. It is the cross between the Buff
and White which produces birds which are black for one season,
and after each moult become more aud more coloured. I main-
tain that there is a true and pure Black Cochin the result of no
cross — as any Chinaman will tell you — aud I hope to send some
specimens to the next Crystal Palace Show, at which I am glad
to see they will have a separate class. If your correspondent,
" E. S.," go there, he will see at least one '' pure Black adult
Cochin " at any rate. — C. M. Hole, Tiverton.

KEFOEM IN POULTEY HAMPEES.

I iiA"\'E often thought a better way might be invented of fasten-
ing the lids of exhibition hampers than tying with string. At a
large show the time and trouble it takes to thread aud tie some
hundreds of hampers are really onerous. The fastening might
be done with a self-acting spring, and opened by pressing on a
bolt. I have one being made that will overcome these diffi-
culties. The only objection I see at present is that it cin be
opened perhaps too freely by the railway people ; but if such
could be brought into use what a saving of trouble it would be in
despatching the stock from a show.

This is a subject the Birmingham and Crystal Palace Com-
mittees should notice. Suppose they were to give a few prizes at
their next Shows for the best exhibition hamper, I have no
doubt something would be brought out superior to what we have
now, and be a very interesting feature at the Show. — E. H.iwkixs.

CUEING EGG-EATING FOWLS.

J. S.AYEiis states that he knows an instance where, by taking
away the egg as soon as laid and substituting a white china egg,
sold by the dealers in crockeryware, cockerels who ate the eggs
were cured of the propensity.

To prevent hens eating their eggs, let some eggs, equal to the
number of the deUnquents, be heated to boiUng temperature
and thrown to the fowls, and, like the children who burn them-
aelves, they will for ever after dread the fire. As to mustard
Bud cayenne they delight in both, but I can say nothing about
aloes. — I. M. A.

Dublin Poultry Show. — Mr. E. A. Scale wiites to us to say
he had no intention of accepting the cup w-hich he had offered

May 13, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

401

and theu won ; but lie has again presented it, and would be happy
to see it pass into other hands next Show if fairly won.

EPWOBTH POULTRY AXD PIGEON SHOW.

This Show came off on the 9th inst. The town is at least six
miles from a railway station, and this militates considerably
against the number of entries, and more so because coupled with
the fact that the classes for poultry were somewhat hmited.
The birds were shown nnder a large marquee, and were well
attended while at the Show ; but the pens for the large varieties
of poultry were somewhat smaller than is desirable, but they
■were well made of wood with wire fronts and canvas backs.

Gamo were shown singly, the first class being devoted to Red
cocks, the winners in which were Black-breasted. The first-
prize bird was nearly perfect. In single hens both prizetakers
were Brown Reds, the first being in good condition, but not of
equal quality with the second, which, however, was not in good
bloom. In the next class, for any other variety of Game cock, a
finely coloured Duckwinj? stood first, with a fairly good bird of
that variety second. In hens the first was a Duckwiog and the
second a l^ile, the latter being of grand form but wanting in
colour. Span ish were good, and the cup for the following section
was awarded. The Brahma winners were good. The first-prize
pen of Cochins were very good Buffs, and in nice order. There
• were but two classes for Hamhurghs, and only seven entries,
but the winners in both classes left little to be desired. The
first prize in Spangles went to Silvers, and the second to Golden.
Polands were one of the best classes in point of quality, most of
the birds being good in all respects. The first were Golden, and
the second Silver. In the Variety class Dorkings were first
and Cruve-Coeurs second. There was a class for any variety of
cocks except Game, as also another for hens. In the former
Spanish was first, a Buff Cochin second, and a Golden Poland
third ; and among hens the first was a Spanish pullet of extra-
ordinary merit, closely pressed, however, by a capital Gold
Poland. The Ba.ntam classes were not equal to those of last
year in point of merit, although some of the winning were very
good. The cup was awarded to a pair of Black-breasted Reds.

The Ducks were not numerous, but those in the Variety class
■were shown in very good order, the winners being Caroliuas and
Bahamas.

The Pigeons were the great featirre of the Show in point of
both numbers and quaUty, the entries being large in all classes
and the competition very keen. All the birds were shown
singly. The Carriers were a fine lot of birds, and shown in the
highest condition. The first and second prizes were awarded to
Black cocks, and the third to a hen of that colour. Pouters
were very good in point of shape, size, and colour, but as a rule
not in the best condition. The first prize and cuji for the best pen
in the Show were won by a Red cock of great merit, the second
by a capital White cock, and the third by a Blue cock. Tumblers
were very good in all respects. A very handsome Almond cock
was first, closely pressed by a good hen of that variety, and it
would be very difiicult to secure more perfect specimens than
these. Jacobins varied in quaUty, some being almost perfect
and others very poor. The first prize went to a Red cock, very
short in the face and good in other points ; the second being a
very neat Black. Fantails were very fine, scarcely one bird
being uuworthy of notice, and all the prizes carried off by the
Newark fanciers. Turbits were a large and good class, the first
being an unusually good Blue cock, the second Yellow, and the
thu-d Red. Mairpies were good ; the first-prize bird was a very
neat and small Black, the second Blue, and the third Red. Barbs
were a well-developed Red first, and Black second and third.
The -winning Antwerps were all Duns, the first and second birds
being Silver cocks, and the third a dark D un hen of great quality.
Dragoons were a very good lot, the three winning Blues being
almost perfect. The first-prize bird was one of the best ever
exhibited. In the Variety class the first prize went to a Black
Trumpeter of the newly imported variety, the second to a
spangled Tee of great beauty, and the third to a Black Swallow.
In the Selling class were some cheap lots : first a Trumpeter,
second a Yellow Jack, and third a Black Carrier. The cup for
the greatest number of points was won by Mr. E. Horner.

The Cage Birds were scarcely equal in quality to those of
previous years, the falling-off being mostly in point of bloom,
though the winners were generally very good ; but we would
recommend a re-vision of the classes, so as to induce more com-
petition.

Bahhits were good in all the classes, and Ihe prizes were
closely contested. In Lop-eared bucks the first was Black-and-
White, in measurement 21i inches by 4J inches, and the second
Grey-and-White, 21^ by 4j ; the does, being first, a Blue-and-
White, 21} by li, and second, a Fawn, 21i by 4j; an extra
second being given to a very large Grey, 21 j by 4|. In Hima-
layan a perfect young Rabbit was awarded the first prize, while
a good old one was second. The Silver-Greys were unusually
good, and the winners most beautifully silvered.

There was the best display of eggs it has ever been our lot to

see, and the quality was very good, most of the shells being like
enamel, and not a single stale egg could be detected. There
were thirty-four entries.

The Secretary was all attention and courtesy, and scarcely
leaving the tent dirring the whole of the day.

Game (Black-breasted and other Reds).— Cocfc.— Cup and 1, C. Chaloner,
Wbiiwell. he, Salea Sl lienllev, Crawle : J. Mabon, ■\Yorcet.ter. c, S. Harnaon,
Epworth. aen.—l, 0. Chaloner. 2. Salca & Bentley. /if, E. Aykroyd, Leeds.

Oame I Any oiher variety).— C'oofc.—l, C. Chaloner. 2, E. Aykroyd (iJuckwinR).
Sales i: Bentlev lOnckwing). fftn.— 1, C. Travis, Sheffield tDuekwing). 2, bales
and Bentley (Pile), /ic, E. Aykroyd (DuckwingJ.

Spa.msh.— Cup aiid 1, K. Newbitt, Epworth. 2, J. Powell, Bradford, /itf, E.
Brown, bheflield.

Bkahmas (LiEht or Dark).— 1, T. F. Ansdell, St. Helens. 2, H. Beldou,
Bingley. he, \V. K. Gamer. Dyke, Bourne ; J. Watts, Birmingham.

Cochins (Anv colour).— 1, "W. Harvey, bheffield. 2, H. Beldon.

Haiibcrghs '(Gold or SUver-spangled).— 1, H. Beldon. 2, L. Wren, Lowcstott.
he, J B. Bly. Lowestoft.

Hambcbghs (Gold or Silver-pencilled).—!, H. Beldon. 2, H. E. Powers,
Biggleswade.

toLisH u^ny variety).- 1, H. Beldon. 2, W. K. Patrick, West Winch, he, W.
Harvty ; -W. K. Patrick.

ANY Vahietv not Named Before —1, J. ■WTiite (Dorking). 2, w. Harvey.
*c, H. Beldsu; Mrs. Cross, Brigg (Creve-Cceor) ; J. Watts; O. E. Cresswell,
Bagahol (Japaneoe Silkies).

,iNY VAKUtTY Excti'T G AME.— Cocfc— 1, R. Ncwbltt (Elack Spanish). 2, Col.
Astley, Briug (Dorking). 8. T. Sisuey, Aylestone (Partridge Coc- in), he, W.
Uarvev. iieit,—l, J. Powell. 2, H. Beloon. /ic, R. Newbitt (Black Spanish);
J. Thresh, Bradford ; E. W. Southwood, Fa kenham (Coloured Dorking).

Game Bantams (Black-breasted and other Heus).- 1 and 2, Mrs. E. Newbitt,
Epworth. 3, J. & G. Touge, Epworth. he, G. E. Small, Barton-on-Homber.

Game Bantams (Any other variety).—!, E. Kewbitt (Piles). 2, C, Chaloner.
3, S. H. Hudson, Epworth (Duekwmg).

Bantams (Black).— 1, K. Ashlon, ilottram. 2, J. Earnshaw, Hollowgate.
fccH. Beldon.

Bantams (Any other variety) —1, H. Beldon. 2, ^W. W. Boulton, Beverley
(Cuckoo Bantam), c, J. Watts; O.E. Cresswell (Nankin).

Ba.stams (.Auy varietyl.— Coc/:.— 1, W. W. Boulton (Cuckoo). 2. R. H. Ashton.
3, J, \V. Morris. Rochdiiie (Game), he, J. C. Coupe, Doucaster (Black Red) ; J.
Watts. Uen.—l anu 3, E. Newbitt. 2, J. & G. Tonge (Black Red), he, J. bmith,
Amcotts ; W. W. Boulton (Cuckoo).

Selling <.L4ss.—l, J. PowelL 2, J. H. Watldns, Hereford, c, J. W. Comer,
Egton (Buif Cochins). _

DccKs.-^utesbiiru or J!ouen.—l,W. F. Dunn, Middle Raaen (Aylesbnry). 2,
W. Roe, Xorih Scai^le (Kouen). Any other variety.— I and 2, W. Bums, Pudaey
(Bahamas and Carolinas).

PIGEONS.

Carriers.- 1 and S, E. Homer, Harewood, Leeds. 2. H. Tardley, Birming.
ham. he, E. Horner : H. YardUy ; W. Harvey f.i) ; R. Fulton, New Cross (3^

Pouters.- 1 and Cup, W. Harvey. 2, R. Fulton. 3. J. E. Crofts, Blyth,
Workoop. he, J. E. Crofts; E. Homer (2); A. Spencer; W. Harvey (2); E.
Fulton. „

TuMBLEES.— 1 and 3, J. Ford, London. 2, E. Horner, /ic, E. Homer (2) ; H.
Yardley; \V. Hai-vey; K.Fulton (3). , ^

Jacobins.— l.K. tuJton. '2, E. Homer. 3, O. E. Cresswell. /k;. E. Homer;
R. E. .--anders, Leven ; W. Harvey ; A. A. Vander Meerach, Tooting ; R. Fulton.
c, W. Harvey.

Fantails.- 1, .1. "Walker. Newark. 2 and 8, J. F. Loversidge, Newark, he,
Mrs. T. C. Newbitt; J. R. Capps, Spalding; E. Horner; W. H. Tomlinson,
Newark ; J. Walker ; W. Harve> ; O. E. Cresswell.

TuiBiTS.— I, C. Lythe, Cottiiigham. 2 and 3. J. E. Crofts, he, 3. E. Crofts j
E. Horner; W'. Harvey; O. E. cresswell. c,J. Watts.

Magpies.— 1, R. Fulton. 2, J. T. Cater, Colchester. 3. J. E. Crofts, he, C.
Lythe (3); E. Hoiner(2); W. Harvey; J. Uairsine, Hull; J. E. Crofts.

Bahbs.- 1 and 3, R. Fulton. 2, E. Horner, he, E. Horner; H. "iardley (2).

-Antwebps— 1, F. Woodhouse, Blackburn. 2and3,.l. Cro6sland,jun., Wake-
field, he, F. Woodhouse, Blaokuurn ; E. Homer; H. Yardley (2) ; J. E. Crofts.
e, E. Horner ; J. Hairsine.

Deaguons.— 1 and S H. Y'ardley. 2, E. Homer, fie, J. E. Crofts; J. ■Watts ;
J. Ford, e, J. *,. Crofts ; R. Fulton.

Any otheb Vahety.-1, E. Homer. 2, W. Harvey. 4, J. Watts, he, R.
Fulton; J. E. Crofts ; Col. Astley (Runt); J. Waits ; E.Horner; W. Harvey;
J. A. Ford (Dunette) ('2): A. A. Vander Meerach.

Selling Class (Single).- 1 and c, W. Harvey. 2, K. E. Sanders. 3, P. R.
Spencer, Hereford, he, W. Andrews, Spalding ; P. R. Spencer.

Cup fob Points.- E. Homei.

CAGE BIRDS.

Canaries.- relioic.-l and 2, T. Green, Gainsborough (Norwich), he, E.
Barber, Gainsborough (Maltese), iiujr.- 1, T. Green (.Norwich). 2, G. Yates,
Thorne. fie, T. Green (Nor\vich). c, C. James, Epworth. Grt-fn or Variegated.
—1, Blaster T.Dawso J. Epworth. 2, T. Green (Green Norwich), fie, T. Green
(Marked Norwich); E. Barber.

Golufinch.- 1. Mrs. Wainwright, Bumham. 2, yf, Temperton, Buraham.
he, T. Green : W. Temperton ; J. Boyea, Epworth.

Linnets.— I, W. Temperton. 2, T. Kii^K, Bumham. 3, J. Boyes. he, "W.
Gravil, Tnome. „

Any oihee Variety.- 1. Mrs. E. Newbitt (Parakeet). 2, T. Green (GoldeiL-
spangkd Lizardj. he, R. Barber (Linnet Mule) ; G. Lindley, Epworth.

BwBiTS.— Lop-eared.— Buck.— 1, J. & A. Weaver, Leominster. 2. A. H. Easteiu
Hull, fie, F. Banks, London; Shiwi: Allison, snelfleld. c, F. R. Crawshay,
Sevenoaks. Hoe.— I, A. H Easten 2. F. R. Crawshay. fie. Master S. M.
Peace, Thome ; J. & A. Weaver. Himalayan.— 1. Glew oi Hardman, Wakefield.
2, s Ball, Bradfoid. fie. Master S. M. Peace; S. Ball; S. G. Hudson, HuU.
ailver-Orey.-l.S.TSM. 2, AH. Easten. fcc, W. Fox ; E. S. Smith, e, Glew
and Hardman ; J. L. Varley, York.

JusoES.— Poultry and Pigeons : Mr. R. Teebay, Fulwood,
Preston, and Mr. B. Hutton, The Aviaries, Pudsey, Leeds;
Cage Birds : Mr. E. Hutton; Babbits : Mr. E. Hutton, and Mr,
J. Spinks, Gainsborough.

BK.tEMAS. — I have a piiUet (a cross between Game and Poland)
that commenced laying at five mouths old, on October 17th, and
up to May 4th has laid 111 eggs, which realised Itjs. 6id. I
doubt if any Brahmas have done so well, but I shaU be glad to
hear if any Brahma fancier has pullets that have exceeded this
number of eggs. I shall be obUged if a few of your occasional
correspondents ■will give us the results of their best egg-pro-
ducing Brahma pullets up to the present time. — J. K. L.

Newcastle-upon-Tvne Poultky, Pigeon, and C.inaby Show.
— Owing to business engagements I have had to resign the post
of Honorary Secretary to this Show, to which Mr. John G.

402

JOUBNAL OF HOKTICaLTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

I May 15, 1S73.

Dunn has been appointed as my successor. I take this oppor-
tonity^ of thanking exliibitors for their patronage and sup-
port to our Show, and hope they will continue the same. —
Henby O. Blenjonsop.

OTLEY (WHABFEDALE) POULTRY SHOW.

This Show was heUl at Otley on the lUth inst., and was in
every respect a success, the day being hue and the visitors
numerous. The schedule ha'ving been remodelled and the value
of the prizes greatly increased, the entries in all sections were
much better than usual.

Game were of fair quality throughout. The cup was awarded
to a single Brown Red cock. Sjja^iish were few in number, but
extremely good as regards the winners. The cup was awarded
in this class to a pen containing a most extraordinary pullet.
The Cochins and Brahmas were good, and in Folands the com-
petition was extremely keen ; all the prizes were awarded to
Golden Polands. HainhuriiJiSj as usual here, were a grand dis-
play, scarcely one bad pen being shown. The cup was awarded
to the Silver -pencilled. There were five classes for Bantams,
three of which were for Game. The winners in Reds were all
of the Black-breasted variety ; and in the next class Duckwings
and Piles were respectively first and second, and the cup was
awarded to a stylish Black Red cock, wanting somewhat in
colour, but otherwise good. Black Bantams were large, but
otherwise good, and a handsome pair of Golden Sebrights were
first, and Whites of rare cxuality second in the Variety class ;
and in Any other variety the first and second prizes went to
Creve-Ccem-s, and the third to Silkies.

Ducks were not numerous, and the Rouens failed in beak and
plumage, but the Aylesbury were wonderful for the time of
year. In the Variety class of Duck, which is always attractive,
Bahamas were first, and Carolinas second.

The Pigeons were well protected under a marquee, and were
very numerous. The cup was awarded to a capital Red Pouter
cock ; the second and third prizes in that class were Blues of
good quality. In Carriers all the winners were cocks, shown in
high condition; the first and second-prize birds were I31ack, and
the third Dun. Barbs and Jacobins were well represented, and
the winners good specimens ; but in point of uniformity of
quality no class approached the Dragoon, no bird winning by
many points as compared to those in arrear. The Short-faced
Tumblers were also a good lot, bat the winners were all Almonds.
The Long-faced prizes were divided among Red Mottles and
Black Bald, a very grand Blue Baldface being commended. Of
Turbits the first was a shell-crowned Red, second a spike-
crowned Red, and third a most exquisite coloured Yellow.
Trumpeters were all of the newly-imported kind. In English
Owls a Light Blue cock of the correct type M'as first, and a
Powder Blue, wanting only in colour of eye, second. The
Magpies were good, as also Antwei-ps, both Long and Short-
faced. The entries in this section amounted to no less than
fifty-seven. The Selling class was an anomaly it is difficult to
explain; no price having been fixed, and the consequence was
that the winning birds were of great value, and evidently never
intended for sale.

GiME.— j;«i.— 1, J. Lundit Son, Silsden. 2, J. W. Thornton, Bradford. 3, E.
Aykroyd, Eccieshill. )ic, H. E. Martia, Fakenbam. Any other culour.—l, E.
Aykrovd. 2, B. Burton, bbeffield. S, >Y. F. Entwisle. Cock.—X, Cup, and 2, E.
Aykroyd. 3, H. E. Martin.

Spanish.— 1 :xnd Cup, J. Powell, Bradford. 2, H. BeldoD, Bingley. 3, J.
Thresh. Bradford.

CocmNs.— 1, C. Sidgw-ick, Keighley. 2, W. Harvey, Sheffield. 3,H.C.&W. J.
Mason, Drigblinglon.
iiRAHMA i:'ouTRAS.— 1, R. HutchiDson. Littleborough. 2 and 3, H. Beldon.
DoEiiiNGS.— 1, J. White, WarUby. 2, AV. H. King, Ruchdale. 3, J. Newall,
York.

PoLASDS.— 1, "W. Harvey. 2 and 3. H. Beldon.

Hamijubgbs.— ('0^d<'I^Si}a'l3^trf.— 1, U. Beldon. 2, VV. Driver, Keighley. 3,
J. Rollinson. Siivtr-spangltit—1. J. Kollinaou. 2, H. Beldou. 3, Aabtou and
Booth, Mottram. (iolden-ptincihcd.~l and 2, H. Beldon. 3. W. Driver, Keiirb-
ley. 6iU'fr-pencilled.—l, Cup, 2, and 3, H. Beldon. Black or any other variety.
—J, J. Smith, BingleV. 2. C. bidgwick (Black). iJ, J. Moore, Biu-lcv.

Game Bantams —Aud —1, F. Sieel. Halifai:. 2, W. F. Entwisle. 3, H. Butler,
Brartlord. Any utn»r colour. — 1, F. Ste^-l. 2, G. Noble, Dewtibury. 3, F. Steele.
Cock.—l and Cup, F. Steele. 2 and 3, W. F. Entwi»le.

Bantaus.— iJ/<icfc —1. W- H. Shackleton. Bradford. 2, J Waddington. Guiselcy.
3, J. Preston, Allerton. Any otiitr vanety.—l,H Sharp, Halifax. 2, H. Beldou.
3, R. Frew, liiikcaldy.

Any other Vakilty.— 1, J. Smith, Ripon. 2, W. Harvey. 3, C. Holdaworth,
Harrogate (Japanese.)

X>cciis.—Iionen—l,C. Holt, Rochdale. 2, H. B. Smith. 3, J. Newton, Sils-
den. Aylfsbiiry.— I.e. B.o\t. 2 and 3, K. Hutchinson. Any other variety. — 1,
W. BiuuH, rudsey (Bahama Teal). 2 and 3, H. B. bmilh, Preston.

Selling Class.— 1. J. PowcU, Bradford. 2, H. Beldon. 3, W. Sunderland,
Bingley.

PIGEONS.
PoDTERa.— 1 and Cup, T. Hawlcy, Bradford, 2, E. Horner, Harewood. 3, \V.
H. Tomlinson. Newark-uu-Trent.
CABKitRS.— 1, 2, and 3, E. Hoiner.

Baubs.— 1 and 2. E. Horner. 3, H. YarJlcy. Birmingham.
Jacobinb.— 1. R Frew 2, \V. Harvey, .^htttield. 3. E. Horner.
Dbagoons— 1, H. Yardley. 2, E. Huruer. 3, J. A. Fi^rd. Cbeshire.
Ti_-MHi.EHs.— .s/io)(frtC('rf.— 1, G- Crcsswell, Huddersfiehl. 2, E. Horner. S,
H.Yardlev. /ic, W.Harvey (2); E. Horner. Li^H/j-Zacfti.— 1 and/tc.D.RidiUhough,
Jan., Braiiford. 2, W. Harvey. 3. A. BentUy, Buildon.

P'antails.— 1, E. Horner. 2 and 3, J. F. Lovereidf^e, Newark.
Tliriiits.— 1, J. E. Crofts, Blyth. 2, G. Cresawell. 8, W. Harvey.
Tui MPETEKS.— 1, \V. Harvev. 2 and 3, E. Horner.

O^vi.s.— JCnril ink— i, J. Thresh, Bradlord. 2, H. G. Poole, Bradford. 3, J.
Ingham, Halifax.

Magpies.-I and 2, J. E. Crofts. 3, J. W. Yeadon. he, W. C. Dawaon.
AstwEHP.—Short-jaccd —1. E. Horner. 2,D. Kid.lihough. jnu. 3. H.Yardlev.
XDH;7-.ruf^(^— 1,. J. libudes, Harewood. 2, W. Ellis, Leeds. 3. J. Bitthou, Skiptou.
AM- OTHER VARifcTY.— 1, H. Btjldun. 2. J. E. Crofts. 3, W. C. Dawson.
Selling Class.— 1, E.Horner. 2, W. Harvey. S, J. Rhodes, Harewood.

RABBITS.

Long-eared.— Bucfc.— 1, F. Banks, London. 2, J. Oldham, Bradford. Doe.—
1, J. Hume, York, 2, J. Falldiug, Leeds.

Any OTHER Varikty.— y;»c/:.— 1, S. Ball, Bradford (Himalayan). 2. C. Auton,
York. Doe.—l, O. C. Hutton, Bradford (Angora). 2, Glew &, Wiudman, Wake-
held.

J VDG-Bs,^PouUry : Mr. C. W. Brierley,Middieton, near Man-
chester. Figeons and liahhits : Mr. J. Crossland, Wakefield,

FERTILITY OF DUCKS' EGGS.

On March 20th, at page 25-1, you replied to a correspondent
(" M. H.,") about the fertility of Ducks' eggs, and I supposed your
reply to mean that the eggs would not be fertile unless the birds
had access to water. If so, my experience does not agree with
yours. Last year I had a brood of It-ouen ducklings, aud I have
kept a Duck and drake till now. They ran with the hens iu an
enclosed yard, and had no water except in a drinking fountain.
There is no water near supposing them to escape from the yard,
and yet, so far, I have had a Duck from every egg I have set,
some of the ducklings being now seven weeks old. The drake
is very vicious, and runs the hens so much that I shall be obliged
to sell him. From this you will rightly suppose he was reared
by a hen, as ducklings reared by a Duck do not trouble the
hens. — K. E.

POINT CUPS FOR PIGEONS.

The desirability of giving point cups for Pigeons is still a
vexed question. There is no doubt that the system is unfavour-
able to the amateur who keeps only two or three varieties, but
at the same time it is a good thing for dealers, and those who
keep a great many different kinds. However good the birds may
be themselves, there is always a doubt whether they will win,
for in many classes only a certain standard of perfection can be
reached ; aud when there are several pens of birds of nearly
equal merit, but all differing from each other a little, then the
judge is guided by his own fancy at the time as to which he will
place first and second ; so that when a great number of entries
are made the exhibitor knows he must expect a certain number
of disappointments, but if he wins a point cup it makes up for
his losses. If an exhibitor wishes to make a great numher of
entries at a show, he looks to see whether there is a point cup
which will make it worth his while to run a Uttle extra risk. In
my own case, when a i)oint cup is given at any show at which I
exhibit, I generally make an additional entry; thus, to win two
prizes I should make three entries if there "were a point cup, but
if there were not, I should ouly make two to win the two prizes.
The third entry in this case would be for luck ; it would give m©
a better chance with the prizes, and I might possibly win the
cup. If I thought I should win the cup I should certainly make
the third entry. But theu, again, sometimes a point cup pre-
vents me from making any entries at all, for I only keep four
varieties, and there are often as many as twelve classes for dif-
ferent kinds of birds which I do not keep. Of course in such a
case I have no chance to win the point cup, and those who hope
to do so can afford to send better birds to win both the cup and
the prize money, than I can to win the prize-money alone. It
seems to me that the money spent on the cup had better be used
to increase the value of the money prizes, for dealers will always
make a fair number of entries when there are good money prizes,
and then hoth small and large exhibitors will have an equal
chance for the premiums.

It is scarcely worth while for a small exhibitor to show where
a point cup is given, unless he can borrow birds to try and win
the cup as well. I never think it worth while to do this myself,
but there are some who do. I think, however, it is seldom done,
on account of the expense and trouble. I do not see anything
dishonest in borrowing birds for this purpose, though I think it
a pity that it should be done. It is generally supposed that birds
are shown to enable others to judge of the quality of tlie birds at
home, and in this way to obtain purchasers; if this is so, those
who borrow create a false impression as to the quality of their
stock. But while there are point cups there always will be
borrowing more or less, aud those who give the cups encourage
it. I think that on this account a point cup is even more objec-
tionable than a cup for the best pen in a given number of classes,
to win which is the greatest lottery I know. For my own part
I prefer money prizes for each class, and when they are worth
having there will always be plenty of entries, — H. M. Maynabd,
Holmeivoodj liydCj Isle of Wight.

"White Jacobins. — If the Crystal Palace Poultry Committee
are agreeable I shall be pleased to join "Black Jacobin" in
offering a subscription towards prizes at their next show for
White Jacobins, single birds, and on hearing their decision will

May 15, 1873. ]

JOUKNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

403

collect among my fancier friends. — A. A. Vander MEEitycn,
Tooting.

NADIKING.

There is no better-establidhed law in bee-keeping, than in what-
ever description of hive we employ, honey will be found stored
in the upper, brood in the central and lower portions, during
midsummer, to the very floor-board. Based on this principle, the
storifying system, in contradistinction to the ordinary or single
hive, and say one-super mode, consists of a series of boxes or
storeys ; the deeper ones are placed in succession beneath the
stock box progressively as the wants of the colony demand, and
are termed nadirs, and are simply intended as an elongation or
extension of the breeding space. On the other hand, in propor-
tion to the flow of the honey harvest, the shallow boxes termed
supers are placed one over the other, above the stock, as an ex-
tensiou of the honey room. Consequently it was with no little
surprise I found so able an apiarian as your excellent contributor
*' B. & "W." fall into the palpable error at page 365, that the nadir
is ''placed under a stock, not for breeding purposes, but with a
view to obtaining houey." If your correspondent started a stori-
fied colony by way of experiment, he would very soon be im-
deceived, finding the yield of nadir honey meagre indeed.

" B. & W.'s " plan of placing a super in the position of a nadir,
with the view of getting comb started therein, although ingenious
in conception, is valueless in practice. So placed, the super is
accepted by the bees as a nadir, and as usual a mixture of drone
and worker combs will be built, and my experience is, the
shallower the nadir the greater the proportion of the former,
spoiling the value from the well-known coarser appearance of a
super wholly or in part composed of drone cells ; then again,
there is the avidity with which bees store pollen in nadirs from
the start till the completion, indeed, usually much in excess of
their wants, still further spoiling the beauty of a super as well
as the flavour of the honey. Lastly, further discoloration must
ensue from the entire traffic of the colony passing over the
combs while in progress.

Better far to place the super at once in its proper position,
and when the hive is full and honey to be had open the end
communications thereto ; the bees pressed up in the tirst instance
for mere elbow room, form in an ever-increasing heap on the
top of the stock box, till, true to another law of their nature,
they suspend themselves like a cluster of grapes to the bars of the
super, when, finding the guide comb placed in anticipation by the
bee-master, preferring work at all times to enforced idleness,
they cannot resist the temptation to nibble and elongate ; others,
espying the chinks and crevices between the stock and super,
take a run out, returning with a few loads of propolis, and ab-
horring, as they always do, a vacuum, proceed at once to stop
all up. Attracted by the proceedings upstairs, other idlers join
the working band, and the super is fairly started ; then the bee-
keeper nadirs with another stock-box, and the wants of the
colony in storing and breeding space being thus fairly met,
besides the exhilarating efiects of the transfer from a stifling to
a purer atmosphere the scouts are recalled, and all thoughts of
emigration from their dearly-loved home abandoned. By so
studying their wants, and granting space in a progressive ratio,
in keeping with the population and season, such harvests have
been reaped as has fallen to the lot of — A Renfrewshire Bee-
keeper.

SPRING BEE-FEEDING.

The "word of warning" in reference to feeding weak stocks
has not been given a moment too soon by your esteemed corre-
spondent "B. it W." Already, through inattention to their
a.piaries, many bee-keepers have lost hives that were well
tenanted and flourishing only a few weeks ago. Since the be-
,ginning of March bees have had to depend almost entirely upon
their stores. Pollen has been abundant, but scarcely a drop of
honey could be obtained. The provision which at one time was
reasonably deemed sufficient to meet the necessities of the
spring months has proved utterly inadequate, and in conse-
quence many bees are dying of famine, whilst others are leaving
their legitimate labours and giving themselves up to habits of
plundering.

On the 17th ult. one of my best hives was entered by free-
booters and brought to the verge of ruin. The occupants, which
were numerous and had three combs well filled with brood,
became utterly demoralised, and ceased to offer any resistance to
their foes. They showed no resentment when roughly handled,
which proved how effectually they had been subdued. Every
honey-cell was emptied of its contents, and, if timely aid had
not been given, bees and brood would have been a lifeless mass
in the course of a couple of days.

Now, to leave a hive in ttiis condition in its place and feed it
is, as is well known, just to invite the enemy back. But it is
often inconvenient to remove it to the distance that is necessary
to save it from being again found out by its persecutors. It
was so in my case, and I resolved to try a plan which could be

earned out with little trouble, and which would probably prove
effectual in restoring courage to the dispirited bees and prevent-
ing the marauders from renewing their assaults. Waiting, then,
till darkness had sent all robber bees home, I carried off the
assailed hive to a room lighted by only one small window
18 inches square. Immediately in front of this window the
hive was placed, having its entrance about 6 inches from the
base, so that if the bees went out and coursed over the "window
they might, when exhausted, find it easy to return to their
dwelling. The hole in the centre of the crown-board was then
opened, and a liberal supply of food given. The bees, no longer
molested, quickly stored it up, and in less than three days they
were in possession of as much as would meet their wants for
three or four weeks, and from this feeding under partial con-
finement not more than a dozen perished. To provide against
the danger that would meet the hive on being restored to its
original site, a box with empty combs was placed where it stood.

, For one whole day the robbers were allowed to weary them-

I selves by paying fruitless visits to it. On the succeeding^ day
they were allured from it altogether by some combs half filled

: with honey laid down at a little distance.

i At sunset, with its outward appearance somewhat changed,
the removed stock resumed its former position, and next morn-
ing found it the busiest in tUe apiary and more than a match for
its foes. It has not been assaulted since. — B. S.

OUR LETTER BOX-

Books [T. B., Leeds) — We know of no book relative to hens and cliickens
eiclusively. Enclose seven posta^'e stamps with your address, and order the
" Poultry Book " to be sent you by post. Take in Wright's " Illustrated
Poultry Book." It is publishing in shilling monthly parts.

Hens Trespassing {Smsex).—Xo\x might recover if you sued in the County
Court, hut you had better fullow the American's adv-ice —

*' If your neighbours' hens come oft from across the way.
Don't be eni'ag'd, but make a place for them to lay."

PouLTSY Food (Ignoramus). — Both authorities are right. If you use the
mixture recommended in the book, the ingredients are calculated to modify
each other. Rice alone is " worse than nothing," for there is no fat or flesh-
forming constituent in it. Potatoes alone are too apt to cause internal fat.
If you observe your fowls decline give no rice, but substitute barleymeal or
ground oats. If the hens lay shell-lees eggs, or show other symptoms of in-
ternal derangement, discontinue the potatoes, and substitute rice until the
symptoms are removed.

Spanish and MiNoncA Fowls (G. F. TV.). — As a rule the difference be-
tween Minorcas and Spanish is small. It generally consists in dabbing such
of the latter as have exchanged the pure wliite face and drooping comb for a
red face and pink comb, by tha name of the former. Tho cross between them
would not bs important in any way. We are and have always been iuimieal to
crosses. We believe there is nothing that can be reasonably ei:pected from a
fowl that cannot be had from a pure one. If you keep pullets of this month
you will have eggs for early sitting nest year. We need hardly say we advise
pure breeds ; but if you mean to cross, we advise, if you work with the material
you have in hand, that you put the Brahma cock with the Minorca hens.
Spanish are good, hut not early layers ; they do not sit, and it is against
reason to cross sitters and non-sitters. If you wish to depend on your eggs
directly after Christmas, you will do well to pen your birds accordingly, not
later than October.

Bantah Eggs not Fohthcoming {H. Q. W.). — We cannot fancy that a
hen goes to her nest, stays the usual time there, and comes off cackling Ti-ith-
out having laid an egg. We should say either she or another eats it, " yolk
and white, and hard shell too." If however, we are wrong, she is not right.
Give a copious dose of castor oil, at least a tables poo nful, and repeat it after
two days. She will then soon lay unless there is organic disease, and if so, kill
her. We cannot beUeve that any hen of any breed can pass her second and
third years without laying. Do not condemn her until you have reduced her
fat.

Colour of Brahjia Eggs (A*. Y. Z.). — Do not quarrel with the colour of
the eggs. Some believe in shape, some do not. We are of the latter. It is
thought the colour of the egg is affected by the weather, being darker in hot
weather. We have seen none approaching to mahogany colour. Those who
beheve in it say the pointed eggs pruduce cocks, the round ones puUets. We
are trjing some experiments, and shall discourse leai'uedly on them if they
furnish the text.

Age op Turkey Cocks (A. H. J.). — Turkey cocks are awkward birds, and
young ones do not always prove prolitable when the hens come off their eggs.
One that has avoided this reproach the first season is prized as a stock bird
fur a second, but when Turkeys are kept fur profit he is seldom kept for a
third. A tried yearling bird is always kept in reserve. This is easily done, as
with these birds the cocks are used as rams are with sheep, and always with
success. We have known a hen taken from a bruod and shut in a lolt ; at the
end of six weeks she began to lay, she sat and brought-out twelve poults. She
had been six weeks in the loft by herself. , ,.,, -i.' , l.'

Ulcer in a Brahua Hen (B. M. C). — The large crop if it were filled with
liquid is unimportant. We expect the ulcer has nothing to do with the crop,
but is attached to the breastbone. Such cases are in almost every instance
incurable. It is probable she will go on laying, and when she has done you
will do well to kill her. Potatoes aie vei-y bad food either raw or cooked, and
boiled cabbage is worse. If you give cabbage, give it raw and whole, so that
the weight will resist the pull necessary to teai- off a piece. The best green
food is a large sod of growing grass, and next to that lettuces.

Extensive Poultry- keeping (J. K. L.).— Two hundred hens shonld have
from five to six acres of grass. Five hundred should have twelve acres all
grass, unless there be a dry plantation or shrubbery upon it. Either of the
latter is desirable. The soil should be light, and the land on a moderate
slope. Such land is soon drj' after rain, and allows the birds to scratch and
^ bask. We always have several houses where large uumbers of fowls are kept.

404

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ May 15, 1873.

"We phould build three or foiir houses, each IS ieot square, and as lofty as
posfiible. They luav be inexpensively built of wood, well ventilated and lighted.
It is in everj- way preferable to allowing a large number to roost in one house.
We ehouUl require 21 feet square for a hundred hens. If you mean to have
eetje only, you should have Spanish. Hamburghs. Brahmas, and Creve-Cceurs.
We do not think laying properties are improved by crossing.

Gapes (L. Bradbu/ry).—GWo ea.oh. chicken affected a pill of camphor the
size of a small pea every second day until cured. To prevent the disease
keep a lump of camphor in the water they drink.

Pigeon Xksting but not Laying {H. H.).—A Pigeon doing this will
usually nest for ever, but never lay — in fact, she is no breeder. Tou did quite
right in giving her other eggs, it was her only chance and might revive the
power of breeding.

Food for Young Canaries (IF. H.).— Boll an egg hard and allow it to
get cold. This is important, for if the yolk of a warm hoid-boiled egg he
rubbed-np or chopped fine, it will harden and dry verj- rapidly. The difference
can easily be seen by cutting a cold egg through the middle, and also a hot
one. The cold one will remain unchanged during the time that the surface
of the hot one will dry and crack; and if the whole yolk be so exposed by
being chopjied fine, every fragment will pres'^'ut the same dry, caked appear-
ance. Pass both the white and the yolk through the egg-box, which is
simply a bf X about, say, 6 or S inches square (larger or smaller according to
fancy or the requirements of the bird room), having no top, but a bottom of
perforated zinc securely nailed on. The egg can be squeezed through this
with a table-knife, much or Uttle as occasion may requiic, and then mixed
with its bulk of bread-cmmbs rubbed tine in the hand. Some breeders soak
the bread, which should be stale, squeeze it dry, and mix with the egg. Others
use one or other of the many plain or fancy biscuits which aie sold in such
variety; but nothing is better than bread-crumbs. This is a good stock diet
for nestlings. When a hen is disposed to feed she will feed with anything
and needs no tempting delicacies, but in case of disinclination add a little
crushed hempseed. Let the food be fresh at all times. Do not allow it to
remain in the egg-trough till it turns sour. Keep up a supply of fresh green
food, such as groundsel, chickweed, or lettuce, and see that the seed-box is
duly replenished with clean white canary seed free from dust and dirt. Sum-
mer rape and linseed may bo given occasionally by way of change. — W. A.
Blakston.

BrLLFiNCH AND CAN AitT— PROTECTION OF Eggs filf. G.).—Us6 every pre-
caution to protect the eggs. When you think the hen is about laying, remove
the BulUiTich the night before, and do not replace him till you have secured
the c<TC. It will scarcely he necessary to replace him again, but you may as
well do so, that you may leave no stone unturned to ensure success. I should
much like to know the result, and, if successful, to see the progeny. — W. A.
Blakston.

Restless Canary Hens (A Rcadi-T). — I think if you do as you suggest —
" wait a little longer," the good time which is coming will come ; and as you
say your hens generally aie troubled in the same way, it may be accounted for
on the ground that they aie all a little backward. Give some stimulating
food — egg and hempseed prepared as above, and I have no doubt you will soon
have plenty of young ones. — W. A. Blakston.

Pairing Canaries («/. A.). — I think no person can be called "stupid"
who has the sense to inquire into the why and because of any effect he sees
produced, and has also the sense to think out a theory of his ov.ti, even if that
theory be erroneous, which I think yours is. You ai'e in quest of a "veiy
pale" .Torque hen to pair with a Jonque couk, with a view to getting colour,
and object to a Buff or Mealy hen, because yon " don't want to introduce Buff
blood." I take that to be your position: well, why not a high-coloured
Jonque hen for your Jonque cock? Don't you think you would get more
colour ? Certainly you would ; but beai* in mind, at the expense of feather.
It may be accepted as a principle that pairing Jonque and Mealy produces
both colour and compactness of plumage. Jonques and Mealies are not, as
you imagino, distinct breeds, but merely separate classes of the same variety,
and are produced in pretty nearly equal proportions in the same nest. If I
misunderstand your object write again. I say this because I am not sui-e
whether you wish to breed for colour, or whether you are aiming at producing
white birds. Do I believe in the marigold theory? I will put your question
in another shape. Do I believe in the theory that the colour of a Canary can
be affected by feeding ? I will tell you what I believe in. I believe in Mr. E.
Bemrose, of Derby, who exhibited two remarkably high-coloured bii-ds at the
last Crystal Palace Show. The fact of their being officially passed over by the
Judges without a reason, and the reason being subsequently anonymously
stated in the Journal will be in the memory of all interested in Canary
matters. Mr. Bemrose assured mo the birds were genuine, that he had
moulted them himself, and that the colour was owing to the feeding, and to
nothing else. Mi-. Bemrose and the colour theory are therefore inseparable.
I believe Mr. Bemrot^e to be a gentleman who would not stoop to such a
meanness as a falsehood, and who would neither stain a bird nor cast in his
lot and herd with those who do, and therefore I believe in the ''Marigold
theory" as un fait accompli. Incipient asthma may become chronic. See
"Fringilla Canaria" on diseases. -W. A. Blakston.

Bees Dwindling Away {Ligurian). — It is difficult sometimes to account
for hives perishing and becoming so weak in population while so well pro-
vided with honey. It is a veiy common subject of complaint this spring.
The winter and spring have been exceedingly unfavom-able for bees. We do
not approve of tho inverted glass for ventilation and condensation of moisture.
The dead bees may have been gradually carried off by the living. The tomtits
could not materiaUy affect the population. It is most likely that the queens
died during winter. If the combs are badly mildewed, we should cut the
worst affected pai'ts away; if not, we should let them remain, and repeople
the hives with swarms. The bees would soon put the combs to rights. Li-
gurians aie noc more liable to internal dampness than other bees.

WooDBtTRY Hn"ES {WnJlaston'\. — 1, They are 14^ inches square by 9 inches
deep, inside measure. 2, The bars, when in place, should be 1 ij inch from centre
to centre — that i^, half an inch between each. 3, Just sufficient for the bara.
4, Bars are seven-eighths of an inch ^-ide. This gives a measurement of
\A\ inches for the box, but Mr. Waodbury preferred to have it quite square,
and used to spread the other quarter of an inch over the spaces generally, or
towards the sides. Recesses of an inch wide for bars only seven-eightha of
an inch wide would give too much play.

Babbit Eating Her Dung (F. M. X).— Tho habit is very unusual, and
■we would recommend a little milk as a safe liquid, or two tablepoonfnls of
water ouce a-week in warm weather, and more especially when the doe is
about to litter. Give her caiTots and crushed oats, sweet hay, a little green

clover when ready, or vetches, but not when wet; in fact, all gi-een food

should be given sparingly. Roots are always safe. Allow a little water or

milk to be in the hutch at the time of littering, as intense thirst generally
accompanies that event.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,

Cauden Square, London.

Lat. 51° 32M0" N. ; Long. 0° 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date.

)i.M.

In the Day.

1873.

SSoE

Hygrome-
ter.

Shade Tem-
perature.

Badiation
Temperature.

1

May.

In

On

!»-=-

Dry.

Wet.

a°

si^'-

Max.

Min.

sun.

grass
deg.

iDchea

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

We. 7 i i9.571 51.0

47.1

S.E.

49 6

60.2

41.5

96 S

85.9

0.520

Th. 8 1 29.616 | 49.8

47.5

N.

49.4

61.4

420

97.7

48.0

0.010

J'n 9 1 29.965 55.4

60.8

W.

49.7

62.6

43.3

95.6

36.0

bat. ao ' 30.13-2 1 6S.5

48,6

W.

50.1

6t.3

42.1

U7.8

84.S

bun. 11 so.lb? ' 6(1.9

55.8

s.w.

51.0

69 2

60.3

120.2

47.0

Mo. 12 1 3U.215

6P.0

54.ti

N.

63.1

70.9

46.3

123.1

434

Tu. 13 j S0.i7j

65.2

47.4

S.E.

54.4

64.2

42.1

12U.1

86.2

—

Means j 2S.S62

551

60.2

51.1

64.7

41.0

110.2

39.4

0.S30

BEMABK3.
Tth. — Rain in early morning, but line by 10 a.m., and so continued till between
2 and 3 p.m., when rain commenced and continued more or less
all day.
8th. — Much rain in the night ; fine morning and pleasant day, though there

were several showers, but they were slight; a line night.

9th. — A lovely morning ; rather stormlite in the afternoon. Only a few drops

of rain fell here, hut tho rain was very heavy at Blackheath and its

neighbourhood.

lOth. — Fine morning ; the day fair, but more cloudy than the preceding one.

nth.— Fine morning ; and all day rather cloudy between 6 and 7 p.m., fine

aftei-wards, but wind rather high.
12th. — A most lovely day throughout, and followed by as fine a night.
ItJtii. — Fine morning; rather clouded over at noon, a brisk and rather cool
wind ; tine afteiTioon and evening.
A very hue week, especially the latter part ; temperature about 3- above last
week. Sun very powerful on the last three days. — G. J. SvaioNS.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— May 14.
A FATR average supply and good attendance, the midland markets sending
buyers now to a considerable extent. Importations of foreign produce have
largely increased, compiising among other articles Apricots, Cherries, and
Strawberries. St. Michael's Pines seem to be over now, as the Orange season
has ended, and few vessels call there. New Potatoes are well supplied at
from 2d. to 3(Z. per lb. ; good old ones scarce.

Apples -1 sieve 3

Apricots doz. 8

Cuernes %* box i

Chestnuts bushel 0

Currants i sieve 0

Black do. 0

Figs doz. 10

Filberts lb. 0

Cobs lb. 2

Gooseberries quart 1

Grapes, hothouse lb. 8

Lemons q,+ lUO 6

Melons each 6

d. s. d. I

Oto5 0 !

n

4

0

0

»

11

11

II

II

(1

II

0

(1

0

(1

0

15

U

0

11

0

0

2

6

u

2

II

n

15

II

0

10

0

Mulberries ^*lb. 0 otoO

Nectarines doz. 0 0 0

Oranges ^ 100 4 0

Peaches doz. 18 0 SO

Pears, kitchen ooz. 10"

dessert doz. 6 0

PineApples lb. 8 0

PlttuiB 4 sieve 0 0

Quinces doz. 0 0

Raspberries lb. 0 0

Strawberries i* oz. 0 6

Walnuts bUBhel 15 0

ditto %*-100 2 0

a. d.
6
0
0
0
0
0

3

IS

12 0
0

0

0 0

1 6
SO 0

2 6

VEGETABLES.

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus %> 100

French

Beans. Kidney ^100

Beet, Red doz.

Broccoli bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums ^110

Carrots bunch

Cauliflower doz.

Celery buudle

Coleworts.. doz. bunches
Cucumbers each

pickling doz.

Endive doz.

Fennel bunch

Garlic lb.

Uerbs bunch

Horseradish bundle

Leeks bunch

Lettuce doz.

8. d. a.
3 Oto6

Mushrooms pottle

Mustard ti: Cress. .punnet
Onions ^ bushel

pickling quart

Parsley per doz. bunches

Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Round do.

Radishes., doz. bunches

Rhubarb bundle

Salsafy ^bundle

Savoys doz.

Scorzonera.... ^bundle

Sea-kale basket

bballots lb.

Spinach bushel

Tomatoes doz.

Turnips bunch

Vegetable Marrows

8. d. B. d.

Oto2
2 0
6

POULTRY MARKET.— Mat 14.
Orn market tells of untoward weather in the past. The yotmg ponlt^ Is
not as forward as wo expected and hoped. There aie, however, indications
of improvement, and we hail them gladly. Outrageous prices are neither
good lor senders nor sellers.

Large Fowls 6 0 to 6

SnuLllerditto 5 0 &

Chickens 4 0 4

(iowiings 7 0 7

GuiUfU Fowls 8 0 4

Ducklings 4

8. d. B. d.
6
6
6

Pheasants 0

Partridges 0

II«rc8 0

Rjibbirs 1

Wildditto 0

Pigeons 0

d. 8. d.

0 to 0 0

0

0 e

1 7
0 10
0 10

May 23, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTORE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

405

WEEKLY

CALENDAR.

Day 1 Day

Average Tempera.

Rain in

Snn

Snn

Moon

Moon

Clock D ay
after of
Son. Year.

Montll Week.

MAY 22—28, 1873.

tore near Loudon.

4S jeara.

Riaes.

Sets.

Kia

aa.

Seta.

Age.

Day.

Night.

Mean.

Days.

m. h.

m. b.

m.

h.

m. h.

Days.

m. 8.

22

Th

AscENsioH Day.

65.4

42.4

53.9

19

Ual4

63af7

38

2

2 8

26

3 .".6 142

23

F

[ of Linnean Society, 3 p.m.

67.3

43.6

55.5

15

59 3

54 7

52

2

25 4

27

3 32 143

24

S

Alexandra Park Show. Anniyersarr Meeting

67.4

43.0

55.2

12

M 3

55 7

8

a

48 5

28

3 26 144^

25

65.4

42.9

54.2

16

57 3

56 7

26

3

10 7

29

3 21 145

26

M Annitersary Meeting of Koyal Geographical

07.4

42.8

55.1

19

56 3

58 7

W)

3

31 8

•

8 14 146

27

Tn ( Society, 1 P.M.

06.5

44.7

55.6

22

55 3

59 7

2U

4

44 9

1

3 8 1 147

28

W Meeting of Society of Arts, 8 p.m.

68.1

44.4

56.2

IS

54 3

0 8

1

5

46 10

2

3 0 148

From obserratioDs t&keo near London dnrinj; forlT-three veari, the average dav temperature of the week

is 06.8^ : and its night temperature

43.4°. The greatest heat ifus 91 -, on the 28th, 1817 ; and the lowejt cold 25 , on

the 23rd and 24th,

1867. The greatest fall of ram was 0.97 inch.

ORNAMENTAL PL.\NTING.— No. 1. '

HERE are few branches of horticulture of
greater interest or importance than the em-
bellishment of dressed grounds or natural
Bceneiy with trees and shrubs, and, I sup-
pose I may venture to assert with equal
truth, none which receives less attention or
study, owing probably to the fact of its
being rather a legitimate pursuit of the
landscape gardener than the general prac-
titioner. A\'ithout any pretension to the
laying down of arbitrary rules or canons of taste, it is my
purpose in writing these papers to endeavour to show
clearly how lawns and shrubberies are planted, giving the
arrangements of borders, groups, clumps, and sohtary
specimens, and in doing this care will be exercised to keep
as closely as possible to the explanation of practical de-
tails deduced from actual experience.

The subject is a wide one, and withal most interesting;
and as one passes its most important heads in review, the
materials suitable for the work press upon the mind in
such profusion that it is no easy matter to make a selec-
tion from such a host of subjects " rich and rare '' with-
out passing over many things of importance. By select-
ing materials possessing sti-ongly-marked characteristics,
and by giving the details of each arrangement fully and
clearly, it is hoped that these notes will prove useful, so
far as written directions ever can be.

One important rule which cannot be too strongly im-
pressed upon the minds of beginners is never to attempt
too much in the first instance, always bearing in mind
the important axiom that the most simple matter or
trifling detail once well done is a principle mastered and
a step gained.

Harmony, contrast, and repose are three most im-
portant principles to which we should try to give expres-
sion ; graceful simplicity and artistic effect are not in-
compatible but are really inseparable, and always present
in the most costly and elaborate works of art. The pro-
duction of harmonious effect implies a just appreciation
of the relative value of form with form, and of the various
shades of colour ; there must be no clashing even in con-
trast, which must please and gratify, rather than startle
or astonish ; eveiy arrangement or scene, therefore, how-
ever distinct or varied in character from others in the
same garden, should yet be sufficiently in keejiing with
them to fonn a connecting link of the grand whole.

In order to secure so desirable an end in what is
inevitably a somewhat costly undertaking, it is of primary
importance to make a careful sarvey of the surface of the
land before laying it out, and to adapt the design to its
natural formation so far as is practicable ; thus, if the chief
part of the surface has a general broad or flat expanse,
or is, on the other hand, imdulating and much broken,
we should strive to impart, or rather retain, the tone or
air of either style to the dressed grounds generally. It
is true that a departure fi'om this rule may frequently be
seen in gardens of great extent, but it would be unwise,
No. 6M.— Vol. XXIV., Niw Semes.

as the result would be unsatisfactory, to venture upon a
mixed style in such small places as these notes are in-
tended for.

Ample variety of aspect may be imparted to all gardens
withovit any violation of the purity of style which I ad-
vocate, and while avoiding all meaningless ornamentation
we should strive for expression in every feature and ob-
ject. It is in doing this that so many of the choicest plants
and slu-ubs play such an important part ; the common
Yew may be so massed as to lend a charm — often unde-
fined, but none the less powerful — to the brightest gayest
triumph of Flora ; the walk that sweeps past gay flower
beds brilliant with summer beauty, maj- in its next curve
lead us to the quiet repose of turf-clad banks bearing
clustering masses of Yucca, or among the feathery taper-
ing forms of Conifers, the silvery plumes of the Pampas
Grass, or to some fine specimen tree or shrub. Thus
fresh forms and colom-s present themselves in rich and
varied beauty at every turn, and the importance of first
measures in designing the contour of each portion of lawn
or pathway becomes evident. Graceful sweeping curves
or gentle undulations all constitute beauty. A walk that
winds from an open lawn among masses of shrubs or
under the spreading branches of lofty trees, seems to
invite us to explore, and in planting we gladly avail
ourselves of the numerous prominent positions which
such curves afford to place our choicest specimens to the
greatest advantage. Single fine specimens well placed
are always much appreciated. Take, for example, the
WeUingtonia that is planted upon the triangular space
between the Eosery and Water Temples at the Crystal
Palace, nothing could be better. It imparts variety and
grace to the surrounding scene, of which the high-raised
mound, crowned by the lofty arches of the Rosery, stands-
out so boldly that to the casual observer all subordinate
objects apparently sink into comparative insignificance ;
yet the situation of this flomishing yoimg tree is so singu-
larly appropriate that it is, and must continue, an object
of the greatest interest and importance. The chief reason
for this is its central position — that ia to say, it stands at
a central point upon which three walks converge ; and
thus, although it is at the foot of the Eosery slope, and so
close to the margin that it may be regarded rather as
part of it than as a separate feature, yet it possesses in
itself so much that is interesting, stately, and dignified
as to attract great admiration for its striking individuaUty
alone. That is the point, and the lesson which it teaches
is precisely that which I wish to convey clearly to the
reader — namely, that the best position for single speci-
mens is wherever they attract attention as individuals
without clashing with the sm-roundiug objects, but rather
contribute to their beauty. — Edw.\ed Luckhuest.

CULTURE OF ROSES IN POTS.

The most magnificent exhibition of Roses in pots ever

seen in London was that held at South Kensington on

"Wednesday, May 7th. Fancy a Eose bush 5 feet in height

and over 18 feetin cu-cumference, furnished with healthy

No. 1486.— Vol XLIX., Old Series.

4p6

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEK.

[ May 22, 1878.

foliaRe to the basp, and covered with superb flowers, as was the
case with that best of all Koses for pot-culture, Charles Lawson,
iu Mr. Turner's collection. Many of his other plants were
quite as healthy and nearly equally well flowered, the largest pro-
portion of them being Hybrid Perpetuals. Such specimens are
far beyond the reach of ordinary growers, but they showed us
what can be done with the queen of flowers as a pot plant.
They are specially grown for exhibition, and they well deserved
the highest honours that could be awarded them. The smaller
specimens, which can be grown and flowered beautifully in
8-inch pots, are within the reach of the most modest owner of
a greenhouse, and no greenhouse, however small, should be
without a few pot Roses.

Roses are divided into two great sections, which may be
subdivided into many more: First, the summer Roses, flower-
ing in .Tune and July ; in this section are comprised the Moss,
Provence, French or Gallica, Hybrids of Chinese and Bourbon
Roses, &o. Second, autumnal Roses, flowering from June to
November, or later if frost and snow do not prevent. The most
important of this section are the Hybrid Perpetual and Tea
Roses ; nor can the Noisettes be omitted, as Marechal Niel is
amongst them ; but for culture in small pots the Hybrid Per-
petuals and Teas are decidedly the best. With a few of the
best varieties of the above, and very little trouble or expense,
fresh and fragrant Roses may be cut every month of the year.
Roses grown in 8 or 9-inch pots are also more useful for ordi-
nary decorative purposes, as they can be worked-in well in the
conservatory border or on a greenhouse stage. When well
managed such plants also produce better flowers than large
specimen plants.

As a pot plant the Rose is easily managed, and can be grown
more satisfactorily in that way than planted out of doors,
when soil or other circumstances do not favour vigorous de-
velopment. In the garden under my charge it is discouraging
■work to cultivate the Rose out of doors ; we are open to the
east winds, we are under the influence of the impure atmo-
sphere of the east end of London, and the soil is of the worst
possible description — light gravelly stuff of no depth, with a
dry gravel subsoil. Our only chance to obtain a good Rose
in the open air. is to plant Briars, using as much clayey loam
as we can get to mix with the soil, and to bud our own. Some
good flowers are obtained the first year from the bud, after-
wards they rapidly deteriorate. From our pot Roses grown
under glass flowers are being cut which would not suffer Ijy
comparison with the noted Roses of Cheshunt or Waltham.
A number were grown this year without any forcing, except
that a fire was put on in winter on a very few occasions to
keep out the frost, and a succession of flowers has been
obtained by pruning from November to February, Teas and
Hybrid Perpetuals being the sorts grown. The earliest blooms
opened about the third week in April, and on some of the
latest the buds cannot as yet (May 13th) be discerned.

Some varieties seem to have a tendency to flower earlier
than others. The first to flower (and I am now alluding to
those pruned all at one time and subjected to the same treat-
ment), was H.P. Louisa Wood, followed closely by Lyonnais,
Countess of Oxford, Madame Laurent, Monsieur Woolfield,
Climbing Devoniensis, and, last to open, though the best of
all, Duke of Edinburgh and Marechal Niel. i)uke of Edin-
burgh as a standard or half-standard is a splendid pot Rose ;
the buds are very brilliant.

As a pot plant the Rose is easily managed. I have it on the
Briar, the Slanetti, and on its own roots ; the largest propor-
tion are on the Manetti stock, and they seem to do well on it.
Now is the time to purchase the new Roses which have been
grafted on this stock, and can be sent out in good plants grown
in 5-inch pots. If they are intended for pot-culture they
should be shifted at once into 7-iuch pots, and grown for a
■week or ten days in a greenhouse preparatory to being placed
in a sheltered position out of doors ; the plants will grow freely,
and will furnish plenty of good eyes for budding on Briar
stoAs fcy the end of July. In September all the small shoots
may be used for making cuttings, which will, if planted in
small pots, root freely in a cold frame under a north wall.
The Tea Roses strike out roots the soonest, but very few of
the Hybrid Perpetuals fail. As soon as they are rooted pot
them off singly in GO-sized pots, and place them in an airy
greenhouse or pit ; they will continue to grow all through the
winter iu mUd weather, and by May each plant produces three
or four flowers, and continues to do so during the summer
months. Of course they must be shifted into larger pots.

To grow Rosea well in pots the soil must be rich, to cause

them to make strong growth ; use turfy loam of a clayey
nature four parts, and one part of rotted stable manure, and
if there is much clay in the loam some leaf mould should be
added to it or a little sharp sand. They should be potted
rather firmly, first placing plenty of potsherds in the bottom
of the pot, and some fibry turf over them to prevent the
potting material from mixing with the drainage. If the drain-
age is choked up the plants will not continue to thrive.

Potting may be performed at any season, but October is the
month when the largest proportion of them should be shifted ;
those in large pots should have the ball well reduced, and the
plants repotted in pots of the same size as those from which
they were turned out. The smaller plants may be shifted into
larger pots, or if the size be Umited the roots may be reduced
accordingly. At that season no harm will arise from re-
ducing the roots to a large extent. Even if the plants are
plunged out of doors during winter, the roots will continue
to grow and the buds to swell whenever the weather is not
too severe. — J. Douglas.

THE SPBUCE FIR AND ITS FAILURE.

It is about thh-ty years since a sort of disease attacked this
tree, and many succumbed, not, perhaps, just at the time,
but in a few years afterwards. Though occasionally outcries
have been raised, yet I do not remember of any one season in
which tokens of ill health were so manifest as one spring about
the time alluded to. I have never been an especial admirer of
this tree, and latterly have become less so than before, but I
am sorry we are likely to lose it as an ornamental tree, and
more certainly as a useful one, for it is seldom we meet with it
of any considerable size without showing signs of ill health,
from which, when it once sets in, the tree never recovers
unless such ill health is from some temporary local cause.

During the past winter we had here occasion to thin-out some
plantations of mixed trees that were planted between thirty
and forty years ago, and which had, of course, been thinned as
necessary at intervals during that time. The plantation being
of mixed trees, it is curious to note that but very few of the
Spruce Firs are now left, and amongst those we cut the past
winter very few were sound, while at the same time all the
Scotch Firs retained their healthy appearance. Whether on
the dry stony soil of the upland, or the stiff retentive loam
bordering on the clay of the valleys, they seemed iu every
case likely to outlive their neighbours by many years. May I
ask. How is this ? for both were alike healthy and vigorous for
a number of years — say twenty, after which the Spruce Firs on
the outside of the plantation, on the windward side, showed
signs of injury, while the hardy Scotch Firs retained their
deep glaucous hue unimpaired, and have continued to do so until
the present time, their neighbours dyiug-off one after the other,
or, falling into ill health, they had to be cut down. It would
then be discovered that decay had set in at the root, and if
left alone, ere long they would have been laid on their side by
some high wind. It will be said that the soil did not suit
them, but why is it that the Spruce thrives so well for a certain
period and then falls off ? Here the growth of the latter tree
exceeds that of the Scotch Fir for the first ten or twelve years,
and there are no signs of disease, but in the countries to which
it is indigenous we are told it far exceeds the Scotch Fir iu size
and longevity, which is certainly not the case at this place, for
we have some tolerably healthy Scotch Firs that much exceed
one hundred years of age, containing as many cubic feet of
timber, and, though fully exposed on high ground, showing no
further signs of decay than those of old age. That there is
something at fault either in the soil or situation, or both, that
prevents the Spruce from attaining the same age and di-
mensions is apparent, and I am inclined to think it is some at-
mospheric cause — some deficiency of moisture. That the tree
will endure a large amount of moisture I am well aware, and
in some of the northern districts it thrives very well.

I remember come years ago seeing the Spruce very ex-
tensively used in ornamenting the grounds at Drumlanrig
Castle, and there it appeared to be in the most robust health,
feathered down to the ground ; and in conjunction with largo
fine bushes of the common Berberry, vthich were laden with
their coral berries, it formed a very important feature of the
place. The soil appeared to be suitable to the wild Heath,
but grass and similar herbage formed the ground-covering, and,
perhaps, one of the secrets of success was that the annual ram-
fall of the district was nearly .50 inches.

In such a situation it may be advisable to plant the Spmoe,

May 22, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

107

yet unless the examples given bo backed by the fact of trees
in a like position also doing well for a number of years, I
would not recommend this tree being planted, except to
occupy a place for a few years as a nurse to something in-
tended to succeed it. Under such circumstances it may be
planted ; but it would be well on the part of thsse who plant
whether for shelter, ornament, or profit, to ponder well
whether they ouf,'ht not to plant something else instead, for it
must be borne iu mind that its failure is not confined to one
place, nor its disease to any particular season. It has been
gouig backwards, possibly before the time when its rapid fall-
ing away attracted general notice.

The question naturally arises, How does it happen that a
tree that thrives well up to a certain point should so suddenly
cease to do so, before it can fairly be assumed that it has ex-
hausted the soil of the food which the latter contains '.' I do
not think that lack of constitutional vigour can be the cause,
and it is stiU more unUkely that the severe winters we have
now and then can affect it, for a tree that withstands a Nor-
wegian winter is not likely to succumb to an English one. I
am more inclined to believe that our hot summer has some in-
fluence in the matter, but I merely venture this as an opinion,
based on the fact of the tree appearing to thrive better in
places having a more copious rainfall. If my memory be right,
it thrives well at Alton Towers, in Staffordshire, and other
places where we know rain is more abundant than with us.

Has any correspondent possessing good-sized specimens of
the more choice Conifers noticed indications of their dying
off in the same way as the Spruce has done ? The nearest
approach to it in affinity is the Himalayan Spruce, Abies
Morinda or Smithiana, of which, as it has been introduced
several years, there must be specimens about as large as the
common Spruce when it succumbs in so many places. I am
glad to say that amongst several we have here, .50 feet high or
upwards, I only notice one that is not densely feathered to the
ground with healthy foliage, and this one is in a very exposed
place, where its foliage is likely to be discoloured by high winds.
I do not assert that this Spruce will be exempt, and as a
Conifer it is inferior in beauty to many others ; but if it be
found to succeed where its. elder brother perishes, it will have
a greater claim on the attention of planters, for it certainly
must be admitted that the bad appearance so many plantations
of Spruce Fhs present at the present time has checked their
future extension. I have no faith in remedial measures iu the
generality of cases where there is an extensive plantation.
Artificial helps will enable a single tree or two to outlive the
natural term in a place not suited to it, but where thousands
of trees are planted it would be better to consider which
amongst the many spscies we have is best suited to the spot,
and plant that.

I imagine the sites suited to the requirements of the common
Spruce Fir are becoming fewer and fewer, and that it would be
well on the part of intending planters to ponder ere they
commit themselves by adopting this tree to any great extent.
On the other hand, the Scotch Fir, though not perhaps making
such a nice specimen for our young friends to hang their
Christmas ornaments on, has an unquestionable claim to our
attention, in its old age almost equalling the Cedar of Lebanon.
At this stage its timber far exceeds that of its neighbour, and
if it could be had in quantity would compete with that from
the Baltic. — J. Robson.

IBEEIS GIBKALTAEICA.

We have received from Mr. G. F. Wilson, of Weybridge
Heath, a flower of Iberis gibraltarica, of the true blush colour,
to which " E. A." alluded last week. It is undoubtedly identi-
cal with the plant figured in the " Botanical Magazine." The
vai'iety with pure white flowers, and which has the same habit
as Iberis gibraltarica, may possibly be a seminal variety, but it
is certainly an inferior one in point of size. If this should
prove to be a white variety it ought to bo called Iberis gibral-
tarica alba, while the rose-coloured form retains the original
name of the species.

I HAVE a plant of Iberis gibraltarica with rosy-tinted flowers,
which I have grown for many years, but I have never known
it distinguished as vera, neither have I ever seen a white
variety. — D. M.

Prizes for M.\rket Cusdeneks. — At the Worcestershire
Agricultai-al Society's Show to be held on August the l'2th and

following days, three £10 and three £5 prizes are offered for
the best market gai'dens of various sizes.

PEESEKVING GAEDEN SEEDS EEOM MICE,
EATS, BIEDS, &c.

I HAVE never heard of so many complaints as this season.
Whole rows of Peas have been cleared out in a night, and
small seeds, as of Cauliflower and Broccoli, have disappeared
from the attacks of the smaller birds. In some cases where
nets, from having been securely fixed, kept the birds away, the
attacks of various flies have left the seed-bed like a desert.
From what has been brought under my notice I should judgo
that the season has been a good one for seedsmen. Even
among cottage gardeners, who pride themselves on a few
rows of good Peas and Beans, some have been compelled to
go a thh'd time to the seed shop — no very pleasing thing to a
labourer, as every extra outlay, though small, teUs on the
weekly wages.

At one time no one suffered more than myself. What with
rais and pheasants it was next to waste time to sow Peas and
Beans. Even when netted with string and wire netting a
pheasant would find its way in at one end, and clear out the
rows of Peas at leisure, as it knowing full well that if caught
at his pUfering I should be obUged to let him off with impunity.
For a number of years I have had no trouble at all with seeds
in the ground, simply by colouring them with red lead before
sowing them. I have frequently alluded to the subject, but
it will bear repeating, as some keen amateur farmers have
come and taken notice lor themselves, and resolved to apply
it to many of their seeds where birds are very plentiful. What
surprised them, and has often surprised me, is the simple fact,
that when seeds are thus leaded before sowing, and the ground
patted down, it is rare that mouse, rat, or bird will make a
hole to look for what is beneath. They seem to know there
is something there that will not agree with them. For a ijuart
of Peas shghtly damped, as much of the reil-lead powder as can
be held between the points of the thumb and two fingers will
colour the Peas well, if properly turned over and over with a
stick. It is as well not to use the hand in sowing if there are
wounds or cracks on the fingers, and in all cases the hands
should lie well washed afterwards. For small seeds, as Turnips,
Broccoli, Lettuce, &a., a mere pinch is ample, and it is ad-
visable not to lead any more than it is thought proper to sow.
A mere pinch of Lettuce seed will go a long way when there
is little chance of a seed being taken.

When the seedlings are 2 or 3 inches above ground the red
lead to a certain extent loses its protective power. For the
first time this year I found some Peas rooted-up by rats. In
some few cases where the coating matter had fallen off, the rat
had nibbled out a portion of the centre of the pea, but in the
generality of cases, after pulling or rooting the pea up, the
swelled pea was left untouched. Altogether this was done to
a trifling extent. I have seldom or never known a red-leaded
seed touched until the plant came above ground. Then, of
course, there were insects and other enemies to contend with,
which greedily feed on the young shoots and leaves, one of
the most voracious being the wood pigeon where at all nu-
merous. The earliest Peas and a few later rows suffered con-
siderably from them this season. They came as soon as the
bu'ds began to sing at early dawn, and were gone before m.iny
men were out of bed. A slight sprinkling of ashes and a little
soot when the plants are damp makes them rather unsavoury
to such visitors, and does no harm to the plants. Pieces of
white paper tied to a suspended string act likewise as a de-
terrent. For small seedlings, as of Kale, Cabbages, Broccolis,
cfec, I found a sprinkling of ashes with a little soot in it, a
good preservative against birds and different sorts of flies.
Against Turnip and other flies a few small thin branches of
spruce with their needle-like leaves are also a good protection.
Years ago I protected early Turnips with hurdles placed over
each little sowing about a foot from the ground, the hurdles
having spruce branches thinly drawn through them. In such
a case I have never found the fly intrude, and after the stout
rough leaves become strong there is little more danger. Of two
men whom I lately saw, one has lost all his young C'oleworts ;
his neighbour who stuck a few spruce branches over his bed
has not lost a plant.

The best-intentioned are apt to overlook some trifle that
may be of importance. One of the fanners to whom I have
alluded, thought it must be great labour to red-lead such a

408

JOUKNAL OF HORTICOLTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

[ May 22, 1873.

lot of different Kales, Broccolis, &c, as he saw ou one border,
but really very little more trouble was involved than sowing
them in the usual way. The ground was trodden and made
fine on the surface by raking. For Peas I use a flat dish for
coloui-ing. For all these small Kale and Turnip seeds I use
a small plate or saucer. When many kinds have to be sown
■we take from half a dozen to a dozen saucers, put into each as
much seed as we wish to sow, mark out the ground it is to
occupy — always too small with us — and put its appropriate
tally with it. A man follows carrying one saucer with the red
lead, emptying the next saucer he comes to in it, and thus one
saucer for leading does for aU the sorts, and for the season if
deemed necessai-y. We generally finish by patting the seeds
into the earth gently, and then covering with a mixture of fine
sou and charred refuse, the latter helping to keep insects away
from the young leaves. — E. F.

CEYSTAL PALACE FLOWER SHOW.

May 17th.

Saturday last, the day of the Crystal Palace Flowet Show,
was cold and uuinvitiug throughout the afternoon, though early
in the forenoon there was warm sunshine accompanied by a
keen wind. Upwards of 15,000 persons, however, visited the
Palace, where there were sundry other special attractions besides
the Flower Show, but of the latter alone it is our province to
speak. The collections exhibited were not quite so numerous
as usual, but still they were sufficiently so to constitute a
large floral display, in point of general excellence quite ou a par
■with the corresponding exhibitions in former years.

Stove and gi-eenhouse plants always form the leading fea-
ture at this Show, and for these Mr. T. Baines, gardener to
H. MiohoUs, Esq., Soutbgate, took the foremost place for twelve
■with a collection consisting, with one or two exceptions, of the
specimens which he exhibited ou the previous Wednesday at
the Regent's Park. Indeed, most of the plants shown on Satur-
day last had already made their appearance there and at South
Kensington, and have been noticed in previous reports. Mr.
Baines again brought forward his splendid Anthurium Scherzeri-
anum. Azalea Iveryana, Erica ventricosa coccinea minor, a large
bush of Erica Cavendishiana, Eriostemons, Franciscea conf erti-
flora vei-y fine, a splendid plant of Hedaroma tulipiferum, and a
fine example of Boronia pinnata. Mr. W. Chapman, gardener
to J. Spode, Esq., Hawkesyard Park, Rugeley, came second ■with
a very large plant of Pimelea spectabilis rosea in fine bloom;
Chorozema Chandlerii, excellent ; Clerodendron Balfourii, fine
Azaleas, Heaths, &c. The other successful exhibitors in this
class were Mr. I'eed, gardener to Mrs. Tredwell, Lower Nor-
■wood, and Mr. G. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart.,
Regent's Park.

In the nurserymen's class for nine plants Messrs. Jackson and
Son, Kingston-on-Thames, took the lead with, among others,
fine plants of AcrophyUum venosum, Aphelexis macrantha pur-
purea, aud Imantophyllum miniatum. Mr. W. Cutbush, of
Bamet, came second, and Mr. Morse, Epsom, third, the last-
named having a very good example of Mediuilla magnifica.

In the amateurs' class for nine Mr. Peed exhibited an excellent
group, comprising a large and remarkably well-flowered Epacris
miniata splendens, Ixora coccinea. Erica Cavendishiana, Stepha-
notis floribunda, large, well bloomed, but much tied-in ; Fran-
ciscea calycina very fine, and Chorozema cordatum. Mr. J.
Ward, gardener to F. G. Wilkins, Esq., Leyton, had Erica
tricolor Wilsoni, between 3J and 4 feet in diameter ; Statioe
profusa, some 5 feet through, aud in fine bloom ; well-grown
specimens of Genetyllis Hookeriana and Boronia pinnata, with
Clerodendron Balfourianum, &c. Mr. Bain, gardener to J.
Scott, Esq., Bickley Park, and Mr. J. Wheeler, gardener to J.
Phillpott, Esq., were the other prizetakers.

In the class for six fine-foliaged or variegated stove and green-
house i)lants, Mr. Balnea again took the first position, showing
a splendidly-coloured plant of Croton pictum, grand Sarracenias,
Cordylineindivisa, Theophrastaimperialis in beautiful condition,
and Dasylirion acrotricbum. Mr. Wilhams, of HoUoway, came
second with a gi-oup consisting of noble examples of Chamajrops
hurnilis, Croton pictum, Cycas revoluta 10 feet in diameter,
Gleichenia spehmcas, and Dasylirion plumosum. A remarkably
fine specimen of Aloeasia metalUca was shown in the same class
by Mr. Foreman, gardener to E. C. Nicholson, Esq., Heme Hill.

Heaths were shown in excellent condition, both as large and
small specimens. The most conspicuous were Cavendishiana,
■ventricosa magnifica and coccinea minor, tricolor elegans,
tricolor Wilsoni, and depressa. The chief prizetakers were
Messrs. Jackson & Son, Ward, Peed, aud J. Wheeler.

Azaleas for the most part were the same as shown at the ex-
hibitions of the previous ten days. Mr. Turner, of Slough, had
a very fine thirty in 8-inch pots. Among these the most con-
spicuous for their quality were Monsieur Thibaut, orange
scarlet; Comtesse de Flandxe, rose; Baronne Osy, semi-double,

scarlet ; Ferdinand Kegeljan, salmon red ; Due de Nassau ;
Etendard de Flandre ; Koi d'HoUande, and James Veitch.
From Messrs. Jackson & Son, the only other exhibitors of
thirty, came some of the above, though not so well grown, and
Venus and Grand Crimson, both beautifully flushed with
magenta. In the other classes Mr. Turner, Messrs. Jackson,
and Messrs. Lane among nurserymen, and Messrs. Roach, Chap-
man, and G. Wheeler, exhibited successfully, and some of the
specimens were worthy of commendation.

Orchids were not so numerous as usual at this Show, but some
very good specimens were shown, most of which had appeared
on the previous Wednesday. Mr. Ward was first for fifteen,
showing Phalwnopsis grandiflora with three spikes of remark-
ably fine flowers, Cypripedium Stonei, Odontoglossum Phalfe-
nopsis, O. radiatum, O. hystrix, &c. ; whilst Mr. J. Wheeler aud
Mr. Peed exhibited creditable collections of six. In the nursery-
men's class Mr. Williams stood first with the fine Cypripediums
noticed last week, Saccolabium retusum with four racemes, Pha-
lasnopsis grandiflora, and the beautiful Cattleya Mendelii.

Among miscellaneous subjects Mr. Noble, of Bagshot, sent a
collection of pot plauts of his beautiful Clematises, and another
collection of the same flower came from Mr. W. Cutbush, of
Barnet. Mr. Ware, of Tottenham, contributed a group of
hardy plants for the flower garden, as well as cut blooms of
Fancy aud bedding Pansies ; Messrs. Carter & Co., High Hol-
born, fine baskets of Tricolor and Bronze Pelargoniums, some
new flowering Zonals, and a large group of Ferns, Palms, Or-
chids, and fiue-fohaged plants of recent introduction ; and
Messrs. Downie, Laird, & Laing a charming and tastefuUy-
arranged group of Palms, Ferns, Caladiums, and other fiue-
fohaged plants, together with Blue King bedding Pansy, a fine
violet blue variety, which is found to bloom in Scotland even in
the summer months, and Perpetual Yellow, another very useful
variety. Mr. J. H. Ley, Lansdowne Road, Croydon, sent a good
mixed group of Palms, Ferns, and fine-foliaged plants, taking a
first-class certificate for Lastrea denticulata ; and Mr. J.
Wheeler, gardener to Capt. Christie, Westerham, thirty-six
blooms of Marechal Niel Rose, all cut from the same plant, and
of such large size that a person at our elbow remarked they
were "like Cabbages." Messrs. Lane & Son contributed a col-
lection of jiot Roses ; Mr. Turner, Tulips ; Messrs. Dobson,
herbaceous Calceolarias; Miss Thomson, 4, Adelaide Road,
Penge, charming button-hole bouquets of Orchids, Roses,
Ferns, Ac. ; and Miss A. Hassard, Upper Norwood, had a similar
exhibition, likewise one of table-decorations. From W. Thom-
son, Esq., Penge, came the Multiple Flower- vases, permitting of
a number of variations of arrangement, but which could not be
well understood ■without the aid of illustrative engravings.
They are, nevertheless, very simple and effective, and if, as they
no doubt are, inexpensive, we anticipate they will be extensively
adopted by those who do not care to go to the expense of more
elaborate contrivances.

Mr. WiUiams exhibited a number of new plants, including
Cattleya Mendelii, Drac.'cna Fraseri and splendens, Maranta
Mackoyana, andColax jugosus ; and Mr. Thomas Cotterall, Rho-
dodendron Princess Louise ■with pure white flowers, for which
he had a first-class certificate. Messrs. Dick Radclyffe & Co.
sent rustic stands and Fern cases, and Mr. Voice, Horley,
Surrey, samples of his ground vineries and pits, which appear
to be very useful structures.

Excellence rather than quantity was the characteristic of
the florists' flowers exhibited on Saturday. The season was
not propitious, and the fact that owing to the MetropoUtau
Floral Society's arraugements being so uucertain that they were
unable to offer prizes as last year for Tulips and Pansies, led to
fewer of these flowers being exhibited than on late occasions.
The Roses exhibited by Mr. Charles Turner have never been
surpassed, and rarely, if ever, equalled. I have, perhaps, seen
larger plants, but they were more leggy; these were thoroughly
symmetrical, the foUage ample, and the flowers would, many of
them, not have been out of place in a stand of cut blooms. A
splendid plant of Celine Forestier, and another of Souvenir da
la Malmaison, were, perhaps, the cream of the first ten ; while
his Duke of Edinburgh, Marquise de Castellane, and Charles
Lawson were amongst the best of his twenty. In the class for
twelve in smaller pots, Edouard Morron, Marie Baumann,
Madame Victor Verdier, and Marechal VaiUant were excessively
beautiful ; indeed, it almost seems in^vidious, where all were so
beautiful, to select any as more so than others. Mr. Turner ex-
hibited also a plant of the new Rose, Madame Lacharme, in
much better condition than it has been previously shown ; un-
Uke most Roses of the class, which die blush, this opens with a
considerable suffusion of blush, and then changes to white.
Mr. Turner himself looks upon it favourably, and believes that
it will prove to be a Perpetual ; as sho^wn to-day it was very
much like Souvenir de la Malmaison. He also exhibited some
seedling Azaleas, among ■which one .-Apollo seemed to be a desir-
able semi-double white ■with pink stripe, and received a first-
class certificate, as it had previously done at Kensington.

May 22, 1873. 1

JOUIINAL OF HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

409

In nothiufc has so groat a change taken place as in the exhi-
bition of PelargoniumB. When we recollect the grand collec-
tiious which used to be staged by both amateura and mirsery-
men, it is a great descent to see only one reaUy good collection,
that of Mr. Ward, gardener to F. G. Wilkins, Esq., Leytou,
Esses. Pansies were exhibited by Messrs. Downie, Laird, and
Laing, and by Mr. James ; there were also some seedling Pelar-
goniuma both in the Tricolor and Zonal class, but none of them
seemed particularly well worthy of notice. — D., Deal.

BOYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

Mav 21st.
It is much to be regretted that the unfavourable character of
the day must have prevented many from attending this meet-
ing. The general display was remarkably good ; many of the
collections were worthy of the highest praise, and there was
none that could have been condemned. We have from time to
time had to note non-meritorious exhibits, but these seem to
have now entirely disappeared. Heaths were excellent. Pelar-
goniums not so good by a long way as we have seen them, iine-
foliaged plants well represented ; but what alone made the Ex-
hibition a notable one was the collection exhibited by Mr. T.
Baines, gardener to H. MichoUs, Esq., Southgate, for the Davis
Memorial Prizes. For these twenty flowering stove or green-
house plants in (j-iuch pots, selected at any nursery, and after-
wards securely labelled and sealed, are grown for two years by
the competitor, and he has to exhibit eight of them at the second
May meeting. On this occasion Mr. Baines, well known as he
is for his astonishing achievements iu the culture of this class
of plants, fairly took everyone by surprise ; his specimens were
positively marvellous, clothed with foUage and flowera from
bottom to top. His Ixora was a prodigy. Than his Dipladenia
"with over sixty flowers we have never seen a better, and all the
rest were equally well grown. More in praise we cannot say,
and therefore subjoin the dimensions of the plants : — Aphelexis
macrantha rosea, 3 feet 6 inches through ; 2 feet high. Epacris
Eclipse, 4 feet 3 inches through ; 3 feet 3 inches high. Boronia
pinnata, i feet 6 inches through ; 3 feet 3 inches high. Ixora
cocoinea, 4 feet 10 inches through ; 3 feet 0 inches high. Heda-
roma tuUpiferum, 3 feet 3 inches through ; 2 feet 1(1 inches high.
Dipladenia amabilis, 3 feet 6 inches thiough ; 3 feet high. Bou-
gainviUea glabra, 3 feet 6 inches througli ; 3 feet G inches high.
Clerodendron Balfourianum, 5 feet through ; 4 inches high.

Class 1 was for nine Heaths. Here Messrs. Jackson tV; Son,
Kingston-on-Thames, were first with dense bushy plants, aver-
aging 4 feet in diameter, and in beautiful bloom. Conspicuous
among them were Erica favoides elegans, ventricosa magnifica,
very bright in colour, tricolor Wilsoni, and ventricosa coccluea
minor. The others were depresaa, depressa mnltiflora, tricolor
superba, tricolor speciosa, and Victoria. Mr. Ward, gardener to
F. G. Wilkius, Esq., took the second prize with magnificent
plants of tricolor elegans, Candolleana, and Wilsoui, together
with excellent specimens of caudidissima, eximia superba, tri-
color impressa, &c. The third place was taken by Mr. J.
Wheeler, gardener to J. Phillpott, Esq., Stamford Hill, with
small specimens. In the next class, for six, Mr. J. Ward had
the first place for a very good group, Mr. J. Wheeler being se-
cond, and Mr. Gr. Wheeler third. For twelve the prizes went to
Mr. Ward, Messrs. Jackson & Son, and Mr. G. Wheeler ; those
from the lirst two were remarkably neat well-grown plants about
2.J feet through.

There were three exhibitors of nine Show Pelargoniums in
S-inch pots. Mr. Ward, who was first, had large finely-bloomed
epecimens of Alabama, Conqueror, Mdille. Patti, and Patroness,
about 4 feet in diameter, together with others of less size ; Mr.
James was second, Messrs. Dobson third. In six Mr. Ward
was also first with Hob Roy, fine, and very good examples of
ether varieties. Mr. James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq.,
came second with an evenly-grown lot of small plants; and Mr.
Weir, gardener to Mrs. Hodgson, The Elms, Hampstead, was
the third prizeman.

Only two lots of Fancies were shown by amateurs, Mr. .James
being first, and Mr. Weir second ; and in the nurserymen's class
Messrs. Dobson, Isleworth, were second.

For nine fine-foliaged plants the first position was taken by
Mr. Baines, gardener to H. MichoUs, Esq., Southgate, with two
fine Crotons — variegatum and pictum, a noble specimen of
TheophrastaimperaUs, Cordyline indivisa, two fine Sarracenias,
Daayurion acrotrichum. Yucca aloifolia variegata, and Rhopala
corcovadensis, very fine. Mr. Foreman, gardener to E. C.
Nicholson, Esq., Heme Hill, was second, and Mr. Cole third;
Mr. G. Wheeler and Mr. R. Watson likewise sent groups. In
the nurserymen's class Mr. Williams, of HoUoway, stood first
with noble specimens of Chama'rops humilis, Croton pictum,
large and finely-coloured, Cycas revoluta, Gleichenia speluncEi?,
Phcenicopborium seychellarum, &c. The second position was
taken by Mr. Burley, Hereford Road Nursery, Bayswater, who
had also good specimens.
For six fine-foliaged plants Mr. Cole, gardener to J. S. Budgett,

Esq., Ealing Park, was first with a large plant of Seaforthia
elegans, Latania borbouica, and good specimens of Chama?rop8
humilis and Yucca aloifolia variegata. The second place was
taken by Mr. S. Strahan, gardener to P. Crowley, Esq., Waddon
House, Croydon, with excellent specimens of Diefl'cnbachia
Bowmanui and Pandauus utilis. The third prize went to Mr.
Watson, gardener to T. H. Bryant, Esq., Surbiton Hill, who had,
among others, a large specimen of Cibotium princeps. For twenty
fine-foliaged plants the chief prizes went to Mr. Bull and Mr.
WiUiams ; Messrs. Bollisson, Mr. Aldous, Gloucester Road, Mr.
Burley, and Mr. G. Wheeler also contributing collections. Mr.
Bull's group comprised large plants of Zalacca Wagueri, Pty-
chosperma regia, Encephalartos vUloaus ampUatus, together
with handsome specimens of other Cycads ; and among Mr.
Williams's were the handsome Croton undulatum, Draciena
Clielsoui, and the gi-aceful Cocoa Wallisti.

Of Rhododendrons there were only two collections of nine
coming from Mr. Bowe, The Rookery, Roehampton, and Mr. G.
Wheeler, who respectively took first and third prizes.

The prizes for twelve hardy perennials in 12-inch pots only
brought forward two collections ; Mr. Parker, Exotic Nursery,
Tooting, and Mr. Ware being respectively first and second.
Alyssum orientale, rich yellow, Aubrietia purpurea grandiflora,
and the white-flowered Iberis corifolia were conspicuous objects
in Mr. Parker's group ; while iu Mr. Ware'a there were beautiful
masses of Phlox Nelaoni and frondosa.

Of cut specimens of hardy flowering trees and shrubs Mr.
Earley, Valentines, Ilford, staged a very good collection. Mr.
George, gardener to Miss Nicholson, Putney Heath, was second.

Among miscellaneous subjects Messrs. Veitch seut a collec-
tion of Japanese Maples. These were extremely beautiful, both
in the colours and curiously-cut foUage. Acer atro-purpureum,
dissectum, and piilmatum roseum marginatum were very
striking. From the same firm came also a group of .\zaleas,
including many fine varieties. M. Thibaut, Grandis, and
Chai-mer were very fine. For Madame Paul Deschryver, semi-
double, almost double, intense bright rose, a first class certi-
ficate was awarded. Messrs. Lane, Great Berkhampstead,
sent a large collection of Azaleas and greenhouse Rhododen-
drons. Messrs. E. G. Henderson, St. John's Wood, contributed
a number of seedling Petunias of an excellent strain, for which
they had a commendation ; also Bronze Pelargoniums Admiral
Inglefield and Northern Star, vrith broad chocolate bands, each
of which was awarded a first-class certificate. Messrs. Osborn,
of Fulham, sent a small miscellaneous group ; Messrs. Dobson,
herbaceous Calceolarias ; Mr. W. Paul, cut flowers of Rhododen-
drons, Zonal Pelargoniums, and Roses ; Mr. Ware, P'ancy and
other Pansies ; Mr. Ware, Miss P. Barr, and Mr. E. Barr, Toot-
ing, collections of cut flowers of Narcissi, in competition for the
prizes offered by Mrs. Lloyd Wynne and Messrs. Barr & Sngden.
From J. Luscombe, Esq., Combe Royal, Kingsbridge, Devon,
came cut flowers of Rhododendrons grown in the open air, and
flowers of Embothriums from trees 18 feet high. A cultural
commendation was awarded for each. Messrs. Mart & Co.,
130, Oxford Street, exhibited Bananas, Chinese Loquats, fruit
of Passiflora quadrangularis, and Sugar canes imported from
Madeira. Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord Londesborough, Nor-
biton, contributed a choice collection of Orchids, including fiue
examples of Masdevallia Harryaua, rare Cattleyas, Oncidium
altissimum with seven fine spikes, and Odontoglossum citros-
mum roseum, very fine. Mr. Richards, gardener to Baron
Rothschild, Gunnersbury Park, sent a group of Odontoglossum
crispum, and Mr. Woodford, gardener to the Duke of Abercorn,
Eastwell Park, Kent, a fine specimen of Cycas revoluta, 8 feet
in diameter, with a female flower. This received a cultural
commendation. Several extra prizes were awarded, which will
be found recorded in another page.

Fruit Committee. — Alfred Smee, Esq., P.R.S., in the chair.
Messrs. Watts it Son, of Northampton, again seut the North-
ampton Broccoli. Mr. R. Dean, Ealing, aent heads of the old
Knight's Protecting Broccoli, cut from a market garden in the
neighbourhood of Hounslow, to show that even at this late
season this esteemed variety is as fine as any of the new varieties
recently exhibited. This was a very true form of the Knight's
Protecting, and the head was completely enclosed in the spirally-
twisted leaves. Mr. T. Bray, the Gardens, Nynehead Court,
Somerset, sent a bundle of very excellent Asparagus, to which
a cultural commendation was awarded. Mr. A. Henderson, the
Gardens, Thoresby Park, Notts, sent three Royal Ascot and
three Favourite Melons. They were much admired as excellent
specimens of cultivation, and a cultural commendation was
awarded to them. Mr. WilUam Marcham Weutworth, Staines,
sent a basket of Black Hamburgh Grapes, and also a dish of the
same from pot Vines, and these wore so good as to receive a
cultural commendation. A gentleman at Colchester seut fruit
of an Apple called D'Arcy Spice, a variety of great excellence
and high flavour, which may prove to be the Golden Russet.

Flor-u. Committee. — W. B. Kellock, Esq., in the chair. The
subjects submitted to the Committee on this occasion were by no

410

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ May 22, 1873.

means mitnerous, and to some of tbem we have already referred.
Messrs. Veitch exhibited a grand specimen of OdoutO{,'lossum
vexillarinm, which we figured last week. This, however, bad
ten flowers, and it received a cultural commendation. The
same firm had also first-class certificates for Gloxinia Mrs.
Haines and Prince Leopold, the former splendid glowing ma-
genta, scarlet in the throat, shading off to scarlet and rose ; the
latter carmine, suffused with magenta. Anthui'ium erystal-
linum with broad white-veined leaves also came from Messrs.
Veitch, and will doubtless be heard of hereafter. Mr. J. MiU,
gardener to Lord Eendlesham, Rendlesham Hall, Suffolli, sent
fine specimens of Masdevallia Harryana, and had a cultiu'al
commendation, as did Mr. Denning for a remarliably fine spe-
cimen of Utricularia montanain his collection, and Mr. Strahan,
gardener to P. Crowley, Esq., Croydon, for Anthurium Scher-
zerianum. Mr. May, gardener to J. S. Bockett, Esq., sent a
very well-gi"own collection of Orchids, in which were Cypri-
pedium niveum with fourteen flowers, and Oncidium coucolor,
which latter was certificated.

Mr. C. Noble, Bagshot, exhibited a number of new Clematises,
all excellent, and of which the following were distinguished by
first-class certificates — viz., Charles Noble, blue ; Undine, double
lilac, of the John Gould Veitch type ; Mrs. Cholmondeley, bluish
lilac ; Elaine, double lilac blue ; and May Queen, Ulac edges
with light bands. Messrs. Lane had a first-class certificate for
Eose Madame George Schwartz, large and fine rose. A similar
award was made to Mr. G. Smith, Edmonton, for scarlet Gera-
nium Scarlet Gem, a large very well-shaped flower.

Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, sent several boxes of cut
Boses, also theu- variegated Otaheite Orange ; Mr. W. Paul, Tri-
color Pelargoniums ; Mr. Ware, a collection of hardy plants; and
Mr. Dean, Ealing, Mauve Beauty Stock, an excellent pyramidal
variety. After the Committee had risen, Napoleona imperialis
in flower was sent in by Mr. Bull.

Rapid progress is being made with the preparations in the
Victoria Park for the Koyal Horticultural Society's Show in
June next. The model garden, which has been skilfully laid
out by Mr. Eyles, is nearly completed, and a large portion of the
space for horticultural buildings and implements has been
already applied for. The Committee, who find their office no
sinecure, are working zealously upon the many details which an
extensive undertaking of this character involves. They have
made arrangements with Mr. W. Edgcumbs Rendle for the
supptly of his patented glass pavilions for the Exhibition; as
the pavilions are waterproof, and are elegant in appearance,
they will do excellently well for the reception of pictures, art
treuKures, musical instruments, stationery, jewellery, sewing
machines, fancy goods, &c. A limited space will be available
for exhibitors. Arrangements can be made for erecting paviUons
of any design for special pm-poses. Lord Chelsea, M.P., who
has become one of the patrons of the Exhibition, has promised
to aid in securing the presence of His Royal Highness the Prince
of Wales, at the opening ceremony. — (J3a(/( iJ.rjjrcss and County
Herald.)

MRS. PINCE GEAPE v, LADT DOWNE'S GEAPE.
I WAS glad in last week's number (page 393), to see Mr.
Pearson's opinion of Mrs. Pince's Muscat was so good. It quite
coincides with my own. In fact, so much do I think of it and
so little of Lady Downe's after a trial of them, both growing
side by sido in the same bouse and fruiting for three years — I
say so much do I prefer it to Lady Downe's, that I have pulled
up all the latter and made the liouse entirely Mrs. Pince. I
may also state that my friends who have tasted both at my
house, are of the same opinion as myself. With me Mrs. Pince
sets well, the bunches and berries are large, and the flavour
delicious. WhUst writing on Grapes I may mention another
new Grr.pe, the Muscat Champion, whose only fault, if fault
it be, is that it is not black but a dark red ; I consider it the
finest-flavoured Grape that I have. I submitted a bunch of
it a short time since to the Editors of our Journal, who pro-
nounced it to be " good, very good." I know it has a bad
name, but soil makes a difference in fruit as well as flowers,
and it may be that my soil is suited for it, as also Mrs. Pince.
Tho Champion is with me early, the berries very largo, with
thin skin and much pulp, with few stones, sometimes only one.
My advice is, Try it. — Hakeison Weik, WeMeigh, Kent.

SEVERE FROST.
One of those disastrous May frosts, to which vegetation in
this country is subject, occurred on the morning of Tuesday
last, the 20th. At Ohiswick the thermometer registered 22°, or
10° of frost. The result there is that the Strawberry blossoms
are entirely destroj'ed, the pistils being perfectly black. The
Apple blossom is also very seriously injured, though not en-

tirely destroyed, and Potatoes are black to the surface of the
ground. It is curious to observe in some of the rows of Pota-
toes one or two plants quite green and untouched, while all
the others have suffered, and in some cases the shoots from
the same set have some destroyed and some quite safe. At
Ealing the temperature was 2i°, and there Roses and Planes
have been severely hurt, and the young buds of Peaches and
Nectarines in the nurseries are quite destroyed. At the Ches-
hunt nurseries Mr. George Paul informs us the Roses have
suii'ered severely ; the same is the case with Mr. Keynes at
Salisbury ; and both Mr. Standish, of Ascot, and Mr. Noble, of
Sunniugdale, inform us that the Rhododendrons have suffered
very severely. No doubt we shall hear of serious damage
having been sustained in many other parts.

ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S MEETINGS.

The .\pril meeting of the Society was held on the 7th of April,,
at Burlington House, H. T. Stainton, Esq., occupying the i hair
in the absence of the President, owing to his recent se vere in-
disposition.

Mr. Champion pointed out the distinctions between Tribolium
testaceum and confusum, and between Ptinus testaceus and fur^
small domestic Beetles, which had been confused in collections^

Mr. Verrale exhibited specimens of several new British species
of two-winged Flies belonging to the families Asilidje and Syr-
phidffi, not hitherto recognised as natives of this country, in-
cluding Laphria flava, imn. ; Syrphua annulatus, .^e<i. ; S. ni-
gricornu, &c.

Mr. McLachlan stated that he had been informed by Lord
Walsingham, that he had observed that Dragon Flies in Cali-
fornia and Texas were occasionally preyed upon by other large
predaceous insects (evidently some species of AsUus), which,
seized them whilst flying through the air. Hitherto it had been
supposed that the Dragon Fhes were free from the attacks of
other insects.

Mr. F. Smith made some remarks upon a field Bug, of the
genus Peutaloma, sent from Calcutta by Mr. Eothney, found in
great numbers on the bark of trees, with which it is so entirely
assimilated in its colours as to be scarcely visible. Mr. F. Bates.
suggested that this mimicry had for its object the safety of the
insects from the attacks of lizards.

A memoir was read by Major F. J. Parry upon seven new
exotic species of Lucanidie, including notes on the synonymy
of the species of Lissotes, Figulus, and Nigidias. Mr. F. Bates
also communicated descriptions of new genera and species of
Tenebrionidie from AustraUa, New Caledonia, and Norfolk Island.

Mr. Albert Miiller read some notes on the habits of Gall Flies
(Cynipidte), contained in a letter from Mr. H. F. Bassett, of
Waflferburg, U.S.

The May meeting of this Society was held on the .'jth inst.,
H. T. Stainton, Esq., Vice-President, in the chair, in the absence
of the President from continued illness.

Mr. Higgins exhibited a fine specimen of Langia zeuzeroTdes
(one of the Sphingidae), bred by Major Buckley, from the Hima-
layas. He also exhibited a female specimen, the first that he
had ever seen, of Goliathus albosignata.

Mr. McLachlan exhibited a coloured plate of Butterflies from
Turkistau. This he had been requested to show to English
entomologists as a sample of the manner in which the forth-
coming work on the natural" history of Turkistan {to be published
at the expense of the Government of Turldstan), is intended to
be illustrated. The extensive entomological collections from that
Government had been chiefly made by M. Alexis Tedtscheuko,
in various expeditions during the years 1SG9-71, and were being
gradually worked-out by various entomologists, each order being
submitted to some one who had made it an object of special
study. The work is to be published in the Russian language,
with Latin diagnostic descriptions of the new species.

Mr. Bates pointed in the plate to a figure of Cocandica, a
variety of Cohas Nastes, an insect belonging to Lapland, and
noticed as an interesting fact that many species of insects belong-
ing to Ai'ctic regions were found also in mountainous districts
much farther south, though not in the intervening jjlaius. He
mentioned also Colias Pal^eno, which was found near the snow-
line in tho Alps, and in Lapland.

Mr. Albert Miiller said that he felt much interested in the
remarks offered by Mr. Bates, as they confirmed his own con-
clusions concerning the very close connection, or perhaps even
identity, between the Arctic and the Alpine insect-faunas. He
refen'ed to one remarkable instance — namely, to the genus Par-
nassius, and in particular to P. AiJoUo, which occurred in most
I)arts of northern Europe and Asia; but which in Central
Europe — i.e., in Switzerland, was confined to the Alps and the
opposite Jurassian range, carefully avoiding the intervening
alluvial pluin*^. which in the glacial period had been covered by
the glacieis of the R.houe, the Reuss, the Rhine, and minor tii-
butaries. He adCed, that if the actual stations of the species

May 22, 1S73. ]

JOURNAL OP HOKTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

411

were mapped, they would all be found to exist outside, I)ut
along the moraines left by the ancient glaciers; and that the
same was the case with Delius and Mnemosyne.

Mr. Albert Miiller was desirous of making some inquiry con-
cerning the literary remains of an entomologist. It was men-
tioned by Markns Lutz, of Basle, in his " Moderne Biographieu,"
Lichtenstieg, 182(), pp. 39—10, that Johaun Samuel Clemens, a
native of Chambery, in Savoy, was a clergyman in the Val
d'lllies (Lower Valois), and that he was a learned naturalist. He
is said to have formed a library of eight thousand volumes, an
herbarium, a collection of minerals and insects of the country,
and is reported to have committed to paper many good ob-
servations concerning the natural history of the Valois, none of
which seem to have been pviblished. He is said to have died in
1812. Mr. Miiller said that he would be thankful to auy Italian,
French, or Swiss entomologist who might be able to give in-
formation concerning the manuscripts of this divine, either by
letter to himself or through any entomological publication.

Mr. Stainton exhibited a " pseudo-cocoon " which had been
sent to him by Mr. A. H. Swinton, stating that he had foxind it
in a crevice of a brick wall in the mortar. It was of such a hard
texture that it could not possibly be penetrated by a pin. Mr.
McLachlan thought that the cocoon was that of Cerura vinula,
slightly altered in texture, because the larva had to fasten it to
a wall instead of a tree trunk.

Dr. Sharp communicated a paper on " The Staphylinida; of
Japan," principally from the collections of Mr. George Lewis.

A paper was read entitled " Notes on the EphemeridrB, by
Dr. H. A. Hagen, compiled by the Eev. A. E. Eaton, M.A."

THE DOUBLE EOSE-LEAVED BEAMBLE.
Permit me again to trespass upon your space, and to inquire
after another old plant figured in the " Botanical Magazine."
It is Rubas rosiefolius /3 coronarius, a very handsome doubla-
floweriug white Bramble, with flowers as large as a Rose. It
is said to have come from Prince of Wales's Island in the
East ladies. Can any of your correspondents inform me if
this fine shrub is still in existence in the country ? — E. A.

Sales of Plants. — Mr. Stevens sold on the 8th inst. 350 lots
of Orchids. The gross sum bid for them was more than £500.
Masdevallia Liudeui sold for £10 10s. ; M. trochilus for £11 ;
and Odontoglossum vexillarium var. coccineum for £7. At
other sales on the 9th and 12th Oncidium splendidum sold for
£7 15..'. ; a Camellia alba pleno, 8 feet high, fetched £7 Ws. ;
■Cycas revoluta for £11 lis.; and aDraeajnalineata £7 10s.

THE BEAUTIFUL AND USEFUL INSECTS OF

OUE GAEDENS.— No. 4.

A EEVEEEND author, who has written much upon entomology
and other sections of zoology, has in one of his works re-
ferred to some butterflies that he considered were friends to
the gardener, though most of them, he added, were neither
friends nor foes, but neutrals. I must acknowledge that at
first I faUed to see how any butterflies could be deemed, in a
practical sense, friends to the garden, though they do, In their
winged condition, impart pleasure by their lively motions and
gay colours. Possibly, I thought, this entomologist has formed
the opinion that the species so prolific in most seasons upon
Cabbages, Cauliflowers, and kindred plants, do good by eating
up leaves that are decayed or superfluous, and thus reduce the
labours of the horticulturist ; or these larv.ij might be useful
by imposing a limit upon the cultivation of Brassicaceous
plants, to which, otherwise, too large a space might be appro-
priated by some to the exclusion of plants as desirable. The
fact was, however, that the praise awarded to certain species
of butterflies was for a reason few would conjecture — namely,
because their larvie helped to destroy garden weeds. The ex-
ample given of the Nettle-consuming lame of some of the
Yanessie, as, for instance, V. lo and Urticas, seems particularly
unfortunate, for it is rarely these larvie are found except in
clusters, feeding upon Nettles growing in patches ui)on
sheltered banks. The female butterflies do not resort to gar-
dens for the purpose of depositing eggs on any scattered
plants which may be growing there, but simply to sip honey.
No gardener who is properly attentive to his ground would ever
allow Nettles, of all weeds which intrude, ever to become so
numerous as to require the agency of larviC to impair their
vitality. But I have noticed that even where the spiny larvre
of the gaudy Vanessa have occurred in colonies upon Nettles,
the plants seem scarcely auy the worse for it, and soon throw
out new leaves which replace those that have been devoured.

Any way, the gardener's benefits from butterflies in this direo.
tion are almost microscopical. Nor do I think that a better,
case can be made out with regard to some of the grass-eating
larva;, as, for instance, that of the Speckled Wood (Pyrarga
^geria), for though the author already referred to cites the
Couch-grass (Triticum repens) as the food plant of the species,
the larvae feed upon various species of grass, as also do those
of the Grayling (Satyrus Semele), which have been sometimes
found upon the pest of many gardens. But neither of these
species occurs in sufficient abundance, nor in the localities, to
keep down the extension of the Couch-grass.

It is rather singular, however, that in a book dealing with
the friends and foes of the horticulturist no mention is made
of Dragon-flies, and yet these are among the most predatious
of insects, and in certain gardens by no means unfrequent
visitors. Individuals of the larger species are to be seen on
the wing a long distance from the pool or stream where they
were bred, and the number of insects one specimen will destroy
in the course of a day is considerable. Many years ago an
observer noted the eagerness with which a large Dragon-fly
seized upon a Cabbage butterfly, and, having torn off the
wings, proceeded to devour the body of its captive. Even the
smaller and shghter species are as destructive in their way,
though they seldom fly far from a brook or pond, and seize
upon the Caddis-flies (Phryganeaj) and other species which
have been aquatic in their preparatory states, or are attracted
to the water by some cause. Hence a friend of ours argues
that it is an advantage to liave an artificial pond or streamlet
in or near a garden, because a moiety of tie insects bred in
gardens are sure to fly towards the water, and bo drowned or
devoured there ; and he might have added that some pleasure
is derived from the sight of the elegant motions of the Dragon-
flies and May-flies that are likely to be produced under such
circumstances. Years ago Dragon-flies were much more com-
mon about our market gardens near London than they have
been of late, but an impetus to their increase will probably be
given by the rains of last winter, which have replenished
many ponds and ditches long dry. No one would now think
of going out insect-hunting in the district of South Belgravia,
yet I remember that about thirty years since, much of the
land now covered by streets and squares was garden ground,
Dragon-flies careered there on the wing, and other aquatic
species were developed in tlip little creeks which intersected
the land and flowed into the Thames.

We have often heard the question put, half in jest, half in
earnest, " Why are these insects called Dragon-flies ?" As-
suredly they are in no way connected with the " George and
the Dragon " of mythic English history, though as the general
foes of other insects, these flies might be regarded as akin in
disposition to the fabled dragons. We have said they aro the
enemies ot other species, but more than that, they attack and
eat their own relatives, and various examples of this cannibal
propensity have been given. As to the name, however, it is
exceedingly probable, we think, that they were first of all
called Dragoon-flies by some one who compared them in their
rapid and predatious excursions to the " bold dragoons " of
former days, beside whom their modern representatives,
though duly booted and spurred, appear very pacific indivi-
duals indeed. Dragoon-flies might easily be corrupted into
dragon-flies. " Horse-stingers " is a name commonly appUed
to the larger Dragon-flies throughout the country, and they
aro spoken of as objects of dislike, rather unreasonalily. Sting
they certainly do not, though armed with jaws most effective
for the purpose of biting or of dividiug their pre}-. I have
watched their evolutions repeatedly, but have never observed
that they are in the least disposed to attack man or any of the
larger animals. They are exceedingly fearless, and I have
seen such species as C. annulatus and C. ajnea pass close to
individuals which happened to come in their way as they were
swooping after insects, and they will even strike against a by-
passer, but certainly will not attack him unless he takes the
ofl'ensive. But if you knock down oue of them with a hand-
kerchief, you will find on takmg it up that it does not fail to
attempt to seize its enemy, even if he bo of human form. No
object could be conceived of why these flies should attack
horses, cattle, or other quadrupeds in meadows, though they
m.ay touch them by accident. Eennie was, I believe, the first
to point out that Dragon-flies, like the fly-catchers and certain
other birds, have their particular stations, to which they
generally return after one of their hawking flights, carrying
back the capture, that they may eat it at their ease. The
enormous eyes with which these insects are furnished by

412

JODBNAL OF HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE QARDENEB.

[ May 22, 187&

Kature give them every facOity for seeing, just as does their
celerity of wing for securing their prey.

Our most notable British species of this group of the Neu-
roptera, such as the Large-winged Dragon-fly (C. annulatus)
and the Many-spotted (^Eshna maculatissima),are mostly seen
flying solitarily, or, at least, not more than two or three are
observable about the same locality. These are from their size
splendid objects in the sunshine, but when killed and preserved
for their cabinet much of their beauty disappears, even with

Larva of Dragon-fly, and imago emerging.

the most careful stufling. These have long bodies ; the Libel-
lulas* proper, which are more common, have shorter bodies,
and they are less rapid in their motions. The abundant species
known as L. depressa has a broad abdomen, bluish in the
male, yellow iu the female insect, the latter being rather less
in size than her partner, but quite as ferociously inclined.
Another pretty species not uncommon in many districts is
L. quadrimaculata, distinguished by its four-spotted wings,
and which sometimes quits the vicinity of streams to fly
among the fields and gardens. To some of the species of
Dragon-fly the name " demoiselle " has been given by the
French in admiration of their graceful movements, and Latin
names have been used similarly expressive, such as C. virgo,
A. sponsa, and puella. These "damsels" are by no means as
amiable as the poetic fancy would make them out to be, and
they are, many of them, rapacious in the larval stage. Li the
aquarium some of the smaller larvaa of the genus Agrion live
seemingly without preying on other insects, feeding either
npon the leaves of aquatic plants, or upon Living creatures too
small to be discernible.

Though the life of Dragon-flies in their imago or mature
condition only lasts a few weeks, or a mouth or two at the
most, the larval state must bo more than a year in duration
in some species, and the pupal some months, when the insect
is as capable of moving about as before, though eating little,
or, perhaps, not at all, and exhibiting the rudiments of the
wings which are shortly to transport it through the air. The
peculiarities of the " squat " larvic of the Libellulaj have been
often described in entomological and popular books. In some
species there exists a curious apparatus at the tail which
serves both for locomotion and respiration. Like fishes, they
oxidise themselves by means of the air contained in the water,
this being drawn into the abdomen and thence into the diges-
tive organs. The pumping apparatus can be opened or shut
at the pleasure of the insect, and it has a horny edging sur-
rounded with hairs. The jet of water driven out by the larva
propels it through the water by a succession of jerks, though
it can also creep in a cautious manner, and generally does this
when iu pursuit of its prey, which would be startled, and
possibly escape, if it were approached more rapidly. The dis-
tance to which a Dragon-fly larva can throw a jet of water has
been ascertained by curious individuals, and in this way : —

* "U'e are indebted to Messrs. Cassell for this and the other illustrations to
this paper.

A coloured Uquid is passed down cautiously near the taU by a
tube whUe the larva is in clear water ; when it has drawn in
qtiant. sutT. the tube is withdrawn, and shortly after the stream
of fluid comes forth, and is perceivable in the colourless water.
Only sometimes the creature wo'n't pump just at the right
moment ! In addition to the singular mode of respiration, a
marked peculiarity of structure is found iu the head of the
larger Dragon-fly larva', which is provided with a mask com-
posed of plates, which can be widened or thrust out, and the
edges of which are provided with spines, or what might almost
be called tusks. As Kirby remarks, after supposing how a
human being would appear if he had such an apparatcs
attached to hia face, " you wUl admit that your visage would
present an appearance not very engaging while concealed by
such a mask." "But," he adds, " it would strike still more
awe into the spectators were they to see you first open the two
upper jaw-plates, which would project from each temple like
the blinders of a horse ; and next, having by means of the
joint at your chin let down the whole apparatus, and un-
covered your face, employ them in seizing any food that pre-
sented itself, and conveying it to your mouth. Yet this pro-
cedure is adopted by the larva of the Dragon-fly. While the
mask is at rest, it applies close to, and covers the face. When
the insects would make use of it they unfold it like an arm,
catch the prey, at which they aim by means of the mandible-
like plates, and then refold it so as to hold the prey in a con-
venient position for the operation of the two pairs of jaws."

These larv:e deUght to conceal themselves in the mud of
ponds, out of which they emerge upon their victims ; but, ia
spite of their rapacity, they are themselves seized upon and
devoured by such beetles as the Dytisci and Ilythii, as I have
observed in an aquarium. Even the stickleback, if pai-ticu-
larly hungry, will dart at them, and succeed in maiming them.

Nepacinerea (Water-scorpion.) Notonecta glauca (Water-boatman.)

The more elegant and less warhke larvos of the Agrions are
greedily devoured by other insects, especially the Water-
scorpions (Nepa-) and the Water-boatman (Notouecta glauca).
It is interesting in an aquarium to notice how insidiously an
individual of the former kind wiU steal along a stem of a
water plant, with expanded pincers, until he encloses in a fatal
embrace some unfortunate larva that was quite unaware oS
the approaching danger. — J. K. S. C.

THE CHEEKY.

Is the Foisted Cherry the parent of our cultivated varieties ?
Why was the variety May Duke so called? — An^ie.

[The Cherry was introduced to England by the Romans.
Fliuy says, " The Cherry did not exist in Italy before the
period of the victory gained over Mithridates by L. LucuUus,
in the year of the City (J80. He was the first to introduce this
tree from Fontus, and now in the course of one himdred and
twenty years, it has travelled beyond the ocean, and arrived in
Britannia even."

The Foisted Cherry, so called because grown in large quanti-
ties iu a parish of that name in Suffolk, bordering on Essex,
is the wild variety usually known as the Merry. Dr. Hogg iu
his "Vegetable Kingdom " observes that " The Cherries culti-
vated iu gardens and orchards have originated from two dis-
tinct species. Those which are called ' Hearts ' and ' Bigar-
reaus' are varieties of Cerasus avium, known by the names of
Merry, Mazzard, Corone, and Geau ; and the Dukes, Morellos,

May 22, 1S73. J

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

•113

and Kentish are varieties of C. vulgaris. Both are found wild
in the woods of Britain."

If we refer to our older catalogues of Cherries we find three
varieties, the May, the Duke, and the Arch-Duke. The same
catalog'.?-: say that the first was so called because it ripened in
that month. If so, the ripening was not in this country, for
no Cherry that we know has ever ripened here so early unless
it was forced. We rather think that the name " May Duke "
and its contraction " Duke," and its exaggeration " Arch-Duke,"
are one and all derived from Medoc, a district in the Gironde,
from which it was introduced here, and its name, as usual, cor-
rupted by our old gardeners, just as they corrupted Corinths
into Currants, and Walnuts from Gaul-nuts, and many others.
—Eds.]

AURICULAS IN LANCASHIRE.

I H.VVE the pleasure of sending you the prize list of the National
Auricula Society's Show, held at Manchester in connection with
the Botanical Society's Show, April 29th.

In the opinion of all the growers present, the exhibition was
a thorough success. It was unusually well supported by the
public, and the many questions put to us by visitors to whom
the fair flower had been known by little more than its pretty
name, showed that a deeply interesting surprise had been
afforded them. There were more plants in bloom than might
have been expected at such a period in a very late ungentle
spring. Ournorthern March had little of " the lamb " about it,
.and .\pril came with a cold white face, never for long lit-up with
the sunny smiles and tears of April showers. However, the
Auricula blooms on the 29th were fine in condition, character,
and size, and it will be seen by the names of the winning varie-
ties that the good old favourites and the good new flowers were
brought forward.

The absence of the later bloomers, such as Lancashire Hero,
35arl Grosvenor, Richard Headly, &c., was owing to the hard
times the Auricula has had to contend against this year. I did
not see Lancashire Hero anywhere, except the one plant at the
head of its class. My friend, " D., Deal," speaks of having a
pure pale green-edged bloom of this variety. It is curious that
the very same thing has occurred upon one of my Heroes this
year, and further that I have had a similar sport to a very pale
green tint, upon a plant of Lovely Ann. This last has been
constant for two or three years, and there is a plant at Sheffield
of the same variety which has conducted itself with like
eccentricity. Smihng Beauty has been perfection with me on
several of the plants. I do not know a white edge (my favourite
class) to surpass it. I had two very correct trusses of Taylor's
Glory, on one of which six pips measured 1 J inch across ; but
though Glory's paste is of the softest and whitest, it is not bo
circular as in Smiling Beauty. George Lightbody and Charles
Brown are a pair of magnificent Greys, and are fully appreciated.
There are two green edges. Prince of Greens and George Light-
body, boih raised by Mr. Traill. There are not many plants of
•either in existence yet. The former was much noticed iit the
Show for its many good points, particularly the richness of the
•vivid dark green edge, the quality and proportions of the paste,
and the circularity and perfect flatness of the flower. Its weak
point is a pale eye. Traill's George Lightbody is a flower that
was highly esteemed by the eminent grower whose name it bears.
I bloomed the late Mr. Lightbody's own plant, but it was only a
small one, giving two pips of great promise ; the edge is a broad
pure rich green colour, nearly black, and in fine proportions.
Lightbody's 125 is a seedling of Maria, and in the way of Lady
Dumaresque, but without the irregularities in form which the
latter, one of the same parentage, can exhibit. A rich bright
grey edge of Campbell's, called Confidence, is worthy of its
name, and this veteran raiser has this season sent me a box of
pips of fresh seedlings, which are a goodly sight. A friend in
Sheffield also sends me some, and there are several seedUngs
ajnong them, quite of the George Lightbody class, which is
saying much. More I may say of them at another time. — F. D.
Horner, Kirkbi/ Malzeard, liipoii.

NATIONAL AURICULA SHOW. — PRIZE LIST.

Pans of six dissimilar varieties, one at least in each of the
classes. — 1st, Robert Lord, Esq., Todmorden, with Col. Taylor,
George Lightbody, Smiling Beauty, Pizarro, Charles Brown,
and True Briton. 2nd, Rev. F. D. Horner, Kirkby Malzeard,
Ripon, with Prince of Greens (Traill), George Lightbody, Smiling
Beauty, Garibaldi (Pohlman), Imperator. and Ne-Plus-Ultra
(Fletcher). 3rd, John Rowland, Esq., Prestwich, with Prince
of Greens, Privateer, Bright Venus, Lord Primate, Prince of
Wales, and Alma.

Pans of four dissimilar varieties, one of each class. — 1st,
Abraham Barker, Esq., Todmorden, with Col. Taylor, Privateer,
Bright Venus, and Mary Gray. 2nd, Dr. Foster, Todmorden,
with Imperator, Complete, Taylor's Glory, and Pizarro.

Green Bdige». — Premium, Robert Lord, Esq., Prince of Wales.
1st, Dr. Foster, Booth's Freedom. 2ud, R. Lord, Esq., Lady

Wilbraham. 3rd, R. Lord, Esq., Col. Taylor. 4th, R. Lord, Esq.,
Imperator. .Oth, Rev. F. D. Horner, Prince of Greens, tith, Rev.
V. D. Horner, Page's Champion. 7th, Clement Royds, Esq.,
Lady Blucher. 8th, Rev. P. D. Homer, TraUl's Rev. G. Jeans.

Grey Edgcu. — Premium, R. Lord, Esq., Lancashire Hero.
1st, Clement Royds, Esq., Conqueror of Europe. 2nd, R. Lord,
Esq., George Lightbody. 3rd, Rev. F. D. Horner, Robert Traill.
4th, Rev. F. D. Horner, Charles Brown. 5th, Rev. F. D.
Horner, May Morning, (ith. Rev. F. D. Homer, Apollo (Hud-
son's). 7th, Dr. Foster, Charles Brown. 8th, John Rowland,
Esq., Lovely Ann.

White Eiitjcs. —Vreminm, Rev. F. D. Horner, Smiling Beauty.
1st, Rev. F.D. Horner, Catharina. 2nd, R. Lord, Esq., Bright
Venus. 3rd, Rev. F. D. Horner, Taylor's Favourite. 4th, Rev.
F. D. Horner, Lightbody's 125. 5th, Rev. F. D. Horner, Taylor's
Glory. Cth, John Rowland, Esq., Lady Jane Grey. 7th, Rev.
F. D. Horner, Ashworth's Regular. 8th, Rev. F. D. Horner,
Ne-Plus-UItra (Smith).

Sc^/'s.— Premium, Rev. F. D. Horner, Mrs. Sturrock. 1st,
Rev. 'F. D. Horner, Spalding's Metropolitan. 2nd, Rev. F. D.
Homer, Meteor Flag. 3rd, Rev. F. D. Horner, Pizarro. 4th,
Abraham Barker, Esq., Lord Lome (Campbell). 5th, Abraham
Barker, Esq., Lord Lee. 6th, Rev. F. D. Horner, Lord Clyde.
7th, Robert Lord, Esq., Jupiter. 8th, Rev. F. D. Horner, Red-
man's Metropolitan.

Alexandra Palace. — The opening of the .Uexandra Palace
and Park is on Saturday next, the 24th inst. The natural
beauty of the Alexandra Park, heightened as it is by judicious
and tasteful planting, would alone sulhce to attract visitors,
and the extent of the grounds (which embrace '220 acres)
renders them a valuable addition to the existing lungs of
London. The Palace, which crowns the summit of Muswell
Hill, erected by Messrs. Kelk & Lucas from the designs of
Messrs. Meeson & Johnson, architects, is an exceedingly
elegant and substantial structure, its graceful dome being a
striking feature in the northern suburban landscape. On the
opening day there will be a grand international flower show,
at which £1200 will be given in prizes ; and at 3 p.m. a grand
vocal and instrumental concert will take place in the centre
transept, under the direction of Sir Michael Costa.

THYRSACANTHUS RUTIL.\NS.

Than this no plant has been more appropriately named —
its flowers are in thyrses, and its leaves are glossy. It is a
native of Central America, and introduced into this country in
1851. Coloured portraits of its flowers are in the " Botanical
Magazine," " Paxton's Flower Garden," and in Thompson's
" Gardener's Assistant ;" but the only detail of its cultivation
is in the Gardeners' Chronicle nearly twenty years ago.*

In the " Botanical Magazine," where the plant is figured
under the name of Thyrsacanthus Schomburgkianus, it is
stated that it was discovered by C. S. Parker, Esq., in British
Guiana, where Sir Robert Schomburgk afterwards detected it,
and that subsequently it had been found in New Grenada at
at elevation of 4000 feet above the sea level. As a stove plant
it is one of the most useful for winter-flowering. It is of vigor-
ous growth, and has broadly lanceolate, nearly sessile deep
green leaves. The flower-stems are from I to 2 feet long,
gracefully drooping, and bearing, in opposite pahs, numerous,
rich crimson, tubular flowers about 2 inches long, which are
produced in long succession.

As regards the cultivation of this plant " Alpha," in the
Gardeners' Chronicle, gave some years ago the foDowing in-
structions : —

" Cuttings planted in sandy peaty soil, covered with a bell-
glass, and placed in a sharp bottom heat, soon emit roots, and
if these are put in early in spring they will form nice plants for
flowering next winter. The cuttings should be potted singly as
soon as they are well rooted, and placed in a close, moist, warm
pit or house till well established ; and if they can be afforded a
gentle bottom heat, this will gi-eatly assist in promoting the
emission of roots and inducing fidl growth. The young plauts
must never be allowed to suffer for the want of pot room, as this
tends to make them even more leggy than they are naturally
inclined to be ; therefore, until the plants are in their flowering
pots, attend to shifting before the balls get over-matted with
roots.

" The best situation for the young plants during the gi-owing
season is a pit or house where they can be kept rather warm,
close, and moist ; and if they can be afforded a gentle bottom

' Our woodcut, with some correction, is copied from a North Araerican
periodical, in which our ilJastrations aie copied witliout acknowled^ieut.

41 i

JOURNAL OF HOETIGULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ May 22, 1873.

heat, this will be of gi-eat serrice in promoting vigorons rapid
p-owth. A slight shade ■n-ill be necessary on the forenoons of
bright hot days, and the plants shonld be sprinkled overhead
morning and evening in fine ■weather, affording them a liberal
bnt careful supply of water at the root, and giving weak manure
water occasionally to those that have well filled their pots with
roots. Beyond keeping the centre shoot secured to a stake, very
little good can be done in the way cf training or stopping, for
the plant never seems to grow freely or with any vigour, except
when one shoot is allowed to take a decided lead of the others.

Side shoots, however, are produced very freely when the plants
are gi-own rapidly in a brisk moist temperature and kept near
the glass, and these should be slightly tied out without bending
them down, so as to afford the fohage sufficient space. The-
habit of the plant, however, although it is what is deemed bad
by plant-growers, is exactly suited to the inflorescence, for the
long drooping spikes of bright-coloured flowers would not be
half so effective if produced on dwarf bushy plants. But if,,
from any cause, side shoots are not produced freely, the plant
should be bent down, leaving the eyes which are wished to start-

/^^&^

Thyrsacanthus rutilans.

into growth the highest, which wOl check the growth of the
leading shoot, and more effectually promote the growth of others
than stopping would do.

" Discontinne shading, and expose the plants freely to sun-
shine after August, admitting air more freely to induce short-
jointed wood. Attend, however, carefully to watering, and do
not let them sustain any check, as with "proper attention they
will grow very freely tiU late in autumn. If the plants are
wanted to flower early, they should be sparingly supplied with
water, and kept rather cool for a few weeks ; but they must not
be allowed to get too dry, as this would injure the foliage ; and,
except for plants that are wanted to flower early in winter, there
■will be no artificial treatment necessary to induce them to flower

profusely, which they wiU do from January till May. The time-
at which they will blossom ■will, however, depend upon the-
temperature, for unless this is rather warm they will not flower
so early. "When in bloom they must be kept in a temperature
of not less than 55° or 60', for the flowers do not open in the
temperature of an ordinary conservatory, nor do the spikes
attain any length in a cool place.

" In order to preserve the plants in beauty as long as possible,
avoid wetting the flowers in syringing, and keep the plants in
good health by attention to watering, etc. After their beauty is
over, remove them to where the temperature may be kept at
about 50', and allow them a month or six weeks to recrnit their
energies after blooming, cutting back the shoots as may be

May S2, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTIAjS GABDESER.

413

deemed proper. Before placing them in heat give a liberal shift
if necessary, and when the buds start keep the stronger shoots
tied out, bending down and stopping any that may incline to
ontgrow the others, and syringe, <i'c., as recommended for last
season, only that bottom heat may be dispensed with in the
case of plants that are some size. And as there will be no neces-
sity to keep them growing late in antomn, a plant or two for
early flowering may be removed to a rather cool place and
sparingly watered until the gro'n'th is checked, and then re-
turned to the stove, where they will soon flower.

" The Thyrsacanthus is a vigorous grower, and not very par-
ticular as to soil, except that it should be rich and light, and
eflScient drainage should be secured in potting. About equal
portions of turfy peat and loam, with plenty of sand, will suit
perfectly, and a little thoroughly decomposed cow dang would
do no harm."

NOTES AND GLEAXIKGS.

One of the principal features of the British Agricultural De-
partment at the Vienna Universal Exhibition' is the stand of
Messrs. Sutton & Sons, of Reading (EngUsh seedsmen to the
Emperor of Austria). Although the space originally promised
to Messrs. Sutton was so reduced as to prevent their erecting
the trophy (upwards of .50 feet in height, representing agricul-
ture, horticulture, and floriculture), which they had spent
some considerable time in preparing, yet the display made by
this well-known firm on the limited area allotted them is of the
most effective character. It is surmounted by most truthful
models of upwards of two hundred varieties of roots, vege-
tables, and Potatoes ; one hundred and fifty varieties of
Grasses for pastures, parks, and lawns, and several hundred
sorts of their home-grown seeds. The firm has been honoured
by a request from the Imperial Austrian Commission to supply
seeds for sowing the extensive grounds on which the Vienna
Exhibition stands. Nearly twenty-five acres have been sown
with seed supplied by this firm, and notwithstanding that a
portion of the grounds were sown late last autumn, and the
remainder this spring, they already present a beautiful ever-
green appearance, and are rapidly forming a close firm turf.
The Director-General of the Exhibition, Baron Schwarz Sen-
bom has on more than one occasion expressed his great satis-
faction at the excellence of the seed supplied. H.R.H. the
Prince of Wales, H.B.H. Prince Arthur, and the many other
notables present at the opening ceremony have repeatedly
visited Messrs. Suttons' stand, and have been greatly interested
in its numerous and varied attractions.

It has gladdened us to read the evidence of Mr. Pease,

one of the members for South Durham, given before the Com-
mittee of the House of Commons on the coal supply. He
stated that from his own observation he could say the rise of
wages had greatly improved the comfort and position of the
men. The condition of their houses was improved, and their
little gardens better looked after. In some of their homes
which he had recently visited be found books and other evi-
dences of the occupants applying their money to a good use.
One man kept him half an hour to look over his collection of
insects, and everywhere he saw signs of great improvement.
The deposits in one of their building societies, consisting of
268 members, amounted in 1872 to £3900. Most of the men,
too, belonged to co-operative stores, and were subscribers to
the Hartley Accident Fund. From 1866 to 1872 his firm had
buOt 525 houses for their men, and they had now 206 on
hand in order to make provision for a considerable increase in
production.

At Croydon during the night of the 19th inst. the ther-
mometer fell to 28°, and not only were the leaves of Potatoes
blackened, but the tips of the Asparagus shoots were injured.

M. P. Bekt, in the lidnique Horticole. has been going

over the experiments of General Pleasanton on the Effect of
Colours on Plan'ts, and after detailing the different degrees
of injury resulting from various coloured glasses, concludes by
saying : — " Lastly, all colours, taken alone, are detrimental to
plant life ; their union in the proportions constituting ordinary
or white light is requisite to healthy vegetation , and it there-
fore behoves horticulturists to renounce the idea of employing
coloured glasses or other coloored materials for glass houses
and garden frames."

Lj a paper read before the Linnean Society on the

Cinchonas, Mr. Howard brought forward some curious and
rather unaccountable facts. It appears that amongst planis
raised from seeds obtained from the same pod, some will pro-
duce trees the bark of which yields Qccjine of excellent quality

in large quantity, while with others the bark is absolutely
worthless for medicioal purposes. Propagation should there-
fore be chiefly carried on by taking cuttings from the quinine-
yielding trees. No satisfactory explanation of this fact has
yet been offered. — (English Mechanic.)

A COEEESPOXBEST of the American Country Gentleman

gives the following table, showing the amount of potash ra
THE ASHES OF Plasts. 1000 Ibs. of ashes, made by burning dif-
ferent kinds of wood contained of potash : Pine, i lb. ; Poplar,
i lb. ; Beech, IJ lb. ; Maple, 4 lbs. ; Wheat straw ^^4 lbs. : Com
stalks, 17 lbs. ; Oak leaves, 24 lbs. ; stems of Potatoes, 53 lbs. ;
Wormwood, 72 lbs. ; Sunflower stalks, 19 lbs. ; Oak 2J lbs.;
Beech bark, 6 lbs. The remaining portion of the ash, con-
sisting of carbonate and phosphate of lime, iron, manganese,
alumina, and silica, is an excellent fertiliser.

A CENTURY OP ORCHIDS FOR AMATEUR
GEO"WERS.-No. 9.

MASDEVAIXIA.

Masdevallia Habeyan-a. — The stem-like psendobulbs of this
kind are about 6 inches high. Leaves oblong, obtuse. It pro-
duces large and handsome blooms measuring some 3 inches or
more in diameter. The sepals are rich magenta, shaded with
yellowish green, especially towards the base. It comes from
New Grenada.

MasderalUa tovazcsfiis. — (Bot. Mag.)

M. CHni^RA. — In habit similar to the others. Leaves f ome-
what cuneate and oblong. The sepals are drawn out into
long tail-like points, rich yellow, and clothed with black hairs ;
the lip is pouched and deep golden yellow in colour. This is
an extremely beautiful and rare species, recently introduced to
our collections from South-west America.

M. I0VAEESSI3. — This species has been longer estabb'shed in

41G

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

I May 22, 1873.

our collections than tbe previously-named kinds, and deserves
the attention of all growers of these plants, because no more
elegant flower can be used for the decoration of a lady's hair
at a ball or party than its lovely snow-white blossoms, which
are produced during midwinter. Moreover, the scape is double-
Howered, and if the top is noi cut off more blooms will push
out, after the style of Oncidium Papilio. Native of Columbia.
— ExPERTo Crede.

COBYNOCARPUS LAEVIGATA.

(Preliminary Notes on the Isolation of the Bitter Subetanee of the Nut of
the Karaica Tree (0. laivicatal. By W. Skey, Analyst to the tleolo^'ical
Survey uf Xew Zealand. Head before the Wellingtuu Philosopliical Society,
1st .July, 1H71.)

A VERY interesting as well as a most important investigation
in any country, whether for toxioological or for scientific pur-
poses generally, is that which has for its object the identifi-
cation and examination of the particular principle to which is
due those poisonous or other marked efi'ects which may have
been observed on the administration of certain of its plants or
herbs, or parts of them, to the animal system.

But especially is this the case in the country we are now
settling, the character of its flora being in certain respects
pecuUar, and in many cases greatly divergent from that of any
other country we are yet acquainted with. Any addition,
therefore, from such a quarter to the number of active prin-
ciples recognised can hardly fail to be of value, as enabling us
to attain to a more comprehensive view of the whole subject
of vegetable medicinals or poisons, the manner of their associ-
ation with other principles or with particular orders or parts
of plants, and, lastly, the mode in which they operate in pro-
ducing their individual effects ; while there is, besides, the
chance that any principle so isolated and identified may be
more useful medicinally, and more readOy adoainistered when
separated from the plant.

Altogether the subject appears to be one eminently worthy
ot careful attention, and I have therefore from time to time
examined many of those plants which have come the more
prominently under notice by reason of their acknowledged
potency in respect of the characters stated.

The last subject of these investigations has been the kernel
of the fruit of the Karaka tree, which, as is pretty well known,
is extremely poisonous to man if taken in an unprepared state ;
and though I have not yet completed it, sufficient knowledge
has, I think, been arrived at to render a statement of the
results so far obtained interesting.

Not having personal acquaintance with the mode in which
the Karaka berry is prepared as food by the natives, nor of its
action as a poison, I am indebted to Mr. W. Colenso, F.L.S.,
for the following accurate information.

" 1. Preparation as food. — The kernels were prepared for
food thus : In the autumn a large party would go to the Karaka
woods on the seacoast, which were mostly rigidly preserved
(tabooed), to gather the fruit. This was generally done by
beating them down with a long pole (hence the term Ka hacre
Ixi te ta Karaka — the verb ta, to hit or strike sharp, short,
sudden blows with a stick ; the same verb is used in speaking
of the operation of tattooing) : after which they gather them
up into baskets. In or near the adjoining beach large pits
were dug for eirth-oveus, into which, when ready, the Karakas
were poured, and the earth banked-up in the usual way. These
ovens were left several hours before they were opened — gene-
rally till the next day, or even longer, when the Karakas were
taken out, put in baskets, laced up, and placed under water,
often at the mouth of some neighbouring stream or quasi-
lagoon, where also they remained some time (I believe a day or
two at least), for the double purpose of destroying all remains
of the poisonous quality, and for the loosening and getting rid
of the skin and flesh (sarcocarp) ot the fruit ; when they were
washed clean by knocking them about pretty roughly to rid
them of the outer skin, &c., taken out, spread in the sun on
mats and stage?, and carefully dried ; and when quite dry again
put up in new baskets for winter use, for feasts, for distin-
guished visitors, and for gifts to friendly chiefs and tribes
residing inland.

" As the same Karaka woods did not bear alike plentifully
every year, the years of barrenness were to the tribe seasons
of calamity and want, the Karaka being one of their staple
vegetable articles of food.

" 2. The symptoms attending cases of poisoning through
eating the raw kernel were violent spasms and convulsions of
the whole body, in which paroxysms the arms and legs were

stretched violently and rigidly out, accompanied by great flush-
ings of heat, protrusion of the eyes and tongue, and gnashing
of the jaws, but unattended by vomiting — very different in
appearance and result from the bite of the poisonous spider
katipo, of which I have also seen and attended several cases,
which are of a much more mild type and never fatal. I mention
this, as both were likely to be caused in the same locality (near
the uninhabited seashore), and season, and at first by a tyro
might be mistaken. Unless speedily attended to, the poison-
ing by Karaka proved fatal ; and even in those few cases in
which I have known natives to recover, very likely it was more
owing to the small quantity of the poison received into the
system than to the means used as internal remedies. As the
sufferers were invariably little children, they were more easily
dealt with ; and to prevent the limbs becoming distorted or
stretched and rigid, a pit was quickly dug, into which the child
was placed in a standing posture, with its arms and legs bound
in their natural position, and the mouth gagged with a bit of
wood to prevent the sufferer biting its own tongue ; and there
the child was left, buried up to its chin, until the crisis had
passed by. Sometimes it was also plunged repeatedly into the
sea before being pitted. Fortunately the cases of Karaka
poisoning were but few, owing, no doubt, to the hard texture
and disagreeable taste of the Karaka kernel in its raw state ;
very much fewer than those arising from the eating of the
sweet fruit of the Tutu (Coriaria), which latter, however, were
more easily managed by the natives.

" The writer well recollects having seen at Wangarei (Bream
Bay), in the years 1830 9, a fine healthy youth about twelve
years of age who had been recovered from poisoning by Karaka
kernels. He, however, had not been properly attended to as
to the tying of his limbs in their right position while under
the influence of the poison, and he was therefore now a curious
spectacle, reminding one of the instrument called a caltrops
more than anything else. One leg was curved up behind to
his loins, and the other bent up in front with the foot out-
wards ; one arm inclined behind his shoulder, and the other
sUghtly bent and extended forwards, and all, as to muscles,
inflexibly rigid. He could do nothing — not even turn himself
as he lay, nor even drive off the sand flies, which were there
in legions, from feasting on his naked body, nor scratch himself
when itching, nor put any food to his mouth. He was the
only child of his parents, who, fortunately for him, were both
alive, and took great care of him, turning and shifting his
position very often by day and night, as, from his body not
evenly resting, he could not possibly remain long in one
position. When not asleep he was laughing, if not eating, and
greatly enjoyed his being so placed that he could see the chil-
dren at play, in which he always encouraged them by his voice,
often seeming the merriest of the village. I frequently sat by
his side during my visits to talk with him and drive away the
tormenting sand flies, which he would beg me to do. His
skin was remarkably fine and ruddy — I might call it pretty —
being wholly without eruption, blemish, or scar ; his teeth
pearly white, and voice and laugh regularly strong, hearty,
and ringing. His eyes were very brilliant and of an intelligent
cast, but in conversing with him I always thought his intellect
was not sharp, or developed, as ordinarily that of Maori boys
of his age."

This interesting account discloses the fearful nature of the
poison of the Karaka nut, and also that the Maories employ
two distinct processes — baking and washing, in their mode of
preparation of this article for food ; but it cannot be gathered
therefrom whether both processes are necessary for the removal
of the poison from the kernel, and if not, which is the essential
one.

It will be noticed that the kernel only is spoken of as being
poisonous, the fruit which surrounds it in its natural and
ripened state being, as is well known, wholesome and pleasant,
though not poiverfully flavoured. In pursuance of my object,
therefore, I gathered a quantity of the kernels from which the
fruit had completely rotted off, and after removing the woody
husk I bruised them very finely, and put ]>art to bake at a
temperature of 212' for four hours, when it appeared their
bitter flavour was destroyed. The other part I steeped in suc-
cessive quantities of cold water for two days. The steep-water
separated from the bruised nut contained a great variety of
substances, those positively identified therein being approxi-
mately in the order of their relative abundance as follows —
Vegetable albumen (emulsin), casein (legumin), grape sugar,
gum, a bitter substance, and a tasteless essential oil, which
latter floated in greater part on its surface. The solid insoluble

May 22, 1878. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

417

part of the nut left after the successive additions and abstrac-
tions of water was nearly tasteless and completely devoid of
all bitterness, and showed a resemblance in chemical compo-
sition to the insoluble part of hazel nuts.

The competence of either of the processes used by the
Maories (baking or washing), in the preparation of the nut,
for the decomposition or removal of the bitter part of it being
thus shown, it naturally occurred to me that this bitter might
be the poisonous part of the nut. I therefore made the iso-
lation of this principle for the present my first object. The
bitter part in question was soon found to be capable of ab-
sorption by animal charcoal, and of removal therefrom by hot
alcohol. I therefore took advantage of this deportment to
obtain it in a pure state for examination. The details of this
process are as follows : —

The kernels are well crushed and triturated with successive
quantities of water (cold) tiU their bitter taste is gone. The
solutions thus obtained are rendered distinctly acid to the
taste by acetic acid, by which the casein and emulsiu present
are precipitated, and the filtrate therefrom agitated with animal
charcoal till the bitter substance is removed. The charcoal
is then collected and mixed with boiling alcohol, and the pure
alcoholic solution of the bitter substance thus obtained is
allowed to remain for two or three days at common tempera-
tures, when the bitter part crystallises out in beautifully radi-
ating acicular forms.

The character of these crystals is as follows : — Intensely
bitter ; colour, white ; lustre, pearly ; feebly acid ; at 212° Fahr.
melts ; gives a dark rose coloration with warm sulphuric acid ;
soluble in hot water, and feebly so in cold water ; soluble in
alcohol, also in hydrochloric and acetic acids ; soluble in am-
monia and potash ; insoluble in ether and chloroform ; does
not give any precipitate with tannic acid, nor with potasso-
iodide of mercury, nor potasso-sulpho-cyauide of zinc ; does
not contain nitrogen.

The evidence as submitted above shows that the principle is
not of an alkaloidal nature. Its deportment with sulphate of
copper and potash is strikingly similar to that of digitaline to
the same tests. Both give green precipitates of a tint very
similar to arsenite of copper. This property of either of these
vegetable principles to give green precipitates with copper
under these circumstances seems characteristic of them, as,
among the numerous substances the most likely of any I know
to give this reaction, not one has on experiment been ascer-
tained to deport itself in this manner. Thus either of these
principles is readily distinguishable in this way from pierotoxia,
resins generally (including common resin), soaps, gums, and
the bitter principle of Phormium tenax.

The green precipitates formed in this way by the bitter of
the Karaka and digitaUne respectively are, however, readily
distinguished from each other by subjecting them to a rise of
temperature (120° to 212° Fahr.). That containing the digi-
taline is unaffected, while the other precipitate speedily changes
its colour to yellow, the copper being reduced to the sub-oxide,
as if grape sugar were present. Further, if the proportion of
the Karaka bitter to the copper and potash is not properly
adjusted, reduction commences at once. It appears, however,
that if the solution of digitaline is boiled with acid prior to
the mixing with copper aud potash, a great reduction of the
copper will take place on raising their temperature to 200° Fahr.

Taking all these facts into consideration, I am inclined to
beheve that the bitter of the Karaka nut ia a glucoeide, and
that digitaline falls into the same class, though I have not
known this character imputed to it before. An appropriate
name for this bitter principle of the Karaka will be, I think,
karaldue, and this name, therefore, I propose to give it.

Having failed, after a careful examination of the nut for
vegetable alkaloids, to find any principle having the characters
of these bodies, I conclude that the bitter substance here
treated of fkarakiue) is the poisonous part of it ; but not
having sufficient of this principle separated to allow of a proper
trial of its effects upon the animal system, I am unable to
confirm or disprove the correctness of these surmises ; but
I hope at an early date to be able to supplement this paper by
a statement of results of experiments undertaken to settle the
question.

As being connected with this subject, I may state in con-
clusion that the inner bark of the tree is also bitter, probably
from the presence of karakine. The outer bark is not bitter,
but astringent from the presence of tannin ; whUe the sap, the
wood, and the leaf, which is, I hear, wholesome to cattle, taste
sweet (sugar) , with not the least bitterness. These observa*-

tions were taken in July. — {Communicated by W. Swale, Avon-
side Botanic Gardois, Canterbury, N.Z.)

WORK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN OiRDEN.

Thb Broccoli season being now nearly over, the stumps should
be all cleared away and the ground dug, or if intended for Celery
trenches these may be prepared without digging the whole of
the ground. Keep all the salading crops well watered in dry
weather, or they lose much of their crispness. As soon as the
spring-grown Spinach is fit for use dig-in the autumn-sown. As
soon as the Bean pods begin to form at the lower part of the
stem, top the plants, which will greatly forward the cropping of
them. Earth-up the succesaional crops after a shower. Prick-
out the early sowing of liru.isels Sprouts to strengthen them
previous to planting-out finally. Sow Early Horn Carrot to
draw young during the summer. The early crop of Cauli/loioers
must now be Uberally supplied with water. If large heads are
required manure water may be given them, but for private
families those of a moderate size are generally preferred ; there-
fore, rnanure water may be dispensed with. As Cucumbers ad-
vance in growth under hand-glasses peg them down ; water them
in the morning when they require it, but this should only be
done when it is likely to be succeeded by a fine day. In prun-
iug-away any hi the shoots and leaves, cut close to the main
stem. This I am aware is contrary to the practice of some
good growers, nevertheless I believe it in no way injures the
plant ; in fact, I beUeve the wound heals more quickly than
if a piece of stalk remain until it has gradually rotted away.
Thiu-out the Parsley of the early sowing to 0 inches apart.
More seed may now be sown. Continue to earth-up aud stick
the successional crops of Peas ; as soon as the earliest crop
begins to pod, supply it with plenty of water to forward the pro-
duce. At the time of sowing, during dry weather water the
drills after they are drawn and before the seed is sown. Sow
the Long Scarlet and Turnip Radishes, water every night during
clear dry weather. Prick-out some of the earUest sowing of
Savoys and Scotch Kale, shade with mats for a few days until
the plants take fresh roothold. Eemove the pots from Sea-hale,
also the covering as soon as done with, and afterwards dig be-
tween the plants. Thin the early crops of Spinach, and sow
again for succession.

FRUIT GiBDEN.

There is generally so much to do in other departments at pre-
sent that Pear aud Apple trees, itc, on walls are apt to be neg-
lected. How else can we account for the unsightly hedge-hke ap-
pearance which in a short time they will generally present ? Many-
imagine a Pear tree would be ruined if its shoots were removed
before they became sufficiently ripened so as to prevent any of
the buds left in the base of the shoot from starting. In such a
case the buds left have had little opportunity of concentrating
for themselves the elaborated juices, the fruit is often injured
by the simultaneous removal of shoots that previously shaded it
from the sun, the relative action going on between the root and
the top receives a sudden check, hut a check seldom to the
benefit of the cultivator, as already there will be a sufficiency of
crude sap in the branches and roots to cause those buds left at
the base of the shoots to break again into shoots next season
instead of those desirable small spurs, the precursors of fruit
buds. Others, again, with more reason and science advocate th&
partial breaking of the shoots so that they may be placed in a
pendant position, contending that thus the buds intended to be
left are not unnecessarily shaded, and that no sudden check is
given. But even in this case the buds left at the base of the
shoot will seldom become fruit buds until after another sum-
mer's maturation, while the pendant shoots shade from the in-
fluence of light those leaves upon the small spurs from which
you expect to obtain fruit buds next year. The existence of a
masB of breastwood indicates that the plant commands more
nourishment, such as it is, than the circumstances in which it
is placed will enable it to appropriate to fruitful purposes. In
checking this luxuriance, would it not be a preferable method to
limit at once the action of the shoots upon the roots by pinch-
ing-out their points when from 4 to G inches in length ? This
will require to be repeated during the season, but there will be
no danger of the lower buds breaking, no sudden check will be
given to the system, no unnecessary shade afforded to those
parts which ought to be fuUy exposed, and if persevered in and
the tree is favourably situated, there will be little occasion for
resorting to the modern panacea for most fruit-tree ills — root-
pruning. It must be adopted with caution in the case of weak
trees, and those new sorts which b«ar freely and chiefly on the
two or three-year-old wood. Keep an eye to the Gooseberry
bushes, for although they may be once cleared of insects, another
generation may soon make its appearance. Water Strawberries
■where they are growing in dry situations.

FLOAVER GARDEN,

After planting out your beds make a reserve of a few plants of

418

aOUBNAL OF HOETICDLTUBE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEB.

Ma; 22, 1S73.

each kind to fill up gaps, and also, if you have any beds of annuals,
reserve some plants in pots to replace them as soon as they get
shabby. The importance of properly mulching the beds cannot
be too much insisted upon, and where it is inconvenient to use
short grass because of its untidy appearance, the beds should be
surfaces an inch thick with leaf mould or fresh light soil, or
■where neither can be used hoe the beds over, so as to form a
loose surface. Mulching is advantageous not only for saving
labour, but also, where cold spring water has to be used, from
preventing the soil from being unnaturally cooled by the fre-
quent application of water from a cold medium. The indispens-
ability of using water as warm or even warmer than the soil is
well known to practical men, and a few eipei-iments will soon
satisfy the amateur of its advantages. As '•' worm i' the bud " of
Hoses is making considerable havoc in some gardens, look care-
fully over the plants and destroy the larvje between the finger
and thumb ; at the same time you may regulate the growth
of the plants where necessary. The Cloth of Gold is a very
■vigorous grower, and, like some of the other Koisette varieties,
will grow to the length of 10 or 1.5 feet before it blooms. Seed-
ling Auriculas may now be pricked out into pans or boxes of
leaf soil and sand at regular distances, keeping them in a closed
frame for a few days tUl they have taken fresh root, when they
may be placed in the shade and protected from drenching rains.
Tulips still continue to be the centre of attraction. The reports
from various quarters describe the bloom as generally good, but
those which miss flowering are very numerous. Bees are .apt to
get inside the flowers, disturbing the farina. The careful florist
with a camel-hair brush ■will remove it, so that the purity of the
cup may be apparent. Kanunculuses are growing fast, but are
in much want of rain. If they have been top-dressed "with very
rotten manure, as pre^viously recommended, they ■will in some
measure have escaped the effects of the drought. As Carna-
tions continue to grow, keep them regularly tied-up to their
■flowering-stakes ; the pots must also be well atttended to ; all
weeds must be removed and the plants top-di-essed. Dahlias
may now be planted out ■with safety.

GREENHOUSE AND CONSEKVATORT.

A very free ventilation will now be necessary, using atmo-
spheric moisture in proportion. Give every encouragement to
■the growth of Azaleas intended for forcing early, watering them
freely, especially when pot-bound, with weak liquid manure,
stopping unequal or over-luxuriant shoots with the hand, in
order to render the plants compact. Those Camellias which
"have completed their growth should be cooled down ; no arti-
ficial heat wiU be required. If they are of a somewhat luxuriant
character, the best plan is to keep them short of water for a
mouth, gi^ving merely sufiicient to keep them from flagging.
This, after early forcing into wood, will ensure the production
of blossom-buds. Let Pelargoniums have weak liquid manure
occasionally, also Cinerarias and Calceolarias. Let some Nea-
politan Molet cuttings be struck for next ■winter's bloomings and
get out what Chrysanthemums are required.

STO^VE.

Cultivate and get forward as soon as possible the various young
■stock intended for flowering through the autumn and winter.
The Euphorbia jacquiniffiflora looks very nicely if planted three
in a pot. The Gesnera elongata should not be forgotten, nor
Begonia manicata and incurva. Some of the Justicias, as sali-
cina, the Geisaomerias, &c., will be useful. For Orchids, keep
up a considerable amount of moisture in the air, and syringe the
blocks frequently. Fire heat may now be dispensed with, but
the house should be closed early, particularly when the nights
are cold. If the plants are syringed in the afternoon'it should
be done earlj^ so that they may dry before night. Many of
the free-growing plants will require shifting occasionally. —
"W. Keane.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

No rain has fallen except that alluded to last week, and a cold
dry east wind has been blowing ever since ; the thermometer
ha^ving fallen on one occasion to 33°. All the crops are in a
backward state. The earliest Potatoes in the fields are little
more than just through the ground, and where much exposed
have been touched by the frost.

KITCHEN GARDEN.

Peas have been sown for succession. This is done when the last
so^wing has been above ground for a week. Champion of England
and Veitch's Perfection are the sorts usually sown at this time,
but we have added by way of trial Carter's G. F. Wilson and
Laxtou's Omega ; the first is earlier, and the second later than
Perfection, wliich has long lield the highest position in our esti-
mation as a late Pea. Whether any of the new ones will displace
it remains to be proved. The earliest Peas have done badly this
year; the border where they are sown was occupied ■with Straw-
berry plants in pots last summer and autumn. What with that
and continuous rains late in the season the gi'ound was very wet,
■which sufiiciently accounts for the bad result. The sorts so^wn
were Laxton's William the First and Alpha, Eastes' Kentish

Invicta, and Taber's Early Perfection. They have flowered in
the order named, but Alpha is the most promising ; it was our
best early Pea last year.

Asparagus is very good ; we do not remember halving ever cut
better heads of this excellent vegetable; it is also producing
abundantly.

Dwarf Kidney Sea-ns should have been producing abundantly,
but they were not required, and we did not sow them. Our
usual practice is to sow in boxes thickly, and transplant, when
the first rough leaf is formed, four plants in an 8- inch pot. It is
astonishing how long the same plants will continue to bear if
the pods are picked as soon as they are ready.

We have been looking over the Pear trees on walls. Some
double oblique cordons were a mass of young wood ; this has all
been cut back to three or four leaves, and the leading shoots
trained into the wall. Notwithstanding the cold, the fly has
appeared on some Sea-kale plants which had just formed the
seed leaves. We find spent hops from the brewery the best
preventive, as well as cure, for this pest.

FRUIT AND FORCING HOUSES.

The same work has been continued here as last week. There
is a good succession of Pines in the fruiting house. Queens
have thro^wn up fruit freely, and promise to be good. Offsets
that had formed on the stalks and at the base of the fruit have
been removed. It is the custom with many growers to give
Pines manure water when the fruit is swelling, but it ought
only to be applied in the early stages, and it should be weak;
a small pinch of guano in the water pot, just enough to colour
it, is as good as anything. The evaporating troughs are now
kept filled with water. All through the winter and spring
months a sufficiently moist atmosphere can be maintained by
sprinkling the paths and walls of the house twice daUy.

Vines in the late Muscat house are now in flower. AH shy-
setting sorts requiring a high temperature set best in a night
temperature of 7(J°, with a moderately dry atmosphere. Our
usual practice is to allow the evaporating troughs to become
dry, but continue to damp the walls and paths in the morning,
and again when the house is shut up in the afternoon. On
■visiting a celebrated old garden the other day I noticed a fine
house of Muscat of Alexandria, and the intelligent gardener, on
being questioned about them, said, " When the Grapes were in
flower the house was frequently do-wn as low as 55° at night."
This proves that Muscats set in a low temperature, at least at
night. In the vineries here we do not allow the temperature to
fall below 7U ', and the bunches are shaken gently twice a-day.
This, with a rather dry atmosphere, causes them to set freely.
We do not stop the lateral shoots while the fruit is setting; as
soon as it is all set the laterals are stopped. The cutting east
■winds have caused us to be alert in regard to ventilating, as the
incipient berries are very susceptible to rust, especially those
of Black Hamburgh.

Melons are flowering in the second house, and are looking
well. We are giving Monro's Little Heath a trial ; it is earliest
in flower, and is a very free-fruiting sort. Our plants are not
cropped heavily, three or four fruits being all that are allowed
on a plant. We are careful to select a sufiicient number of
female flowers that are aU open on the same day, if possible.
There ought not to be more than twenty-four hours' difference
between the time of impregnating the flowers ; if longer the
fruit ■will not swell evenly. Hed spider has not appeared as yet,
for which we are thankful, as we do not like to syringe them,
and to paint the pipes with sulphur will not do, for if the fumes
are powerful enough to kill the red spider, the leaves, which are
very tender, will be much injured. Thrips, which used to be
very ti-onbleaome on the Cucumbers, seem at last to have suc-
cumbed to ijersistent fumigating with tobacco smoke.

ORCHARD HOUSE.

Aphides were more than usually numerous ; we did not fumi-
gate sufficiently before the trees were in flower, and by the time
the blossoms were well expanded they came in legions. We did
not smoke until the fruit was set, and one or two of the worst-
infested trees have been permanently injured, many of the
leaves having turned yellow and fallen off. Peaches and Nec-
tarines have all had the fruit thinned. It was a tedious process,
as the fruit ■was as thick on the branches as peas in a pod. We
have thinned all the Strawberries in the same house ; they are
two weeks later in flowering than usual, and the foliage is some-
what drawn ujj. The Strawberry plants have weak manure
water every day, and they require a large quantity just now.
When the trusses were being thinned a peculiarity was observed
in one sort — viz.. Premier. This has always been good in pots,
but in the present year a large proportion of the fruit is blind,
and some badly shaped. All the other varieties promise to pro-
duce large well-shaped fruit.

CONSERVATORY AND PLANT STOVE.

Tying and regulating the growing shoots of climbers. It is
not well to tie them in too closely ; some of the shoots ought to
hang down loosely, and others be festooned from one wire to
another. None of the shoots should be allowed to twine round
the wires or each other, especially in the stove. Such subjects

May 22, 1S73. ]

JOURNAL OP HOKTIGULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

419

as Stephauotis, Dipladenias, etc., ■which are liable to be infested
with mtaiy bu^', cannot readily be cleansed when the shoots are
twined-iu closely.

We finished basketing and potting nearly all the Orchids re-
quiriug attention. In some instances the compost had become
sour ; this was removed, and fi-esh peat and sphagnum added.
No Orchid will thi-ive if over-potted, or if the peat and sphagnum
has become the least sour.

We have been placing sticks to Tree Carnations and Roses.
The first-named have supplied us with plenty of cut tiowers
since Christmas^iudeed, we are never without them; at the
present time Tui-ner's Bride is in with very little forcing. It
is a very fine clove-scented variety. Some of the flowers
measured 3k inches across, but the smaller side flowers are most
serviceable for cutting ; they are waxy white, '^'ith just a tinge
of rose at the edge. Many of the varieties are apt to have the
calyx split by the flowers being too full. The best way to do
with them is to have a box at hand with indiarubber rings of a
small size ; these are slipped over the flower before it is too
much expanded.

Shoio Pelargoniums are in full flower. We put a permanent
shading of tine tiffany outside the glass, as they ai-e in a house
where it is not convenient to fix rollers ; nearly all our other
houses are supplied with them, as permanent shading is inju-
rious to all growing plants.

PLOWEB GABDEN.

All the bedding plants are out, except the tender subjects,
such as Iresine, Coleus, Altemanthera, HeUotropes, tire. ; they
must remain under glass until the weather change.

As we write the wind is veering round to the west; it is not
warmer, but an occasional drizzle of rain is falling. Though it
has been so dry we have not watered, except in an exceptional
case, where the planting was done under trees, or where httle
rain could reach them. A large proportion of our plants were
in boxes ; iudeed, with the exception of Zonal Pelargoniums,
which do best in pots, the others go out best from boxes. We
put in cnttiu^s of Phlox frondosa and Lithospermumprostratum.
The one makes a pretty bed of pink flowers on a dense carpet
of pale greeu, and the last-named makes an equally charming
bed of deep blue. They were inserted in light soil, and the
pots placed in a hotbed where the heat was almost spent. —
J. Douglas.

TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED.

T. Bunyard ct Sons, Maidstone and Ashford, Kent. — Select
List of Bedding-out Flants^ Greenhouse Plants^ dc.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*,* We request that no one will wiite privately to any of the
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gai^dener, 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.j llljFleet
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
answered 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 mast remain onanswered until next
week.

Books {Eandon). — "Tlie Garden Manaal" contains full directions for
Eo86-culture. You can have it free by post if you enclose twenty postage
stamps and address.

Aquilegia AtTREA (TT. If. H.). — Xou could procure the seed of tliis and
A. canadensis through any of the leading London seedsmen who advertise in
our columns. It is by no means expensive.

EEDDiNi;-nrr (E.). — We cannot particularise planting; we can only criti-
ise that which is proposed.

Heating liv Lr:xE-Kn.K {J. C). — There is no doubt such a mode could he
adopted SQCcessfuiiy in some places. Details must be advertised.

Na^ue of Cress (Af. W. Wilson). — It is Barbarea prwcox, or Early Winter
Cress. It is quite hardy, and a splendid salad herb. Ic is known also by the
names of American Cress and Beileisle Cress.

RE3io\aNG Greenhouse (fl. W. B.). — Without knowing all the facts we
cannot ad\ise. If the framework of the house is liied to the bricks or to the
wall you cannot legally remove it, but you may remove the sliding lights.
You may not remove either the boiler or the boiler house, but, probably, you
may remove the piping.

Flow'er-«rot\T[ng for Sale {Inquirer). — There is more than one work on
market gardening, but we do not know of any expressly devoted to flower-
growing for sale, and we would not advise you to embark in it without some
other ^owledge than that imparted by books, as, apart from knowing the
way to cultivate them propsrly, ''a knack for business" is also required, and
everyone does not possess that. Moreover, the flower trade, liie that of
other fancy articles, is liable to all the caprices of fashion, so that a recom- \
mendation to grow one class of flowers extensively this year might result in i

finding no sale for it next. This kind of horticulture requires watchisg to
keep in advance of public requirements.

Preparing Dung for a Mushroom Bed (Jnguircr).— We do not see any
barm in sweetening dung for the purpose in the full tun. although we have not
done so, as the place where we j;feiiferally sweeten it is sbaded by trees; but
we caimot think that in the preparatory state the dung can derive either good
or harm from the sun. In winter it is necessary to u^e a thed, otherwise it
would become too wet. We do less in preparing our Mushroom-bed materials
than most people, but use a portion of good fibrous loam, miied with the
dung in the bed itself. In summer it is more mflicult to grow good usefal
Mathrooms than in winter, as maggots and other enemies prevail to a greater
extent, and we apprehend that sweetening the dung in the sun will neither
increase nor diminish that evil. The son shines unobscured on a pafetora
field, and we know Mushrooms grow there.

Flower-bed Arrangements {KittieY—Ton have unfortunately omitted
to state which of the four proposed plans is that adopted last year. All the
proposed modes are good, and each would look well, the great recommendation
of all being their simplicity. The centre is an octagon with ijjcur%'ed sides to
suit the eight circles that come round them, and these are succeeded by eight
other clumps rounded at the outside, the two inner lines terminating in a
point that comes in between the circles — a very neat arrangement. Now,
with your materials we wotild almost be inclined to plant in your centre bed
a circle of white Centaurea banded with Iresine Liudeni, as likely to be more
suitable in height than purple Verbena, then follow with Christine Geranium,
and if not part.cularly wedded to Sempervivum for an outside edging, uee a
nice band of your dwarf Ageratum. Now, bear in mind, that however thiff
garden is situated, either on the level or on the slope, very much will depend
on the beds being well arranged as to height of plants. One or two staring
beds among the ciicles, some 6 or 12 inches higher than the others, will
destroy the symmetry of the whole. These eight beds of scarlet and crimson
Geraniums should be as much as possible of a uniform height. In planting
you might have four pairs or two foxu^. If you did not particularly wish to
have ilrs. Pollock lor the outside beds, and to have fom of the eight beds
alternately much the same, then we would recommend banding or edging the
four Scarlet Geranium beds with white variegated-leaved Geraniums, and the
four crimson beds with Mrs. Pollock. Plants of the variegated Koniga among
the white-leaved Geraniums will rather improve them, and so would plants of
a dwarf blue Lobelia just peeping among ilrs. Pollock. Your outside range of
beds, if you have a dwarf Calceolaria as Aurea fluribimda, we would use for
four beds edged with Iresine kept well nipped-in, and the other four al-
tanately we would fill with purple Verbena and edge with Pyrethrum. You
will thus bring into use most of your materials, and the very simplicity of the
planting will constitute one of its greatest charms. As stated above, it will
be all the more striking if the heights be studied well, so that there shftH be
no staring bed in the group.

FccHSLis, Pelargoniciis, and Roses to Flower in September [J. G.).
— The Fuchsias should now be nice young plants, from 6 to 9 inches high.
We should shift them into 6-inch pots, using a compost of three parts turfy
loam, half a part each leaf soil and old dry cow manure or well-rotted ma^
nure, with one-sisth of silver sand, and a like quantity of pieces of charcoaL
— this compost we recommend for all the pottings. The shoots should be
pinched at every third or fourth joint, so as to insure a weil-f umished plant,
the leader being stopped at every 6 inches, and a well-disposed shoot of the
break trained in its place. The plants must not be allowed to flower, and
should be kept growing by syringing morning and evening, and giving copious
supplies of water, not allowing them to flag for want of it, nor, on the other
hand, giving any until it is needed. At the end of June or early in July
they should be shifted into 9 or 10-inch pots, and at the middle of July, or
from that time to the end, the stopping should cease, though it may be
practised on irregular growths up to the beginning of August. The plants
should then be allowed to go to flower. Liquid manore may be given, after
the pots ore full of roots, at every alternate watering ; the plants to bo
grown m your cool glass structure without heat, and admitting air freeiy. The
syringing should be discontinued when flowers are beginning to open. The
Zonal Pelargoniums, we presume, are nice plants, in say ti-inch pots. We
should stop them and tie down the shoots, disposing them equally all rotmd.
"WTaeu they have broken freely shift into 8-inch pots about the middle of
June, uud keep them stopped up to the middle of July ; all trusses of bloom.
to be picked off op to August. The plants should have the lightest part of
the house, be kept near the glass, and be sprinkled overhead morning and
evening. Tney would do well in a cold frame with plenty of air. The
" fancy " Pelargoniums, by which we think you mean those with variegated
leaves, should be potted now, again in June, and be grown in a cold frame,
not wetting the fofiage, but shadiug lightly from bright sun, training the
plants out neatly, and not stopping after June. The Roses, we presume, are
in pots and plunged out of dours, and have been potted ; if not, it should be
done at once, and without disturbing the roots much ; 8-inch pots will be
lar^e enough. At the end of June cut each shoot hack to within five leaves
of its base, removing the buds as they show. Encourage growth by frequent
sprinklings or syringings overhead and copious suppUes of water at the roots,
gi\'ing at every alterL.ate watering weak apphcations of liquid manure. The
plants will make fresh growth, and flower at the time you wish, if kept in a
sheltered open position. It maybe necessary to shield the plants from ex-
cessive wet; if such prevail in rieptember they should be placed under glass
with abundance of air. See that they do not root beyond the pots. The soil
named fur the Fachsias will suit all the others.

Weeding Onion Bed (St. Bridget). — The market gardeners near London
hand- weed, and, however large your plot, we recommeud you to adopt the
same practice. After the hand-weeding we should have the ground between
the rows stirred with a narrow-bladed hoe.

Hyacixths in Border (T. IF".).— They will bloom again next year if left
undisturbed until the leaves die.

Asphalt Walks (A. B.), — Take two parts of very dry lime-rubbish, and
one part coal ashes, also very dry, and both sifted fine. In a dry place, on a
dry day, mix them, and leave a hole in the middle of the heap, as bricklayers
do when making mortar. Into this pour boiling-hot coal-tar; mix. and whea
as stiff as mortar, put it 3 inches thick where the walk is to be. The ground
should be dry, and beaten smooth. Sprinkle over it fine gravel; when cold,
pass a light roller over it, and in a few days the walk will be solid and water-
proof. Another book about Roses, besides that you have, is Rivers's " Rose
Amateur's Guide."

Daphxes and Ehododesdrons for a Cool Greenhouse (Inquirer). —
Daphnes are elegantissima, Fortunei, indica alba, indica rubra, japonica foliis
variegatis, and odorata. They succeed in a oompost of equal parts sand;

420

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ May 22, 1873.

fibrous loam and fibrons sandy peat, half a part of leaf soil, and a free ad-
mixture of silver sand, with good draina^'e. Water freely wheu growing, and
keep moist by sprinkling overhead ; the growth complete, keep the plants
rather dry but not so as to affect the foliaj^'o. Daphnes may be propagated by
cuttings of the shoots when a Uttle firm in sumiut-r, inserted in saud under a
bell-glass in a close frame, but are much better grafted on young plants of the
Spm'ge Laurel from seed. Graft in March or April with ripe wood, and place
the grafts in a close pit, shatling until the union is complete. Rhododendrons
are Countess of Haddington, formosum, fragra'-tissimum, jasminitlorum,
javanicum, Princess Alexandra, Princess Helena, Priucoof Wales, retusum,
Veitchiauum, ciliatum. Edgworthii, and Nuttallii. They require fibrous sandy
peat, and a third of light very fibrous loam, with free drainage. Kepot in
spring after floweriug. Water abundantly when gi-owing, sprinkle overhead
twice daily, ailmit plenty of air. and keep moist in winter but incline to dry-
ness. Propagation is effected by layers in spring or autumn, and by cuttings
of the young shoots when their base is rather firm, inserted in sand over
sandy peat, and placed in a close cold frame for about six weeks, afterwards in
a gentle bottom heat, also by grafting on stocks of similar habit of growth.

Markchal Niel Kose in Greenhouse {A Reader). — It would be advis-
able to extend the root space for the Rose, draining it well, and using the
compost you name; but we should not take off the loam with its turf more
than 4 inches deep. We would not cut back many of the lateral shouts, but
you may do so if they ai'e very much crowded. Take out the very weak, old,
worn-out shoots.

Syringing Rose Trees during East W'inds {Rathrjar).— It is not de-
sirable to syringe them in cold cutting weather, with eant winds in May; but
it may be practised in the early part of the day without injury to the shoots.

Daphne Injured — ^Ferns for Case — Clematises Out-doors (R. A. P.).
— The leaf sent shows that the plant has suffered from cold; with warm
weather it will probably recover. Daphnes do not stand cutting winds, but
ehould have sheltered positions. We do not know what you can do to it. For
the case we should have in the centre a plant of Ncphrodium molle coi-ymbife-
rum, and round it Adiantuin assimile, Acrophorus hispidus, Adiantum hispi-
dum (pubescens), Pteris serrulata cristata, Adiantum Capillus- Veneris magni-
ficum, and Davallia dissecta at the angles of the hexagon. These will be
sufficient. We should surface with Selaginella denticulata variegata. We do
not think the dxip from the suspended cork would injure the plants. Have
on it Niphobolus rupestria. Clematises — Fortune!, double white; Lady
JBovill, greyish, suffused mauve; Kubro-violacea, maroon, shaded reddish
Tiolet ; and Sophia fiore-pleuo, mauve, outer petals yellowish white.

Treatment op Crocus (Firle). — Cutting the leaves off in a green state
■will certainly weaken the corms. We do not like to see the leaves plaited, so
WJ9 leave them alone until they change to yellow, when they are pulled o2.

Leaves of Pear Tree Blistered {A. D.). — We fancy it must have been
caused by frost, with the sun acting early in the morning. The roots may
also be in stagnant eoil. If they were in a healthy state the tree would
scarcely be so bad.

Preserving Grapes in Bottles of Water {J. Mackenzie). — Your attic
would be a very good place to keep them in ; indeed, if a place had to be made
ior them it could not be better. Trentham Black Grape does not bear freely
pruned on the short-spur system for a length of time ; the rod shuuld be
renewed every third year. Royal Ascot produces veiy small bunches, and the
berries are liable to crack. It is not so good as Trentham Black, though
neither is first-rate.

Myosotis dissitiflora FLOWERrNG AT CHRISTMAS (M. D.). — You -will
need to have the plants well established in pots by the middle of September,
.and all flower-buds should be picked off up to October, when they should be
placed on a light airy shelf in the greenhouse, watering as required to keep
the soil moist. Early in November they wUl need to bo placed in a house
with a temperature of 45" to 50^ by day from fii'e heat, and they will flower
at the time you wish, or earlier. They will, as a rule, flower more or less
during the winter from November, if seedling plants two years old ai-e potted
in September in 5 or 6-inch pots according to size, placed in a cold frame
■with plenty of air, and early in October removed to a shelf in the greenhouse.
The situation cannot be too airy and well exposed to the light.

Names of Plants iJ. Q.). — 1, Cupreasus Lawsoniana; 2, Alonsoa; 3,
Lamium purpureum. The other specimens were too withered and imperfect
to be identified. The insects were millipedes, Jiilus complanatus. They are
said to eat holes into the tubers of potatoes, but we think that they only
attack ulcerated tubers. (W. F. R.). — Cheiranthus ochroleucus. {'!'. Brad-
shawl. — The leaf sent is that of Osraanthus ilicifolius variegatus. The
flower belongs to a species of Cietus. (A. M. Z.). — The Plilox sent is P. fron-
dosa. We do not know where seed can be obtained, but if it is in the trade
your own seedsman can obtain it. From a small plant bought for a shilling
you could obtain scores in a season, it grows so freely. (B. H.). — lleuchera
pubescens. {Pi-ter). — 1, Acer sp. ; 2, Sparmannia africana. {R. D. 2\). —
Veronica serpyUifolia. (F. G.). — 1, Pimelea longifolia; 2, Some Begonia, but
quite imdeterminable. (T. S.). — 1, Rosa Banksire, var. lutea; 2, Omphalodes
vema; 3, Anemone nemorosa flore-pleno. Yes, certainly. (jD. C. M.). — It
may be some Euphorbia, but the specimen is quite insuflicient. [A. B. Pode).
BhamnuB Alaternus. (A, R.). — Asplenium (Darea) flaccidum.

POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON OHEONIOLE.

AIDING CHICKENS' BIRTH.

Eyiiryone interested in the breeding of poultry must be
obliged to our clerical friend at Childerditch Vicarage for the
information of slipping a chipped egg into a second shell. I have
often gummed them, but never took it into my head to put on a
new shell. During the part of this season, now past, I among
many others have been most imfortunateas to success in getting
chicks hatched ; but during the past week I had some eiperience
which might be of use to the readers of our Journal. I set a
Brahma hen upon twelve Brahma eggs ; they were due to hatch
last Friday. On the morning of that day I observed the hen
restless in her nest, making a noise, and pecking at something
among the eggs. On examination I found that she was attack-
ing a chick which was half out of the shell, shaking it as a dog

does a rat. I immediately lifted the chick, which died a few
minutes after. Thinking that a mouse had disturbed the hen, I
allowed the eggs to remain, and kept a strict watch upon her
movements. It was not long till another little prisoner broke
its shell, and was letting its voice be heard. I observed the hen
rise aud immediately commence an attack upon the egg, break-
ing the shell and taking hold of the chick by the beak. I took
off the hen and put the eggs into hot water a little above blood
heat. After keeping them there for some time, six out of the ten
eggs left began to move about iu the water ; the other four I shook
and found to be rotten. Keeping the temperature of the water
up to the pitch, in half an hour live of the six chipped. I then
lemoved the eggs into the oven of the kitchen stove, rolling
them in flannel. I took one egg, and, carefully removing part of
the shell, found that blood was in the veins of the inner skin
which envelopes the chick. I replaced the egg in the oven; I
took another, and removing the shell found the blood had been
all absorbed. I then put the egg with the chick in warm water,
blood heat; lifting the head of the chick from under its wing, I
gradually removed the shell, taking care to leave the small part
of the yolk left and a small piece of the shell attached. I put the
chick in the oven to dry. 1 performed the operation on the six.
eggs and was successful with five. The chicks I put the same
evening under a hen, which had a batch of seven that had been
hatched on the Thursday previous. All the brood is now doing
well, and as healthy as if hatched in the usual way.

Anyone who attempts the operation, which is easily per-
formed, and which I have successfully done for the past two
seasons, must be careful not to di-aw any blood, as this generally
proves fatal. — C. B. T., Montrose.

EXHIBITION EEFORMS NEEDED.

In respect to the losses of valuable exhibition birds from
exposure in open-air shows, as stated by Mr. Hewitt a few weeks
back, my own experience confirms what that gentleman states
to the very letter. From this cause alone I have repeatedly met
with very heavy losses, ha\ing lost several very valuable Car-
riers, B.irbs, Almond Tumblers, Satinettes, &c. My own opinion
is no show should be held in the open air ; in fact, in future I
have made up my mind not knowingly to show at an open-air
exhibition. I think it would be better that secretaries of shows
should state whether they are open or not.

There is another matter connected with some of our northern
shows that also requires amendment. It repeatedly happens at
the Lancashire and Yorkshire one-day shows in the open field
that not only are the birds exhibited without shelter, but also
without food or water being supplied to them by the committee.
In these local shows, where the bulk of the owners are present,
no doubt the majority of the exhibitors will care for the preser-
vation of their own interest; but I need not say more than that
where birds are sent from a long distance, aud away, perhaps,
three days from their owner, such compulsory abstinence is
most disadvantageous to the distant exhibitor, and that food and
water should always be provided.

Another great evil is, at some of the shows exhibitors are
allowed to pen their own birds, and at the close of the show to
repack them. I was at a show a few days ago where this was
done, and I think it very fortunate there were no dishonest par-
ties about, or they might certainly have helped themselves,
probably without being detected. I consider no party ought to
be allowed to pen the birds except the committee. We also
want reform in our Pigeon judges, as the other day the two best
Carriers were entirely left out in the cold. I could say more, but
fear to trespass too much on your valuable space. — H. Yaudlet.

BRAHMAS.

In answer to ** J. K. L.," respecting Brahma pullets, I have a
Light one which commenced laying last August, and con-
tinued to do so daily until the end of March, with the exception
of three sitting bouts, averaging one week each time. She has
now brought oif a batch of chickens. I have had twenty years*
experience as a poultry-breeder, and have during that time kept
several different sorts. My opinion of Brahmas is, that for laying
they are first-rate ; and were it not for their sitting propensities,
their abundance of leg, and deficiency of breast, they would stand
first in my estimation. But fowls are wanted for the table as
well as for the production of eggs. For the former use Brahmas
are nowhere. To have the two properties combined no fowl
equals the Houdan; the legs, unlike the Brahma, are short and
small ; the breasts aud other parts equal to those of the Dorking
both in quantity and flavour ; and as for laying qualities, it is
first-rate. I have a Houdan hen which commenced laying last
September, and has continued to do so up to tlie present time.
No matter about frost or snow in winter, it is all the same to her ;
she goes on contributing to her keeper a large white delicious
egg day-by-day. No time is lost with Houdans in sitting bouts,
nor do they entirely cease laying during the exhausting process
of moulting ; they ^ill, if kept clean, which all fowls ought to be.

May 22, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

421

and must be to be renumerative, bear confinement remarkably
well. Of course a few sitting hens must be kept for hatching
Houdans' eggs. The chickens are hardy and grow very fast.
The eggs are very fertile. From three hatches I have had this
year every egg has proved a chick.

In conclusion I would add, that if fowls are wanted for the
production of eggs only, and for a small space, Light Brahmas are
the best of all ; but if wanted for the table as well as for eggs,
and a moderate space be allowed to keep them on, with an occa-
sional run in the yard or kitchen garden in the winter, when they
cannot do much mischief, Houdans are the fowls to keep. —
John Ssow, Barrow-on-Soar, Loughborough.

EXHIBITING SINGLE BIRDS.

After reading the number of letters your columns bave of
late contained respecting the single-bird system of exhibiting,
and noticing also how unanimous the opinion is on the subject,
I write to keep the matter before the eyes of committees who
have not yet adopted the principle, and liope my remarks will
show how much more profitable it is to the funds of a society,
how advantageous it is to exhibitors, and making judging easier
and more satisfactory to the judges. In 1871 I resolved to try
the plan at our show, and the result was moat satisfactory, and
since the Birmingham Summer Show, which was an immense
success, there have been at least half a dozen of the largest ex-
hibitions— viz., Croydon, Newcastle, Crystal Palace, Durham,
Glasgow, and Bradford, held on the same system, and each give
sufficient proof of the beneficial results to be derived in com-
parison to an exhibition on the pair system. The advantages to
exhibitors are the opportunity of exhibiting a good bird when not
having a suitable match, as no doubt every exbibitor experiences
at times. There is also the inclination to enter as many good
birds as a person thinks have a chance of winning, in order to
give judges their choice of colour. Sec. In addition there is not
the danger of one bird damaging the other, as is the risk when
two birds are put into a pen that have not been breeding to-
gether. It is also an advantage to those who keep only limited
stock, which fact may be learned from the following conversation
I had with one of the largest exhibitors at the Newcastle No-
vember Show. After the judging he said, " I don't like your
single-bird system." " Why not ? " " Because the classes are
too large." Need I add that he was unsuccessful in many
classes I When exhibitors have the advantage of making more
entries it must follow that the funds of the exhibition will reap
the benefit, not only in the entry fees, but also in commissions
on the sale of more bh-ds, itc.

I will only add a few remarks on the advantages to judges, of
whom I wonder that there are so many ready to take that very
responsible ofBoe, knowing well that there is always a certain
amount of anuoyauce and unjust remarks in store for them. In
sjngle-bird classes a judge may see at once which pens can
deserve the prizes, for he has not the perplexing; fact, often the
case with pairs, of one good bird associated with a poor one.
Neither have they the unpleasant question of deciding whether
each pen contains a cock and a hen. When such, the single-
■ bird system prevents the too frequent occurrence of two cocks
or two hens as a pair.

I need hardly say more, since it is evident that the system
promotes the committee's interests, most assuredly renders a
great service to exhibitors at large, and enables the judging to be
done much quiclter and more efficiently, and the doors opened
at the stated time. My next notes will be on limiting the value
<rf exhibition birds. — IsipiBTiiLL.

The Coming Oxfobd Show. — The Committee intend having
a class for Malays at their second annual Show in October next,
several fanciers of this variety having promised subscriptions,
the whole of which will be devoted to the purchase of a cup or
piece of plate at the option of the winner, the Committee giving
second and third prizes. Black Cochins will have prizes awarded
them; A. Darby, Esq., having offered to guarantee from loss,
should the class not fill sufficiently to pay expenses. If the
fanciers of these useful fowls would contribute, a cup would be
allotted to them. Black Bantams will again have a separate
class, the Rev. G. S. Cruwys assisting with a handsome donation.
Black Hamburghs will on this occasion compete in a separate
class. The Secretary will be glad to hear from anyone desirous
of contributing towaids a cup for either of the above, or any
other class, which sums will be duly acknowledged in this
Journal. — Joseph King, Hon. Secretar)/.

The Van Haanbbbrgen Testimonial. — Mr. James Watts begs
to acknowledge the following ^subscriptions to the testimonial to
W. B. Van Haansbergen, Esq., on his resignation of the honorary
secretaryship of the Northern Columbarian Society : — Messrs.
W. R. & H. O. BlenMnsop, £1 1«. ; Mr. W. H. JGtchell, £1 Is. ;
Mr. Frank Graham, £1 Is.; Mr. Nathaniel Dunn, £lls.; Mr.
J. Towerson, £1 Is.; Mr. Joseph Firth, £1 Is.; Mr. J. E.

Palmer, £1 Is.; Mr. J. Watts, £1 1«. ; Mr. 0. E. Cresswell,
103. (id. ; Mr. C. T. Copeman, 10s. 6d. ; Mr. N. Ridley, 10s. G<7. ;
Mr. J. G. Dunn, 10s. iid. ; Mr. Blanchard, IDs. iid. ; Mr. John
Guthrie, 10s. 6d. ; Mr. Thomas Gallon, 10s. Gd. ; Mr. P. H.
Taylor, 10s. (id. ; Mr. W. H. TomUnson, 6». ; Mr. J. F. Lover-
sidge, 5s. ; Mr. W. Gamon, 5s., and Mr. Thomas Waddingtou,
£1 Is. promised. We have no doubt, thou<'h we have no rela-
tive information, that J. Watts, Esq., Hazlewell Hall, King's
Heath, Birmingham, will gladly receive any contributions to
this testimonial to a gentleman who is described in a circular
before us as, "if not the best,, one of the best secretaries,
honorary or otherwise."

SILVEE-GREY DORKINGS.

It is a pleasure to hear anyone praising Silver-Grey Dorkings.
I should like to add my testimony in favour of them, as I think I
have been even more successful this year than your correspondent
the Rev. E. S. Tiddeman. My hens and pullets began to lay before
Christmas. My first chicks were hatched on January 17th. I
have no stove or any way of warming my fowl houses and nest
places, which are only wooden buildings, but during the severe
weather the hen and her chicks were put into a hamper at night
and kept in the gardener's cottage. I have weighed these two
chicks, both cockerels; one weighs IJ lbs., the other 4 lbs. 5ozs.
My next chicks were hatched February 4th, so will do to compare
with the Bev. E. S. Tiddeman's of February 1st. My cockerel
weighs H lbs., a pullet of the same brood 3 lbs. G ozs. I have
now thirty-four well grown Silver-Grey Dorking chicks; I have
not lost one from sickness this year, and in colour they promise
to be as good as in size. My great difficulty with SUver-Greys
has hitherto been to get size, but from the weight of those I
have mentioned, it seems as if I were succeeding at last. I have
never had a single bird with bumble foot for the four years I
have kept Dorkings in this country.

I must say one word in favour of Dark Brahmas, which I also
keep. The pullets began to lay in November, and the hens
early in January ; they" are still laying well and very few have
been inclined to sit.— G. S. Paslev, Moorhill, Fareham, Hants.

ACCRINGTON POULTRY, PIGEON, AND RABBIT

SHOW.

The Show of the Accrington Agi-icultm-al Society was held on
the 15th, and, as at all such meetings in the county of Lanca-
shire, the number of visitors was large. The poultry were
arranged in single tiers on two sides of the field, and the pens
were of a substantial character. The first prize competed for
was a sUver cup or £5 for Game cocks, and was won by a superior
Brown Red ; the second going to a good Black Red, and the
third to a Brown Red. In single Game hens there were but two
entries, but these were well worthy the award. In the local
class for Game cocks the first was a capital Black-breasted Red,
the second Brown Red, and the third a POe ; and in the open
class for cock and hen. Black or Brown Reds, all the winners were
of the latter colour. In Game cock and hen of any other variety
there was a solitary entry, but a first prize was awarded, the
birds being fit for any competition. Dorkings were a very good
class, and the winners large and in good form. Of Buff Cochins
there were but three entries, but the quality all that can be
desired. On the contrary, the entries for Any other variety were
good. Partridge being first and second, and Whites third. Black
Spanish were one of the best classes in the Show, scarcely a pen
but what was deserving of notice, the winners being very fine.
In Brahmas the competition was very close among the birds
that were noticed, but there were some bad pens. There were
five classes of Hamburgh^, and the entries good in all, and the
competition very keen in most. In Golden-pencils there were
some capital cocks, but the hens, as a rule, were best ; and in
the saver-pencils every pen was noticed. In the Gold-spangles
the hens were somewhat faulty, if we except the first-prize bird;
but the cooks were pretty regular in quality. The cup for Ham-
burghs was won by a pair of SUver-spangles of rare merit, both
birds being about perfect, and in the best possible plumage ; and
there were also several other capital pairs. The three winning
pens of Black Hamburghs were very close upon each other, and
the class very good as a whole. In French fowls the winners
were all Creve-Cceurs, and these were much better in point of
character than the Houdans, which were more numerous. Of
Polands there were but four entries. The Selling class con-
tained some good and cheap lots, the first being Spanish, the
second Cochins, and thii-d a Brown Bed Game cock. The first
in the Variety class was a splendid pair of Red Malays. There
were six classes for BatUams, five of which were devoted to
Game. In single Bantam cocks the contest was very close, the
winners being all Black Reds, the first of which embodied all
the properties of a high-class Game cock, the second being quite
equal in all respects except length of wing, both being birds not
less than two years old, the third being a cockerel of last year.

422

JOUBNAL OF HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENEE.

[ May :

, 1S73.

In pairs of hens the first and second were Black, and the third
Brown Keds ; the awards between the two former being in the
first mostly to beauty of plumage, and in the second to style and
quality. Heie also was a class for local competitors, and these
stood well as compared with the open classes, a grand Black-
breasted Eed taking first, the second also being of that colour,
and the third Pile. The class for Black Bed in paii-s lost nothing
in point oi merit, for the first-prize pair left little to be desired,
and were closely pressed by the other winniug pens. The first
in the variety class for Game were Piles, the cock being a bird
we have seldom seen equalled, and certainly never seen excelled;
the second being capital Duckwiugs, and the third also Piles.
Only one class was devoted to all other varieties of Bantams,
but if worthy of any encouragement two classes ought certainly
to be given, and in this case uot one pen was unworthy of notice,
and five prizes were awarded, the first to Silver Sebrights of
pure ground colour, the second to Blacks, the third to Pekin,
the fourth to Blacks, and fifth to Golden Sebrights. The
Turkeys were all of the Cambridge variety, but in Geese the
first were Whites, and the rest Toulouse.

Aylesbury Ducks were very good in both beak and plumage
for the time of year; but, on the contrary, the Eouens were
faulty, though very large. In the class for Ornamental Ducks
every pen was noticed, the first being Bahamas, the second
Whistlers, and third Mandarins.

There was a mixed local class, in which a good pair of Spanish
stood first, and Buff Cochins and White Dorkings respectively
second and third.

The whole of the Pigeon classes were well patronised, and the
quality of the birds almost uniform, Mr. Horner carrying off
sixteen out of the thirty prizes offered. In both classes of
Carriers Dims won the first, and Blacks the second; and in
Tumblers the first were Almonds, and the second Black Mottles.
A well-developed pair of Black Barbs stood first in their class,
with good Yellows second. The winners in Owls were White
and Blue foreign respectively, and these were exceedingly neat.
Faintails were a good class, and well placed. The Tm-bits were
a very good class. Blues being first and Yellows second. In
Antwerps the first was carried off by a good pair of Short-faced
Duns, and the second by Blue Chequers ; and in Magpies Ked
and Yellow won the prizes.

In Mahbits, the Lop-ears were very x^oor, but the three Angoras
were perfection. Of Silver-Greys there were five entries of
nice specimens, the first being won by a most perfectly-silvered
animal, the Himalayan also being good in marking; and in the
Sale class a nice Dutch was first, and an Angora second.

Gami.— Coc*.— J, C. W. Brierley, Middleton. 2, J. Fletcher, Manchester. 3,
J. A. \Mi]slariley. PreetuD. /if. R. i^ayae, liutuley ; G. Boliand.Bui-nley. Hen,
—1, C. W. Lrierley, L', J. Buller, Clilherue.

G&j^^,~\Vithiii three mttes vf Accrington.—Cock.~-l and 3, Morris t&Wood,
AccriDgtozi. 3, J. buiiib, Accnngton.

Game.— ifacfc or Brown Fteds.—l, C. W. Brierley. 2, W. Watson, Naatwich.
S, T. 'louihiisun, Bmy. Ainj other vcu icty.~l, E. Aykroyd, Eccleston.

DoEKi.sos.— 1. W. H. Kiiii;, Kuchdale. 2, J. White, Northallerton. 3, J. Stott,
Healey, Kouhoale. he, S. B. .'.tou, Vi-estou.

Cochins.— £ujr or Cinnamon ~i and 3, W. A. Taylor, Manchester. Any
other vnriely.—l, T. Aspden, church. 2, W. A. Taylor. 3, K. S. S. Woodgate,
Tonbridge Wells, lie, T. stretch, Ormslurk; W. A. Taylor; A. Bamlord,
Middleton. c, H. Fraakland, Church.

SPANisH.-B(ac(c.— 1, J. Powell, Bradf.ird. 2, H. Beldon, Bingley. 3, J.
Leeming, Broughton, treston. lie, J. Bowness, Newchurch; PicKering and
Dugyleby, ilrilheld (2); .I.Leemiug. c, H. Wilkinson, akipton.

BsiUMib.— 1 and 2, T. F. Ansdell, St. Helena. 3, H. Beldon, Bingley. he, G.
Barnes, Blackburn ; H. Feast, Eiwanbea.

HiMBcauHs.— Go'iitn-jitjiciikii— 1 and he, H. Beldon. 2, G. &I. Duckworth,
Church. 3, W. Uriver, Keighley. c, G. Kidaon, Thirsk ; b. & A. Gill, Kawten-
Btall. aitvtr-pencdkd.— i. H, Beldon. 2. J. Bowness, Newchnrch. 3, H.
Smith, Ktighley. (ic, J. Bigbtou, Cbatburn; J. Webster, Kelbrook; H. .S A.
Gill; H. Beldon; J. Itbodes, Accringtou.

HiaunjaGHs.— God/t/i-sijaiitrkci.— 1, W. Driver, Keighley. 2, H. Beldon. 3,
G. & J.Duckuonh, church, he, N.Marlor, Denton, Mancbesler; G. li J. Duck-
worth, c, J. Newton, tilsden; E.Cwllinge, Middleton. tiUrer-t!pangled,—laatl
Cup, H. Beldon. 2 and 3. J. rieldiijg, Newcbm-eh. /(C, Asbton Jt Booth, Mot-
tram ; J. .iltbam, Baxenden; li. Beldon. c,a,R, Flatten, jun„ lakenham ;
ix. Frost, Swansea.

BiMBunGHs.-i/acS:.— 1, N. Marlor. 2, H. Rcldon. 3, J. Boiraess. he, J.
Smith, Ciilstead ; T. W alker, jun., Denton ; J. Moure, Bingley.

Feekch.-i and a, J. H. Fielden, Walsden. 2, G. W. Hibbort, Hyde, he, J.
Leathes, Fakenbaui ; J Jobuston, Pleasingtun ; H. Feast, Swansea.

Pound.— 1 and ■.', H. Beldou. 3, J. MangnalJ, Leigh.

Any other VAsitrv.—l, a. G.Brooke, Shrewsbury. 3,G. Anderton, Accring-
ton. 3, E. Walton, Kawtenstall.

Selling Class.— 1, J. Leeming. 2, A. Bamford. 3, W. Penin, Nantwieh.
lie, J. Powell, Bradford: 0. H. Uibbert, Hyde; Stott & Booth, Bury; G.
Fletcher, Didsbury ; W, K, Watson, Church ; E. Walton, Bawtenstall. e, R. J.
£ddleston, Bowdon.

Game Bantams.- Cocfc— 1, W. F. Entwisle, Westlleld. 2 and S, W. F. Addie,
Fnlwood. he, W. Rogers, Sunderland ; J. W. Morris, Rochdale, c, W. Gray,
Darlington; W. Adams, St Clements. Hens. — 1, W. F. Addie. 2, W. F.
Entwisle. 3, G. Booth. Haslingden. c, P. E. Famess, Rawtenstall.

Game Bastams.— irj7/i;/t three miles of Actrington ~Coek.—\,3. Thompson,
Church. 2, J. smith, Accriugtou. 3, W. & H. Furness, Accrington. he, G.
AndertoD, Accrington. e, G Kiley, jVccringion ; J. Woods, .\ccrint^ton.

Game Bantams.— jb'iacfc lieds,~l, T. Barker, Bur-nley. 2, J. R. Robinson,
Sunderland. 3, W. F. Entwisle, he, W. Baskerville, Manchester ; W. F. Addie
Any colour— 1, T. Barker. 2, W. F. Aildic. 3, P. E. Furness, Rawtenstall. he,
W. i\ Entwisle, Westlield ; W. K. Watson, Church ; W. Gray ; J. R. Robinson.
c,A. Banon, Haslingden.

Bantams.— J»i/ varuty except Ganic,~l and 5, E. Walton. 2, Pickles and
Whitaker. Edeulield. 3, W. F. Addie. i, W. A. Taylor, he, R. H. Ashton,
Mottram, Manchester; E. Walton; R. P. Eddleston.

Tckkeys.— 1, C. W. Brierley, Middleton. 2, F. E. Rawson, Halifax. 3, T.
HoldeD, Haslingden. c, E. Lord, Bacup ; T. F. Greenwood, Darwen.

Geese.— 1, J. rtalker, Rochdale. 2. T. Statter, Whitetield. 3, — Green, Clay-
on-le-Moors. lie, S. H. Stott, Preston.

DccES.-JWf»i"'T/.-land2,J. Hedges, Aylesbury. 8, J. Walker, Rochdale .
/ic. C . Holt, Rochdale. Jtouen.~l,A. Uaslam, Wigan. 2, A. West, Worstbom,
Burnley. 3, J.Scotson, Newtun-le-Willuws hc,\\'. Penny, Presion; J. New-
ton, :?ilBden ; T. statter, Wbiteheld. Any other variety.— i', W. Burns, Pudaev
2 and 3, H. B. Smith, Preston, lie. W. Burns ; H. B. Smith (21.

ANY Variety except Game and Game Bantams. — Within three viilea of
Aecrinijton.—i, J. W. Furness. Accrington. 2, G. Anderton, Accrington. 3 and
e, H. Frankland, Church, he, W. G. Holt, Chm-ch.

PIGEONS.

Carriers.— CocA:,—! and 2, E. Homer, Harewood. IZcii.— 1 and 2, E. Homer.

TcMljLERs.- 1 and 2, E. Burner.

Barbs.- 1, J. Fielding, Rochda.e. 2, A. Justice, Salford.

Owls.— 1 and 2, J. Fielding, jun., Rochdale.

PuLsTEHS OR Croppers. — 1 and 2, E. Horner.

Fantails.— 1, J. F. Loverside, Newark. 2, E. Horner.

TuRurrs.— 1, W. Sutcliffe, Bnrnley. 2, W. Kitchen, Blackbui-n.

Dragoons.- 1, J. A. Furd, Congleton. 2, X. Charnley, Blackburn.

Trumpeters.— 1 and 2, E. Horner.

Jacobi.ns.— 1, W. Dugdale, jun., Burnley. 2, E. Horner.

ISUNS.— 1 and 2. E. Homer.

ANTwEhPs —1, J. Crosland, jun., Wakefield. 2, R. Brierley.

Magpies.— 1 and 2, E. Horner.

Any OTHER Vaiuety.— 1, W. Kitchen, Blackburn. 2, E. White, Manchester.
RABBITS.

Spanish.— I, T. Hare. Blackburn. 2 and he, J. Gatecliffe, Soulhport.

Anooea.— 1, G. C. Huitou, Bradford. 2, J. W. Harhng, Barnley. he, S.
Buckley, Healev.

Himalayan.— 1, S. Ball, Bradford. 2, G. C. Hulton. lie, S. Ball ; S. G. Hudson,
Hull.

Silveb-Gret.— 1, S. Ball. 2, J. Boyle, jun., Blackburn, lie, G. F. Hardman ;
J. Irving. Blackburn ; J. Boyle, jun.

Any \ aeilty fob Sale.— 1, H. E. Gilbert, Kugby. 2, S. Buckley, he, W.
Higham, Middleton.

The Judges were for Poultry and Babbits, Mr. E . Hutton ; and
for Piyeoiis, Mr. W. B. Tegetmeier.

MANAGEMENT OP AUSTRALIAN GRASS
PARAKEETS.

These birds shoiild be fed on millet seed, Canary seed, water-
cress, groundsel, and chickweed. They do not require a very
warm temperature, and will breed freely out of doors during the
months of April and May if kept from draught. The best cages,
which we can from experience highly recommend for these
birds, are those manufactured by Mr. Joseph Groom, 24U, Great
College Street, Camden Town, N.W. Grass Parakeets, like
most of the Parrots, vary in their taste for bathing, and there-
fore, if they seem disposed to bathe, it is as well to give them
some water in a tin bath, but bathing should not be forced.

If they are likely to.breed, either the fibre of the cocoa-nut or
the shell itself cut in half should be fastened in some accessible
part of the cage, but of coui'se the nut must be taken out first.
There is no difference in the plumage nor size of male and
female Grass Parakeets, and the only distinguishing mark be-
tween the sexes is that the male has a bright blue hue roimd the
nostrils, which is very bright in the breeding season, while the
female has only a pale yellowish line in the same place. — 1\ W.

The Rabbit Classes kt Thobne. — We have had forwarded
to us a schedule of prizes for this coming Show, and think little
is required to be said to recommend it to the notice of exhi-
bitors, for there are seven classes exclusive of the selhng, and a
liberal prize of 20s. first, 10s. second, and Ss. as third ; and the
moderate entrance fee of 2s. M.

APIARIAN MEMORANDA.— No. 1.

As the busy time of the year for all bee-keepers is now fasfc
approaching, if not actually come — but this is a very late year —
it will not be out of place to remind our apiarian readers of
some of the most important points to be attended to. They
will bear iteration from an Hnglish bee-keeper's point of view.

1. Have everything ready for use in good time — bee dress,
gloves, hives, fioorboards, supers, il'c.

2. Let aU old hives which are to be used again be well washed
and sweetened by exposure iu the open au'.

3. Decide beforehand which hives are to be allowed to swarm
and which not, and treat them accordingly.

i. Hives not to be swarmed should have plenty of entrance-
room, and good-sized but shallow supers (say 6 inches deep) safe
over them at the proper time, with a good-sized hole at top not
less than 2 inches in diameter. As these supers get fiUed, in-
troduce ekes without top hoards of 2 or 3 inches in depth, the
exact size of the super in length and breadth. Secm'e thesa
ekes to the supers by means of hooks and eyes, or by screwing
slips of wood on each side. If the hive itself ii small, add a
similar eke at bottom, so as to increase the queen's breeding
space, and so enlarge the honey- gathering population of the
luve.

5. In the case of stocks that are to be permitted to swarm,
give smaller supers, also at the proper time, to afford space and
opportunity for the storing of surplus bone}', and for the com-
fort of the bees till they are ready to swarm. If the stock hive
is small it will not be amiss to add a narrow eke soon after th9
bees have taken to the super.

6. Whether the swarm when it issues be a natm'al one or one

May 23, 1S73. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND OOTTAGE GARDENER.

423

artificially formed, as soon as liived place it where the parent
hive stood, removing the latter to a new stand. This practice
is now universally recommended by all bee-masters of note
both in Great Britain and America. It has had the test of
twenty-five years' experience — a great satisfaction to the dis-
coverer— your humble servant, an intelligent reader ! It insures
a magnificent swarm ; it checks all undue swarming ; it will
generally add a super or two in good seasons to the stores of the
wise bee-master who adopts it.

7. The proper time to add supers is just when the hives are
full of bees and brood, aui begin to gather outside at evening,
finding the stock inconveniently crowded and hot. — B. & W.

HIVES.

Tour valued contributor, Mr. Bevan Fox, has evidently mis-
taken the purport of my remarks at page 347. They were written
neither with reference to the storifyiug or collateral system,
nor to the use of large hives in general, but entirely and ex-
clusively with reference to the employment, when swarming is
allowed, of large hives of simple construction, alias big straw
skeps, measuring 16 or 18 inches in width by 12 in depth, or
even more. Consequently inferences based on results obtained
from large bar-boxes and supers are beside the mark and prove
nothing.

The system of Mr. Pettigi-ew, I understand, is that of our
grandfathers, and consists simply in allowing the bees to swarm,
and then lodging the cast in a straw skep. If there be any
peculiarity or special property in the system it is the great size
of skep used. Now, I atfirmed, and I still maintain on better than
mere theoretical grounds, that skeps of the dimensions given
are not, and never will be under the simple swarming system,
suitable for all localities. They have been tried and found
wanting. Mr. Bevan Fox may think a skep measuring 12i inches
by lUJ absurdly small, but it is large enough to allow of 3.5 or
40 lbs. of honey being stored, and an ordinary swarm can do
this in the course of a moderately favourable season. Large
skeps are proverbially late in casting, and if the swarms do not
come off till the season is advanced they are generally worili
little. Some districts, from the method of farming followed, are
almost destitute of white clover, and others are far from heather.
In a district six miles north-east of my residence every effort to
cultivate bees has failed. If a hive well found in honey is planted
down in it in spring, it will, through the season be favourable,
be at the verge of starvation before Christmas. Again, in
another district about the same distance on the opposite side of
my residence, any novice with skeps chosen at random can
obtain good suppUes of honey. But in poor districts the largest
akeps, though populous, yield small results, and I think I should
be put. in possession of better evidence than a mere ijise dixit to
convince me of a wide-spread conversion in Scotland in their
favour. — E. S.

DEIVING BEES FROM FRAME HIVES.

L.vsT year I wrote to you respecting some frame hives in
which the combs had been built crooked. You were good enough
to advise me to make an artificial swarm in May by driving out
the bees, and then at the end of twenty-one days to arrange the
combs properly. I endeavoured to eiject the first part of the
operation a few days since, but after rapping constantly and
vigorously for at least half an hour, the bees gave no sign of
commencing the ascent, and I therefore gave up the attempt.
I have often driven bees from box or straw hives, with or without
brood, without diiEculty. Is there any particular plan to be
adopted in the case of frame hives ? because it seemed to me
that, owing to the combs not being in contact with the sides of
the tuve, it was impossible to jar them sufficiently to frighten
the bees. I was obliged, therefore, to stupify them, notwith-
standing what you urged against it. The hives were not very
full, but there were drones. Would it he likely that there were
any young ijueens coming forward ? If not, as the fumigating
occupied some time, and I was obliged to take off the crown-
board, I am fearful lest the eggs may have become chilled. Is
it common for the bees not to build the combs straight in the
frames ? — L. C.

[We have seldom had to perform this operation of driving with
frame hives, as we always secure straight combs ; but in box
Mves, when we have experienced any difficulty in inducing the
bees to ascend, we have placed a roll of smoking rag in a box or
bucket underneath the inverted stock, leaving open the central
aperture in the crown-board. The smoke gradually percolating
through the combs soon causes the bees to be on the move. We
always drive into an ordinary strawbutt, rarely taking the trouble
to wrap a cloth round the place of junction, and, being well
protected, taking no heed of the flying bees. We find bees
ascend more readily than if the two hives are tied closely to-
gether. A strong col»ny will be more easily driven than a weak
one. Tour hive not being full of bees, it is hardly likely that
there would be any young queens coming forward. Unless vei'y

cold at the time you performed the operation, in which case you
ought on no account to have attempted it, we should hardly
imagine the eggs or brood could have been chilled. Unless
some trouble is taken in attaching guide-combs or applying a
narrow rim of melted wax along the centre of the bars, there is
no dependance to be placed on the bees constructing their combs
straight; and, after taking every precaution, it is advisable for
the bee-master to inspect his hives a few days after their being
peopled, taking out each comb and rectifying any irregularity at
once. It is a very good plan to alter the order of the combs
when replaced. Should any by this means come into contact,
on the next occasion of removal pare away any projections
where they may have been united by the bees, again altering
the position and order of the combs. By following this plan
you may insure having perfectly straight-combed frames.]

BEE TRAP.

How shall I get the bees out of my super ? This is a tiuestion
that crosses the mind of most bee-keepers when their supers are
ready to be taken off. There are several plans recommended
and tried, but each is attended with a great deal of trouble, and
loss of time and honey, &c. There has always been a want of
something to lessen this diificulty, and that something is supplied
in the form of a bee-trap, which has been invented and made by
a man named Aston, whose traps bear his name. They are made
to allow the bees to pass out from the super without the possi-

bUity of returning
to rob it. The follow-
ing is an illustration
of the bee-trap.

It has six open-
ings to let the bees
out; each opening
has a trap or fall
closing after the bee
has passed, and that
prevents returning.
The trap is secured
to the front edge of
a board that has a
groove cup to corre-
spond with the open-
ing in back of trap,
and continued part
of the way across the
board. When, early
in the day, the glass
or super is taken off
the hive, placed on
the board over the gi-oove, carrying it a little distance and
making it quite dark, admitting no light but at the entrance;
then, without any more trouble or watching, the bees will pass
out and fly back to their hive, leaving their super in a short time
quite free of bees.

[We have examined Mr. Aston's bee-trap, and consider it to
be an admirable contrivance, and well worth a trial. The bees
have every facihty for departure, but cannot return. It is much
on the principle of those simple contrivances by which Pigeons
can enter their lofts after a period of liberty, but are unable to
fly out again. We shall certainly make use of it ourselves this
summer, and report our success in due time. The inventor is
Mr. il. Aston, Upper Bar, Newport, Salop.]

FIXING COMBS— WINTER VENTILATION.

Place the frame on a board, fit the combs (right way up
wards), into the frame. The combs touching each other in
three or four places, melted wax is then dropped on to the junc-
tions and at intervals round the frame. I can by these means
dispense with clips of wood or zinc, and the smallest pieces of
comb can be utilised. Worker comb is usually too valuable for
supers, and should not be put in the same frame with drone
comb. I have ventilated my stocks this winter, and had no
trouble' from dampness, by putting a piece of perforated zinc
about an inch square over the feeding-hole, and covering with a
straw cap. Perhaps this may interest " Ligubian." — C. A. J.

Wax and Honbt. — According to Wagner, Corsica produc«l
the largest quantity of wax of all the countries of Europe, if not
in the world. In ancient, as well as in medieval times, the in-
habitants paid their taxes in wax, and supplied 2UU,U00 lbs.
annually. Since wax is to honey, in quantity, as 1 to 1.5, the
Corsicans must have gathered each year 3,000,000 lbs. of honey.
— {English Mechanic^

Dandelion foe Hops. — Woodaage (Teucrium), so abundant in
the hedges, is more like hops. It may be used as hops green or
dried. Sugar added to nettles or hops improves beer, or may be

424

jodrnaij of horticultube and cottage gaedener.

[ May 22, 1873.

■useil alone with woodsage to make beer as good as, and cheaper
than from malt. It is largely used at Burton. — B. H, W.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Light Br&hua's Plumage (J5. B.). — The creamy tinge you mention on
the plumage of a Light Brahma cock is not fatal toliia merits, more especially
if, as is usually the case, it is coatined to the Maddia. This shade in the bane
of all the white breedti. It is not the inevitable result of age, nor is it suffi-
ciently important to inluce us to discard a biid if thoroughly good in other
respects.

Egg-Producers (I.F. E.). — We are not fond of the ^Vhite Leghorn. The
Spanish and Crrve-Ciieur lay the largest eggs of any fowls we know, and they
lay them at the smallest cust. If thare be a fuwl especially sent to lay in the
winter it is the Crrve-Cueur. When eggs are suld by weight, as they will be
some day, Crfve-Cceurs and Spanish will go up. The diflereuce is great where
in a cookery-book you read a certain dish requires four eggs, whether they aie
Spanish or Hamburgh eggs.

Goose Sitting Twick (A.W.). — You may let your Goose sit again if she
desires to do so. The period of incubation is a period of rest, and every year
we are supplied through the winter with tender Geese from second clutches.
It is possible the hen eats her eggs. If she is in the condition you name she
muHt lay.

Promoting Ducklings Fattening (F. C. H.), — If you mean yoxir Ducks
to grow fast you must begin feeding at once. Let them have plenty of good
oatmeal in a shallow vessel, and some raw meat chopped very fine. We do
not care to give them much liberty during the first fortnight of their lives,
not such liberty as consists in running about fields — merely such as they get
in eemi-coufiuement, but at a fortnight or three weeks old they may have a
daily run for an hour or two, not more. They should then be shut in a small
place — an old pigstye is a very good one — and fed on ground oats mixed ia
water and raw flesh, or soaked greaves. The run may be, at this time of year,
from seven till nine.

Hens Laying Unmated [E. C. B.). — All the use of the cock is to fertilise
the eggs, he has nothing to do with laying them. We take especial care our
hens shall not get out, and there is no cock near the hens under rips with
chickens ; but we frequently take eggs out of the rips, and they are laid as
regularly as possible. With every egg the hen lays her affection for her offspring
diminirihes, until at length she becomes a very iwiratre, and receives her
till-then idolised chickens with more kicks than kisses. We transfer her then
to the ordinary run, which suits her better.

Chickens Dwindling (A. D. C.]. — As you reared eighty-four chickens out
of eighty-sii hatched you have little to complain of, and need hardly ask of
what disease the " unhappy two " died. One of the best practical ornitho-
logists we ever knew gave it at his experience, after fifty years' close obser-
vation, that one bird in four of all hatched in the world always died. We
agree with him. Children's complaints, and the junior evils the flesh is heii'
to, carry them off, and this in spite of good food and every care. It is against
our habit to hide behind generalities, and we therefore tell you that the
symptoms you describe are those of chickens suffering from parasites. They
are probably the darlings of two broods, and " brandy would not save them."
The disease is the result of bad constitution, and were they as strong as their
brethren they would pull through the attack. You are vei'y little over the
most favoured town in England according to the bills of mortality, and you
must " rest and be thankful." Nothing cau be better than your feeding.

Hens not Sitting (EUtrce). — We cannot understand why your hens do
not sit, unless it is that the weather ia unfavuiu-able to maternity in any
respect. Do not be impatient ; they will soon ask you for eggs. When we
went Into our house this muraing and saw the ruffled Friesland hens, and
heard the " cursing and swearing " there was when we disturbed and tiu'ned
them out, we wished they were like yours.

" Tout vient, a qui sait atteudre."

Kailway Errors (T. S.). — The death of your bird owing to the railway

officials' mistake is very annoying, and if you could prove who was in error

you might recover the value of the bird from the company who employed him.

Ei'WLtKTH Show. — Mr. S. Ball informs us that he won the first prize for

Himalayan Babbits.

Marking Young Pigeons (H. F.). — We have often found great difliculty
in marking Pigeons. Feai'iug to injure their legs, we have tied round them
wools of different colours, making a note as to what each colour meant, but
the wool in time came off when the birds bathed. Then we cut the tips off
from one of the feathers (first, second, thhd, &c.) of the wings, making a
note also of the why; but the feathers were lost in moulting, neither cmld
the birds so marked bo exhibited. Our trouble was at one time very great, as
we kept a large number of Fantails of the same colour. Your idea of some-
thing to snap on the legs made of steel, each one bearing a number, is an
excellent notion, but we know of none as yet in the market. We suggest this
plan to Mr. Crook.

Value of Old Pigeon Books (Top Saicyer). — Girton's was published
after the Treatise, the authorities at the Biitinh Sluaeum think as late as
IttUU. We incline to the belief that it was Bomewhat earlier. It is much
more common than the Treatise. We have bought three copies at different
times at one shilling each, and in good preservation. Each copy was picked
out by us at old bookstalls. The Treatise is much rarer, and we have never
been able to get a copy. Still it may be bought, as friends of ours hate done
BO. There is one edition on large paper, which is much more valuable and much
better got-up; yet this we have known bought for a mere trifle. The most
rai'6 is Moore's " Columbarium," which few indeed possess. It is not the
most useful, as it has no pictures and the letter-press is brief, but it was the
first of the series. They rank thus — Moore, a first edition ; Treatise, second
edition of Moore with improvements ; Girtou. third edition enlarged and im-
proved. All these old books are more valuable now that Pigeons are more
highly thought of. If you want to sell your books, offer them in our columns
to the highest bidder.

" For the value of a thing

Is just exactly what 'twill bring."
Kabbit's Fur Coming off (A Young jRfdtit-r).— Your Rabbit seems to be
troubled with the mange or scurf. Sprinkle the parts affected with flour of
sulphur; and if not removed by this application, soak for two or three hours
half an ounce of Limerick roll tobacco in half a pint of hnb water, and when
co<il apply to all parts affected evdry day for three days^the eyelids, nose, aud
routs of ears if troubled, which is frequeuily the case. "When a Babbit is
suffering from this rather tediuus complaint except taken in time — and all
Rabbits kept in close ill-ventilated hutches are liable to it— remove all
others from it, and wash, all feeding dishes and whitewash the hutch to avoid
contagion.

Feeding Parrot (C. D.).— We should advise you to give the grey Parrot
the cold sopped bread and milk two days running, on the next the rice boiled
in milk, and on the fourth day the soaked Indian corn. In addition to this a
smaU quantity of hemp and Canary seed mixed should be put in a separate
tm every day, and a little fresh water in another tin in its cage. We should
also occasionally give it some watercress, a radish, or a piece of raw potato,
and sometimes a nut or some orange ; but it should never taste pastry, meat,
nor, m fact, anything that has fat in it.

Bees in Tavlou's Bar Hive {Miss B., a Subscriber).— Hive your swarm
into the lower of Taylor's bar-hive boxes, and put on a super as soon as the
bees have pretty weU filled the hive. If you put the swarm in place of your
actual stock, removing the latter to some other stance, you will have a very
large swarm, on which you may put a super in three weeks' time, and get a
good deal of honey. The old stock will probably not swarm again.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION'S,

Camden Square, London.

Lat, 5r 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0"^ 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Datk.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

1873.

Hygrome-
ter.

it

Shade Tem-
perature.

Radiation
Temperature.

a

Miy.

In . On

W "

Dry.

Wet.

0°

^..„

Max.

Min.

sun. grass

We. U

IncheB

deg.

deg.

(leg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

46.2

42.6

N.

63.8

55.1

S6.1

76.8

81.5

30.086

47.8

43.0

N.W.

02.6

62.0

41.3

11U.8

86.6

Fri. 16

29.»aj

49.9

45.6

E.

62.4

57.8

38.1

105.6

84.8

29.675

63.9

47.1

N.E.

52.3

61.0

42.0

110.4

39.0

0.070

29 6J4

48.2

47.2

N.

52.2

&i3

45.6

68.3

46.1

Mo. 19

2a.9 S

45.4

42.2

N.

53.9

66 1

41.8

101.6

41.8

—

la. 20

30.335

50.0

41.0

N.

49.8

62.2

32.9

108.2

29.6

0.010

Means

29.375

48.8

44 5

52.0

53.1

89.7

97.4

36.9

O.OBO

REMARKS.
14th, — Fair all day, very bright at times, but very cold compared vrith Monday,

the 12th.
15th. — Fair, but dull morning; fine afternoon and evening.
Kith. — Rather dull morning; very fine, though cold the after part of the day.
17th. — Vei7 fine till noon, then cloudy; raiu at '6 p.m., but not heavy till

between 5 and 6 i-.m. ; rainy the remainder of the day.
18th. — Dark and dull in morning, a few gleams of sun between 11 a.m. and

noon, but a dull day; sprinkles of rain dui-ing the after part.
19th. — Dull and cold all day, a little sunshine between 5 and 0 p.m. ; very

bright starHt night.
20th. — A very beautiful day, much sun, and the air much warmer than it has

been lately, though still cold for the time of the year.
A cold dull week, except the last day, which was very fine ; temperature
about t)"' below the previous week, and much below the average. — G. J. bvMoss.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— May 21.
Moderate business transactions are current, with a tendency to lowes
prictis, as the supply is well kept up. Importations continue heavy, and
further advices mention a lai'ge addition being made to them in the event ot
a few days of fine weather setting in.

8. d. B. d. ,
0
0

0 '\

Apples i sieve

Apricots doz. 2 0

CuemeB V box 8 0

CbeatnutB bushel 0 0

Curranla i sieTo 0 0

Black do. 0 0 0 0

Figs doz. 6 0 10 0

Fub«rtB lb. 0 0 0 0

Cobs lb. 2 0 2 6

GooseberriL»8 quart 1 0 a o

GrapeB, holhuuse lb. 6 0 12 0

Lemons V 100 6 0 in 0

M«lon3 aach 6 0 12 0

s. d. s. d.

Mulberries ^Ib. 0 OtoO

Nectarines doz. 0 0 0

Oranges ^^ 100 4 0 10

Peaches doz. 15 0 80

Peara, kitchen ooz. 1 0 S

dessert doz. 6 0 18

Pine Apples lb. 8 0 12

Plums i sieve 0 0 (J

Quinces doz. 0 0 0

Kaspberriea lb. 0 0 0

Strawberries ^1*02. 0 G 1

Walnuts bushel 15 0 30

ditto ^;*100 2 0 2

VEGETABLES.

Artichokes doz.

Asparag^us ^100

Frtnch

B«ans. Kidnsy ^ 100

Beet, Red doz.

Brocculi bundle

Cabbajo doz.

Cftpsicumi ^100

Carrots bunch

Cauliflower doa.

CoUry bnudla

Colaworts.. do£. bonLhaa
Cncambers each

pickling doz.

Bndive doz.

Fennsl banch

Garlic lb.

fcierbi bunch

Horseradish bundle

Loska bunch

Lettufle doz.

I. d. B.
3 0to6
3 0 G
6 0 IS
1 tl a
0 S

Mashrooma pottle

Mustard A Cress. .punnet
Onions ^ bushel

piokUug quart

Parsley per doz. bunches

Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Round do.

Radishes., doi. bunches

Rhubarb bundle

Salsafy ^bundle

Savoys doz.

Scorsonera.. .. ■i^ bundle

Sea-kale basket

Shallots lb.

Spinach bushel

Tomatoes doz.

Turnips bunch

Yttffetabla Narrows

B. d. B. a.

0 0to2 &
0 2 0

POULTRY MARKET.— May 21.
Terrible weather! nothing grows, and chickens are dying. This is oui
cuckoo note from all breeders.

s. d. s. d.

Large Fowls 6 0 to 6 6

Smallerditto 5 0 £6

Cbiokene 4 0 4 fi

Goslings 7 0 8 0

Guinea Fowls 8 6 4 C

Ducklings 4 0 4 6

d. s. d.
Pheasan's 0 OtoO 0-

Partridges 0 0

Hares 0 0

Rabbi'.B 1 6

Wildditto 0 9

Pigeons 0 9

0 •

0 e

1 7
0 10
0 10

May 29, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

425

WEEKLY

CALENDAR.

Day

of
Month

Day

of

Week.

MAY 29— JUNE 4, 1873.

Average Tempera-
ture near London.

Rain in
13 years.

Sun
Eiaea.

Sun

Sets.

Moon
Rises.

Moon

Sets.

Moon'B
Age.

Clock 1 Day
after , of
Sun. Year.

29
■30
81
1
2
3
4

Th

F
S

Son
M
To
W

Meeting of Royal Society, 8.30 P.ll.
No real night.
Oxford Trinity Teim ends.
Whit-Sundav. [ General Holiday.
Meeting of Entomological Society, 7 p.m.
Meeting of Zoological Society, 8.a0 p.m.
Koyal Horticultural Society's Great Show
[ opens.

Day.

67.5
68.4
69.4
68.4
68.9
69.4
69.3

Night.
44.1
44.7
44.8
45.9
45.1
44.2
44.4

Mean.
,55.8
66.6
57.1
57.2
67.0
66.8
66.9

Days.
16
17
16
15
19
21
15

m. h.
63af3
63 8
61 8
60 3
49 3
49 3
48 3

m. h.
lafS
8 8

4 8

5 8

6 8

7 8

8 8

m. b.
63 5
55 6

4 8
15 9
26 10
35 11

after.

m. h.
83 11

morn.

9 0
85 0
65 0
10 1
24 1

Days.
3

4
6
6
7
))
9

m. B. 1
2 53 149
2 45 150
2 86 1 151
2 27 1 162
2 18 ) 163
2 8 154
1 68 155

From observationB taien near London during forty-threo years, the average day temperature of the -week is 68.7^ ; and its night temperature
44.7°. The gieatest heat was 80", on the 2nd, 1834 ; and the lowest cold 25°, on the 29th, 18C5. The gieatest fall of rain was 1.02 mch.

WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF CANKER?— HOW TO
SUCCEED WITH FRUIT TREES AND ROSES.

SHOULD be glad to be the means of pro-
moting a little discussion on the cause and
cure of canker, also to learn if it is the
experience of your readers that the past
year has been the most remarkable within
the last twenty or thirty years for the de-
velopment of this disease. Such is my ex-
perience ; is It general ? We have a lot of
young trees that I planted about five years
ago ; some of them, although planted shal-
low in the best soil that could be procured, the i-oots kept
close to the surface, and prevented from going deeper than
18 inches or '2 feet, have yet been more or less affected
from the second or third year after planting. Notably
diseased are Margil, Kerry Pippin, Sykehouse Russet,
Gooseberry Pippin, Rymer, Alfriston, Golden Pippin,
Court of Wick, Oourt-Pendu-Plat, Irish Peach, Ashmead's
Kernel, &c. Now, all these made satisfactory gi'owth
from the first, and having had unusually dry summers, or
at least for two years, I have good reason to believe the
wood was well ripened. They began, however, to show
signs of canker, and grew worse year after year, despite
all precautions, until last autumn, or rather this spring,
when they were much disfigured — indeed, some were
completely killed. The best of them, and they are
few, I have regi'afted with the sorts that seem to be the
least subject to disease. They are Cox's Orange Pippin,
which stands deservedly high, and bears when quite
young; Golden Har\'ey; Sturmer Pippin, fruit not per-
fection ; London Pippin, shy bearer ; Dumelow's Seed-
ling ; Codlins in variety ; Waltham Abbey Seedling ;
Tower of Glamis ; Barcelona Pearmain, old trees ;
Devonshire Quarrenden, Early Harvest, and Flower of
Kent. Strange to say, Lord Suf&eld is but little affected.
These, with others here, stand so far pi-etty well. There
is an Apple called the Red Wine, of very dwarf growth,
and a sure bearer every year, of which I have old trees,
and very free from canker ; this sort is to be recommended
for unfavourable situations.

What to me appears extraordinary is that of trees of
the same variety growing side by side, and for aught I
know worked on the same kind of stock, one is entirely
free, the other completely destroyed. Can anyone ac-
count for this ? It is generally said that the gi'eat causes
of canker are the roots growing in uncongenial soils, going
down too deeply, &o. No doubt these are causes; but
how comes it that trees are affected whose roots cannot
go more than 18 inches deep — nay, less than that, and
which have a mass of healthy fibrous roots ?

As I have already remarked, last season was exception-
ably favourable to the production of canker. Here fine
healthy trees .5 feet and upwards high are destroyed. It
must be borne in mind that when I say the last " season,"
I speak up to the time of the trees breaking into growth,
as I find some of them that when pruned showed little
or no signs of disease are now wrecks. I have no doubt

No. 635.— Vol XXIV., New Series.

so much wet and sunless weather as wo had last year
caused the wood to be soft and unripened, and that in
consequence the trees fell an easy prey to any disease.
What can be done ? is the question. My idea is to pro-
tect them ; for I believe the evil is caused at least as
much by atmospheric changes as by the soil.

I have here taken up trees with perfectly healthy roots,
but the heads were positive wrecks. The soil is undoubt-
edly unsuitable to fruit trees as a rule, as evidenced by
the few stunted miserable objects which the people call
their Apple trees. I am constantly being asked the reason,
and I can only recommend planting varieties which are
found to grow freely. Such are few, and out of the reach
of the many ; but if a little interest were taken by a
gentleman or his gardener, with perseverance, I am con-
vinced, fruit in plenty can be grown even in unfavourable
districts. Do not be guided by lists of supposed good
sorts, for I beUeve it is impossible to tell which to grow,
except by proof on the spot. Do not be in a hurry to
plant ; look round you, see what sorts are thriving close
at hand, and if they are not very choice, never mind,
" half a loaf is better than no bread." Plant some of the
most approved sorts with them ; buy cheap but healthy
young maiden trees, any loss will be less felt ; plant them
rather thickly, so that if one-half or three-foui'ths of them
should fail it will only be a matter of time to replace
them with other sorts for trial, or you may fill up with
varieties which stand well. Do not be disappointed if
some of them prove good trees for a few years, and in a
year hke the last you find it necessary to head them
down and graft with others which stand the test of time.
In the end you wiU get your place stocked with ti'ees that
will repay you for your labour and perseverance.

With regard to soil, it is of no use to enter into that
subject, for it is just possible that the soil which best suits
the trees is not to be had. I find great reluctance on the
part of employers to allow that whicli is best. " Spoil
my field for the sake of the garden ! oh dear no. How
absurd ! " However, there is yet a sort of gardener's free-
hold ; it is the sides of the highways. The fatter this
soil is the better, and it is well if the scrapings have
accumulated there for years. Trees here are less affected
growing in such soil than when then- roots are in the top
spit of a pasture.

I repeat, study the varieties in the neighbourhood,
and, remember, there may be a favoui'ed spot. The
question is. Is yours the same ? if not, do not take it
as a guide, but go to that which is most like your own.
Within a few miles of me I can see fruit trees of all
kinds, and canker unknown. Roses, too, thrive well ;
and this reminds me that I have noted that where Roses,
especially on the Briar, thrive, there one can depend on
fruit trees succeeding well likewise. They both like a
red soil, be it a heavy clay, sandy loam, or marly loam ;
anything approaching peat or heavy black ferruginous
clay, is detestable to them ; in soils of these descriptions
they are shorter-lived and far more subject to disease.

I find Roses here grow very indifl'erently. Although a
digression I will note a case of surmounting the difficulty

No. 1287— VOL.XLIX., OldSf.ries.

426

jouknaij of hokticultuee and cottage gaedeneb.

( May 29, 1873.

of growing Eoses iu such a situation, and I do so because the
same treatment applies to fruit trees. "When I came here I
saw what had been a large bed of dwarf Eoses, in which I
think six dozen had been originally planted, but I found only
six plants with about two dozen line Manetti Eoses standing
from 4 to 5 feet high. I was asked why those that were
growing strongly (the ilanetti) did not bloom. I could not
help laughing, for the Eoses had died while the stocks had
thriven. (Atmospheric cause again, I doubt.) It was only a
matter of time for them to be grubbed-up and cast on the
rubbish heap ; but, thought I, this is a chance not to be thrown
away. I therefore made some dozens of cuttings out of those
fine heads, and within twelve months of that date the bed
was filled with a tine lot of young plants. " Bought-in from
the nursery, I suppose." " No, better than them, for they
may go in the same way as their predecessors ; they are from
the cuttings struck iu the spring in rich soil and a sheltered
situation, and budded in the summer with the few varieties
that were found growing in the bed and a few others about
the place." These now present a very fair bed. This seems
to me the way to manage fruit trees, though a great variety of
kinds, and some of them, perhaps, very choice, may be want-
ing. Eose trees are far less attacked by canker when pro-
tected by walls than when grown as bushes or otherwise.

I have a Eibston Pippin sixty years old trained against a
wall ; it had been badly managed, and when I came here it
had formed a hedge from 3 to 4 feet high on the top of a 12-feet
wall; this, of course, was soon displaced, and j'oung wood en-
couraged to fill up the lower parts. The roots were not dis-
turbed, and have an unlimited range ; big bulky roots they
are, and I know not how deep they are. I can answer for
4 feet, and that, too, in as unfavourable a soil as can be found
— they call it' poison here. Yet this old tree is almost free
from canker, very vigorous, and produces a good crop yearly.
Five years ago I planted, with several dozen other trees, a
healthy young espaher of the same sort. Everything was done
to prevent its roots going deeper than 18 inches ; it was pro-
vided with fresh soil and properly taken care of; yet this tree,
though it grew well for thi-ee years, is eaten almost to death
with canker : still, the roots are perfect.

I will give another instance — that of an old Hawthornden.
Everyone knows the liability of this sort to become badly af-
fected with canker. Singularly enough, it is almost free from
it : its roots are restrained within no bounds, it has not the
protection of a wall, and it bears profusely every year. The
roots are extremely deep, in soil of the vilest character. How
can one account for the tree's success ? Is it because it requires
little or no pruning ? for even pruning causes canker both of
the roots and shoots. Trees in weU-prepared borders are cer-
tainly so badly affected this year as to be quite worthless. I
enclose a branch for inspection, also roots, to show that these
are quite healthy. It will be seen by the specimens that they
are affected with a modification of the disease generally called
canker. There is no enlargement previous to its appearance,
as a rule. The first symptom is a small reddish-brown spot
generally at the base of a bud; often, too, at the end where
the shoot was cut, &c. Old wood does not appear to be at-
tacked in this way, but where the disease does appear on it
it is of the usual character. I wish particularly to note the
peculiarity of its only appearing in the last two years' growths,
leaving the older and better-ripened wood of the previous dry
season's growth quite free. Can there be a better proof that
the atmosphere plays a great part in inducing the disease ?

The Apple is not the only tree so attacked, all others suffer
more or less. Let me cite a case that puzzles me, and respect-
ing which I should like to hear the opinion of some of your
readers. It is that of some Teach trees on a south wall. They
were replanted in a new border March twelvemonth, and they
have thriven remarkably well since, but the shoots have all,
or nearly all, died back to the previous year's wood at from
18 inches to 2 feet from the ground ; from there upwards the
trees are as perfect as can be. The first appearance of the
evil was a small brown spot about the size of a pin's head
throughout the last summer's growth ; it spreads with great
rapidity, and within a few days it surrounds the otherwise
vigorous shoots with a black band, and of course causes death.
One is led to think that in this case wo may look for the cause
in obnoxious gases emanating from the soil ; at least I am led
to beUeve so, or why should not the disease appear through-
out the tree ? The roots can have nothing to do with it, nor
is the growth less vigorous at the bottom.

I will now make a few more remarks about canker to prove

that the roots alone cannot produce it. I headed-down a few
rather large trees, on account of their not being prohfic, or of
the fruit being worthless ; nevertheless, they were perfectly
healthj' and free from canker. One of them was grafted with
several varieties three years ago, and now there is not a sound
graft on it ; indeed, the greater part of them died back last
autumn and winter to the union with the stock. I am at a loss
to account for so sudden and complete an attack. Occasion-
ally a tree or one of its branches affected with ordinary canker
will live for years if well attended to ; but the form of the
disease which proved so destructive here last year is rapid
iu its action. That sudden atmospheric changes are one
great cause I have no doubt. I have found that trees which
showed no signs of disease before, have, when replanted or root-
pruned, been attacked in a remarkable degree. Pruning seems
to produce it, particularly this season, the cut end being the
only part affected. Agahi, if the soil is the cause, why is the
disease developed in winter when the tree's vegetation is in-
active ? Why is it not carried all over the tree as the sap
flows ? Whether the beginnings of the disease are made in
summer or winter I do not know, but most probably at the fall
of the leaf. Certainly the most favourable time for its spread
is a mild wet winter. When sharp dry winds and frost prevail
it does not appear — at least, such is my experience.

Notwithstanding all drawbacks, however, I have trees, and
not a few of them too, that are perfect, and which would be a
credit to the person who had charge of them in far more
favourable situations. I am proud to look at them. I say to
all who are similarly placed, that with due knowledge and
perseverance fruit can be grown in situations where success is
thought almost impossible. Make a good beginning, and con-
tinue improving until you attain your end. To give up after
one or two failures will not do ; to fight with difficulties and
overcome them, should be the gardener's ambition. To have
a lot of young healthy trees and plant them iu unprepai'ed
soil, cannot but disappoint ; indeed, it is money and time
thrown away. Employers, too, must give the gardener more
scope, and let him have what is necessary. Where the situa-
tion is unfavourable, after one lot of trees has been bought it
is a mistake to think that ever afterwards there will be an
abundance of fruit, and that no more trees will be needed ; for
it is possible that in a year or two half of them should bo
replaced with other sorts, or more of those which are doing
well will have to bo planted. I was told, when engaged for this
place, no fruit tree could be grown. Here are the measure-
ments of a few ordinary nursery four or five-branched trees,
planted four years last March —

Width.

Plums 14 feet B inches .

Peaches .... 12 feet 6 inches .

Cherries 13 feet 3 inches .

Pears 8 feet 9 inches .

Nectarines . . 17 feet

Height.

. . 0 feet 3 inches .... Good crop.

. . 7 feet 6 inches .... Good crop.

. . 9 feet 6 inches Good prospect.

. . 9 feet 100 fruit on it.

9 feet G inches .... Few fruit.

Pyramid Trees. — Pears, 8 feet high ; Apples, 7 feet high.

The above are a fair sample, and all of them are well fur-
nished and pictures of health. They have been replanted or
root-pruned once during the four years. AU, except the pyra-
mids of course, are on walls. What, not able to grow fruit
trees! Try, good readers, try. — J. Tayloe, ilacsgu-ynne,
South Wales.

PELARGONIUMS AS EXHIBITION AND
DECORATIVE PLANTS.

" Evert dog has its day," and the same may be said of
every flower. At one time Hyacinths and Tulips are the rage,
and a single bulb brings a fabulous price. At another time
Orchids are the fashion, and fifty or a hundred guineas are
readily obtained for a small specimen of a rare species. Now
we wonder that our ancestors could be so foolish as to barter
away fields and horses for their favourites ; thirty years hence,
in all probability, our successors wUl have a similar opinion of
us in respect to the Orchid mania. Then our plant stoves are
overdone with " foliage ;" the old-fashioned flowering plants are
dethroned for plants with immense cabbaging leaves — Anthu-
riums, Alocasias, Begonias, &c., all very well in their way, but
ijuite out of place in small houses ; indeed, we may even be
overdone with the foliage of the graceful Pahns.

In the rage for fashionable flowers the subjects of this paper
have been somewhat neglected, but this neglect is merely tem-
porary, and, like " the early cloud, or morning dew," will soon
pass away. The Pelargonium is one of the best decorative plants
for the cottager's window, and its rich and varied hues are

May 29, 1878. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

427

equally effective in the greenhouse or conservatory. The plants
are also at the present time one of the principal features at our
exhibitions, and as there exhibited are compact masses of
bloom, in some cases as much as 0 feet over, the marvel being
thai such a mass of leaves and flowers can be supported and
brought to so high a degree of perfection in a pot limited to
8J inches in diameter. The potting material is rich turfy
loam, firmly compressed in the pots, yet sufficiently porous to
allow the water to drain through, as the plants require an
enormous supply during the latter stages of theii- growth. A
perfect thicket of sticks is required to support the flower-
trusses, which would otherwise be much damaged in their
transit to and from the exhibition. Such large specimens are
very well for the purpose for which they are grown, and are
highly creditable to those who have the time and patience to
bring them to such perfection ; but I very much question if
they are productive of so much real enjoyment to their owners
as more humble plants are to the lovers of flowers for their
own sake.

For general purposes small plants grown in 4, 5, and G-inch
pots are the most useful. Even in the smallest size compact
little plants may be grown, each with a dozen or more trusses
of flowers. Such plants are very useful for all decorative pur-
poses, and the pots fit well into the small vases used in draw-
ing-rooms.

The stage Pelargonium is easily propagated ; cuttings may
be taken either when the old plants are cut-down in August,
or early in April when the young growths are thinned-out. I
insert one cutting in the centre of a small CO-sized pot in light
Bandy soil, and place the pots in a frame where they have a
very little bottom heat ; they may be shaded during the first
four days, but only lightly. In two weeks they will have
formed roots, when they should be freely aired, but be allowed
to remain two or three weeks longer. Each of the plants, if
potted into a 5-inch pot, wiU produce a few trusses the same
season, and will make a strong flowering plant the following
year. Cuttings put in when the old plants are cut-down ought
not to be rooted in bottom heat, as they are apt to rot. If
they are placed on shelves near the glass in an airy pit or
greenhouse, every one of them will emit roots.

The new varieties sent out within the last four or five years
are a great advance on those grown previously. I will add a
short list of good sorts, which will be useful to intending pur-
chasers. Achievement, Beacon, Celeste, Charles Turner, Cor-
sair, Example, John Hoyle, Lilacina, l\Iaid of Honour, Mary
Hoyle, Pompey, Progress, Purpurea, Warrior, and William
Hoyle. — J. DonoLis.

THE ROSES AT CALCOT.

Calcot is three miles from Reading on the Bath road. Mr.
Webb has there upwards of one thousand Marechal Niel Roses.
Many of these are at this moment (May 21st), in flower, all in
the open air, and those that are coming on promise an almost
endless succession.

It is well worth while making a pilgrimage to Calcot. Ap-
proaching from the public road by an avenue that rather re-
minds one of Christian and the lions, as the gauntlet has to be
run of four magnificent bloodhounds, all dancing np and down
and endeavouring to break their chains, but who would not
barm anyone, Mr. Webb thinks, even if they succeeded — having
rung the door-beU after this peouUar fashion — that is to say,
by a timid approach having set the dogs roaring, the pilgrim
wiU, probably, feel somewhat relieved by observing the speedy
approach of the courteous owner.

Passing over all the other wonders of the place, as becomes
a rosarian, the one-hundred-years-old Apple tree, the Vine five
times as large as the Vine at Hampton Court, and the grave-
yard of Alcohol with its monumental inscription, let us pro-
ceed at once to the king of 'the Tea and Noisette tribe of
Boses. It is to be found at Calcot under every possible charao •
ter. Upon walls of all aspects, on the Manetti, on the Briar,
and principally on its o>vn roots, which is what Mr. Webb
prefers, Mareohal Niel is to be found, I should imagine in
unequalled profusion. From the cutting of last season which
is just starting, to the king of the garden growing alone, and
which might almost be mistaken for a forest tree, Marechal
Niel is to be seen everywhere, in every stage of robustness of
growth and luxuriance. Mr. Webb began cutting blooms
from this Rose in February last, he will probably go on cut-
ting them unto February come round again. The number
of Roses in prospect might glut even the London market,

where, I believe, all Calcot produce is eagerly sought after.
These Roses have no manure, with the exception of a httle
leaf mould occasionally put to them, no protection in winter,
no very large amount of attention, and yet they are un-
equalled, take them altogether, for growth and produce.
No doubt the marvellously stiff and rich clay in which they
grow has much to do with this, aud Mr. Webb has allowed,
very judiciously, but little interference with successful nature.
This is certainly the place to see what this grandest of all
Roses is capable of under suitable circumstances. To all who
would learn to grow Marochal Niel in perfection we would say,
Go and caU upon the Rose king at Calcot ! — A. C.

FLOWEES FOR OUR BORDERS.— No. 7.

CALOCHORTUS VENUSTUS.— Spotied-flowered Caiochortcs.

This strikingly beautiful bulbous plant was introduced into
England in 1832. This species, with several of the others, is
a native of Northern California, where the winters are not
much less severe than in England, and the changes of tem-
perature even more trying than in our proverbially fickle
cUmate. The common Tiger flower, Tigridia pavonia, although
brought from intertropical Mexico, is nevertheless so easily
grown and increased among us, that good flowering bulbs may
be bought for two or three shillings a-dozen. Like the Tiger
flower, the species are very impatient of wet in the winter
season, and it is doubtless to the combined effects of cold and
moisture at this period, and from want of protection from the
autumnal rains, by which the maturation of the bulbs is
hindered, that so many of them have perished.

CalochortuB venuatue.

Although brought from a cUmate where frost is by no means
unknown, it is therefore not advisable to risk them in the open
air during the winter months ; or, if the experiment is tried,
it should be only where the soil is sandy, and the bulbs at
least 6 inches below the surface, and covered with a large pan
or pot to preserve the soil in as dry a state as possible. Where
there is the convenience of a frame to place over the bulbs,
they may safely be left in the ground all the year, the protec-
tion being of course removed as soon as all danger from spring
frosts has ceased.

When this plan cannot be adopted, as the bulbs generally
begin to grow before it would be prudent to plant them in the
open ground, it will be better to pot them about the middle or
end of February, in a soil composed of sandy loam, with a
portion of leaf mould, placing a little sand under and around
each bulb, which should be planted about 3 inches deep, over
an ample drainage of broken crocks. The pot must be kept
from frost, and if the compost be moderately damp when used,
but httle or no water will be requisite until the leaves have
made their appearance above the soil.

428

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

[ May an, 1873.

In ?Iay the pot may bo plunged into the borders, or the
entire ball of earth may be turned out, if care be taken not to
disturb the roots. In following the former plan, we have the
advantage of being able to remove the plant from the ground
as Bflon as the flowering season is past, and thus protect it
from rain to any desired extent ; the pot can also be then
more fully exposed to the sun's influence, by which the ripen-
ing of the bulb will be materially aided ; and this is of so much
the more importance, that we believe the whole secret of the
successful cultivation of the Calochorti consists in getting the
bulbs ripened at an early period of the autumn. When planted
without the pot, the bulbs should on no account be dug up
before the foliage has decayed ; where this does not take place
so quickly as is desirable, it may be greatly assisted by screening
the plant from moisture in any form.

When removed from the soO the bulbs shoiild be dried in
the shade, and carefully preserved from damp and frost until
the return of spring. Those which may have been planted in
a pot will, however, be best kept in it during the winter, the
soil being allowed to become entirely dry after the decay of the
stems and foliage.

Each bulb produces one or two stems about 18 inches or
2 feet high, with linear pointed leaves, fewer in number than
in most of the other spf cies. The flowers, two on each stem,
are produced about midsummer, and, uuUke those of the
Trigridiawe have more than once referred to, remain expanded
several days ; and from the beautiful manner in which the
petals are spotted with crimson and yellow stains upon a pure
■white ground, present, when fully open, a truly magnificent
appearance. The petals of all the species are curiously bearded,
either at the base or a short distance above it, as in the case
of the species represented.

The genus comprises four or five other species, all very
handsome plants, although the one we have figured is certainly
the most remarkable. The flowers of Calochortusluteus, which
is rather hardier than the others, are yellow, beautifully spotted
with brown ; those of C. splendens, lilac ; of C. palUdus, a pale
dingy brown ; of C. macrocarpus, purple ; and of C. nitidue,
purple ; but we have never met with any account of this last-
named species, and we therefore imagine that it has not yet
been introduced to this country. They are all increased by
offsets, and also by seed, which must be sown as soon as ripe.

Well defined as are the leading characters of most of the
natural orders or tamiUes into which botanists, for conveni-
ence, have divided the vegetable kingdom, there are few of
them which are not by some of their genera connected with
other orders ; so that, however dissimilar many of these fami-
lies may at first sight appear, they aU, in reality, merge into
each other by almost imperceptible gradations, and form parts
of one harmonious whole.

Illustrations of tbis truth may be readily found in the
natural order, the Lily tribe, to which the genua Calochortus
belongs. In this order, the outer whorl of floral leaves, or
sepals as they are termed, are of the same colour and substance
as the inner whorl, or petals, being, in other words, petaloid ;
and, in fact, they resemble each other so closely, that in certain
genera it is difficult to distinguish them.

But in the genus under consideration, there is a departure
from the type of the order ; the three sepals being green and
leafy, and altogether different in their appearance to the three
petals, approaching in this particular the Spiderwort tribe,
Commelinaceffi, although in other respects it agrees with the
characteristics of the order in which it is placed. It is very
closely allied to the Fritillaries and the genus Cyclobothra,
but is destitute of the pit-like nectary at the base of the divi-
sions of the flower, by which those two genera are distinguished.
The generic designation Calochortus, like so many other
botanical terms, is derived from the Greek, and is compounded
of lialox, beautiful, and cltortos, grass. Most, if not all, of the
species we possess were sent to the London Horticultural
Society from California l)y poor Douglas, whose untimely
end botanists of every land will not soon cease to deplore. —
(W. Thompson's English Flower Garden.)

The Kotal Horticultueal Society's Show at Bath is fast
approaching. Will some one kindly suggest one or two sub-
jects for discussion at the Congress ? I know Mr. Thistelton
Dyer will be glad of any subject being suggested likely to be
of general interest, but we must not run into the error of the
last Congress of having too many papers and no discussion.
I should suggest two evening sittings in a room, not a tent, not

more than two papers each night, but each paper on the same
subject ; twenty minutes for the first paper, fifteen for the se-
cond; fifteen minutes for prepared speakers, ten minutes for
those who send in their cards to the Chairman. The Chairman
to have the power of selection in case more cards be sent in than
time will admit. Prepared speakers to send in then" names
before the day, and not more than two to be selected, but any
not selected to have the preference at the discussion as ten-
minute speakers. If not opening too wide a field for scientific
discussion, I should like to hear a congress debate on the proper
functions of leaves, and whether they can absorb moisture, (Sic.
— C. P. Peach.

A FEW WORDS on PLANTING BEDDING PLANTS.

We are from various chxumstanees late this season, and
instead of having planted we are merely preparing, and will
scarcely do much before this appears. Many are regretting,
they planted out tender subjects before the sharp frost of the
past week. The plants were safer than they would otherwise
have been owing to the comparative dryness of the air during
the frost. Owing to this our Apple and Strawberry blossoms,
the latter opening nicely, have suffered Uttle or nothing, though
some Potato tops have been injured. As the bedding plants
were undergoing a preparatory hardening process, they have
suffered Uttle or nothing. Now, though we are late, we shall
soon make up for lost time, but not by planting in cold un-
prepared ground ; I would rather delay a few days than plant
in cold lumpy soil. Gain in time is actually obtained by delaying
a little, provided by turning and turning again you can warm
the soil by digging down sun-heated soil. Of course all beds
and borders would have been well prepared if it had been
possible to have done so earlier, but they will soon be in first-
rate order.

This preparation is one of the essentials of future success,
and the hint will apply to most places. Far north of London
one cause of failure is planting in unprepared soil, even though
there be boasting as to the earUuess and celerity with which
the work is done. It reminds me of the way in which I have
seen some farmers treat their Turnip crop — they give the ground
a ploughing and a harrowing, and then throw in the seed,
and expect a heavy succulent crop. The successful Turnip-
grower resorts to many ploughings, haiTOwings, and rollings,
BO that the ground may be something like an Oniou bed before
he deposits the seed in the drills. A little labour bestowed in
turning and airing the eoU of a flower bed wUl improve its
appearance for the season.

The preparation of a flower bed must be carried out on a
system. Let the ground at first be well stirred as deep as the
subsoil, which also should be broken, but in general cases keep
the poorest soil deepest down, and the richest at the surface.
If any manure is applied let it be sweet, and be chiefly used at
from 4 to 6 inches from the surface. When very fine foUage
is required the manure should go deeper ; when I used to grow
many subtropical plants in our exposed place, I often put
1 foot or 18 inches of the hottest manure from dung and short
grass at a depth of 18 inches from the surface, and it was
astonishing how free the growth was. The large massive
foliage did not suit this exposed windy place ; the finer the
foUage the sooner it was stripped into ribands. If I were
practising sub-tropical gardening again, I would have a place
on purpose, fully exposed to the sun, yet sheltered from cold
and sweeping winds. With some exceptions such as these, all
beds that are intended to produce abundance of bloom, with
good yet moderate-sized foliage, should have the poorest soil
farthest from the surface ; the richer soil near the surface is
intended to cause free growth at first, and then as the roots go
deeper in the poorer soil flowering wUl be encouraged, and
mere growth will be checked. The deep turning of the soil has
this great advantage, that it renders the plants and the planter
to a certain extent independent ef the season, be it wet and
shady, or dry and hot. In the former case the rains wUl pass
away more readily ; in the latter the roots will go deeper, and
the moisture from beneath will rise more freely in obedience to
the demands from the sun's rays. Two years ago I saw a
small flower garden, the beds untouched previously, dug nicely
over and planted at once, about the 20th of May. The plants
did as well as I expected them to do, and that was not saying
much. They cost five times more labour for a jxjor result
than would have been involved in a little more preparation and
airing of the beds.

Another fertile cause of want of full success is planting
when the soil about the roots is comparatively dry. No future

aiBy 29, 1873. ]

JOOBNAL OF HOETICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB.

429

watering in the beds will ever compensate for this. The water
runs away from the dry soil and fibres just as the rain passes
from the back of a healthy fowl. Be the plants in pots or
planted out in beds to harden-off, one essential to success is
liaTLug them well and thoroughly watered before moving them.

Another cause of a want of complete success is planting
from pots when the roots are matted in a ball, and doing
nothing to gently disentangle the roots at the sides of the
ball, that they may enter freely into the fresh soU. Partly
on this account, and partly to save labour, the great bulk of
our plants are planted out in preparatory beds, and when
lifted with less or more of good balls, they have the fresh
roots bristling all round hke a wig, ready to take hold of the
soil at once. Unless in an extreme ease, no fibrous-rooted
plants ever have a pot with us, but sometimes we must act
according as circumstances compel us. When I have brought
plants forward in small pots I found it of advantage, say in
the case of the finer Geraniums, to turn them out in a rich
earth bed, with a little protection, before the outside of the
ball became too matted, and then, after standing there for a
fortnight or three weeks, the plants would rise with the ball
entu-e, but with fine fresh fibres coming from it all round,
each of which was ready at once to enter into the well-aired
soil of the fiower beds and borders. Those who have plants
with balls matted with roots, and as firm as a cheese, will find
it an advantage if, before planting, they gently with the fingers
or a pointed stick break the mould-like form of the outside of
the baUs.

To two more common errors I will just aUude. The first is
planting when it is raining and the soil is wet. In stiff soils,
•especially, this will be a great drawback. The soil cannot be
nicely worked about the fibres, and a hard-baked uncongenial
surface is likely to be the result. With plants prepared as
above I would much rather plant when the soil was somewhat
dry and the sun shining brightly.

Much damage is often done, and especially when plants are
turned out as early as the middle of May, by frequent sar-
face-watering. At that season it wUl be found that the wetter
the soil the colder will the roots be. On the other hand, the
■drier the surface soil the warmer will be the roots beneath. In
planting, therefore, in rather dry soil, and with plants pre-
viously watered, I would merely secure the roots, supply them
with water exposed to the sun previously, and when that has
soaked in, cover all over neatly with the dry soU. In general
it will be some time before more watering is required at the
roots. In very bright days the foliage may flag a Uttle, but a
skiff from the syringe over the top would be more appropriate
than a deluging from the surface to the roots, that were quite
wet enough before. — B. Fish.

MOVING LAKGE TREES.
I oxcE met a man who when anyone made a joke did not
appear to see it, but some time afterwards would burst out laugh-
ing to the surprise of everyone. I was strongly reminded of
this individual ou reading Mr. Barron's paper in answer to one I
wrote last October. If anyone read my paper he has probably
forgotten it by this time. Mr. Barron quotes a single para-
graph of it, and intimates that my whole argument, or, at any
.rate, the gist of it, is contained in the words he quotes. Now,
I think this hardly fail'. Again, he says I have no knowledge
on the subject, and yet is surprised that I, living within seven
miles of him, and having seen so much of what has been done
at Elvaston and elsewhere ever since I commenced business,
should have forgotten aU he has done. What time he wishes
to indicate as the time I commenced business I do not know ;
belonging to the third generation who have owned these nur-
series, it follows that my connection with the business has
been from the time I left school, so I think my recollection of
him dates as far back as the time he commenced to move
large trees. Here let me say, if I ever move large trees there
is no one whose assistance I should value more than Mr.
Barron's, because no one can understand it better. If I had
not lived so near to the cleverest man who ever undertook to
move timber trees, I might never have written the article in
question, because I might have attributed any failure in results
to want of skiU. I remember well the Cedar Mr. Barron moved
at Elvaston and many other trees, particularly lai'ge Yews,
which did remarkably well ; and I think no one would gather
from what I wrote that I wished to convey the idea that no
large tree could be removed, or that Mr. BaiTon, whose name
I never mentioned, could not move it. Being in .the habit of

saying and writing just what comes into my mind, there is a
danger of annoying those who differ from me, and even iu
some cases of raising the cry of " Great is Diana of the Ephe-
siaus!" It is as much my interest as that of any other
nurseryman to sell the largest trees I have on hand, but I
always say if anyone wants good specimens of any kind of
tree or shrub he cannot easily plant too small. It is not worth
while repeating what I wrote in October, but my own expe-
rience fully bears out what I then wrote, and my obseiTatiou
likewise.

It is a very common thing to hear persons say, " At my
time of life I cannot afford to wait till small trees grow."
These persons always buy fine specimen plants, and, as a rule,
I contend that in a few years young trees would have beaten
them both in size and appearance. Twenty-one years ago part
of my garden was an orchard; I planted it with Pines, Junipers,
Cypresses, WeUingtonias, &c., selecting by choice to plant
seedlings only a few inches to 2 feet high ; and when I com-
pare them with others, I think I have every reason to be satis-
fied. I am quite aware trees of large size can be removed,
and those with spreading roots, such as Yews and Scotch Firs,
may do well, but I have seen large Hollies and many other
trees after looking well for some time gradually die-off and
take years to do it in. I have no wish to hinder anyone, who
likes to pay the cost, from removing large trees if he has a
Mr. Barron to do it for him ; but I still say I should not trust
to such trees for a permanent effect, but would plant young
ones amongst them at the same time. — J. E. Peaesox, Chilwell.

P.S. — I have just measured three trees on my grass plat all
planted as small plants since the time named. Pinus macro-
carpa is 20 feet high, branches lying on the ground in a cu'cle
of 22 feet diameter ; Cupressus Lawsoniana, 18 feet high,
7 feet through ; Wellingtonia, 28 feet high, branches lying on
the ground 14 feet wide ; this last was turned out of a quart
pot in the spring of 1861. I merely give these as examples,
and would ask. Would they have been better trees by this
time if they had been large when planted '? — J. E. P.

THE BUFFALO BEERY.

Ir Mr. W. Muir wishes his Shepherdia seed to vegetate
readily, he should sow it iu the open ground soon after it is
ripe or during the months of October and November, but first
rub or mash the pulp and wash it from the seed. On the
approach of winter cover the bed an inch deep or more with
dry fine muck or some light material, to prevent the earth from
becoming hard and dry ; this should be removed in the spring
as soon as the seed begins to come through the ground. If
the seed has been kept dry through the winter it will not
likely vegetate until the spring of 187i.

When the young plants are a year or two old they should be
planted in nursery rows from 12 to 15 inches apart, and in the
course of from three to five years they will show their sex by
the flower buds of the male plants being double the size of the
female, when they can be transplanted in pairs from i to 6 feet
apart for fruiting, otherwise they will not bear fruit.

My experiment as a hedge of a trial of 100 feet of the Buffalo
Berry was not successful although well cared for, but it may
be that it was not managed rightly. The plants were set in a
single row 12 inches asunder, and when eight or ten years of age
it would not keep its form, and the plants would fall out of
line from one side or the other and become uneven and un-
sightly.— Chakles Downing, Newburgh, Neu^ York.

WATERING CONTRIVANCES.

The acknowledged importance of water for all cultivated
plants has, I hope, induced every interested person to provide
means whereby an ample supply may be conveyed to one or
more parts of the garden, there to be stored uji in quantity in
underground tanks or open reservoirs. To economise labour
in watering, as well as to secure the timely and proper execu-
tion of the work, it is very requisite to have a handy contri-
vance for the conveyance of water where most wanted, com-
bining means for its application to crops, syringing plants, and
for general cleansing purposes. I therefore purpose giving a
few illustrations of the most substantial and useful apparatus
for the purpose.

IVarner's Lift and Force Pump [fig. 1). — I worked one of
these years ago, and my opinion of it is, that for its particular
purpose (watering), it is one of the most useful imjjlements
ever invented, and not, to my thinking, sui'passed by modem

430

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ May 29, 1873.

inventions. It is a pump furnislied with r. drawing and
delivery pipe ; the latter may be of any length up to 50 feet,
and is generally of indiarubber. The internal work of the
pump is very strong and durable, as are other portions. Being

wood, bound with iron hooping. It should be filled with the
lid on, which is pierced with holes to exclude all lubbish hkely
to injure the working of the small pump. One man can easily
work it, and it is a desirable contrivance to have. It holds

fixed on a wheelbarrow frame it is moved about with ease.
When any considerable length of pipe is used two men will be
required to work it. It should be placed beside the tank, with
the sucker inserted, and water may be distributed for rods
around it.

Warner's Portable Garden Enpine {Jig. 2), combining the
convenience for watering as regularly as if from the rose of a

Fig. 4.— Small Tub Engine.

from twenty to thirty gallons of water, and is powerful enough
to throw the water from oO to 40 feet either in the form of s
spout or fine shower.

Fii]. 3 represents another form of garden engine, having the
convenience for watering and rolling added to the pumping
works. Its chief use, and for which it can be recommended,
is that of watering and roUiug fresh-laid turf, and walks and

Fig. 2. — Warner's Portable Garden Engine.

watering-pot, as well as a pump with a pipe and spreader for
Byringing and cleaning plants and trees. "When used for.the

Fig. 3. — Watering and Kolling Engine.

latter purpose the water-spreader behind is taken out and a
plug inserted. It has iron wheels, while the body is made of

Fig. 5. — Warner's I'drtuble i-iarjen Engine.

roads newly gravelled, or for making a level surface to a new
lawn formed by sowing seeds. Its construction is intended to
effect a saving of time and labour, and of its class it is a
handy machine, as each part can be worked separately.

Fiij. 4 is a StiiiiH Tub Engine, which is very handy and useful
for any garden, whether large or small. I use such an engine
for syringing wall trees, as well as for cleaning plants attacked
■with any insect; it is easily taken to any part of the garden,
and used by one individual. I believe there are others in use
of a larger and stronger make, but the principle of working is

Slay 29, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OP HORTICOLTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

431

the same, and their use is for a similar purpose. They are
made of iron; in some it is galvanised, and in others not; one
m use here is made of wood, with a powerful pump requiring
two men to work it. This is not so handy as the one figured.

Kg. 6.

They will aU throw a continuous stream of water to a greater
or less distance, according to the power of the engine.

Fig. 7.

Wiiniir's Small Portable Garden Engine [fig. 5) is designed
for use in the conservatories and other glass structures, and as
such is to be recommended. It should be kept standing in the
house charged with water, which soon becomes heated [to the
temperature of the house, which is an advantage when it is

Watering Barrow.

required to be used. It is an excellent machine for the amateur
as well as the gardener. The spout or delivery pipe has a
regulating contrivance for as heavy or fine a shower of water
as may be required. There are also several varieties of this
handy instrument in use, but none, I think, that possesses any
superior merit ; some of them are very liable to get out of
order in a short time.

Fig. 0 is a Conservatory Engine and Waterimi-pot combined,
which is said to be capable of throwing a continuous stream of

water a distance of about 40 feet.* It is fitted with a registered
spreader, and can be used as a garden engine, hand-syringe, or
water-pot.
l''ig. 7 is a Watering Apparatus not, I think, in general use,

Fig. 9. — French Watei-mg-pot.

and is designed to economise labour, and to those who prefer
such a mode of watering it is useful. The application of the

Fig. 10.

water is the easiest partfof the work ; in other respects I can-
not see that much gain would result from its use.

Fig. 11
Fig. 8 is a Water-Barrow of a very simple and inexpensive
construction. It is an ordinary tub or barrel suspended upon

wooden brackets attached to a wooden home with a wheel
On one side of the bottom of the tub are a spout and rose',

.1,^S^- "i"^ oPPOrtraity of figuring tUs.Ts well as the watering-pots rcpre-
Hi -h Holbom ' '"' "^ "'l^'"'^'' '" Messrs. Dick Kadcljffe &, Co , oi

432

JOUENAL OF HOKTICOLTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

t May 29, 1873.

projecting far enough to reach the plants to be watered. A
plug inside prevents the escape of the water till the barrel
is on the proper spot ; a string connected with the plug, and
attached to the right-hand side of the handle of the framework,
is then pulled to let the water out, and the barrow is wheeled
up the row as fast as the plants become watered. I have seen
a similar barrow, but with a rose on each side, and it has the
advantage of watering two rows at a time.

I come now to garden watering-pots ; these are of various
shapes and sizes. For the conveyance of water to plants there
is none better than the common watering-pots, which are weU
known. They should have roses of different sizes, pierced
with small and large holes ; these are for ordinary watering.
Then there is the small but long-spouted pot, either with or
without a rose, for watering plants at a distance ; while for
plants on shelves close under the glass a different shaped pot
is used, but being well known and in general use I need not
describe any of these. I will, however, describe one which is
somewhat rare, though I beUeve there are gardens in which
this sort of watering-pot is almost exclusively used for general
watering.

27a' Frencli Watering-pot [Jifl. 9), if not invented in France,
is a great favourite with French gardeners, and in the market
gardens it is almost the only sort used. A friend who Uves in
France tells me that they are for the most part made of copper,
and of course wear well and last a long time. As will be seen,
the handle, which is hoUow, springs from half way down the
back, and passes completely over to the front part of the top ;
thus it is very convenient for shifting the hand in watering,
and is not so likely to weary the hand as do the sharp edges of
the pots in use in this country. The bodies are considered
best if made flat-sided or oblong instead of round as infrr. 9.
I am, however, by no means sure that we should consider that
any advantage in this country ; moreover, I should say they
are more expensive. One more advantage these pots possess
is that the depth of the pot is greater outside than inside by
one-half or three-quarters of an inch, therefore the bottom is
clear from the ground, and not so Uable to wear or leak out.
This is shown by the ring round the bottom of the illustra-
tion. It is an improvement worth taking up by our Enghsh
makers. There are two roses to each pot, and most are made
to screw on.

There are other forms of these excellent watering-pots, but
with the rose inverted ; the water is then dehvered upwards,
and falls like a gentle shower on the plants (see Jigs. 10, 11,
and 12) ; and there are, I believe, others made with zigzag spouts.

Fig. IS.

devised to prevent the water falling on the plants and soil with
force ; these are generally used without a rose for small pots.
The form represented in fg. 13 is useful for watering Straw-
berries and other small pot-plants on shelves.

The tendency of the English makers in then- so-called im-
provements of watering-pots is to introduce novelty rather than
substantial work and advanced merit. The material is thin
and very hght, consequently they last but a comparatively short
time. — Thomas Eecokd.

IRIS FCETIDISSIMA VAEIEGATA.

Having on several occasions urged on the attention of your
readers the claims of plants that have a good appearance
during the winter, as preferable to fill the flower beds in the
immediate neighbourhood of a residence more occupied during
December, January, and February than in the following three ;
and as it is hopeless to look, in the majority of cases, for any
great display of flowers during these dark months, anything
that win impart cheerfulness then has greater claims on our
attention than plants that bloom when flowers are plentiful.
I therefore now urge the extensive cultivation of this fine
hardy plant, which is one of the most suitable I know for the
purpose, and one that defies the hardest winter. The varie-
gated form of this Iris is, like most other variegated varieties,
less robust than the normal one, and it is certainly the better,
for the foliage is not so lank ; in fact, in the variegated form
it is stiff, erect, robust, and broadly margined by a band of
creamy white, which can be perceived from a great distance.

The leaves never show signs of decay until the spring is far
advanced, say the middle or end of April, when the old foliage
by degrees becomes shabby, and is thrown off during the next
two months, the plant afterwards becoming ornamental again.

This Iris is also useful as a separate plant in the mixed
flower border, and in such a position stands out prominently
at a time when such things are wanted. With me it flowers
but sparingly, but this is not to be regretted, as the bloom is
not remarkable ; but the seed-vessels in an advanced state
look well in the plain green species, and when dried form no
inconsiderable addition to the collection of dried floral bouquets.
The bright orange-coloured berry-like seeds set in a row in
their white, soft, downy bed look very pretty, the stalk being
sturdy and erect.

The variegated kind seldom flowers, and if it did, all its
progeny by seed would probably not have the finely- variegated
character of the original; it must, therefore, be propagated
by division, and though not a fast grower, it can, nevertheless,
be multipUed freely. It grows all the faster if planted in good
well-manured kitchen-garden soil, but in this respect it is not
particular, and few plants will bear harsher treatment than this.

— J. KOBSON.

MY BIRD DIARY, 1873.
The short record I have kept of the birds which have visited
my garden from time to time since the beginning of the year,
may be interesting to some of your readers, and may also
throw hght on the contents of the Small Birds Bill, on which
I see discussions raised from time to time.

I should mention that my garden consists of one acre round
my vicarage, about one-quarter of which is planted with
Laurels and other shrubs, with trees here and there among
them, and three acres of farm garden adjoining, of which the
readers of your paper had some account in 1871-72.

January, 1873. — The stock of bu'ds living permanently on
my premises, as nearly as I can ascertain, is as follows — ten
couple of sparrows, four of blackbirds, two of song thrushes,
eight of hedge sparrows, three of wrens, and about the same
number of robins and chaffinches. There are also a few
starlings, which would be inhabitants if they could, but not
being able to effect a lodgment under the eaves of the house,
they are obUged to live in certain hollow trees adjoining.
Early in the month a flock of eight bullfinches visited the
garden. They were very busy among the Gooseberries and
early Plums, such as the Victoria and Kivers's Prolific. My
man drew my attention to them, as the bullfinch is a rare bird
here, and it is some years since it has been seen. He dis-
trusted their motives for coming, and thought no good would
come of it. I tried to persuade him that they were looking
for grubs in the buds, and that, though they might destroy
some few here and there in the search, the grubs would have
been equally destructive. At last I yielded to his suggestions,
and shot one, just to see what they were really doing. It was
a hen bird, and I noticed that in this month cocks and hens
came in separate parties, and not together, notwithstanding
the story of this bu-d's constancy to its matrimonial engage-
ments, for it is said to be the only bu'd which pairs for life.
We opened its craw, and I regret to say that no vestige of a
grub was to be discovered ; the craw was full of the tender
green germ of the buds of the Gooseberry and the Plum.
After this I was convinced, and notwithstanding theii' beairty
and graceful movements, I waged war upon them from that
day forth. They soon became very wild, and would not let
me come near them ; but in all I must plead guilty to having
slain a dozen up to the beginning of March. At that date the
Gooseberry buds were too advanced for their taste, and the
few that came after this seemed to feed principally on the
buds of the Larch, and the Medlar, and the later Plums. I
saw quite enough, however, to prove that the bullfinch is most ,
rightly exempted from the protection of the Small Birds Act.
He is probably the most destructive of all birds to the Plum
and Gooseberry, and this season he has visited our district in
extraordinary numbers. A neighbour of mine kiUed over
thirty birds, and I heard of another man a few miles away
who had killed eighty. It would be curious to ascertain if
there was anything peculiar in the winter in Germany, or
other parts of the Continent, to drive them over here in such
unusual numbers.

I'lliniarii. — During this month we have been \isited from
time to time by bullfinches, coming three and four at a time.
Some bird, I expect the sparrow, has been eating the buds of
the earliest-blossoming Pears, cutting them into shrods with

May 39, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTi'AjE GAiiDENER.

433

his beak, and leaving them under the trees. About the middle
of the month a family of "bottle tits" paid us a passing
visit. They went from tree to tree, looking for insects, and,
not finding any to their mind, went on. Two days after a
pair of the small blue titmouse visited us in the same way.

March is not a great month for bu'ds. In addition to my
permanent stock, I saw a few yeUowhammers, and at the
end of the month two little creepers went over all my espa-
liers, searching the crevices for insects. A pau- of stai'lings
came down the chimney one morning into my bedroom, and
were secured. A few bullfinches visited us from time to time,
coming either singly or in pairs, but now they neglected the
Gooseberries, and confined themselves to the buds of the
Pershore Egg Plums, which I conclude were just in the stage
to suit their epicurean palates.

April is the richest bird month in all the year. The bright
little fellows who have been wintering round the Mediterranean
now make their appearance. In the first week we had a
passing visit from titmice. This time we had a family of the
great tit as weU as of the blue tit, but they only stayed a few
days with us. A few days later the travellers began to arrive.
On the 11th the yellow and pied water-wagtails made their
appearance ; on the 14th the swaUow ; on the 19th I saw the
blackcap, the chiff-chaff, and the common linnet ; on the 20th
the redstart and the nightingale ; on the 27th the cuckoo, and
«n the 29th the wryneck, or, as it is called in these parts, the
cuckoo's mate.

In this month I met with another bird experience, which
though it has nothing to do with my garden, may be none the
less interesting to some of your readers. I was walking with
my brother in the Wyre Forest, and we came upon the body
of a small hawk, recently dead, which we both at once pro-
nounced to be a cock merlin. A hawk we had neither of us ever
seen in Worcestershire before. The bird was lying on his back,
not a feather of his plumage ruffled, but without a head. He
had been decapitated as cleanly as if it had been done with a
knife. That it was a merlin we now feel certain, for about
ten days after my brother found the nest on which the hen
was sitting on four eggs, about a quarter of a mile from the
spot where the body of the cock bird lay. He brought away
two of the eggs, which are unmistakeably those of the merlin,
covered with deep red blotches. But what had kiUed the cock
bird, and what had become of his head ? On this subject we
can only offer a conjecture. The railway passes about two
hundred yards from the spot, and above it the telegraph wires,
which are often so fatal to birds. In the winter woodcocks ai'e
sometimes picked up under them, and now and then a par-
tridge, and in Scotland they are known to be so destructive to
gi'ouse and black game that the wires are covered for miles
with white taUies of wood. This was probably the fate of the
only merUn which had visited these parts for years. He might
have been following a small bird, and in his swoop come in
contact with the wire. His head, probably, tell immediately
under it, while the impetus of his flight carried his body on to
the bottom of the ravine in which we found it.

Maij brought no addition to the Ust of bu-ds which have
been noticed above, but now that the Gooseberries are in full
leaf the damage done by the bullfinches is apparent. On many
shoots there is only a tuft of green at the end. The long
white branch stands out completely disbudded. I have had
many of them cut out already, and I mean to have the rest
done as soon as the crop is gathered, for nothing will ever
grow from them again ; but if the bullfinch is the great
enemy of the Gooseberry, the cuckoo is its greatest friend.
The abominable grub which devours the leaves always makes
its appearance in May, and this year is no exception to the
rule. They have shown themselves in places, but two cuckoos,
which, as my man terms it, " make a good deal of time in the
garden," have hitherto kept them down ; we see them on the
bushes, and when we examine the place, the heads only of the
grubs sticking to the leaves are discovered. The cuckoos have
sucked these pieces, and wisely rejected the skins.

I have nothing yet to say about the fruit-devouring birds,
but if aU is well, you shall have my observations upon them
when the season is over. I will only mention now, that I do
not think that they do their work so well as they used to do in
the good old times in destroying slugs and snails. I never
supposed that they did this when fruit once came in, but
judging from the way in which seeds have been destroyed this
spring, I am incUned to accuse blackbirds and thrushes of
ueghgence. The framers of the Small Bh-ds Bill very
properly exempted them from protection, on account of their

fruit. devouring propensities, but kind friends have been agi.
fating for the insertion of their names, on the ground that
they do more good than harm. I would suggest to them,
through your columns, that they are on their trial, and that i{
they do not keep down the slugs more effectually, I for one
shaU certainly vote against them.— Willi.mi Le.\, St. Peter's
Vicaniije, Droit wich.

ORNAMENTAL PLANTING.— No. 2.
In grounds of limited extent choice specimens may be intro-
duced very effectively alternately with flower beds in the form
of an aveiiue, on each side of a broad walk, care being taken
to maintain an ample margin of turf both to flower beds and
shrubs, so that the graceful growth and various shades of
green may stand out in pleasing and prominent contrast to the
bright colours of the flower-masses. Let no unsightly stand-
ards mar the beauty of such a scene, but let us introduce
forms that ever gain more of beauty with increasing size-
forms whose lowest branches sweep the turf, from whence they
taper upwards, not with a stiff and uniform formality, but
with an elegance and diversity of contour that are always
pleasing, and never distasteful nor offensive. It is among the
numerous beautiful varieties of Conifers with which our gar-
dens are now enriched that the most suitable plants are found
for this purpose. I append a select dozen of these, and also
a dozen mixed species of evergi'eens.

Conifers.
1. Cupressus macroearpa.

Evergreen Shrubs.

1. Arbutus Unedo.

2. Golden Queen Holly.

3. Buxus sempervireus.

4. EhododendronMajestioum.

5. Viburnum Tinua.

6. Ilex torulosa. [lusitanicus).

7. Portugal Laurel (Cerasus
Ligiistrum japonicum.
Phillyrea latifoUa.

10. Ilex Aquifolium.

11. Laurus nobilis.

12. Buxus aurea.

9.

2. Cupressus Lawsoniana.

3. .luuiperua virginiana.

4. Pioea Nordmanniaua.

5. P. nobiUs.

6. P. Piusapo.

7. Cedrus atlantica.

8. C. Deodara.

9. Thuja Lobbii.

10. Thujopsia borealis.

11. T. dolabrata.

12. Araucaria imbrioata.
Deciduous shrubs, from the bare aspect which they present

in winter, are quite unsuitable for such a position. Some
trees of pendulous habit, as the cut-leaved Birch, Betula iu-
cisa pendula, and Sophora japonica, may occasionally be in-
troduoed with advantage ; but it is not often found desirable
to plant trees of this class singly upon turf. Take, for ex-
ample, the Weeping Birch; clothed with foliage in the bright
spring and summer months, it is certainly very beautiful ; but
when the cold autumnal wmds sweep the decaying foliage
from its branches, and the deformity of its growth is laid
bare, how great is the change ! That which attracted us by
its wealth of greenery, and the apparently graceful disposal of
its growth, can now only be regarded as a grotesque object,
totally devoid of grace, dignity, or beauty of any kind. The
best rule, therefore, to adopt for our guidance in the selection
of weeping ti-ees for prominent positions, is to avoid any of a
very stiff or formal aspect, choosing only those with that
flexible pliant grace which is one of the peculiar charms of
the Birch.

Taken in its broad and fullest sense, a complete pinetum
consists of a collection of one or more of each variety of
Conifer that is worthy of cultivation. The term, however, is
very elastic, and may be appUed with equal propriety to a few
dozens as to hundreds. The area to be planted wiU, of course,
be the guide as to number. Avoid all approaches to crowding ;
let each plant have " ample space and verge enough " for its
fullest development and for effect.

The accompanying plan represents a pinetum of moderate
pretensions, containing about two dozen excellent kinds of
Conifers. In this arrangement I have placed the towering
Abies Douglasii, the gigantic WelUngtonia, and the clump of
the elegant and lofty Silver Fir somewhat in the background,
not because any of them might not be brought to the very
margin of the walk with the greatest propriety, but that an
open expanse of turf around trees of such lofty growth and
huge proportions presents them to the eye in all the fulness of
that dignity and majestic grandeur for which they are so justly
esteemed, and which is so much affected by crowding. A belt
of Scotch Fir, Larch, and Spruce, or of these kinds mixed
with deciduous trees, may be added with good effect behind the
borders of mixed shrubs for shelter in exposed situations.

Very few features of a shrubbery are equal to this either in
interest or importance, and yet it is not often that full justice

484

JOUENAL OF HOKTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDKNER.

t M&y 29, 1878.

May 29, 1873. J

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

435

is done to it. Why this is eo I am unable to say, but it is an
undoubted fact that very many pinetums lose considerably in
effect from faulty arrangement. One cause for this failure in
small gardens is probably that too much is attempted, and the
result is formality and crowding. Then, too, I have seen very
stiff-looking angular plots of turf embellished with a number
of Conifers actually planted in straight rows, and looking like
nothing so much as a portion of a nursery transported in its
entirety, like Aladdin's magic palace.

I would say, then, to the reader, Carefully calculate the
number of plants you have space for. Single specimens should
be at least 30 feet apart ; select these with a view to variety.
In planting, avoid the formaUty of straight lines, and remem-
ber that a crowded collection, however rich it may be in choice
kinds, whUe it may attract attention for its botanical interest,
can never afford much satisfaction for its beauty. If the
situation is sufficiently expansive, it is quite immaterial
whether its surface is level or undulating ; only let the arrange-
ment be graceful and in good taste, asd it is quite certain to
afford satisfaction.

In whatever position single specimens of all kinds are planted,
I would strongly advise that each should stand upon a raised
mound 2 or 3 feet above the general level ; the smallest plants
thus gain something in appearance. This plan renders the
trees quite safe from the hurtful effects of stagnant water, and
all flourish with increased vigour, owing, probably, to the greater
depth of soil in which the roots revel. — Edwakh Luckhurst.

REFERENCES TO PLAN.

1.

JuniperuB virjijamaiia.

Cedrus Deodara.

Group of three Liboeetlnis ctecui--

reus.
Thuja Lobbii.
Abies canadensis.
Araucaria imbricata.
Balisburia adiantifolia.
.Tuniperus excelsa.
Cupressua Lawsoniana.
Ibujopsis borealis.
.Tuniperus chineusis.
Picea Nordmanniana.
Cupressus Lawsoniana ereota vi-

lidis. Group of tlu'ee.
Cedrus atlantica.
Ai-aucaria imbricata.
Cupreasos macrocarpa.
PIcea nobUis.

18. Taxodium distichiuii.

19. Pinus macrocarpa.

20. Pinu9 Cembra.

21. Picea pectiuata. Clump of three.

22. AVelUuj^tuuia yigautea.

23. Pinus insit,'nis.

24. Abies Doufjlasii.

25. Picea Pinsapo.

26. Pinus austriaca.

27. Abies Aibertiaua.
82. Retinospora obtusQ.
29. Cedar of Lebanon.
A, B, Rhododendrons.

c, Broad gravel path or drive.

D, Mised shrubs.

E, Three Larcli.

F, Ihreo Norway Spruce.

Eacli Pinun to stand upon a raised
mound as shown.

NEW BOOK.

manner a great diversity of foliage can be had, and of many
kinds that are too delicate to stand either as plants in the
vase, or in the shape of cut fronds, arranged with flowers in
the stand. The illustration is a sketch of one of the best flower
stands for dinner-table decoration that can be used, because it

with

Select Ferns and Lycopods, British and Exotic, <C-c,
mimerou-t IllustratioiV!. By B. S. Willums,
F.E.H.S.,&e., Victoria Nursery , Upper Holloway.
Second Edition.

We welcome the new edition of this very useful
volume. It embraces the culture and employ-
ment, as well as the descriptions of the plants.
Two extracts will best enable our readers to appre-
ciate the work.

"Ferns fob tke Decobation of the Dinner
Table. — A few words in this place upon the uses
of Ferns as decorative objects for the dinner table
will not be out of place. Many can be grown in pots,
and placed in vases when brought into the dwelling-
house for use. Such kinds as Adiantum cuneatum,
macrophyllum, tenerum, tinctum, and various other
species of this genus ; Anemia adiantifolia, Anemi-
dictyon Phyllitidis, Asplenium Belaugeri, cicu-
tarium, and many others ; Lomaria gihba, nuda, and
Fraseri ; Gymnogramma Calomelanos and Lauche-
ana; Cheilanthes elegans and tenuifoUa; Davallia
dissecta, elegans, Tyermanii, and other varieties ;
Pteris serrulata angustata, and some of the taller-
growing Selaginellas, are beautiful objects for this
puqiose ; and many others might be enumerated
equally well suited for the decoration of the festive
board. Some species, however, though very elegant,
cannot be had in such good order through the winter
months. "We allude to such as Gymnogrammas,
Selaginellas, and some of the deciduous kinds.
These should have some of their fronds cut ofi', and
carefully dried, in summer, wlien tliey are gi'owing
fi-eely. They are not then missed from the plant,
and do not detract from its beauty. After drying,
the fronds must be carefully preserved, and brought
into use in winter, when they wiU be found of great
service for decorating the flower stand, for the table, or for
arranging in a vase to represent a growing plant. In this

Dinner Table Flower Stsmd.

does not obstruct the view, a point!always to be studied'in table
stands. To arrange such a one in 'good taste, ;Fem fronds,
either in a dried or living state, are indispensable." Care must
be taken in dressing one of these stands not to crowd them
with great variety, or overfill them ; a few simple medium -sized
flowers, properly and tastefully associated with foliage, being
more effective and pleasing than a huge display of large flowers
and glaring colours. Small fronds of Lygodiums, or frondules
of Selaginellas, have a beautiful effect trained round the shaft of

.■..^^' A^ V "" 5t-'*=*'^~*

Asplenium myi-iophyllum,
the stand, and are equally good, if not preferable, in a dried

436

JOUENAL OP HORTICOLTDBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE,

[ May 29, 1873.

state, for they do not then shrivel, as the tender living ones are
apt to do ; but proficiency in this art can only be acquired by
practice, this, combined with good natural taste, is a far better
guide than any rules that can be laid down."

" AsPLENiuM M\TiiopHYLLUM.— This vcry elegant plant cannot
be described so as to do it justice. The fronds are from 6 to
20 inches long, tripinnate, lanceolate, and proliferous at the
apex ; the pinnules are very small, and dark green in colour.
But to obtain a proper idea of its exquisite beauty, we must
refer the reader to the illuBtration. Native of Mexico, &c."

SEVERE FROST.

It is sad to read in last week's .Journal the account of the
destruction caused by the frost of the morning of the 20th
inst., but I am inclined to think that the injury to our fruit
crops is not general throughout the country. Frosts at Chis-
wiek are usually more severe than those in other parts south
of the Trent, and the thermometer there falls lower than at
places even in its own immediate neighbourhood. To show
how local some frosts are I send you tops of Ash-leaf Kidney
and Bresee's Prolific Potatoes from my garden, which is less
than a mile and a half east from the Chiswick garden ; these
are perfectly uninjured, yet in a garden close to Chiswick, and
not half a mile from me, but nearer the river, the tops, as you
describe, are " black to the surface of the ground." Vege-
table Marrows recently planted out are also untouched with
me, but they are close to a waU. — C.

I AM sorry to say on the night of the 19th inst. we had at
Vinters, Maidstone, a severe frost, which out up Potatoes,
Asparagus, and such-like very much, but I think the Apple
bloom is not injured. Pears are droppingoff. — TnoiiAS Becokd.

Tou record, nnder " Severe Frost," that on the morning of
Tuesday, the 20th inst., the thermometer at Chiswick regis-
tered 22°, but you do not say whether this was on the grass or
in the shade at 4 feet from the ground. Here my thermometer
registered on Tuesday morning 22° on the grass, and 30° at
4 feet. I see Mr. Symons reports at Camden Square 2<J.G° on
grass, and .82.9° at 4 feet. Some Potatoes here are partially
blackened, but I think they are not so bad as they would have
been had I not coversd them with mats before the sun shone
on them, and aUowed the mats to remain all that day and the
next night. Some of the Strawberry blossom and that of
Currants is blackened also. Apples do not seem iujui-ed, but
the blossom is not fully out generally. Do you know the old
doggrel ? —

" If Apples blow in March,

For Apples you may search.

If Apples blow in April,

Apples may be plentiful.

If Apples blow in May,

You may eat Apples night and day."

— A. Atkinson, Gainford, Darlington.

THE ALEXANDRA PALACE INTERNATIONAL

FLOWER SHOW.

After many attempts, and the propounding of various schemes
which ultimately came to nothing, this new place of amusement,
intended mainly for the inhabitants of northern London, was
opened uuder the most favourable auspices on Saturday last.
The details of that opening, the beauty of the building, the gran-
deur of the concert, and such other matters I must leave to the
numerous "dailies" who now supply food to the teeming mil-
lions of our metropolis. My business is with the floricultural
department, and remembering what a hberal schedule the Com-
pany had prepared, and the grandeur of the show held in the
same grounds many years ago, I was prepared to see a grand
exhibition ; and notwithstanding that it trod so closely on the
heels of the Royal Horticultural, the Botanic, and the Crystal
Palace Shows, a marvellous collection of plauts was brought
together. Doubtless the keeping of the Show open for so many
days was a hindrance to the exhibition of Orchids, of which
there were comparatively few ; while the international character
of the Exhibition was a negative quantity, the only exhibit from
abroad being a basket of indifferent P.aio'nies from M. Jean Ver-
schaffelt, of Ghent — at least this was all that I saw. A new
feature was attempted and carried out by Mr. McKenzie— the
plan, adopted in foreign exhibitions, of grouping the plants for
effect instead of in consecutive divisions, a plan which certainly
did give an admirable character to the Show but in no way con-
tributed to the comfort of the Judges. I have judged at many
shows, but I never had so hard work as on Saturday. A pair of
plants would be at one end of the building, aud then another at

the middle, and another at the further end, so that it was a
continual walk, walk for the two hours in which I was engaged.
When this is done abroad the Judges meet the day before and
have the whole day to perform their duties in.

The flowers aud plauts were arranged in all parts of the tran-
septs, the centre under the dome being kept for the reserved
seats for the concert ; and to enumerate the fine productions
here placed wovdd be simply to reproduce the lists which have
appeared lately in the gardening papers. Here were the mag-
nificent plants of Mr. Baines aud Mr. Ward; of EoUisson, Dixon
of Beverley, Jackson, WilHams, itc. ; here, again, were the mar-
%'ellous Rose bushes of Paul and Turner, the Geraniums of Ward,
the Azaleas of Turner and others ; but in addition to these a
large number of classes had been made for Palms, Agaves,
Cycads, Beaucarneas, tree Ferns, and such-Hke plants — these,
towering above the others, and briUiaut with their greenery,
added greatly to the beauty of the scene. The fruit, of wliich
there was but a small display, was exhibited in one of the side
rooms ; and here, too, were placed the cut flowers, for which no
prizes had been offered, the bouquets and table decorations, and
new and rare plants. The contents of this room do not call for
auy special notice. Some fine sliow and fancy Pansies were ex-
liibited by Messrs. Dowuie, Laird, & Laing, by Mr. Ware of
Tottenham, and Mr. Hooper of Bath ; Tulips by Mr. Hooper aud
others.

I have only to add that all tliat courtesy and kindness could
do was done by the able Superintendent, Mr. McKenzie ; that
the comfort of the exhibitors and Judges was well looked after ;
and that he had taken the occasion of gathering together from
aU parts of the United Kingdom men well known in horticulture
and botany. Dr. Moore from Glasnevin, Mr. Findlay from Man-
chester, Mr. Jones from the Royal Gardens, Frogmore, Mr.
Penny from Saudringham, Mr. Anderson from Meadowbank,
Mr. Downie from Edinburgh, and many others met together
with their more southern brethren ; and these retinions tend
not a httle to keep up that kindly aud brotherly feeUng which
ought to exist in the craft, more gentle than that of which Izaak
Walton so sweetly discoursed. On the whole, the Alexandra
Palace and park, while bearing no comparison with the Palace
at Sydenham, will, it is to be hoped, form another and agreeable
place of recreation to those who, in this day of excessive labour
and struggle for life, require healthy amusement and recreation.
— D., Deal.

The general features of this Show have been so ably and
faithfully sketched by "D., Deal," that he has left but little
for us to say. To enter into particulars of the subjects ex-
hibited would be little else thau to give a resumi' of the reports
of the Royal Horticultural, Royal Botanic, and Crystal Palace
Shows, for of the plants brought before the public on these
occasions this Exhibition was mainly composed, there being,
however, some additions.

Foremost in the class for sixteen stove and greenhouse plauts
came Mr. Baines, gardener to H. MichoUs, Esq., Southgate,
with a collection of magnificent plants, notably his Anthurium
Scherzerianum, Ixora coccinea, and fine young Dipladenia ama-
bilis. The same exhibitor was first for the best single speci-
men, showing his large plant of Hedaroma tulipiferum, Mr.
Williams, of HoUoway, being second ; aud Mr. Baines was like-
wise first for noble collections of twelve fine-foliaged plants, aud
for a like number of Exotic Ferns. In the nurserymen's class
tor the former Mr. Williams took the lead, Mr. W. E. Dixon,
Norwood Nursery, Beverley, following iu a spirited manner,
Mr. Williams was again first for a fine collection of exotic
Ferns. Palms, Tree Ferns, Cycads, and Dracamas were freely
exhibited by Messrs. Williams, Rollisson, W. E. Dixon, Ley, of
Croydon, and others, and some of the specimens were of truly
noble proportions. A fine collection of Agaves came from Mr.
Croucher, gardener to J. Peacock, Esq., Hammersmith ; and
returning again to plants in flower, Messrs. Williams, W. Cut-
bush, and W. E. Dixon sent good groups; while from Mr.
Cooper, Rose Hill Nursery, Derby, came an excellent sixteen,
half-flowering and half-tine-foliaged plants, containing a very
large Hedaroma tulipiferum. In Heaths, Mr. Ward took the
lead among amateurs ; and in Azaleas, Messrs. Jackson it Son
and Turner were respectively first and second for six. Pelar-
goniums and Roses have been already alluded to, and Calceo-
larias were shown iu excellent bloom by Mr. James, and Messrs.
Dobson, of Isleworth.

Orchids, as already remarked, were far from numerous, Mr.
Cuthbert, gardener to Mrs. Adanxs, Enfield, took the lead in
the amateurs' class with, among others, fine siiecimens of
Thunia Bensoni.'B and Odontoglossum crispum, Mr. G. Wheeler
being second. In the nurserymen's class Mr. Williams and
Messrs. Rollisson were the leading prizetakers.

Prizes were offered for the best twelve new plants sent out in
the years 1871-3. Messrs. Veitch were first with a collection
containing Croton Weismanui, Dracama imperialis, D. mag-
nifica, DictTenl)achia Bausei, Cypripediura Dominianum, Odon-
toglossum vexiUarium, MasdevaUia Karrjaua, Maranta Makoy-

ilay 29, 1873. ]

JOUBlJAIi OF HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

437

ana, Kentia Forsteriana, and Aralia Veitohii. Mr. Williams was
second with Authurium crystallinum mucli larger and tiuer
than the Bpeoimen shown at the last meetiuf; at Kensington,
and on this occasion it was awarded a certiiicate ; Draciena
Fraseri, Ixora Colei, Draciena metallica, Crotou Weismanni,
BsBmonorops palembanicus, Pandauus Veitchii, Dieiienbachia
liausei, and PhyUotajnium Lindeni. Mr. W. E. Dixon, Beverley,
was first for six. In addition, Messrs. Veitch sent a most in-
teresting and beautiful miscellaneous collection rich in new
plants, including many fine Orchids, Palms, &c. Mr. Williams
made a similar contribution, in which was Colax jugosus, which
had a certificate. We omitted to notice when referring to the
large plants ranged on each side of the centre, a very fine pair
of standard Bays from Messrs. Veitch; and we may add, that
among miscellaneous groups Mr. Ware's, Messrs. Dowuie and
Co.'s, and Messrs. Rollisson's were well worthy of more extended
notice.

The show of Fruit was extremely limited, nor was there any-
thing calling for special remark ; at the same time, when such
well-known exhibitors as Messrs. MUes, Bannerman, and Sage
come forward, it maybe taken for granted that their productions
are good. A few Pine Apples were exhibited. Mr. Wilson,
gardener to Earl Fortescue, Castle Hill, Devon, had a good
Smooth-leaved Cayenne; and Mr. Tillyard, gardener to Earl
Yarborough, Brocklesbury Park, a Queen. Mr. Bones, gardener
to D. Macintosh, Esq., Komford, was first for bunches of Black
Hamburgh Grapes ; Mr. Bannerman, Rugeley, being an excellent
second; Mr. Bennett and Mr. Miles had third prizes. For Foster's
White Seedling, Mr. Wilson, gardener to Earl Fortescue, was
first for three bimches of any white kind, Mr. Bones being second
with Golden Hamburgh, and Mr. Miles third with Foster's
White Seedling. The best single bunch of any black kind was
Black Hamburgh, from Mr. Bannerman ; Mr. Bones second ;
the best single bunch of a white kind, Buckland Sweetwater,
from Mr. Miles, gardener to Lord Carington, who also carried
off the first prizes for Black Cherries, White Cherries, and Figs.
For Peaches the prizes went to Messrs. Harris, Sa^e, of Ash-
ridge, and Gardiner, Lower Eatington Park Gardens, Stratford-
on-Avon ; whilst the lead in Strawberries was taken by Mr.
T. D. Irving, Easton Park Gardens, Wickhara Market. Messrs.
J. Monro, Potter's Bar, sent Monro's Little Heath Melon, large,
and of very good flavour ; and Mr. A. Colbourne, gardener to J.
BIyth, Esq., Woolhampton, Loquats.

INDIGENOUS PLANTS— AN INDEX OF THE
QUALITY OF SOIL.

The common Heath (Calluna vulgaris) grows naturally on
most of the barren land that is suitable for planting. When it
is rank and strong-growing, it indicates deep, black, mossy soil
— poor, and naturally unfertile — but which, if dry, and the alti-
tude not too great, will grow Scotch Fir and Birch; if wet,
Scotch Fir, Spruce, and Alder ; but even for the last it must be
drained previous to planting. If the Heath is close and healthy,
and mixed with Club Moss fLycopodium clavatum), Tormentil
(Potentilla Tormentilla), and some of the common grasses, the
soil is more fertile and suitable for Scotch Fir, Larch, and Birch.
Some very healthy and thriving Larch and Scotch Fir pilauta'
tions are growing on soil where these plants luxuriate ; Ash,
Beech, Elm, Oak, and Plane will grow there for ornament, but
not for profit.

The Cowberry or Cranberry of the Highlands (Vaccinium Vitis-
Idma) is generally associated with the common Heath and the
Soft Grass (Holcus lanatus). It indicates a light sandy and
gravelly soil, generally very hard and retentive ; grows Larch
and Scotch Fir, but they sometimes become affected -with gi-ound
rot when from fifty to sixty years old. Birch and Mountain Ash
thrive admirably upon it, but are not profitable.

The Bilberry f^'accinium Jlyi'tillus) is generally found growing
with the common Heath and the Hard Fern (Blechnum boreale),
Tormentil, &c. It indicates a superior class of soil for the Scotch
Fir, Larch, and Silver Fh- ; but especially the first — a hea%'y
crop of which is almost invariably foiuid on soils where the
Bilberry is plentiful. If the situation is on a sloping hill or side
of a ravine, the Norway Spruce, Ash, Beech, and Elm will
succeed admirably on the level ground, or in the bottom of the
ravine.

The common Juniper (.Juniperus communis), accompanied by
the Bracken (Pteris aqiulina), is very common in the districts
where the Scotch Fir may be said to have its native habitat ;
indeed, in some Scotch Fir woods it gi'ows as rank and profuse
as the Furze, and makes excellent under-cover. The soil is
generally good for growing Pines where the Juniper grows, but
occasionally varies in depth. The trees named as suitable for
growing on the Bilberry land will grow with the Juniper ; but
we woiild prefer for a profitable crop to keep to the Scotch Fir,
Larch, and Birch, giving the preference to the first, wliich
almost invariably produces a heavy crop and good quality of
timber on Juniper ground.

The common Whin or Furze (Ulex europrcus) is very abundant
on waste land, and seems to be such a selfish plant, if we may
use the term, that other plants are rarely growing with it ; but
in close proximity, on good soils, are to be found Ragwort
(Senecio Jacobwa), Thistles (Carduus), Wild Clover (TrifoUum),
itc. ; and on the poorer soils, Crowberry (Empetrum nigrumi,
Sorrel (Rumex Acetosella), Carices, &c. The Ragwort and
Thistles must be understood as apply ing to uncultivated ground ;
for if the ground has been cultivated, these are only a criterion
as to fertility, and not to depth or quality of soil. The Farze,
at a casual glance, is not a safe criterion as to the quality and
kind of soil, as it will grow almost anywhere. Before fixing the
quality of the soil, it is necessary that the quality and size of the
Fiu-ze should be considered, as it is only on good loamy soil
that it developes strong stems and branches. When it is found
growing thus, the ordinary hard woods may be planted, along
with Spruce and Silver Fir. If the situation is sloping, or the
sides of a glen, Larches will succeed ; but they seldom attain a
large size among Whins on fiat ground. When the Whin is
dwarf in habit, and the stems slender, it indicates thin gi-avelly
soil, with a hard bottom, unfavourable for growing any kind of
forest trees. Birch, Scotch Firs, and even Larch will grow if
they can get a start ; but the Whins are so aggressive that it is
only by careful treatment that the trees are enabled to overtop
them. However, when they do so, success is gained, as the
Whins offer no further opposition. Although we have said that
slender and dwarfish Whins indicate poor soil, there are excep-
tions, as in the case of Whins that have been burned or cut over;
or, again, on ground that has been reclaimed and afterwards
allowed to return to its natui'al state. Under any of these cir-
cumstances the Wliin is slender and dwarfish for a short time.
Taking the Whin alone, it is not a plant on which much depend-
ance can be placed as a criterion of the <xuality of the soil; but
when viewed with the plants growing in its immediate prox-
imity, we consider it affords a suiHcient indication of the soil
above mentioned.

The common Broom (Cytisus scoiiarius) is invariably found
on dry situations, and always indicates a fair soil. It it is strong
and healthy, and growing along with the Yarrow (Achillea
Millefolium), Bird's-foot 'Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), Wild
Clover, Tormentil, &c., the soil and subsoil are invariably good
for planting trees. The kinds most suitable, if the situation ia
moderately sheltered, are Beech, Oak, Norway Maple, Plane,
Larch, Silver and Scotch Firs ; but if the situation is exposed,
the Larch and Scotch Firs produce the most valuable crops.

The Bramble (Rubus fruticosus) and Dog Rose (Rosa canina)
indicate a good loamy soil, generally inclining to clay, very
suitable for growing ordinary hard woods, as also the Austrian
Pine and Silver Fir. Although the Bramble and Dog Rose are
always found growing on dry portions of soil, still, ground in
close proximity, and the subsoil, are often wet, and require to be
di'ained before planting.

The Raspberry (Rubus Idicus) is often found on soils similar
to the last, and denotes similar results ; but it is also found on
higher, more exposed, and poorer soils than suit either of the
two last. When found thus, its stems are slender and short,
and the leaves small, indicating a light soil suitable for Scotch
Fir, Larch, Beech, Birch, and Mountain Ash.

The Bog Myrtle or Sweet Willow (Myi-ica Gale) is common in
some districts, often accompanied by the Cross-leaved Heath
(Erica Tetralix), but invariably grows on a poor, wet, sandy soil,
unsuited for trees ; but, if thoroughly dried, will grow some of
the hardy species, as Birch, Alder, Mountain Ash, and Scotch
Firs.

The foregoing are the most common native shrubs ; but there
are some other species of flowering plants, and even the Mosses,
that are as much to be depended upon as indicators of the soil,
and sometimes the flowerless plants are more reliable than the
others.

The Male Fern (Lastrea FiUx-mas) and the Bracken are not
safe criterions as to the depth of the soil ; but they can be always
depended upon as to quality ; for neither of them grows on bad
soil. It is invariably good soil when they are accompanied by
the common Bugle (Ajuga rejjtans) and the Primrose iPrimula
vulgaris), which are generally found in low-lying situations, or
hollows where an an20unt of soil has accumulated ; and it may
be asserted that in this variety of soil almost any forest tree
will succeed. But we particularly recommend for the sheltered
portions the Silver Fir, Douglas Spruce, Larch, Pinus Laricio,
Elm, Ash, Plane, and Chestnut; and for the more exposed parts.
Larch, Scotch Fir, Beech, Norway Maple, Plane, Oak, and
Birch. The appearance of the Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea!
among the common Ferns indicates a medium soil incUned to
be dry, but on which a great variety of trees will grow, and
which we consider particularly suited for Beech and Scotch Fir.
If the common Ferns are mixed mth the Polypody (Polypodium
vulgare), St. John's-wort (Hypericum), &c., along with a sprink-
Ung of Heath, the soil is generally more shallow, and contains
large stones or boulders. Still, although shallow, it is always
kindly, and will grow forest trees better than its appearance

^38

joUknal c? hobticultdee and CODTAGE gardeneb.

[ May 29, 1878.

would indicate ; but the Larch, Scotch Fir, Birch, Mountain
Ash, and Hazel are the varieties that thrive best on the soil.

The Inland Bent (June as squarrosus) and the small Sedges
(Carex sp.) are generally found growing along with short Heath,
and indicate a poor soil, with a retentive and impervious sub-
soil, invariably inclining to be wet, and in its natural state only
suited for growing some of the common Willows, dwarf Birch,
and Alder ; but if drained it will grow Spruce, and even Scotch
Fir. In recommending Spruce, we are supposing that the situa-
tion 23 moderately sheltered, as these plants are often found at
altitudes and in exposures quite uusuited for the growth of
Spruce. Even the Alder, Birch, and Scotch Fir are seldom
profitable trees on soils where the aforesaid plants are abundant.

The Sheep Fescue (Festuca ovina) and the Wire Grass (Nardus
stricta) are often found growing together, and, to the casual
observer, may be taken for the same plant. They form the
principal vegetation of some upland districts, and denote a dry,
thin soil, comparatively rich in vegetable matter, but not very
suitable for the growth of trees. The kinds most suitable are
the Birch and Mountain Ash. The difficulty in growing trees
on soils whore these Grasses predominate is more owing to the
situation and the herbage than to the soil, as to all appearance
the latter is generally good ; but the situation, being so much
exposed, is dried up in the summer season, and during the
winter the herbage is so close that the moisture does not pene-
trate it readUy. But when trees can be got to cover the ground
where this herbage grows, their success is secured.

The Tufted Hair Grass (Aira cicspitosa) is generally found on
light or sandy loam (usually poor), resting upon bluish clay or
sometimes running sand. The soil naturally is too wet for grow-
ing trees; but when drained is suitable for Ash, Elm, Poplars,
Willows, and Spruce. The soil on which this Grass grows
varies, but still admits of the profitable cultivation of any of the
trees before recommended.

The Broad-leaved Flag (Iris Pseud-acorus) is invariably found
in hollows or flat ground, and indicates a brown, loamy soil,
chiefly composed of vegetable matter. The situation is generally
wet, but when drained is very suitable for growing tree Wil-
lows, Grey, White, and Black Poplars, Lime, Horse Chestnut,
Ash, Elm, Spruce, itc. Where the Iris is close-growing and
abundant, it is sometimes difficult to get young trees to start
without deep trenching or pitting of the ground before planting,
the former being preferable.

The common Rush (Juucus effusus) is not particular as to
soil if the situation is sheltered and damp. The variety of soil
is indicated by its habit. If robust, the soil is similar to that of
the Iris, and will grow the same kind of trees ; but if slender,
the soU is poor, and principally composed of sand or alight loam,
most suitable for gi'owing Alder and Spruce. Rushes afford an
iinmistakeable proof of dampness, and the ground where they
are found growing must be thoroughly drained before planting.
It is sometimes necessary to trench it, but not always, as there
are often spots where the trees can be planted. If the ground
be well drained and the trees succeed, the Rushes will soon dis-
appear.

The Reed (Phragmitea communis) indicates a strong soil,
sometimes inclining to clay, and sometimes to moss, but always
full of vegetable matter and surcharged with water — so much so
that no trees will grow on it until the ground is drained. The
situation is always in flat or hollow ground, and sheltered. The
trees most suited to this soU are Spruce, Alder, White and Grey
Poplars, Huntingdon, Bedford, and White Willows. Some of
the best specimens of Willows are to be seen growing on soils
where Reeds were once abundant. The treatment required before
planting is much the same as that recommended for the Iris.

The Queen of the Meadow (Spiraea Ulmaria) and the Wood
Hyacinth (Endymion nutans) are plants indicating a deep loam
or alluvial soil, sometimes with a sandy bottom inclining to
clay ; generally damp, but not so much as to hinder the growth
of trees ; of course, where too damp, it must be drained before
planting. On this class of soil all the varieties of forest trees
grow well. Some of the largest Poplars and Willows and best-
matured Oaks and Larches that we have ever seen were grown
on this description of soil.

Some of the Mosses are also sure indicators of the soils. Con-
spicuous among these is the Grey Moss (Trichostomum lanu-
giuosum), so common on some hiU-sides. The presence of this
plant is a beacon to the forester, wai'ning him of *' rocks a-head ; "
in other words, not to expect great returns from any trees that
may be grown in proximity to it. It is found gi'owing on hill-
tops and mountains, where few other plants grow, and it is un-
necessary to warn foresters that trees will not grow in these
situations. It is also often found growing along with the com-
mon Heath, and the inexperienced may be led into a mistake as
to the fertility of the soil, as some allow that trees maybe grown
wherever Heath will gi'ow. No doubt, where the Heath is grow-
ing along with the Moss it indicates an improvement on the situ-
ation where the Moss is found growing almost alone ; still,
wherever the Moss is abundant, a profitable crop of trees cannot
be grown ; but whore, for the purposes of ornament, &c., it is

necessary to plant the ground, the trees most suitable are Scotch
Fir, Pinus montana, Birch, Alder, Goat Willow, and Mountain
Ash. Spruce can also be grown on the damp portions if the alti-
tude is not too great. These will grow and have a fair appear-
ance ; but, as we said before, they will not be a profitable crop.

The wood Mosses (Hypnum sp.) are most common on groimd
where a crop of trees has been previously grown. They gene-
rally indicate a light, open soil, resting on whin or trap rock,
suitable for growing Larch, Scotch Fir, Norway Maple, and
Birch. In planting ground where these Mosses are abuudant, it
is necessary to pare them otf before inserting the plant, as, if
they are left, they absorb the moisture that should go to the
nourishment of the plant. This does well when small plants
are used, but when a successful crop is wanted on ground where
a crop of trees has been previously grown, it is safest to have the
ground pitted pre\dous to planting.

The White or Bog Moss (Sphagnum sp.) is characteristic of
wet, stagnant situations, with a considerable portion of porous
peat iu the soil. If thoroughly dried and solidified, it will grow
fair specimens of Alder and Spruce, but to attain this the drain-
age must be carefully attended to.

The Hau- Moss (Polytrichum commune) is also invariably
found in damp situations, but indicates a firmer and better class
of soil than the last. The Cross-leaved Heath (Erica Tetralix) is
generally in close proximity. The ground is always wet, but
when thoroughly drained it will grow Spruce, Alder, and Scotch
Fir, Grey and Balsam Poplar. The soil is generally brown peat,
naturally poor, and the subsoil gravelly, and sometimes soft
bluish clay.

We have purposely omitted the nutritious natural Grasses so
common in meadows and cultivated ground, as it is well known
that these only gi'ow upon a quality of soil that is seldom ap-
IJropriated to "the cultivation of forest trees, but on which all
the varieties of trees seem to luxuriate. The plants enumerated
are some of the most common, and, in our opinion, most
characteristic of the native plants. A greater number might
have been given, but our aim has been, not to multiply indica-
tors, but rather to select a few well-known ptlants that were
positively indicative of the soils on which they grow, and, at the
same time, so common as to be found in every district. To have
specified the plants found in a particular district would have
been an easier task, but would not have been so generally useful.
However, we have endeavoured to start the subject, which is of
great importance, and one that, in the interests of arboriculture,
we trust will yet be fully developed. — Willi.im Gilchkisi- (iu
Scottish Arhoricultural Transactions.)

WOBK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN OiEDEN.

AnvANTAQE should be taken of showery weather to transplant
and earth-up all crops that require it. for if done when the soil
about them is dry the roots will not receive that benefit from
rain which they otherwise woiild do. In pricking-out or trans-
planting, particular care should be taken to press the soil closely
to the roots of the plants, for if left hollow and loose about them
drought will soon stop their growth, or probably cause them to
perish. Wherever it is convenient to plant with a trowel, it is
far better than planting with a dibber, as with the latter the
roots are either left in a hollow or are crushed-up together
and rendered nearly useless. This is one reason of plants of
the same sowing varying so much in their growth. In one case
the plants are pulled up and deprived of half their roots, and as
carelessly planted ; in another they are dug-up with the greatest
care, and are then transplanted and watered as carefuUy as the
others were carelessly done. It is advisable to discontinue cut-
ting Asparajin from weak beds, or those which have only been
made from two to three years. Keep both old and young beds
free from weeds, and thin any other crops that may be growing
in them. Prick-out any Broccoli that is sufficiently advanced
in growth. Sow a full crop of Cape and Grange's Early White.
Where Cabbages were planted in the autumn at a foot apart iu
the rows, every alternate plant should be pulled up as required
for use. This wUl give the remainder time and space to attain
perfection. Sow a fuU crop of Cardoons. Plant out the early
crop if they were sown in a seed bed ; choose a rich piece of
ground for the purpose. It will not be necessary to plant largely
of the first crops, as they soon run to seed. Plant out some of
the most forward Celery in trenches, keep it well watered in dry
weather ; continue to prick out from the seed beds for late crops.
Where the seed of Cui-uinbers has been sown on ridges to pro-
duce Gherkins, thin the plants to three under each hand-glass.
Keep up the heat of the principal beds if fine long frmt is re-
quired. Make another small sowing of Endirc. The sowing of
the main crop should not be made before the middle of next
month. Earth-up Divarf Kidneri Beans that have been planted
out, and sow again. Make a sowing of two or three sorts of Let-
tuce, by this means the season of one sowing is prolonged. The
Paris tjos is a very good summer Lettuce. For Mushrooms, the
hay with which the productive beds are covered will require

May 29, 187S. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

439

removinf; occasionally, as it ia liable to get damp and mouldy,
which will rot the Mushrooms. Take the first favourable oppor-
tunity of earthing-up all Potatoes that are sufficiently forward ;
the others may be hoed between to loosen the earth and destroy
weeds. Make a good sowing of Turnips for early autumn use ;
thin-out the advancing crops. Plant-out Vegetable Marrows
on a rich piece of ground where there is plenty of room for it
to grow. Where the ground is cracked from drought amongst
seedling crops, rake it over while they are in a young state and
before they are thinned, this will be found of great service to
them throughout the summer. Loosen the earth about the
growing crops as frequently as possible. Keep down weeds, and
never allow any of them to seed.

FRUIT UAKDEN.

Examine those Peach trees that suffered from frost last season,
and carefully remove every piece of gum and canker with a
sharp knife. Prevent all colonising attempts of the green fly,
and see that the roots are not suffering from want of moisture,
or much mischief will be produced by a wet autumn. Destroy
caterpillars and black fly on Cherry trees by squeezing thern,
and afterwards give a forcible washing to the trees with clear
lime water. Whatever system of training is adopted with Rasp-
berries, no time should now be lost in removing all those young
shoots that will not be required for bearing wood next season.

FLOn-ER OABDEN.

When the planting-out of half-hardy plants shall have been
completed, the business of the flower garden for some time will
in a great measure be merely routine, such as hoeing and raking,
tying out and pegging down, removing dead leaves and flowers,
and keeping every thing and every place as it ought to be — clean,
neat, and tidy. Under the protection of a mulching of short
grass stick a few branches thinly in the beds, and place an in-
verted pot over the most tender plants. Newly-planted subjects,
especially' where not mulched, will require strict attention as to
watering, and where the planting-out is not completed proceed
with it as fast as possible. Where they are admired late in the
season a few annuals may be sown for late blooming, and a few
also may be kept in pots as stop-gaps in case of need. Remove
the flowers and seed-pods from American plants as fast as they
get shabby, which will add materially to the strength of the
plants. Give the beds a good flooding of water. The pegging
and tying-out of the plants should be no longer delayed. Double
Wallflowers, Mule Pinks, and some common Diauthuses, Alys-
snms. Phloxes, Perennial Iberis, and many kinds of dwarf
Cistus and Helianthemums, may be propagated under hand-
glasses in a shady situation, and will be found very useful next
spring. Keep Auriculas free from weeds, occasionally watering
and stirring the surface. Offsets may be taken off if rooted,
place them round the sides of the pot. Where the seed-vessels
of Polyanthuses are swelled, should any decayed floret remain
they must be removed, as they are liable to retain moisture to
the detriment of the seed. Remove the awning from Tulips,
and let the flowers have all the weather. Where seed is re-
quired break off the capsules. Unless Carnations are carefully
tied the wind will break or twist-off the shoots. Worsted is the
best material to tie with. As laterals are thrown out from the
sides they may be pinched-off in order to strengthen the other
flowers. Prepare a bed for Pink-pipings in a shady situation,
composed of sandy peat and leaf soil equal parts. Cuttings or
liipings may be put in under hand-glasses as soon as the grass is
sufficiently firm. Let the stakes be put to the Dahlias as soon
as convenient ; when delayed much longer the tuber is often
injured by the insertion.

OBKENHOU5E AND C0N9EEVAT0BY.

The climbing or roof-trained plants while growing will re-
quire constant attention in thinning aud stopping, and if
bright weather, which may now be expected, should set in, a
slight shading will be of benefit on very hot days. As soon as
the weather shall have become more genial, air must be freely
admitted ; and pot plants, especially fine specimens, must be
allowed abundance of room. Maintain a moist temperature,
and see that nothing suffers from want of water. Inspect care-
fully young stock, especially that for blooming next winter.
Chinese Primroses and Cinerarias may be had in flower in Oc-
tober and November. Another sowing may be made shortly
for spring decoration. Continue to start at intervals successions
of Achimenes. Chrysanthemum cuttings may be put in, they
will do without bottom heat; short- jointed wood will strike
freely under a hand-light. Gloxinias requii'e partial shade and
a moist heat. Gesneras may be treated iu the same way, but
they like more light. Amaryllis may be removed to the conser-
vatory for blooming, where they will prove a great acquisition.
Where it can be accomplished watering should still be done in
the moruiug, that all superfluous moisture may be dried up before
evening. The conservatory should now be thoroughly relieved
of all superfluous stock, for the reception of which tiffany houses
will be found extremely useful. Nothing will therefore be re-
quired in show houses or structures of that kind, but to carry
out a cleanly system of cultivation, and to introdixce specimens
iu flower from other houses or pits. Keep the atmosphere as

moist as circumstances wiU admit. Attend to plants for autumn
and early winter decoration, such as Japan Lilies, Chrysan-
themums, Scarlet Salvias, Tree Carnations, and plauts of that
sort. Give them plenty of pot-room, good rich compost, a moist
atmosphere, and plenty of space for the proper development of
their branches and leaves. Solago distans is a useful plant,
which must not be forgotten ; it flowers freely, and requires
nothing beyond a cold pit to grow in. Epacrises, winter-bloom-
ing Heaths, and Cytisus should likewise be cultivated in quantity,
for few plants surpass them for winter decoration. The atmo-
sphere of plant houses can scarcely be kept too moist at this
season, therefore sprinkle every available surface frequently,
and syringe growing stock lightly twice a-day during bright
weather. — W. Keane.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

This has been a very unfavourable season for us in many
respects. Since our last report we have had a sharp frost ; the
thermometer registered 28° Fah., or 4° of frost. Our bedding
plants have not suffered in the least, nor were the Potatoes, pro-
tected by a wall on the east side, damaged ; indeed, it seemed
to be the east wind which was the cause of any damage. It
was interesting to observe the effect in a field of 4 acres of
Potatoes close to the garden ; all in the field were cut down
except those under a wooden fence 6 feet high, which runs
down the east side of the field ; for quite twelve paces from this
fence scarcely a leaf was injured, and in another part protected
by a hedge little damage was done. A high west wind prevails
now, which is quite as injurious to tender plants as cold.

KITCHEN GARDEN.

Peas. — Earthing-up and sticking these. The succession sow-
ings are doing very well. The ground was lumpy, notwitt-
standing repeated turning-over in a dry state, so we had it well
rolled with a heavy roller before drawing the drills, and also
trod the seed in firmly. As pea-sticks are not easily obtained
here, we have sown some of the dwarf sorts, as Little Gem and
Blue Peter.

We have also been hoeing and earthing-up Broad Beans,
sowed Spinach between the rows of Peas, and continued tO'
make sowings of small salads. We only grow one sort of
Radish now, the French Olive-shaped Breakfast; it is certainly
superior to the Red Turnip Radish. Pricking-out later-sown
Celery in light soil, and hoeing amongst all growing crops to
kill incipient weeds.

FRUIT AND FORCING HOUSES.

The Grapes in the late Muscat houses seem to have set well ;
after the first flowers open we do not stop the growing shoots
until all are set. We have a fancy that the berries set better if
the lateral shoots are not touched ; they are now being stopped
and tied-in to their places, and the berries are being thinned.
There is an excellent plant of Mrs. Pince in the house ; it has
a peculiarity worth noting. The leading shoot seems to be
scorched at the point, and dies at the sixth or ninth leaf; after
it breaks the second time it goes on all right. The evil seems to
be caused by strong sun. Throwing some light shading over the
place prevents this if it is done in time. On the back stage of
the Cucumber and Melon houses Figs and Orange trees are
growing in pots. The Fig trees afford some excellent dishes in
June, and are little trouble. Syringing them twice a-day causes
them to be clean and healthy. Not so the Oranges ; no amount
of syringing will dislodge the scale, which sticks to the bark
and leaves like limpets to the rock, and causes them to be
covered with a sticky black substance. We have been washing
the trees with a sponge dipped in water in which soft soap has
been dissolved ; nothing is so effectual as hand-washing for them.
A few weeks ago we wrote about the Melons dyiug-off in a
mysterious manner. A strong healthy plant of Scarlet Gem
has become affected, and is gradually dying before our eyes,
with no sign of decay on the stem. For the last ten days it
flagged in sunshine, though shaded ; after the house was shut-up
in the afternoon it recovered, and did not look different from
the other plants. It has, however, gradually become worse,
and now seems past recovery. On cutting through the stem it
will no doubt, like the others, show decay at the core, induced
through something deleterioiis iu the soil, or in the water ap-
plied. The case is quite new to me.

ORCHARD HOUSE.

There is always a little work to be done to the fruit trees, as
they cannot all be pinched and the fruit thinned at one time.
Much watering is required, and constant attention to see that
no tree suffers. The StrawbeiTy pots require looking over twice
daily if there is much sunshine. We stood the pots in saucers
of water once to save watering, but have not continued to do so,
as better fruit is obtained if the pots stand upon their own
bottom. The fruit, which is now sweUing fast, has been sup-
ported by sticks.

CONSERVATOBT AND PLANT STOVE.

We have been repotting small growing plauts of Ferns and

4dO

JOURNAL OF HORTIGUIiTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

( May 29, 1873.

other subjects requiring attention. This ought always to be i
looked to in time, as, if neglected, the plants will be much in-
jured. The beautiful Adiautum farleyeuse requires frequent
potting to do well, and will not grow freely if allowed to be pot-
bound iu the early stages of its growth. Turfy loam, with a
little Orchid peat added, seems to suit it. "We have beeu wash-
ing, training, aud re-arrauging the plants. In the conservatoiy
the work has beeu similar to last week. Azaleas are now making
a good show, and require much attention as regards watering
and shading. If the soil in the pots is allowed to become over-
<irT, or the flowering plants to be exposed to the sun for a few
hours, the effect of either will be most disastrous. We are care-
ful to remove all dead or decaying leaves and flowers from
Pelargoniums and other flowering plants as soon as perceived.
Any little attention of this sort can readily be given when the
plants are being watered, aud young nieu who are alive to their
duties will not require to be constantly told about such trifles,
which, however, if not attended to in time, are a constant
source of annoyance to many persons.

We sowed Cineraria seed, and placed the pots in a frame
■where there is very little bottom heat ; we do not trouble about
the uamed sorts now, as seedling plants grow most freely, aud
are less trouble. Primula sinensis has been pricked-out of the
seed-pans into small pots, and is growing freely. Primula ja-
ponica, which was sown in August last year, is just coming up
in an irregular manner; the plants are potted-off singly in
small pots as they become large enough. We have also been
potting-off the latest-struck cuttings of perpetual-flowering Car-
nations ; they are potted singly in smaU 60-sized pots, aud
placed in a frame, where the lights can be kept close for a few
days, afterwards air is freely admitted.-

FLOWER GARDEN.

We have beeu filling rustic baskets with plants ; these, with
some stone vases, are placed in suitable positions on the lawn.
In the centre of the vase is planted one of the more choice stage
Pelargoniums, aud around the edge trailing plants and dwarf
subjects. The weather is warmer now, but we shall not venture
to plant-out the tender plants for a week longer. The Roses
are growing freely, and promise to give us good flowers ; we
should have looked over them aud thiuued-otit the youug shoots,
as well as destroyed the bud-worm, but want of time prevents
XLS. Mowing the lawn and trimming the edgings, as well as
destroying all weeds, have occupied the rest of our time. —
J. Douglas.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.
N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until uext
week.

New Flower-pot (J. H.}.— You had better write to Mr. Matthews and
askhun if it is registered. He can best reply to the question.

Twelve Good Frame Auriculas (AiiTkida). — Green-cdgtd. — Traill's
■General Neill, Campbell's Lord Palmerston, aud Headly's Conductor. Oi-ey-
^d^erf.— Fletcher's Ne- Plus-Ultra, Lightbody's Richard Headly, and Cheetham's
Lancashire Hero. White-edged. — Popplewell's Conqueror, Smith's Ne-Plus-
XTltra, aud Heap's Smiliug Beauty. Stf//i.~Spaldiu^'s Blackbird. Campbell's
Pizairo , and Li^thtbody's Lord Clyde. Refer to the advertisers iu our columns
lor a florist to supply them.

Primula japonica Propagation (Jrfcm). —Primula japonlca is propagated
by division of the roots as well as by seeds.

Spring-flowering Greenhouse Plants {Idem). —Erica hyemalis, Heda-
jToma tulipiferum, Acacia gracilis and ai'mata, Pimelea miiubilia, Azaleas, and
■Camellias.

Dielytra spectaeilis (H. /?.).— At Tunbridge Wells and in our southern
counties it begins to bloom in April ; but in the midlani aud more northern
counties, except under walls, it does not flower until at least sis weeks later.

Faulty Flue— Flooded Stokehole [B. DJ.—The flue which emits a
sooty smell should be thoroughly eiamined ; and if the mortar is intact, two
or three dressings of the whole of the exterior with Portland cement mixed
with water to the consistency of ordinary whitewash, aud laid on vigorously
with a brush, will prove a cheap and effectual remedy. If, however, the mortar
in the joints has perished, so that it may be raked out easily with a pointed
atick, the flue ought certainly to be pulled down and rebuilt with hard bricks
of good quality, u^ing lirelumps or bricks laid iu fii-eclay for the sides and top
■of the part close to the furnace. Yom- plan of cementing the stokehole to
prevent the water from soaking throu^;h the walls is good. Before putting on
the cement see that the brickwork is sound; if it proves faulty, replace it
•with hard bricks laid in cement. Before making a stokehole iu a wet situ-
ation, or wherever there is risk of flooding, it is a good plan to make a drain
■of 4-inch pipes a few inches below the floor-level, connecting it with a grating
set in the brickwork of the floor to carry off the water as it enters, the drain
being continued to a suitable outlet.

Combined Peach House and Vinery {Cnnxiant Subscriber).— The glass
roof, with front sashes 2 feet high resting on the back wall of a coid pit that
is 2 feet above the surface, and 6 feet from a back wall 12 feet high, would
form an admirable protection for the Peach and Nectarine trees already
planted against the back wall ; but it would not answer tho double purpose
of vinery and Peach house in the way you propose, because if the Vines were
planted in front and trained up under the roof, the shade would inevitably
prove fatal to your present hopeful prospects of Peaohes and Noctaiines. The
only reaUy practical way of successfully cultivating Vines and Peaches in such
a structure would be to remove the trees to the front, train them to a
trellis half way up the roof, and plant the Vines against the back wall at
12 feet apart, traiuing them, not down, but along the upper part of the roof-
tiellia. Black Hamburgh is the best kind lor general crop. Look well to the

drainage of the border before you begin building, so that there may be no
future risk of stagnant water accumulating in the soil.

Vines Blighted {J. H.).— What you call "blighted" is by gardeners
called " shanking." It is usually caused by a deficient supply of sap. Give
copious wateiings once a-week with weak, tepid, liquid manure, and mulch
the surface of the ground over the roots.

Asparagus Culture (North Lancashire). — The main point in Asparagus
cultivation is to provide a deep, rich sandy, open soil, with a well-drained
subsoil. We advise light loamy soil, drained 4 feet deep, trenched deeply,
and mixed with a fourth of manure and a sixth of sea or river sand, or if at
all heavy with one-fo^lrth of the latter material. Make the surface very sandy;
if plants are put in cover the crowns au inch deep with sand. Dress the
beds with salt in March, and again at the end of May, applying on each
occasion half a pound per squai'e yard, and water with liquid manure from
May up to the middle of September, twice or more a-woek. Cover the beds
in autumn with 3 inches of htfcer, and then with an inch or two of soil. This
protects the crowns from frost; remove the covering partly in spring, leaving
the crowns covered about 3 or 4 inches deep with fine soil or mauure nearly
reduced to soil. Sow in two rows 1 foot apart, with 3-feet alleys between,
aud thin the plants out to 9 inches apart in the rows. At three years it will
be finer than that planted at two years old.

Black Fly on Cherry Trees (B. B.I.— Having tried tobacco water we
think it must have beeu weak. We advise you to try aga'u, adding six
gallons of water to every gallon of tobacco juice, and before syringing with it
dip the end of the shoots aud the leaves infested in the tobacco water, rub-
bing them between the fingers aud thumb. This dislocates and destroys a
great number, and, along with the dipping and after-syringing, generally
effects a cure. It has not failed with us, nor has syringing them and dusting
them whilst wet with tobacco powder, syringing again in the morning with
soft-soap solution, 2ozs. to the gallon. When badly infected the finger-and-
thumb process, aud dipping iu tobacco water at the same time, are a necessity.
Clarke's compound, used at the rate of 3 ozs. to a gallon of water, will also
kill them.

Gentiana verna and Iris reticulata Culture (G. S.). — The Gentiana
verna requires deep rich fibrous loam, with a sixth part of pieces of lime-
stone, gi'avel iu like quantity, and a fourth of sandy peat, very old leaf soil,
or cocoa fibre refuse, the latter is preferable when rather old. It is best grown
on a sunny bank, but requires to be kept very moist, and to have vei7
L'tbcient draiuage. It should be well supplied with water, but so that the
latter may pass away rapidly ; constant percolating moisture is essential to
full vigour. It will succeed in gaiden borders in deep loam mixed with gravel —
better if mingled with pieces of limestone ; and well drained, keeping moist
in summer — or it may be grown iu pots in the compost above named. Iris
reticulata requu*es good rich loamy soil with leaf soil, and to be kept well
Bupphed with water until the growth is complete, and drier afterwai'ds. If
the pot be plunged it will have sufficient moisture. It is not tender, thriving
well out of doors, and is good for pots.

Coarse Grass on Lawn {F. J.). — The grasses you enclosed to ns are
much too coarse for a lawn. We should grub them up at once, for if they
spread they will interfere with the growth of the otber finer kinds. By
grubbing-out the coarsest gi-ass and weeds you will best secm-e the growth of
the finer soi-ts; and with constant rolling and mowing, never allowing the
grass to become long before mowing, wo should give a dressing of bone dust
after mowing when there is an early prospect of rain. It would be better
given in March. It may be applied at the rate of one peck to 30 square
yards.

Soil for Echeverias and Sempervivums (Id^m).— They requii-e rich,
light soil, adding to it some leaf soil or thoroughly decayed manure, and
some brick and old mortal' rubbish if at all stiff.

Heating by Hot Water (Frigus). — There is not any later edition that we
know of the work to which you allude. Oui" " Greenhouse Manual," which
treats of heating garden structures, would probably suit you. It may be had
free by post from our oflice for Id.

Bottom Heat to Cucumbers {Infelix). — The best mode of fm-nishing
bottom heat is by means of a chamber. The heat Is thereby more uniform,
and not so liable to sudden changes as in the case of rubble over hot-water
pipes. In the latter mode the pipes are surrounded aud covered with rubble,
rough at the low.'rpart and finer at the upper, which should cover the pipes
9 inches, aud be rather finer uext the soil. The rubble should be coveied
with a thin layer of sods, grass side downwaids, or the roughest of the com-
post. By either plan you ought to grow Cucumbers or Melons uell.

White-leaved Pelargonicm (An Australian Corrcspondetit). — No Gera-
nium with pure white leaves has stamina enough to live ; all puie white
sports have hitherto defied every attempt at propagation. There are several
white- variegated varieLies now with white flowers, but those hitherto sent out
seem deficient in vigom- for bedding purposes.

Budded Boses Failing (J. E. B.). — We believe from the specimen sent
that the bark of the Hose shoots is eaten by slugs, the damage being done
at night and the enemy retreating by day. Is there harbour in the shape of
stones, or Box-edging, or rockery near enough for them to travel by night '.* If
once either snails or slugs get a taste for a particular plant they will travel
long distances backwards and forwards for their food, as we have often known
to be the case with regard to Petunias.

Eucharis amazonica Bulbs Rotted [George). — We have had no ex-
perience with the bulbs of this plant decaying. It is evergreen, and should not
be diied-off in the same manner as Amaryllis. It flowers three or four times
in the year, aud requires to be freely watered except after each flowering
period. The puts iu which the plants are should be well drained, and the
potting material should be the turfy part of sandy loam with some lea! mould
added. We fancy you must have allowed your plants to become too diy, as
the other treatment is right. The Amaijllis bulbs should be potted firmly in
small pots. Six-inch pots are lai'go enough for the lai'gest bulbs, 4 and 5-inch
pots for smaller bulbs. Pot firmly in tmfy loam; withhold water altogether
when at rest, and remove the i>ots to a cool house.

Zonal Pelargoniums not FL0\\'ERiNa {J. Whithi).—T\n% is one of the
easiest plants in existence to grow and flower. Your soil must be too rich, or
elt^e the varieties you have are worthless. Obtain some of the sorts advertised
weekly in this Journal, plant in moderately rich or poor soil, aud they i\iU
flower well.

Flower Beds Preparing (^?ixi<^/i/.) — The beds manuixd in
only need forking over and breaking fine ; then plant out an' ■i'-iiio
weather throughout the season. If not mauui-ed iu auti~

May 29, 1373. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

441

with the soil some very old manure, leaf soil, or fresh rich soil. If the plants
are good, and the situation open, water freely in dry weather, and there will
be plenty of flowers. Stir the surface of the boU fretiueutly, so long an it can
be done without injury to the plants, and pick off the decayed leaves and
dead trusgc-s of flowers. Peg the Verbenas down as they advance until the
surface is covered.

Bed OS Lx-WNC-Vrs. B. Lynton). — Amaranthus melancholicug ruber edRed
with Centaurea will be best. Purple Verbena edged with yellow Caloeolaria,
but the latter must be kept pegged down.

Male Blossoms of CacuuBER (Cucumber). — Leave the male blossoms on
the plants whether you require seed or otherwise.

Vise Border— Peach-house Border— Vines and Peaches (Dumbar-
tonshii':'). — For youi- Vine border you will need about half a ton of half-inch
bones, ten bushels of charcoal, and one part in sis of the soil of cow manure.
For the Peach border we should have a quarter ton of half-inch bones, eight
bushels of charcoal, and one part in six of cow manure. We should prefer
the Cow raauure for the Peach bjrder, especially if the soil is lij;ht. Add one
part in ei:,'ht or ton of old lime rabbish to your Vine border. The soil you
name will be suitable. The Vines we should advise for your house are
Black Harabur;,'h, Frankenthal (Pope's Hamburgh), and Mill Hill Hamburgh,
which are all black, aud of white kinds Buckland Sweetwater, Fuster's White
Scediintr, and General de la Marmora. These will do well t^igethor, and come
in about one time or succeed each other at a few days' interval. Ef you wish
for those which require heat and will han^ some time, we should advise you to
have a uorder inside the house of not less than 3 feet iu width, and plant the
Vines iuside. Muscat Hamburgh, Mrs. Pince's Black Muscat, AliL;aute. Lady
Downe's, all black ; and Muscat of Alexandria, and Trobbiauo. The former
lot will, however, suit you best. Of Peacbes have Royal George, Noblesse,
and Grosse Mignonne, with Elruge Nectarine.

Mrs. Pisce's Vine Shoot Points Dead (G. Taylor). — This is not an un-
common occurrence with this variety of Vine, when the shoots havQ grown
the length yours have. We found shading with some light material a pre-
ventive. You must pinch-back to a healthy leaf, and the shoot will start
again.

Scaring Rooks (D.). — There is no better plan than to secore a winged one
to a stake by string, moving it about, or it will answer nearly as well to sus-
pend a dead one by the neck to a string between two stakes. A lad with a
pistol, up soon and about late, will keep them off.

Grapes Sptitted (Lilly, Sussex). — All the berries you enclosed were
affected by what gardeners name "the spot," an ulceration usually caused
by a deficient supply of sap. Cah sff at least six of the siiteeu bunches, give
the root>i a copious watering with weak, tepid, liquid manure once a-week,
and mulch the surface of the soil over the roots.

PLANTiNr; A Circular Flowee-bed (Monitor). — We think your proposed
planting of the circular bed very tasteful, and that it will look well, especially
when the sun shines. Tour edging of Mesembryanthemum cordifolium varie-
gatum will look well in all weathers, and so will the patches of Alternantheras
and the dividint^ lines of Lobelias ; but though Mesembryanthemum tricolor
is one of the best and is often good in dull iaye, in otlier dull days it may
incline to shut its blooms up. We forget the properties of the Mesembryan-
themum pomeridianum in this respect, but if it is one that only opens to the
sun's rays the yellow segments will be defective. All such Mesembryanthe-
mnms bloom best iu rather poor soil. But for these matters, of which we are
in doubt, the proposed planting would be uniqne and louk well ; aud we do
not see how on that style you could improve it, except by increasing the fine
triangles of Alternantheras, and thus relieving your yane;^ated edgings.

YouNo Plums in Orchard House Falling (C. B.).^The young fruit
sent aeem troubled with one evil, mildew; and we think a second, an attack
from a small thrips. The first in an orchard house is generally produced from
three causes — a d^^ficiency of early ventilation, too much dryness or too much
moisture at the roots. To keep things right, the law of reciprocity must ever
be attended to. For instance : In a bright sunny day there is an eitra demand
on root action; and if the roots are then dry, the shoots, and especially the
young fruit, will suffer, and there will be an invitation given to disease and
the attacks of insects. On the other hand, in very dull weather such as we
have lately had at times, deficient drainage and an extra soaking at the roots,
jast because the leaves will not carry on reciprocal action, will be apt to foster
mildew aud other evils. We would advise you to examine and see if there is
any trace of mildew on the foliage. Some of our readers contend that too
much moisture at the roots iu dull weather is the chief cause of mildew ; but
over-dryness or what will produce a weakening effect will be just as likely to
produce the evil. A twelvemonth a^o we were asked to look at some Peaches
and Plums in pots, the youn^^ fruit and many of the leaves being blotched
with mildew. The soil seemed in a proper state as regards moisture, aud we
were a'leured the watering had been done with the greatest care, and that the
roots had not suffered from excessive moisture nor dryness. We could from
appearance^ hardly take this on trust, and opening our clasp knife we made a
small hole 3 inches deep at the side of the pot, and beyond that depth the
soil might as well have been kiln-dried. The mystery was at once solved. All
the evils hail come from a mere dribbhng surface- watering. Thousands of
plants find their resting-place in the rubbish heap, simply because the at-
tendant cannrit think of the propriety of trying the soil with his finger or
a pointed stici:. or ringing a pot to ascertain the state of moisture inside, and
not merely at the surface. Attention to watering and air-giving is the great
preventive. When mildew makes its appearance a fine dusting of sulphur is
the best reme'-l,7. The nest best, and also as setting thrips and green fly
pretty well at defiance, is a good syringing with weak Gishurst water, less
than 2 ozs. to the gallon. We should say 1 oz. or Ih oz. of soft soap to the
gallon, well dissolved in hot water, aud any sediment left out, and that
apphed at not less than 100^ We would treat your trees with such an ap-
plication now, first with sulphur and then with these washings. To encourage
free growth and cleanlines'^, we would also recommend a syringing with c ear
Boot water two or three times a-week. As respects growth it is invigorat-
ing, and if it does not kill the worst insects it helps to keep them away. We
like to sniff the acent the clear soot water leaves behind it. Like other good
things it must not be used too strong. A peck of soot and a pound or two of
quicklime would be strong enough for thii-ty-six to forty gallons of water. The
other day we put a barrowload of good dry soot into an old puncheon sunk into
the ground, holding about o^e hundred gallons. That was worked up with a
little water with an old broom into a pasty substance before the baixel was
fijled with water, and then a good shovelful of fresh lime was added, all stirred
'he broom again, aud in twenty-four hours, after removing a little scum
Q,^-- -rface, the liquid if put into a bottle might have been mistaken for
out a iv ; but for most syringing and even watering purposes, a pail-
in flowei ■

ful of such liquid would have required two other pailfuls to be added. We
know of no better method for getting the properties of soot in a liquid state
as clear as the finest sherry. As there have been some inquiries as to the
clear aoot water, these hints may not be out of place. Two things here we
should like to notice. First, that one of the greatest safeguards for fruit trees
in pots, as respects a medium state of moisture, is the frequent mulching of
the surface in summer. It makes a great difference in the time of drying up
the soil, although it does not dispense with all care in ascertaining the state
of dryness beneath ; and, again, owing to a press of other work, our orchard
houses did not receive the usual care as respects washing, &c., but they have
never been more free from insects, and many of the trees, as Peaches and
Nectarines, have set but too much like ropes of Onions. Just before the
buds began to move much, the trees, woodwork, &c., were well syringed with
soft-soap water at about 17U", the water finding its way into most holes and
crannies. They had little more at the top until the fruit was set. when they
had several good washings with aoft-soap water at about 140°, and in strength
about 1^ oz. to the gallon, aud since then they have been washed several times
after a bright day with the diluted soot water. We seldom think of syringing
such houses in dull weather. After a very bright day it seems to refresh the
trees. One word more. Oar experience teaches us to depend more on early
air-giving than on the mere quantity given late. A few hours' sun in the
morning and a close house may do incalculable mischief. With early air the
house temperature may rise and fall considerably with safety.

Hoes (Celia). — Some one of the implement manufacturers who advertise in
our columns may have those you particularise. If they have not, any black-
smith could make them if shown the drawings.

PaiMTTLA JAPONICA AND AmARANTHUS SAilClFOLrOS CULTURE (R. F.).^

You do not state in what conditiuu your plants are, or whether you have seed.
We presume the last. Sow the seeds at once in light fibrous loam, with a
fourth of leaf si^il, and place the pots in a frame with a gentle heat, keeping
moist and near the glass. The Primulas may not appear until next spring;
keep the soil moi^t, and in a greenliouee. When the plants are up and con
well be handled, pot-off singly in small pots, and remove to a cold frame.
The plants may be shifted iuto larger pots as those they are in fill with roots,
and should be wintered iu a frame protected from frost ; or they may ha
planted in good soil out of doors. Keep the Amaranthus near the glass,
potting-off singly when the young plants can well be handled, and return
them to gentle heat, shading for a few days. Shift into larger pots as they
fill with roots, giving them their final shift into 7 or 9-inch pots when the
plants are 9 inches or a. foot high. Grow in the greenhouse near the glass-
Water freely when the pots are full of roots.

Asparagus Dytng-out (J. E. D.U—We do not think there is anything
amiss either with the soil or your treatment, but we are inclined to think
your beds are covered deeply with dung in autumn, and this is apt to form
too much humus iu the soil, and especially about the crown, and hence decay.
Have you tried sowing the seed ? We find if seed be sown where the plants
are to remain, that these are stronger than those which are planted, produce
as quickly, if not sooner, and the plants do not go off. Sow in two rows a
foot apart, with a 3-feet t^pace between each two rows, and iueteid of manur-
ing directly over the crowns, cover them with any loose, open, eandy soil, and
manure the spaces between heavily. Cover the crowns in winter, as they are
liable to suffer from frost if near the surface and grown in rich soil. Remove
the soil partially in March, and point-in the manure in the spaces. Use salt
as hitherto, and water as often as you can with manure water from June to
the middle of September. We think you will not in future have any gapSk
We find sea sand the best thing for covering the crowns, and river sand is the
next best.

Ferns in Case not Thrivtug (J. S. T.). — You do not say what kind of
Adiautum you have under the glass shade. Taken from a gieenhouse, we
presume it is A. cuneatum, wiiich, as a rule, does not thrive under a glass.
We should have Adiautum assimile and A. Capillus-^'eneri3 if you wish for
Maiden-hair Ferns, planting the former in the centre and the others around
it; about five plants for a case about a foot to 15 inches across; or, if
you are not particular as to the Adiantums, have for the centre Onychium
japonicum, and around it Pteris serrulata cristata and Adiautum Capillus-
Veneris alternately. The soil is quite right. We presume the vase has good
drainage. Keep the soil moist, aud the glass constantly over the plants. It
should be taken off twice or thiice a-week, wiped dry with a cloth, and re-
placed. Keep from direct sun, and turn the opposite side of the case to the
light every week. We think your case will soon give yon satisfaction.

Reiiotikg Young Growths of Azaleas (H.E.). — It is quite right to cut
off the seed-pods of Azaleas, but a strange idea to cut away the small young
leaves and shoots. Instead of that, encourage the plants by keeping them
rather close, moist, and shaded from bright sun until their growth is com-
plete, then admit light and air freely, and when the buds are set keep them
cool and airy. As there are traces of thrips on the leaves, syringe morning
and evening, and fumigate with tobacco on a calm evening when the leaves
are dry.

Pot Clematis out of Doors (Idem). — The Clematis will grow very well
in a pot or tub, and you may train the shoots to your house, but a mat will
not be sufficient protection for the roots in winter. Wrap the pot or tub
with hay or straw bands 6 to 9 Inches thick, and cover with the mat for
neatness.

Alyssum 3AXATILE C0MPACTU5I SEEDLINGS NOT FLOWERING (An Amateur).
— It is not unusual for seedlings not to flower well the second season. The
freest-flowering plants are raised from cuttings, and in this way we advise
you to obtain your plants for flowering next spring. Take off the cuttings at
once, inserting them in sandy soil in a shady border. We do not know of a
red-flowering perennial that would suit to edge a bed of Forget-me-not, ex*
cept Belhs aucubfefoiia. Fleming's " Spring and Winter Flower Gardening"
will suit you. It may be had free by post from our office for 2^. l^d.

Roses with Combined Shoots (An Amateur Suhu-rihi-r, Hull). — Probably
fasciated from disease at the root. If a great number of small shoots form
at the base cut them off with a sharp penknife, leaving only the origmal stem
or cutting. Yoor description is too vague to be able to give a definite answer.
Melons for Second Crop (F. H.). — Treat the plants in exactly the same
way as you would do if no second crop were expected, only you must keep
some young shoots near the collar of the plants, and water until the fruit
begins to ripen, when, of course, a dry atmosphere and rather dry soil is
desirable. When the fruit has been cut prune-back the old Vines to some of
the young shoots near the collar of tha plants, aud with moisture they will
soon form Vines that will carry the second crop.

AlstruMERIA Seedlings (Id^'m). — Plants from seed sown this year will*
flower next, or if the seed is sown early in heat, and the growth of the seed-

412

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t May 29, 1873.

lings encouraged, they may flower late in autumn. They sliould be planted
out 8 inches deep in rich damp soil, or if put in at a less depth they should
be protected trom frost in winter hy a 3-iuch mxilching of partially-decayed
leaves.

Heating a Greenhouse {I, J. I. A'.).— We should advise, as you can only
attend to your house at distant intervals, to have a gas-heated hot-water
apparatus, and four rows ol 2-in(;h pipes along the front of the house — i.e.,
two rows of How and the same of return pipes. They couUl join the boiler as
a single pipe in each case, branching directly where the flow leaves and the
return enters the boiler; or two rows of 2-inch pipes all around would do just
as well. "We should have the stove or boiler inside the house, with a pipe
irom it communicating with the external air. The Zigzag gas boiler is
probably the best.

MtTLBERRY PRorAGATiON (S/)cro).— Insert cuttings of the young shoots in
autumn in sandy soil in a sheltered spot, leaving one or two buds out of the
^ound. " Truncheons," that is. branches of good size, taken from the tree
in February, and planted a foot deep in a sheltered shaded place, make free-
fruiting trees. Wrap the moss round the stems above ground, but do not
cover the upper two pairs ef buds.

Asparagus Beds Failing (G. P.).— The cause of failui-e -we cannot
.possibly ascertain, as you do not state how the buds were made and have been
treated.

Semovea^le Greenhouse (W. McA.). — If a greenhouse rests upon what
carpenters call a plate of wood, without being fixed either to it or to a wall
behind it, it is removcable by the tenant who so constructed it.

Bowling-green and Croquet Ground (Inquirer). — Full directions for
making a bowhng-green (and they apply to a croquet-ground), are published
in our No. 468. The size should not be less than a quarter of nn acre,
nor should a croquet- ground be much less, if more than ona party are to play
at the same time.

Manuring Roses (Jno. Watson' .—Mineral manures ai-e those which owe
their fertilising properties to mineral ingredients, and not to carbon or vege-
-table matter—as nitrate of soda, phosphate of lime, chloride of sodium, &c.
Sulphate of potash should be spai-iugly used. Nitrate of potash is preferable
.aa more dilique^;cent, but both are expensive. The latter might be used
occasionally at the rate of about 1 oz. to two gallons. The best way of using
mineral manures as stimulants to plants is to put a handful of guano and
the same quantity of superphosphate of lime into four gallons of water, and
use it once or twice a-week to the roots. Clear soot water is also good; it
is made by stirring fresh Boot in soft water, using the liquid when the seili-
ment has settled and the mixture is like clear porter. It is better to dilute it.
The vitriol- carboys you describe are, we know, very useful as propagating glasses
■when the base is taken off. John Gould Veitch as a double Clematis is not
nearly so profuse a bloomor as Jackmamii, though it is well vforth growing.
■Get Lord and Lady Londesborouiih and Miss Bateman if you wish for free-
blooming kinds to contrast with Jackmanni.

Select Fragrant Hvrrid Perpetual Roses {H. C.).— La France,
■Charles Lefebvre, Boule de Neitie, Madame Knorr, Marie Baumaun, Beauty of
Wttltham, Cheshunt Hybrid, EUzabeth Vigneron, Madame Charles Verdier,
Bessie Johnson, Louisa Wood, and add Tea Gl-jire de Dijon, and as many
others of the same class as you like, not forgetting Mai't'chal Niel.

Bougainville A spectablis Culture {A Subscriber). — It succeeds in a
cool stove or warm greenhouse, and in a compost of tuify loam two-thirds,
and one-thu-d leaf mould or turfy peat. Liberal supplies of water should be
aiforded wheu the growth is beinc; made, but afterwards the plant can hardly
have too little so long as the foliage is not affected. Too much li^'ht camiut
be given, aud the nearer the plant is to the glass the better, providing its
shoots do not touch it. Free drainage must be afforded.

Red Spider on Drac.tsna (Z>. C.).— Of the plants you send, No 1 is Ne-
phrolepis exaltata, or it may bo N. tuberosa. We cannot be certain from part
of a frond. If the latter, it will succeed well in a greenhouse, but if the former
it requires a warm greenhouse or cool stove temperature. No. 2 is Pilea
muscosa or Ai-tillery-plant, and requires a stove. The " white scale " on the
Dractena, or No. 3, is the result of red spider, for which the leaves should be
sponged with 3 ozs. of soft soap to the gallon of water, at a temperature of
100^ ; use two sponges aud draw the leaves through them, taking care not to
injure these. This should be done once a-wcek for a time. Give more water, and
preserve a moister atmosphere. No. 4 is probably Tremandra ericfefolia; if
so, it will have rosy-lilac flowers in July or August. It ought not to be cut-in
like an Epacris, but be left its full length, restraining irregular growth by stop-
ping; thin-out old weak growths in autumn or after flowering, and en-
courage the young. Keep the plants in a light airy position.

Insect on Rose Trees (S. W. mieclwrir/ht). — The insect is most probably
the Curculio oblongus, or Oblong Rose Weevil. It is not easily got rid of.
One way is to put white sheets or towels under the trees at night aud trive the
trees a shai-p tap or shake, when the insects will fall on the sheet. They may
be slow processes, but hand-picking and this method are the only means we
know to extirpate the pest. We must apologise for the delay in answering
the question, as one of our correspoudonts to whom we sent your inquiry
accidentally mislaid the paper.

Ants is Cucdmher Frame iMoifrs.) — We do not understand how ants can
cause the Cucumber plants to bo infested with a sort of black fly. No aphis
nor fly exists that will not yield to fumigation with tobacco. Neither tobacco
smoke nor tobacco powder will destroy ants. Mix arsenic with honey in equal
proportions, place in a shallow saucer, and cover with an inverted saucer of
larger size raised at the edge so far from the soil that the ants can get under
to the inner saucer, which should be Runk in the soil, or the edges brought so
low that the ants can get over. Keep Tiseful animals from tho poison,
■which should be used with great care, as it will destroy whatever partakes
of it.

Insect fL. Y. 1'.),— The insect sent is the very common Puss Sloth (Cerura
vinula).— I. 0. W.

Names of Plants (Spero). — Omphalodos verna. ID.). — 1, Veronica Cha-
miEdrys ; 2, a Myosotis; 3, Nepeta Glechoma; 4. Cerastium triviale; 5, Ge-
ranium molle. (-ff. RUchie). — Some Crat-Tgus or Pyrus, but impossible to say
further without flowers, (ilf. D.).— 1, Davallia sp. ; 2, D. dissecta. We cannot
name florists' varieties of Azalea. (.V. Il.).—l, Asplenium lucidum. (No
number), A. acrostichoides ; 4. Aspidium coriacoum. We cannot answer your
question further than by saying that specimens should always be as com-
plete as possible. (T. W. H.).— 1, Probably Oxalis megalorhiza, as we before
observed (page 381), but we cannot be quite sure without seeing root ; 2, Di-
plotaxis tenuifoUa ; 3, Hibbertia, probably linearis.

POULTEY, BEE, AIJD PIGEON OHEONIOLE.

POULTRY PAST AND PRESENT— THE LAW

OF DEVELOPMENT.— No. 2.
In some remarks under this heading the other day I tried to
show, that as in breeding fowls for any object whatever, certain
accepted standards must be presupposed, so in breeiliug for
shows, where birds must be judged as they appear in pens,
those standards must, from the very nature of the case, be
visible ones, aud therefore more or less arbitrary. If this be
clearly understood it will also make clear my meaning iu the
few remarks I made on Game, aud show where, in my judgment,
j there lurks some little fallacy in the arguments of " Old Black
Eed " and " Cobnish Duckwing." Let me try to make it plain.
If long experience in breeding, slowly acquired by couutless
breeders, has proved anything, it has proved that in breeding
we cannot attain all objects at once. To think we cau is a com-
mon mistake of novices, but all old breeders know otherwise ;
and one of the most valuable remarks in Eaton's queer but
fascinating book ou the Almond Tumbler is that in which he
warns the young fancier against trying to breed for " all five
properties " at once. We may get a fair average of many ex-
cellencies, but we can only get the highest excellence in one
point at a time. The old Game-breeders knew this well, and
hence, in breeding for the pit, they crossed all colours, their
only object being to get birds that would fight the best. To this
cause were owing the forty or fifty different colours kuowu to the
old cockers; they came from various crosses and sub-crosses
between differeut colour's, the object being not colour, Init to keep
up or increase the vigour, quickness, and endurance of the race.
The breeders succeeded to such a degree in developing the fight-
ing power and disposition of their birds, that not a few were
useless from actual excess of it, turning so savagely on their
own handlers as to give advantage to the adversary. But this
could not be done with what a fancier calls " high breeding " as
to feather and beauty of shape ; and it will be clearly seen, on
careful readiug, that mauy of the questions asked by my friendly
opponents as to the old Game fowls refer them to the old
standards, which in a pen cannot be applied. " Old Black Bed "
asks, " Were we not purs ?" Yes. " Were we not courageous ?"
Yes, emphatically. But wheu he asks, " Were we not equal iu
colour and as perfect in feather?" I should myself reply. No,
decidedly. It may be matter of opinion, but my only assertion
was that breeders, the public, and the judges gave the prefer-
ence to the modern fowl. Can this be disputed ? *' Old Black
Red " does not give this preference, and there are others who
do not, but certainly the public do, and breeders as a body do.
I remember well when, after our old friend " Newmarket " had
been airing his views on Game fowls pretty freely, he added
how much he admired Mr. Chaloner's birds, and Mr. Chaloner
immediately replied, stating that as his name had been men-
tioned he felt bound to say how entirely he dissented from
" Newmarket's " opinions. Aud, except in case of admitted
mistakes, it is surprising how unanimous the opinion of Game-
fanciers is in picking out the best birds at a show. I have
almost invariably found that when anyone complained about the
" old " style being lost, he was one who opeuly or on the sly
yet followed the old " sport," which will, I hope, soon be a thing
of the past.

I am not going to maintain that our modem Game fowls
would fight as well as the old ones. "Cornish Duckwing"
says they would not, and it must be so ; for just as the old
cockers, in seeking fighting quaUties, were obliged to sacrifice
in other points, so in seeking the greatest beauty we cannot
retain also the greatest fighting power. To maintain otherwise
would be to fall into the very same mistake. AVhile fowls are
fought as well Nb shown there may be a high degree of both
merits maintained ; but once let fighting be entirely abandoned,
and the very means by which the selection was made that kept
up the fighting of the stock is lost, and some of the fighting
must be lost with it. But this does not imply Malay or other
cross ; it simply implies that what is no longer sought will
diminish ; for in breeding no quality can be kept up unless it be
carefully and assiduously sought : hence our Game fowls, unless
they are to be fought, must by degrees change their type ; and
while their ancient blood will, probably, ever secure a high
degree of courage, the strength and other qualities which made
them conquer cannot be kept up without the old tests. The
correspondenta "Cobnish Duckwing " refers to, on the very face
of it, wanted birds for fighting. I never implied that the modem
birds were so good for that, and I would not greatly care for
them to be, for, unless they are to be fought, what good is it?
We do not wish a highly- cultured nobleman's son to have the
powers of a prize-fighter, and yet in time of trial he may have
all the real courage and more, while his higher qualities may
be thought worth at least as much as the powerful fists of the
other.

May 29, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OP HOETICULTUBB AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

4i3

I certainly have seen cross-bred Malays, but I must add my
opinion that they are not nearly so numerous as often alleged,
and that I do not think they very often win the prizes. I cannot
compare with many of our esteemed contributors in knowledge
of Game, but on account of the alleged part Malays were said
to have had in the formation of Brahmas, I have had occasion
to pay much attention to the effects and signs of a Malay cross,
and I can say that it is not at all easy to breed-out all signs of
it for several years. The short head alone is easily got rid of —
indeed, many Malays themselves have very long heads ; but the
peculiar eyebrow is very apt to linger, and there is the Malay
hock, the scaling of the shank, and the peculiar gait, all to be
considered. Any one of these may be got rid of almost at once ;
but it is vei-y hard to stamp out all of them, and by one or the
other the taint may usually be detected for several years. I
feel satisfied that the change in the vast majority of cases is
entirely owing to successive years of selection for the new
standard of the show pen, and that most of our prize birds,
though, no doubt, inferior in fighting power as a rule (I say as a
rule, because cases are known of their fighting and winning), are
perfectly pure Game. Increased beauty alone has been sought
in certain definite directions. I think it has been gained; at ail
events, the fowl is to some extent changed.

The applications of this simple law of development to general
breeding I must leave for one more paper on the same subject.
— ^L, Weight.

GLASGOW AGBICULTUEAL SOCIETY'S

POULTRY SHOW.

This was opened on the 2l3t inst. The following awards were
made :—

Dorkings.— 1. H. Heye, Barrhead. 2, H. C. DeedeB, Airdrie.

Bbahma Pootra.~1, H. VPyse, BiehopbriggB. 2, R. Frew, Sinclairtown,
Kirkcaldy. 3, W. Gond, Airdrie.

Cochin-Chi.va.— 1, T. Bruce, BuBby. 2. J. Pollock, Buaby. 3, J. Steveneon,
Airdrie.

Hamburghs. — Goldt'n-fipangled. — 1. D. Beaton, Waterfoot, Busby. 2, J.
Jardine, Kilmarnock. 3, H. Taylor, Whitevale, Glasgow. GoUlf n-pencilled. —
1. A. Buchanan, New Kilpatrick. 2, J. Dawson, Ardmore, Cardross. S, R.
Frew, c, D. Gilmour, Kilmarnock.

tiAiiHVRcnH.—SUiTr-sp(i'iiiled.—l and 2. R. Cameron, Stewarton. 3, J. H.
Macnab, Barrhead. Stlvir-iJfncilU-d.—l, J. Stevenson. 2, A. Cowan, Maryhill.
3, J. Hunter, Slrathbuugu.

Spanish.— 1, A. \Valker, Kilmarnock. 2. A. Alexander, Pollokshaws.

Scotch-Gbeys — 1, J. Pollock, Walton, Mearns. 2 and 3, J. Thomson, Glasgow.

Game.— 1, G. Williamson, jun., Johnstone. 2, J. Stewart, Old Kilpatrick. 8,
J. Allison, c, M. M'DooKall, Old Kilpatrick.

Bantamb.— 1, E. Frew. 2 and c, J. Denholm, Musselburgh. 3, J. D.Birrell,
Glasgow.

Any other Vahifty.— A, M'Lellan, Barrhead.

VvcKS.— White AyUsburi/.—H. Heys, Barrhead. 2ioU€n. — M. Henderson,
Ardrossan.

Turkeys —1 and 2, J. Houldsworth, ColtneBB, Wishaw. 8, A. G. Graham
Bardowie, Milngavie. ,

Extra.— /ic, W. M'Farlane, Dombarton ; Hon. Mrs. Campbell, BlythBwood,
Renfrew.

Judges. — Poultry: Messrs. J. Gibson, Woolmet Dalkeith;
W. M. Gilmour, Exchange Buildings, Greenock; and Charles
Hnirhead, 79, Queen Street, Edinburgh.

PENRYN (CORNWALL) POULTRY SHOW.

Fortunately for the welfare of this Show, held on the 2l8t
and 22ud inst., an ample tent was provided for the Exhibition,
and consequently both poultry and Pigeons enjoyed perfect im-
munity from a constant day's rain. The feeding and general
attention were ample. The Spanish class was extraordinarily
good for so late in the breeding season ; Bristol exhibitors were
the prizetakers. Many very excellent Game fowls were compet-
ing, but imperfect feet seemed too general. Mr. Julian obtained
the Game cup with a splendid pair of Brown Beds, that had
been sent from so great a distance as Hull by their spirited
owner. Some good Samhurglis were shown, but many of the
cocks were stained with white in their faces, a fault all careful
exhibitors should constantly guard against. Polands were a
strong and capital entry. In a class for Indian Game a large
entry contained several first-rate specimens, many of the cocks
being dubbed, as English Game fowls usually are. The Rouens
were the best of the Duchs, and a grand pen of Saddle-backed
Geese were first-prize winners ; the second going to a very fair
pen of Toulouse. Mr. Yardley, with an entry of eighteen pens
of Pigeons, proved quite a monopolist of the prizes in this
division of the Show. It is worthy of note that a very credit-
able pen of Black Cochins was exhibited in admirable show
condition at Penryn.

Dorkings.— Coloiirerf.-I, J. H. Nicholls, Lostwithiel. 2. O. Vincent, Truro.
3, R. yv. Beachey, Kinf-skerswell. Any other vaTtety.—l and 3, J. H. Kicholls.
2, M. J. Vivian, Bodmin.

CooHiNS.— Pardirfj/e and Brown.— 1, A. C. Travers, Falmouth. 2, J. H
Nicholls. 3. G. Lias, Par Station. Any other varitty.—l. S. R. Harris, Cus.
game. 2, W. George, Falmouth. 3, J. H. Nicholls, Lostwithiel. /ic, S. W. Pro-
bert, Lostwithiel. c, Mrs. Christie, Devon :G. Nicholls.

Brahmas.— iJ«rfc.—l, T. H. Waterman, Devonport. 2, S. Allen, jun., Ply-
month. 3, J. H. Reed. Calstock. c, W. Dennes, Gunnislake. Light.— 1, J.
Nicholls. 2 and 3, H. Pearce. Totnes.

GiME.-Bfficfc Beds.—\ and 2, W. Bullmore, Falmouth. 3, E. Pope, Falmouth.
ft«,H. Julian, Hull, c, H. Browne, St. Austell. Brouvi iieda.—l and Cup, H.
Joliao. i, E. C. Pope. 3 and he, H. Browne. Any other varieti/.—l, H. Brown

(Duckwings). 2. H. M.Julian, Hull. 3, E. C. Pope (Duckwinga). Malay aiid
Indian.— i, J. Palmer, Launceslon. 2. J. Blarney, jun, Penryn. 8, J. Bone,
Liskeard. he, Miss Avory, Liskeard ; T. Lecher, Camborne.

Spanish.- 1 and 3. J. Boulton, Bristol. 2 and he, Mrs. Tonkin, Bristol, c, S.
K. Harris, Cusgarne.

Kx^Bviic,}{^.—Gold-.ti)angled.—\, S. R. Harrip. 2. J. Clarke, St. Day. 3. N.
Barter, Plymouth. Sitvcr-sjmnoled.-l, J. ClSirke. 2, H. Feast, Swansea. 3, S.
R. Harris, c, N. Barter.

llxiiBVRQiiB.—Oold-pi'ncill£d.—l. T. Edmonds, Totnes. 2, S. R. Harris. 3,
G. Packham, Exeter. Silver-pencilled.— I and 3. N. Barter. 2. S. R. Han-is.

Polands.— 1, S. W. Probert, Lostwithiel. 2, R. Sampson, St. Austell. S, H.
Feast, Swansea.

French —1, J. H. Nicholls (La Fleche). 2. S. W. Probert. 3, W. Humphreys,
Liskeard. c, J. H. Nicholls ; E. Barrett. Bodmin ; H. Feast, Swansea.

Any other Vahiety.— 1, E. T. Newton, St. Day (Black Cochins). 2, H.
Feast (Black Hamburghs). 3. S. W. Probert (Sultans), he, S. K. Harris
(Black Hamburghs and Ancouas); Miss Hawker, Boscastle (American Do-
mini(iueb). e, S. K. Harris (Black Minorcas).

Bantams.- Gajfic- 1, N. Barter. 2, G. Cruse, Gunnislake. S, W. Currah,
Tywardrealh. he, H. J. James, St. Columb. c, E. Commins, Bodmiu ; J.
Honey, St. Austell. Any other eariety.—i, C. Petherick, St. Austell (Gold-laced
Sebrights). 2. J H. Nicholls (Black Rosecomb). 3. W. WiUis, Liskeard
(Cuckoo-marked Japanese), he, S. W. Probert (White-booted) (2); R. Clogg, ,
Liskeard (Sebrights).

DvcKS,— Aylesbury. — 1, S. R. Harris. 2, Withheld. 8, J. Blarney, jun.,
Penryn. Bourn.— 1, H Browne, St. Austell. 2, J. H. J. Hoit, St. Austell.

Turkeys.— 1, Mrs. Gilbert. Bodmin.

Geese.— 1, P. Kuuckey, Mabe, Penryn. 2, J. H. Nicholle. he, M. Kew, Rut-
land.

Silver Cup for most Prizes in Poultry Clabseb,— J, H. Nicholls.

Pigeons. — Can'tVrj*.— 1 and 2, H. Yardley. Pouters. — 1, G. Holloway. jun.,
Stroud. 2, H. Yardley. c, G. Packham, Exeter: If. H. Blame.v. Penryn.
Barhs.—l and 2. H. Y'ardley. Fantails —1 and 2. H. Yardley. he, F Braund,
Bideford; W. Mudge, Paington. Tumbli'rs.-l and 2, H. Yardlev. Turbita.—
1. H. Yardlev. 2, J. Croote, Exeter, c, R. H. Blamey. Jaeobins—\, R. H.
Blainey. 2. F. Braund he, H. Yardley. Ou^bi.—l, F. Braund. 2, II. Y'ardley.
he, R H. Blamev. A?iy other variety.— 1 and c, H. Yardley (Brunettes). 2. F.
Braund (.Mottled Trumpeters), lie, R. H. Blarney (Magpies); W. Mudge
(Trumpeters); G. Packham.

Mr. Edward Hewitt, of Birmingham, was the Judge.

YOUNG CANARIES IN AVIARY.

In a garden aviary of some twenty or thirty Canaries where
the birds make their nest in bushes trelUsed to the back wall,
there are many young birds thriving in spite of the cold season,
some flyingand others fledged, but unable to rise from the ground
after leaving their nests. One of these is found sometimes in
the morning dead, and stripped of every feather on the body.
They are well fed with egg and bread, greens and seed. They
have been watched during the day, but no attempt at mischief
has been detected. The old birds constantly feed the young
even after they fly. — J. M. St. John.

[The misadventures to which you refer are inseparable from
breeding Canaries in a large aviary. There is no doubt that the
Canary can stand any extremes of heat or cold to which our
climate is subject, and can stand them better when acclimatised
by out-door exposure than when nursed in an artificial atmo-
sphere; but from long-continued artificial treatment, the
Canary has lost, at any rate partially, many of the traits of
character belonging to wild birds. For instance, if by accident
a young wild bird fall from the nest, or, from being disturbed,
should attempt to fly before it could well manage to accomplish
the feat, and should land on the ground unable to do more than
make a respectable flutter, the old ones would be in such a state
of commotion as would speedily call attention to the fact. But
when one of your aviary birds meets with a similar mishap, his
parents, friends, and acquaintances at once commence to strip
him, and then leave him to die from exposure. Very unnatural
treatment, but there is no cure for it except, when you observ'e
a young bird has found its way to the ground, to replace it in
the nest as quietly as yon can without disturbing the others. If
it be a sensible little bird and has seen enough of the coldness
and want of sympathy in the outside world, it wiU nestle in at
once, but the probabiUty is that its experience wiU have taught
it nothing, and it will hop out again in a most provoking manner
in search of further adventure. Inasmuch as one sickly sheep
frequently infects the flock, the force of bad example may un-
settle the rest, and a general scramble result some days before
the nest might have been expected to leave the family roof. I
do not mean to say that similar mishaps do not occur in ordinary
breeding cages, but there are greater facilities for a young truant
finding its way back to its nest that in a large aviary. The
perches are not so high for one thing, and if an extra perch be
put in as a stepping stone, a young bird is sure to try to reach
the top of the ladder to roost, and will then almost always pop
into the nest again. It is very distressing to see the way in
which the hen wiU sometimes strip the young ones in the nest,
but she is much less apt to do so then than when a miserable-
looking little mortal is huddled up on the cage-bottom trying to
seek some sort of shelter in any comer. To such unfortunates
the cock is generally very kind, and rather seems to like being
bundled about the cage by a child nearly as big as himself, till,
driven into a corner and forced back on his tail, like a horse on
his haunches, he feeds freely as a sort of toU for liberation from
his position. Somehow the cock never seems to lose his parental
instincts, but the hen does, in strange contradiction of our ideas
of the afi'ection of the feathered tribe for their young. And when
persecution once begins, from whatever source, friends and

444

JOUR

" 29, 1373.

neighbours all join in the ill treatme-
attention is stripped literally naked, j.
bird which it might be desirable to sa
kindness and compassion for any sufferin
I should recommeud placing it in a bast
covering with flannel, feeding at short inti
of a bird say two or three weeks old, placing i.
standing this in a warm place near the lire. — W .

NADirjNG.

It seems hardly necessary to return to this qnesfci
it to say that *' A Kenfrewshire Bee-keeper " v
understands my recommendation of the previous na
super before the latter is put in its proper place. If
is left too long in its temporary position, we aU know t
of what he describes takes place. There is no palpabl
the case at all. Let the box be placed as a super when i
have constructed a fair piece of comb, and none of the o
complained of will occur, but the bees will take to it and col
tinue their labour therein, to the great satisfaction of the bee-
keeper. Let those try it who find their bees reluctant to ascend.
— B. & W.

Lincoln Poultry, Pigeon, and Rabbit Show. — The forth-
coming Lincoln Show is on the single-bird system. The xnizes
are liberal — three in each class ; and in addition there are five
£3 cups. We are informed that no pains will be spared by
the Committee in the care of the birds. The Show will be held
in the best tents procurable. The Judges engaged are Messrs.
E. Hewitt, R. Teebay, and F. Esquilaut. The Secretary asks
for any suggestion towards making the Show successful.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Otlet Snow.— Mr. C. Sidgwicb, The EaOies, Skipton, informs U3 that he
won the third prize for Black Bantams.

Do Poultry Injure Grass? (J. BHtter}rorth).—'We do not think that
common fowls injure grass in any way, aud their dung improves the herbage.
Geese are great consumers of grasR, and their dung is not so beneficial. If
the owner or tenant of the field objects to your fowls being there, he con, of
course, make you pay for the trespass.

Brahmas' Eggs (fi. F. L.). — In answer to many correspondents, and to
some cunoue queries, we are obliged sometimes to become querists ourselves,
and gleau the knowledge we lack. We have kept Brahmas from the lirst
introduction of them. We have always kept aud bred large numbers. We
have noticed much variety in the colour of the eggs, but we have never seen
a white one, nor should we keep a hen that laid them. It is not uncommon
to have eggs that are covered with white specks or spots, but the ground is
always brown. We du not like white eggs from breeds that should lay yellow.
We are always afraid of some distant strain. The details of the laying are
very interesting, and we wish many would take the same trouble. It is the
easiest and most authentic mode of instruction.

Camphi'R for Roup (S. W.). — We fear the chickens were dying before the
camphor was given. We so far differ from your friend, that we believe many
more would have died if he had not followed our prescription. It is one we
have used for many years with uniform success. It has saved the lives of
thousands of Pheasants and chickens, and we use no other medicine. It
does not affect the crop. The crop is a receptacle for food, and it passes
thence into the gizzard, where it imdergoes the natural process of grinding
and assimilation. The c^pes are cauaed by small u-ritating red worms at the
•nd of the windpipe. These cannot bo reached by any medicine save one
that by odour pervades the system. Camphor does this, and it is among the
most powerful of vermifuges. The water must be so impregnated that it
shall smell strongly of the camphor when some distance from tho uoetrila.
A confined place is the best for fattening Ducks. They may bo fed on
ground oats miied with water, and have a little gravel. Shreds of raw meat
and a very little bran are gi'eat helps.

Partridge Cochin's Breast Feathers {T. S.).— We should mistrust
the Partridge cock. Buff feathers on the breast are a disquaHfication, and
we have never known faults to he got i-id of in moulting. The disqualification
named above is as imperative in a chicken as in an adult.

Spanish Crossed Eggs (D. L. P.).— If the eggs are the result of a cross
ask for your money back, and, if refused, try the County Court if you will.
EecoUect, the proof of the cross is with you, and all County Court Judges
are not well up in the poultry question. After the abominable weather we
have had we may hopefully look for a continuance of fine worm days and
nights, and we advise you to set some Game eggs. Much may be done by
eare and good feeding.

PovhTUY Food (Inquirer). — We do not know the kind you name, and we
never use any artificial.

Scabbed Spanish Cock's Face (A Lover of Fowls). — Rub the bird's face
■with citron ointment (obtainable from any chemist), aud keep the bird by
himself until the scabs are removed.

Brahma Cockerel Unheaj^thy (T. S.). — You should ho more explicit.
You do not state whether your birds are at liberty or in confinement. We
presume the latter. They are eating each other's feathers ; they do so for lack
of something they cannot get. Give them growing grass cut with plenty of
fresh earth, lettuces, feed on gi-ound oats mixed with milk, and rub the bare
Bpots with compound citron ointment.

Hahiuurghs for Laying (Colin). — There is no difference in the qualities
of Golden and Silver. The only distinction is in the ground coloiu". A pair
of Turtle Doves is worth from 1*28, to 15s. They breed in confinement, two
Bometime.i three pairs in a year.

Pekin and Cochin Bantams (R. L. JT.).— Pekin and Cochin Bantams are
not the same. Mr. Wyllie, of East Moulsey, Siin-ey, is the only person we
know who has them. The web of the wing of a fowl is never feathered, and
the mark is never obliterated.

Food for Young Pheasants (W. F. C). — Chopped egg, grits, bread and
milk, dough, and crushed wheat. Buy Rally's " Pheasants and Pheasantiies."
It can be sent by post for Is. hi., and gives full instructions.

idding the

> best known

jlborn.

.e the advertisQ-

.de nearer home by

jne of the " Manuals

•ot think you would fi^nd
J hivea, although thsj have
jrchases are Bmalier than the
The haybands will be very ne-
void, and they will al^o need some
s of summer. If you have only the
should not advise yuu to drive at all,
jjut the swarm in the hive's place; but
d.% the bees are in good numbers, and put
jme other stock,
are glad to hear of the successful treatment of
. bad plight last November. There is no panacea
-rrath for nine-tenths of the ills that afflict bee-kind.
x>x stocks alive all this winter in the same way, clothing
^rpet sewn together into a cap, aud shutting them off
A-ong east winds. These hives were all facing the north-
.fremely fortunate this backwaid spring to have got a swarm
au ^per already from the same stock : this, too, you attribute to

gooi- _j. Mr. Astou's bee trap is only apphcable to a hive which has

an au .^e entrance way, either in the bottom edge of the hive itaelf or in a
tuime a way through a suitable floor-board. To make it available in the
case 01 glasses and round supers you must have a proper board as ho describes

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Square, London.

Lat. SI"" 32' 40" N. ; Loug. 0^ 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feefc.

Date.

9..M.

In the Day,

1873.

Barome-
ter at 32»
and Sea
level.

Hyprome.
ter.

la

o
a"

Shade Tern,
perature

Radiation
Temperature.

May.

Dry.

Wet.

Max.

Min.

In

8un.

On

grass

We. 21
Th. 32
Fri. 23
Sat. 24
Sun.25
Mo. 26
Tu. 27

Inches
30.117
29.934
29.748
30.111)
30.279
29.941
29811

ieg.
49.3
68.2
64.7
63.2
68.8
5S.8
63.0

deg.
46 1
64.8
63.8
46.8
50 6
62.2
51.2

s.
s.w.
s.w.

N.

N.W.

S.

w.

deg.
61.3
51.6
53 2
62.8
53,8
65.1
64 7

deg.
6U.1
698
604
61.5
68.2
72 9
66.3

deg.
44.7

48 8
46.1
399
40.3

49 5
46.9

dee.
%s
121-7
118,1
121.6
114.2
121.0
119.6

deg.
42.0
46.5
42.6
36.9
36.3
46 3
43.6

In.

3.135
0.159

0.07O
0.120

Means

29.991

65.2

5D.8

63.3

63.9

^5 2

116.1

42.0

0.484

REMARKS.
2l8t. — Wet, cold, and uncomfortable all day.
22nd. — Dull early, but soon cleared; cloudy about 11 a.m., after which time it

was beautifully fine.
2Srd. — Wet early, but fine by 11 a.m. ; wind rather high in the afternoon, but

a very fine day.
2'4th. — Very fine day ; rather dull about noon, but soon cleared off.
25th. — Rather stormlike in the afternoon, but soon passed over ; a trifle warmer

than it has boeu lately.
26th. — Dull till 9.30, so that the eclipse was but imperfectly seen between the

parting clouds ; fine from 9.30 to 3.30, when rain commenced.
27th. — Damp, dull, and close, though cool, thunder at 0.27 I'.m.; sharp hail

shower whiteuing the ground at 11.30 a.m.; fine afternoon and evening.
Although on some days and for short periods the temperature has been
higher, there haq been an absence of that warm genial weather usual at this
season.— G. J. Symons.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— May 23.

We have scarcely any alteration
2(i. to Hd. per lb.

to report. New Potatoes ai-e sold at from

Apples i sieve »

Apricots doz. 2

Cnernes ij^ box 2

Chestnuts bushel 0

Currants J sieve 0

Black do. 0

Figs doz. G

Filberts lb. 0

Cobs lb. 2

GooseberrioB quart 0

Grapes, hothouse lb. 6

Lemons 1^100 6

Melons each 6

d

0to5

FRUIT,
d.

Mulberries ^Ib.

Nectarines ;.,. doz.

Oranges ^ 100

Peaches doz.

Poars, kitchen doz.

dessert doz.

Pine Apples lb.

Plums i 6ieve

Quinces doz.

Raspberries lb.

Strawberries ^ lb.

Walnuts bushel

ditto %^100

OtoO
0 0

Artichokes doz.

Aaparaaus t^- lOU

French

Beans. Kidney 1^100

Beet, Red doz

Broccoli bundle

Cabbage doz.

Capsicums I,-*- lUO

Carrots bunch

Cauliflower doz.

Celery bundle

Coleworts. . doz. bunches
Cucumbers each

picKliug duz.

Endive doz.

Fennel bunch

Garlic lb.

Herbs bunch

H'Tst-radish handle

Leeks btinch

Lettuce doz.

VEGETABLES.
. d. 3. d.

0to6
0 6
0 12
6 2
0

Mnshrooms poltle 0

Mustard & Cress. .punnet 0

Onions bushel 4

pickling quart 0

Parsley per doz, hunches 0

Parsnips doz. 0

Peas quart 2

Potatoes bushel 6

Kidney do. 0

Round . do. 0

Radishes., doz. buochua 1

Rhubarb bundle 0

Salsaf y bundle 1

Savoys d<iz. 2

Scorzouera bundle 1

Sea-kale basket 0

Shallots lb. 0

Spinach bushel 2

Tomatoes doz. 2

Turnips bunch 0

Vegetable Marrows 0

0

0
1€ 0

S 0
3 0

Jane 5, 1S73. ]

JOURNAL OF HOKIICDLTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

Ui>

WEEKLY

CALENDAR

•

Day

of
Month

Day

of
Week.

Average Tempera-
JUNE 6—11, 1873. ture oear London.

Kain in
43 years.

Sun
Rises.

Sun
Sets,

Hoon
Rises.

Moon
Sets.

Moon's
Age.

Clock Day
after of
Sun. Year.

5
6
7
8
9
10
11

Th

F

S

Son

M

To

W

Day.
Eoyal Horticultural Society's Great Show > 70.5
[ doses. 60.9
Jnngermanu died, 1653. 69.3
Trinity Sonday. 70.C
Meet, of Koyal Geographical Society, 8.30 p.m. 70.8

69.6
Eoyal Botanic Society's Show opens. 72.1

Night.
47.3
47.6
46.5
46.4
47.2
46.9
47.6

Mean.

58.9
58.8
57.9
58.5
59.0
68.3
59.9

Days.

24
22
26
15
20
19
13

m. fa.
47 af 3
47 S
46 3
46 8
45 8

45 3

46 8

m. h.

9af8

10 8

11 8

12 8

12 8

13 8

14 8

m. h.

54 1
6 8
21 4
40 5
2 7
23 8
87 9

m. h.
85 1

47 1

0 2
15 2
35 2

1 3
38 3

Days.
10
11
12
13
14
O
16

m. B. 1
1 48 156
1 37 ' 157
1 27 ' 158
1 15 1 159
1 4 1 160 -
0 62 ' 161
0 40 j 162

From observations taken near London during lorty-three years, the average day temperature ol the week is 70.4° ; and its night temperatnre
47.1^. The greatest heat was 90^, on the 6th and 7th, 1846 ; and the lowest cold 30^ on the Uth, 1S65. The greatest fall of rain was 1.48 inch.

'?t'

f

EVENING MUSINGS FOE PLAIN PEOPLE.— No. 5.

VINES.

NE of the most formiclable impediments tliat
the inexperienced encounter in s;rowingtheir
own Grapes, is a widely-disseminated and
accepted notion that one of the absolute
necessities of the case is an expensive border.
It is necessary to be dogmatic sometimes,
and I say that nothing of the kind is need-
ful. To grow fairly good useful Grapes,
such as hundreds of people with comfortable
homes and good gardens are longing for, an
expensive border is not really requii-ed in one case out of
ten. There is a notion abroad amongst would-be Grape-
growers that if they could have tm'f cut from some
gentleman's park five to ten miles away, their difficulties
would be at end, and good fruit would follow as a natural
consequence, but without the aristocratic turf the project
is hopeless. Against this I will venture an opinion that
the sod producing that gentleman's Grapes is not com-
posed of turf from his park. No, no. Gardeners, as a
rule, are not indulgetl in that way. They must provide

Grapes without digging a park up, or not but what

the park turf would be very valuable, and its removal, if

made good by fresh sod. and seeds, be no loss but no

matter, it is " park," and that is enough, and it must not
be touched. But a sensible man wUl not force a quarrel
■with a person standing firmly by his own, but wOl look
out and get the best he can in other ways, and even then
if he fail he may console himself with the thought that
he has a proliibited park for a scapegoat to bear any
possible sina.

As long as I am a gardener I shall never fight for a
bit of park, and this is the reason why. I once served
under a gardener who could not please with Grapes.
Border after border had been made until the cost, accord-
ing to the owner, reached X'lOO. The park was a stand-
ing defence with the gardener, who, in an impolitic ex-
pression, told the owner he did not deserve to have Grapes
as long as he kept a consecrated park. " Fetch it in,"
•was his reply, " antl try again ; but mind, for the last
time." He tried and failed. Another took his oflice,
and without any apparent difticnlty produced satisfactory
Grapes. First-class Grapes cannot be produced without
a first-class border, and, mark this, not then without
otherwise fii'st-class treatment ; but inferior Grapes may
be grown, and are grown, in really excellent borders by
the want of proper in-door management and suitable
attention timely given.

In some places a singular fatality would seem to attach
to all efforts at Grape-culture. An estate of, it may be,
20,0(10 or more acres gives a choice of soil for a Vine
border, yet first-class Grapes do not follow. Many in-
stances of this kind are found in, perhaps, every county
in England. Is the soil in these several cases wholly to
blame ? It will grow all kinds of trees useful and orna-
mental, and yet not produce Grapes. Still the Vine is
not a miffy, capricious, fanciful-feeding plant in its nature,
No. C36.— Vol XSIV., New Series.

but is, in this respect, as accommodating as most things.
Is it not possible that many Grape fadures arise from
incorrect inside management, and the borders unjustly
bear the blame '? Many a condemned border would, I
am assured, prove its innocence could it liave a fair trial
by an unprejudiced judge. A very easy means of testing
the border of an unsatisfactoi-y house of Grapes is to train
a shoot or shoots outside the house on the warmest aspect
at command. If this outside growth is attended to by
pinching the laterals and stopping the terminal shoot at
the end of August, to arrest further extension and encou-
rage the wood ripening, it wdl prove the next season, by
either bad or good produce, whether or not it is the
border or the inside treatment that demands improving,
and wUl afford a useful hint for future guidance. I have
more than once seen the benefits resulting from this
exceedingly simple and absolutely costless experiment.
" But," it may be said, " it is quite natural that this fresh
yoimg outside shoot will bear, while the older crippled
stems of the Vines inside cannot be expected to do so to
the same extent." A prompt " hear, hear," to a remark
like that, because it at once admits a fault and acknow-
ledges a remedy.

Before proceeding further, I wiU lay it down as an
axiom that whde the Vine is very tractable and accom-
modating in its nature, it will not submit to any mere
rule-of-thumb treatment with continued and unvarying
satisfaction — that is, the same routine suitable to one
house of Vines is not only not the best for all, but does not
always continue to be the best for the Vines and house in
question. For instance, Vines will for a number of years
afford good produce managed on the short-spur system
of pruning, but unless a very high and inteUigent system
of culture is continuously pm-sued a blank by this system
will sooner or later occur. That an obstinate (I can call
it nothing else) adherence to any single plan or system is
neither advisable nor profitable, many a fine range of im-
productive vineries plainly iiroclaims. I do not say a word
against the spur-system as a system, for I know by expe-
rience that it will afford splendid Grapes for I cannot say
how long, providing there are no omissions and mistakes
in other points of culture. But the same experience also
tells me — and I cannot disregard its teachings— that it is
not infallible, and that when it fads and is still persevered
in there is a suspicion of evidence of something that I
should like to call by a milder name than prejudice or
stupidity. More particular reasons as to the cause of
the frequent breakdown of this particular system may
eventually be submitted, but in the meantime it is only
mentioned as illustrative of the proposition that a single
formal stereotyped mode of culture is not rehable in all
cases to produce really useful and satisfactory Grapes.

I will now revert to the primary object of this paper —
that an expensively made border is not necessarily an
indispensable and absolute condition in the production of
a useful supply of this much-coveted fruit. This is proved
in general by the excellent Grapes gi'own in almost every
district in the absence of elaborate and expensive border-
formations. It is more particularly pro%'ed— and always

No 12SS.— Vol, XLIX., Old Series.

416

JODENAL OF HOETICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE.

[ June 5, 1873.

capable of even local proof — by noting the progress, and the cha-
racter of that progress, which a Vine will make planted out-
doors in the ordinary soil of the garden. One need never
hesitate to speak of a fact, and this is a fact, that I have never
yet seen a soil that would grow the ordinary out-door fruits in
a satisfactory manner that refused to grow a Vine when one
was planted. When I was younger than I am now I had a
habit of sticking Vines in all sorts of soUs and watching results,
and it was remarkable to notice how exceptional were the in-
stances in which a complete, or even anything approaching a
complete, failure was the result, and they never occurred in
a good garden soil where other Iruit trees grew well. " That,"
it may be said, " is only evidence as to growth, and not fruit,
which are not always correlative." Granted, but not uncon-
ditionally. It is true that Grapes do not always follow a free
Vine-growth, but not much less true that there might be fruit
where there is no fruit under more correct guidance, and such
as the Vine itself will, in most instances, foreshadow if we will
but read its index aright. Presuming that there is a healthy
Vine freely growing in the open air, say a Black Hamburgh ;
provide it with adequate glass shelter, and who will say that
with proper inside treatment that Vine will not bear fruit ?
Instead of no fruit the probabihty is that it will yield such an
example as will explode a too common notion — that to have
Grapes worth looking at and worth eating, an expensively-
made border is a prime necessity.

I am of opinion that the natural capabilities of the Vine are
not pressed to the front in such a way as its merits demand,
or commensurate with the advantages which would be the
direct outcome. 1 do not wish to be misunderstood. I am
no antagonist to a thoroughly-made Vine border, knowing that
the highest forms of Grapes can only be expected from a
high order of border formation. I am not presuming to teach
those deeply learned in Grape lore, and whose aim is per-
fection, preferring to assist those requiring aid in a supply of
not perfect but useful Grapes. I should like, in the in-
terests of this laige class, to assist in knocking down some
barriers that time, fancy, and prejudice have set up, and in
clearing away some impediments so expensive as to be pro-
hibitory of this princely and popular fruit in places where it
ought to be. I should like it to be known, that hundreds
of people who have them not now, may have Grapes on
their tables, and enjoy them the more as being their " own
growing." — J. Weight.

A FEW WORDS ON WHITE FLOWERS.

Of the many hues which Flora in her sportive garb presents
us with I have a decided partiality for white, not a dirty dingj
white like an unwashed garment, but a clear pure white, free
from any discoloration, my model in this respect being the
white Camellia. Cannot some of our great Eose-growers pre-
sent us with one of their so-called queens of flowers in as
high a state of purity as this Camellia ? Catalogues without
number seem to have exhausted all the terms applicable to
the various tints the Eose assumes, yet a clear undefiled
white we have not yet, for a slight tinge of pink or flesh colour
pervades all the whites I have seen or heard of. The same
remark holds good in regard to the Dahlia, only the latter is
tinged with green instead of pink ; still I believe that now and
then Dahlias are met with approaching more closely to the
standard I have put forth, and where a stand possesses a really
good white Dahlia, that flower, in my opinion, carries a degree
of weight with it equivalent to three or four lilacs, reds, or
yellows.

But it is not to the white-flowering varieties of these two
kinds of flowers alone that I desire to call attention, it is to
white flowers of' p.U kinds ; and there are some whites that
really rival the Camellia in purity of petal. Take, for in-
stance, a Cherry tree ; when in full bloom what can look
richer ? Whether it be a wild or cultivated Cherry it is still a
handsome object at a long distance as well as close at hand.
Scarcely less pure is the Pear and some of its congeners ;
while we must not omit to rotice the ever-beautifal though
not unmixed colouring of the Hawthorn, which, from its abun-
dance, may be regarded as one of the most ornamental of our
flowering trees, and but for the anthers its flowers would be a
very creditable white. Even as it is, in my opinion the white
far exceeds the pink varieties, and the double white is superb.
Then we have the Bird Cherry, a wild flowering shrub of no
mean pretensions, also a good white ; while, later, and when
all spring frosts are said to be over and estabhshed summer

coming on, the Elder presents us vrith its numerous umbels oi
creamy white, showing to great advantage a fuU half-mUe,
and towards the dusk of evening looking like so many lumina-
ries appearing in the horizon. Later on we have the Sweet
Chestnut with its peculiar inflorescence planted in front o£
fohage of the brightest green ; while amongst smaller shrubs
the white Lilac, Mook Orange, and Deutzia could not be
arranged in more becoming colours. The Deutzia, especially,
is very fine, yet I am not sure that it is really more hand-
some as a distant object than that niuch-negleoted shrub the
Gueldres Eose. Others could be added, but I will omit them
for the present, and descend lower, and see what small plants
do for us m this way.

First of all we have the Snowdrop, the white Crocus, the
single white Primrose. Following these we have Arabis albida,
a very suitable companion to the earliest Forget-me-not, and
quite as useful in every way. Bulbs of various kinds may also
be flowering at the same time as this Ai'abis, there being a toler>
ably good white in Tulips , as well as in the Hyacinth , ISi arcissus,
and Anemone, and the wild Anemone of our woods must not
be overlooked. As the season advances white flowers become
too numerous to mention, and I wUl therefore content my-
self with naming only one or two more, and amongst these
islberis corifoha, a very pretty white. Perhaps the prettiest of
all is the common white Lily when seen in a cottage garden
in the dusk of the evening, backed by the healthy fohage of
the Gooseberry trees in its vicinity. The Meadow Sweet is less
pure in colour, yet stUl admissible, whUe perhaps the purest
white flower we have, next to the Camellia, is the white variety
of the Indian Azalea, which for purity of hue cannot well be
excelled. Later in the year we have also good whites in some
of the varieties of China Asters and several annuals.

I am not acquainted with a really good white in Geranium,
Petunia, or Verbena. It is true there are so-called whites, but
they are more or less tinged with some other colour, and con-
sequently look badly when seen in masses, as these flowers are
expected to be, a sort of greenness pervading them all more or
less, and the same may be said of Lobelias and Pentstemons,
as well as Ageratums, the latter having a somewhat duty tint ;
in fact, really good clear white flowers are not by any means
so plentiful as some suppose, and it is not too much to ask
for something more clear and distinct among white flowers,
for, whether in winter, spring, summer, or autumn they seem
equally welcome ; and for contrast with the naked ground,
the young or advanced foliage, or with the decaying tints of
autumn, a clear spotless white is always acceptable. Witness
a white Chrysanthemum, how well it looks ; be it seen either
at noonday or by artificial light in the evening, it is equally
beautiful. There are other purposes to which a white flower
seems also indispensable — a bouquet would only present a dull
and cheerless aspect were it not for the white flowers which
hght it up ; and the interest with which our fair friends look
upon a bridal bouquet, when shown as it sometimes is at horti-
cultural shows, proves that they regard white as the first and
most important of all colours.

I make no apology, therefore, for calling on those who have
done so much in the way of embellishing our flower gai'deus
with the brightest of yeUow, scarlet, pink, and other hues,
to try to supply us with a white Geranium equal in the clear-
ness of its colouring to some of the scarlets now so plenti-
ful. In like manner I ask for Petunias and Verbenas to be
also improved, or, if need be, some other continuous-flower-
ing plant that possesses the necessary qualifications to be sub-
stituted for them, for it must be borne in mind that in most
cases the object sought for in white in the fashionable parterre
has been supplied in foliage and not in flower. Although foh-
age is very good in its way, I imagine that fashion will ere long
take another turn and flowers be again in the ascendant. As
stated at the beginning of this article, I place white first in
my list, and I should be glad if more of the plants I have
named, as well as many others, approached the standard of
purity that I have laid down. Although I was once informed
by an eminent paper maker that he could make paper whiter
than the purest of snow, the latter will quite satisfy me, and
flowers equalling that ai'e not yet to be had.— J. Eobson.

THE FRENCH WATERING POT.

In Mr. Eecord's article on the contrivances used for watering

he has alluded to the French watering pot and the peculiar

manner in which the handles are jjlaced, but I tliink he has

not given the true reason for this position. Anyone who has

June 5, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

447

seen the French market gardener at work watering will at once
see then- suitability. In the French gardens the water is almost
always in open tanks ; and it will be at once seen how easily
a man can take two of these cans, dip them in the water and
fill them ; and when he arrires at the bed which he wishes to
■water he manages, without ever putting them on the ground,
by a dexterous shift of the hand, to put them in the proper
position for watering — in fact, he rarely ever stands them on
the ground all the time he is using them. — D., Deal.

PYEAMIDAL FRUIT TREES.

The following remarks are intended primarily to meet the
case of a correspondent, " S. B.," who inquires what he is to
do with the young shoots of pyramidal Pear, Plum, and Cherry
trees that now vary from 3 to 12 inches in length, how much
of such shoots should be cut off, and how to regulate them
for the season ? He also asks for some remarks as to the
general managament of such trees, so as to obtain the greatest
amount of good fruit, consistent with healthy, in opposition to
rampant growth.

Perhaps from my own practice I should have been able to
advise better if I knew the size and age of the trees, and the
state of growth as respects luxuriance, and what may be termed
mere stunted yet healthy growth. Let it be laid down as a
general principle that the extreme of luxuriance and the ex-
treme of fertility will never unite in the same fruit tree, at
least for a continuance. Over-free growth and over-production
of frtiit or seed will ever act in opposition to each other.

There are a few fine "Wych Elm trees that I see daily, with
fine heads rai-ely to be equalled, and many have admii-ed them
lately, as every twig ig densely clothed with bunches of the
bladder-winged seed vessels. So much is this the case that
many of these twig branchlets have no growing point at the
end of them. To me it is a matter of regret to look on this
excessive fertility. It speaks as plainly as any words can do
' that the trees are declining in sti-ength and vigour, and that if
means be not taken to increase vigour of growth, this ex-
cessive fertility, as an effort of nature to continue the race,
■will at last end in the weakness of growth and the death of
the trees.

We have seen fruit trees not so old that pined away from
excessive fertility, merely because the growing principle had
been too much crippled to insure excessive fruit-bearing. It
is easy thus to carry any mode of treatment to an extreme.
In our moist climate the arresting of free growth, so as to get
the wood well ripened, will not he so likely to be carried to
an extreme as the encouraging of free growth, which is the
surest means of preventing early and atandant fruitf iilness.

One great advantage of the dwarf pyramidal and bush sys-
tem of growing fruit trees is, that if properly managed, the
fruit-yield is early and continuous ; and a second great advan-
tage is, that if the trees are not more than 6 or 7 feet in height
the fruit can be easily gathered, and a great many trees can be
collected in a small space, thus forming an orchard of small
trees easily protected. With planting near the surface and
summer-pinching to arrest free growth, instead of planting a
Pear tree to yield fruit to sons and grandsons, the shoots of
the tree, if moderately ripened, may be made to yield fruit in
the second year-, and by such planting and nipping, and root-
pruning when there is a tendency to over-luxuriance, a single
shoot or stem from a root may, for the space it occupies, be as
fruitful in proportion to its size, nay, much more so, than a
large orchard tree that only attains in general the extreme of
fertility in fruit-bearing when, like the Elm trees referred to,
it shows signs of age and decay.

In the case of young pyramidal trees and bush fruit trees I
should incline to let the shoots grow longer without stop-
ping, in order that the head might be formed more quickly,
though by that practice I should have less fruit for a year or
two, even if the luxuriance of growth had to be diminished by
lifting and replanting at the end of October, or root-pruning
at the same time. Any of these operations, however, will not
be required more than once, or never require doing at all if
free growth is arrested by shallow planting, early stopping of
the shoots, and enough of strength given by surface-mulching
to encourage the roots to keep near the surface. If you -wish
a Pear tree to be extremely fruitful, let the roots be at no
great distance from the surface. If you wish to have a splen-
did Oak tree as to size, see that the roots can get do^wn as they
like in good soil.
The mere pruning, then, of these pyramidal trees of " S. B."

in summer is only a part of the system that will insure success.
It does much to encourage fertility by the curbing of extra
luxuriance, and with planting shallow and on raised hillocks,
with surface-mulching, nothing more will be required. In all
such eases, however, we disapprove of " cutting off " the points
of the shoots in summer. It is better in every way merely to
nip out the point of the shoot — the growmg axis, as it were,
with the thumb and finger or the point of a small Imife. This
effectually checks mere elongation of growth, and yet gives no
great check to the system of the plant. When the shoots
grow so long as to requue to be shortened by the knife, the
relative action between roots and branches is for a time ar-
rested, but the roots ha^ving obtained vigour from the free
growth above, that vigour will spend itself in swelUng and
bursting the buds on the shortened shoot into useless spi;ay.
If such shoots had the points nipped out early, a few of the
buds near the point might push, but the bulk of buds behind
would remain stationary, and with plenty of sun and air the
lower buds would be formed into fruit buds in autumn. Sup-
posing, then, that these trees of " S. E." are fuUy half their
allotted size or more, I would allow the leaders to grow
18 inches without stopping. If the trees were about their full
size, I would stop at 6 inches by nipping out the points. AU
the other shoots 12 inches long I would stop at ouce. Those
side shoots requii^ed to form the tree I would stop at from
12 to 1.5 inches in length. Those now 3 inches long I would
stop when they were 6 inches long, merely nipping out the
point of the shoot. If stopped shorter, and there is fair-
vigour of growth in the tree, the buds on the shoots lower
down are apt to burst into useless spray, because such shoots
rarely ripen well enough to be useful. The object of stopping
is to arrest growth gently and give the lower buds the chance
not to start, but to swell and ripen into fruit buds. With
shoots thus stopped at from G to 9 inches in length I have
often had the lower half densely set with flower buds.

After such stopping of the shoots, the greater the vigour of
the tree and the earlier the stopping is done, the more likely
wOl some of the buds near the point of the shoot be to burst
and grow. Let them do so ; their growth wiU secure the buds
farther back from starting. When these spray shoots are 3 or
4 inches long nip out the points again, and do it again if neces-
sary. It is, as already stated, better to nip out the points than
to cut ; there is thus little stoppage given to root action.
Never mind if the points of some of the first stopped shoots
should have a head in autumn hke a diminutive httle shi-ub ;
all that wiU be removed in the early autumn and ■winter prun-
ing, when you can cut back to a growing bud.

I satisfied myself years ago that wonders could be done with
small trees in the way of fruitfuhiess by this early and con-
tinuous stopping of young shoots. Last year was not a good
Apple year, but on a small bush tree from 3 J to 4 feet in height
some people said there were nearly as many Apples as there
were leaves, though the leaves >vere large and healthy. If the
trees threaten to get higher than you desire you can easily
encourage a shoot a foot or 18 inches farther down, and then
remove a piece of the old head.

For profit and pleasure I feel quite sure these dwarf fruitful
trees will supersede oiu- old orchard trees. If I were com-
mencing fruit-growing I should wish nothing better than a piece
of ground of good quality, well trenched, and vrith dwarf pyra-
mid or bush trees in lines 15 feet apart, and 10 to 12 feet apart
in the rows, and allowed to grow 6 to 7 feet in heijht, so as to
be easily netted. I would not depend on early stopping alone,
but would also depend on shallow planting on mounds, and
keeping up necessary vigour and surface-rooting by annual
rieh surface-mulching. This is of more importance than mix-
ing manure ■with the soil, which does so much to encourage
free vigorous growth. Many would be surprised to know the
quantity of manure our commercial fruit-tree growers give to
then- quarters of young fruit trees. They must have fine plants
to command a sale. When early and free fruiting after plant-
ing is concerned, the manure should chiefly be applied at the
surface. Of course, when a tree is requu'ed to fill a large space
as soon as possible, the treatment must be different. — B. F.

A CENTURY OF ORCHIDS FOR AMATEUR
GROWERS.— No. 10.

ODONTOGLOSSUM.

This has been quite a pet genus amongst Orchid-cultivators
for some few years past ; the ease with which the species may be
grown, together ■with the httle expense necessary to maintam a

us

JOUENAL OF HOETIGOLTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

[ June 5, 1873.

temperature suitable for them, to say uothing of the remark-
able beauty of their flowers, has deservedly rendered them
so. The whole of these plants are natives of lofty mountain
ranges, and cannot thrive under cultivation for any length of
time in a high temperature. Another great recommendation
which this genus possesses is the fact that so many of its
species produce theu' flowers during winter, a season when
flowers — and such flowers — are especially valuable.

As a rule, I have not found Odontoglossums thrive well
npon blocks, the reason being, probably, that sufficient moisture
for them was not maintained in the air when hanging from
the roof. In pots, however, there need be no difliculty with
their culture. FiU the pots three parts full of drainage, and
fiU up with good peat and sphagnum, through which should
be scattered a few handfuls
of silver sand. 'When potted
in this material a very moist
atmosphere must be main-
tained, and the plants requii'e
an abundant supply in the
soil, but it must never be
allowed to stagnate, or death
will speedily follow. At the
same time the cultivator must
never attempt the drying
system with them, or the re-
sult will be equally disas-
trous, although arising from
exactly opposite causes. In
the course of my acquaintance
with Odontoglossums I have
noticed that they are peculi-
arly subject to the attacks of
a yeUow fly ; to rid myself of
this pest I fumigated the
house with tobacco, and was
rewarded by the death of the
depredators. Soon after these
operations my plants would
lose many of their leaves,
and sometimes a young
growth in the most inexp'ic-
able manner, when all at once
it occurred to me it arose
from the smoke ; so taking
a plant of 0. membranaceum
I subjected it to a fumigation
in a hand-glass, and the leaves
fell shortly afterwards, as be-
fore remarked. Having tried
this experiment several times,
I became fully persuaded that
the tobacco had been the
cause of my disaster, and
consequently I discontinued
the application. Since then
I have washed off the fly with
tepid water, and have never
had a repetition of the leaf-
falling phenomenon. This
fact is patent to many now ;
but for the benefit of ama-
teurs, especially those com-
mencing the culture of these plants, I would say, Never fumi-
gate Odontoglossums.

Beside the kinds here enumerated there are several grand
species of recent introduction ; but my readers must bear in
mind that, in selecting certain kinds from the vast numbers
now in cultivation, some good ones must necessarily be left
out, and my object has been to introduce those which are both
reasonable in price and beautiful when in flower.

0. ALEXANDK.E. — Although it has been settled that this is
the plant named by Lindley 0. crispum, I cannot find it in
my heart to relinquish the name which associates this chaste
and beautiful flower with that estimable Princess whom all
true Englishmen love to honour. This plant is now too well
known to need much description from me ; suflice it to say, if
some few plants are grown in a collection, its exquisite flowers
wiU charm the cultivator through the dullest six months ef
the year, and occasionally a spike will be produced during
summer. The scape is many-flowered, each bloom measuring
some o inches in diameter, snow white in colour, more or less

Odontoglossom Alexandras (Bot. Ma;

spotted with cinnamon brown. They are admirably adapted
for bouquet-making, and are charming adjuncts for the decora-
tion of a lady's hair. If left on the plant and protected from
wet, they last several weeks in fuU beauty. Native of New
Grenada, at about 6000 feet altitude.

0. Pescatorei. — A truly beautiful species, which no collec-
tion should lack. Like the preceding, it is dwarf and compact
in habit of growth; it produces a long, branched, many-
flowered scape from the base of the pseudo-bulb during winter,
and continues iu full beauty many weeks. As these plants
bloom at various times, by having several of them the beauties
of this flne species may be prolonged from autumn into early
summer. The sepals and petals are pure white, iu some
varieties tinged with rosy purple ; lip white, blotched more or

less with violet purple, and
stained with yellow at the
base. Like the preceding, it
is found in the high mountain
regions of New Grenada.

0. Rossii MAJTJS. — Another
beautiful dwarf species, pro-
ducing its flowers at various
times during the winter
months ; the scape usually
bears three flowers, each
measuring nearly 3 inches
across. Sepals wholly pure
white ; petals pure white,
beautifully marked with
transverse bands of reddish
purple; hp large, heart-
shaped, and pure white • the
column purple or yellow.
Native of Mexico.

0. PULCHELLtIM MA.TUS.

This is also a winter-bloomer ;
the leaves are long, narrow,
and, as well as the pseudo-
bulbs, rich dark green ; the
flowers are pendulous, thick
and waxy in substance ; they
are borne upon erect spikes,
pure white, saving the base
of the lip, where they are
stained with deep red and
yellow. In addition, they
are deliciously sweet, and last
long in full beauty. Native
of Guatemala.

0. GK.iNCE. — A fine robust-
growing plant, which will
grow and bloom profusely if
kept cool, but which dies
rapidly if subjected to strong
heat. The scape bears many
flowers, each measuring from
5 to 7 inches in diameter ;
the sepals and petals are
bright golden yellow trans-
versely banded with chestnut
brown, whilst the lip is white,
occasionally marked with red-
dish purple. There are two
varieties or sets of this species, one which blooms during the
autumn, and another in midwinter. Both are very desirable.
Native of Guatemala.

O. N.EviuM MAJus. — TMs most elegant plant is, unfortu-
nately, still rare, and consequently ranges high in price. Its
leaves are narrow, dark green, and some 8 or 10 inches high.
The flower-spike is erect, bearing numerous flowers, which are
in the sepals and petals much waved, pure white, spotted pro-
fusely with rich crimson, whilst the lip is yellow. This is a
summer-blooming plant, usually coming in about the begin-
ning of June. Native of Mexico.

0. TKiUMPHAss. — This species is rare, and by no means so
well known by amateurs as it deserves to be. The pseudo-
bulbs and leaves are bright dark green. The scape is many-
flowered, each bloom some 3 inches in diameter; sepals and
petals golden yellow, transversely barred and blotched with
crimson ; lip white towards the base, rich deep rose in front.
It usually blooms during Mai'ch and April. Native of New
Grenada.

June 3, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

449

0. LCTEO -PURPUREUM. — Of this fine species there are nume-
rous varieties, some of them of extraordinary beauty. It is a
somewhat stronger grower than many species of this genus ;
the pseudo-bulbs are stout, and the leaves measure from 12 to
15 inches in length ; scape longer than the leaves, many-
flowered, individual blooms between 2 and 3 inches in dia-
meter; sepals and petals bright brown or blackish brown,
margined and blotched with yellow ; lip white in front, blotched
with brown at the base, and set off with long yellow crests.
Native of New Grenada. — Experto Cbede.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

June 4th and 5th.

The great summer Show of this Society, at least so far as
liOndon is immediately concerned, opened yesterday, and will
be concluded today. It is held in the large tent at the south
side of the gardens, where the flowers always show to greater
advantage than they do in the arcades, and even the conserva-
tory, welcome as its shelter has been this cheerless spring. But
the first day was sultry, and even the lighter shelter of a tent,
with the great influx of ivisitors which such an Exhibition drew,
was oppressive, especially in the forenoon. Late in the after-
noon there was a heavy downpour of rain. Taken as a whole,
the Exhibition is a very good one ; the tent is fairly furnished —
it might have held more exhibits with ease, but one or two well-
known names are not to be found ; whatever may be the
Society's dilHculties. these, we cannot doubt, have no part in
the matter. We subjoin details of the Show, which, we may
add, is supplemented by Mr. Anthony Waterer's collection of
Ehododendrons from Knap HUl, now just arriving at their
beauty.

Stove and Gbeenhodse Plants. — Of these, beautifully grown
and flowered groups of nine come from Mr. Baines, gardener to
H. MichoUs, Esq., Southgate, and Mr. Ward, gardener to F. G.
Wilkins, Esq., Leyton. The former has his magnificent speci-
men of Hedaroma tulipiferum ; a splendid plant of Ixora coc-
cinea, literally a mass of bloom ; Boronia pinnata, in remarkably
fine condition ; Phcenocoma prolifera ; Aphelesis macrantha pur-
purea, extremely fine ; a grand bush of Erica ventricosa coccinea
minor, Dracophyllum gracile, and Azalea Mare. Mr. Ward has
Statice profusa very fine, and excellent specimens of Aphelexis
macrantha purpurea, Hedaroma Hookerianum, with Heatlis and
Bougainvillsea glabra. Mr. J. Wheeler, gardener to J. PhUlpott,
Esq., Stamford Hill, sends a group in which we noticed a good
example of Clerodendron Baltouriauum. Mr. Baines is first,
and Mr. Ward second.

In amateurs' groups of six Mr. Baines is again first, showing
.a very large and fine Azalea Criterion, not trained in the usual
stiff style, but forming an extremely pleasing, somewhat irre-
gular mass ; Aphelexis macrantha rosea, Erica tricolor Wilsoui,
Boronia pinnata, and Ixora coccinea very fine. Mr. J. Wheeler
is second, and Mr. G. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid,
Bart., third, each having very good specimens. In the nursery-
men's class for the same number of plants Messrs. Jackson and
Son, of Kingston, are first with excellent examples of Aphelexis
macrantha purpurea, Acrophyllum veno.=ium, and Dracophyllum
gracile. Mr. Morse, Epsom, who is second, has a fine Cleroden-
dron Balfourianum, a neat well-flowered example of Stephanotis
floribunda, and other good specimens.

In Class 5, groups of plants are shown in pots not larger than
12 inches in diameter, and the whole of the specimens are very
good. Mr. Ward takes the lead with two excellent Heaths,
Aphelexis macrantha purpurea, Phcenocoma prolifera Barnesii,
Statice profusa, DracophyUum gracile, Franciscea Lindeni, Ste-
phanotis floribunda, Kalosanthes Frederick Desbois, and others
equally good. Messrs. Jackson & Son are second, and Mr. J.
Wheeler is third.

Orchids. — Of these no less than sixteen collections are exhi-
bited, many of them being of great merit. In the amateurs'
class for nine Mr. J. Ward is first with a splendid collection—
PhaliEUopsis grandiflora, Cypripedium Stonei, Cattleya Mossina
Buperba, and Odontoglossum crispum being very well grown.
Mr. Rutland, gardener to the Duke of Richmond, is second ; he
has an exceedingly fine specimen of Cattleya Mossiae magnifica,
Dendrobium densiflorum with eight handsome racemes, and a
handsome Cypripedium caudatum, with six spikes having two
flowers on each. The third prize is awarded to Mr. W. Cuth-
bert, gardener to Mrs. Adams, Chase Park, Enfield. In the
corresponding class for nurserymen Mr. B. S. Williams is first
with a handsome variety of La-lia purpurata, Anguloa Clowesii,
Saccolabium retusum with four spikes, Cattleya lobata, and a
fine specimen of Cypripedium superbum. Mr. W. Bull is se-
cond ; he has Eriopsis rutidobulbon, a singular species with
reddish-brown sepals and petals, the lip spotted, and LseUa
grandis, the sepals and petals naiTow and buff-coloured. A very
nice group. Messrs. T. Jackson i" Son, Kingston, Surrey, are
third.

In Class 8, for six, Mr. J. Hill shows fine plants of Phalie-

nopsis amabilis, which are spoiled by being placed in a dirty
tub with rusty iron hoops, a fine Dendrobium densiflorum, and
others. The first prize is awarded to him. Mr. J. Douglas,
gardener to Francis Whitbourn, Esq., Loxford Hall, Ilford, is
second with a fine group. It contains a splendid variety of
MasdevalUa Harryana, Cattleya Warneri, &c. Mr. J. Ward is
third, and Mr. W. Cutbush fourth.

Class 9, for six (nurserymen), Mr. W. Bull is first with a nice
group. Cattleya Mendelii in this is a fine thing. Mr. E. Morse,
Epsom, is second. In this group the old but singular Stanhopea
tigrina attracted much attention. The first prize for a single
specimen goes to Mr. J. Wheeler, gardener to J. Phiilpot, Esq.,
Stamford HUl, for a large specimen of Dendrobium nobile.
Mr. W. Cole, gardener to J. S. Budgett, Esq., Ealing Park, W.,
for Oncidium sphacelatum, is second.

Roses. — There is only one class for those in pots, and it is
confined to nurserymen. The best six come from Mr. Turner,
of Slough, who has Juno, Victor Verdier, Vicomte Vigier,
Madame Margottiu, Charles Lawson, and Madame A. Dureau,
all fine specimens, and furnished witti numerous large blooms.
Messrs. Paul «.t Son, of Cheshunt, are second with, among others,
beautifully-flowered specimens of Laslia, Duke of Edinburgh,
and John Hopper. For forty-eight trusses Mr. Turner is first
with Maruchal Niel, Therese Levet, Edward Morren, and fine
examples of several others ; and Messrs. Paul A' Son are second ;
while for twenty-four trusses the same exhibitors occupy the
same relative positions. Messrs. Mitchell & Sons, of Piltdown
Nurseries, send two stands of very tine blooms of Marechal Niel.

Ferns. — Ferns, both exotic and hardy are numerously ex-
hibited. The best six stove or greenhouse species are from Mr.
Baines, and consist of noble specimens of Dicksonia antarctica,
Cibotium princeps, Gleichenia speluncffi, Gleichenia mpestris,
Davallia buUata, and Cyathea dealbata. Mr. Cole, gardener to
J. S. Budgett, Esq., Ealing Park, who is second, has capital
specimens of the Bird's-nest Fern, Adiantum cuneatum, and
Lomaria gibba; and T. M. Shuttleworth, Esq., Harley Street,
Cavendish Square, is third, showing among others a very fine
specimen of Adiantum farleyense. In the nurserymen's class
Mr. BuU is first, and Mr. Aldous, Gloucester Road, South Ken-
sington, is second.

For twelve hardy Ferns, Mr. N. Camp, gardener to C. Walton,
Esq., Manor House, East Acton, is first; Mr. James, gardener
to W. F. Watson, Esq., Isleworth, second; and T. M. Shuttle-
worth, Esq., third. Many of these are very beautiful. R. A.
Thompson, Esq., South Kensington Museum, exhibits twelve
Devonshire varieties of Polystichnm angulare. In the nursery-
men's class Mr. Morse, of Epsom, is first; Messrs. Jackson, of
Kingston, second. For six, Mr. G. Wheeler, and Mr. W. Whit-
taker, gardener to S. Williams, Esq., Putney, are the prizetakers.

Palms and Deac.enas. — For groups of six Palms, Mr. W. Cole,
Ealing Park, is first with fine examples of Livistona borbonica,
Seaforthia elegans, and Areca rubra. Second comes Mr. Hill,
gardener to R. Hanbury, Esq., The Poles, Ware, and third Mr.
G. Wheeler. In the nurserymen's class Mr. Wimsett, Ashburn-
ham Park Nursery, Chelsea, and Mr. Burley, Bayswater, are the
successful exhibitors. For two Drac^uas Mr. Bull, of Chelsea,
is first with a handsome pair of Draciena lineata fully 7 feet
high. Messrs. G. Wheeler and Burley took the remaining prizes.

Baskets of Plants Arranged for Effect. — Several of these
are exhibited. The fault consists chiefly in their being over-
elaborate. There is too much effort made in these matters to
crowd-in more plants than are required ; there is too much
ribboning, and also too little grace. Many a wild flower culled
from the meadows and loosely arranged in the children's posies
would be more effective than the more showy but often less
elegant inmate of the hothouse. Mr. Hepper, gardener to C. O.
Ledward, Esq., The Elms, Acton, is first with a good arrange-
ment. Miss Williams, Upper HoUoway, a good second ; and
Mr. Croucher, gardener to J. T. Peacock, Esq., Sudbury House,
Hammersmith, third. Fourth, Mr. Cole.

Succulents. — A special prize was offered for fifty miscella-
neous Succulents by J. T. Peacock, Esq., of Hammersmith, he
himself refraining from exhibiting his collection, well known
to be one of the most extensive in the country, if, indeed, it is
equalled anywhere. Mr. C. Pfersdorff, 110, Avenue St. Ouen,
Paris, has the first prize with a highly interesting group, con-
taining Opuntia cyUndrica variegata and many curious forms of
Agave, Cereus, Echeveria, &c. ; and Mr. Ware, of Tottenham,
comes in second.

New Plants. — Mr. W. Bull, of Chelsea, offered prizes of i612,
i'8, and £5 in a class for amateurs, and the same amounts in a
class confined to nurserymen, for twelve new plants introduced
and sent out for the first time since the commencement of 1870.
Among amateurs, T. M. Shuttleworth, Esq., took the first place
with Pandanus decorus, Macrozamia corallipes, Draciena
splendens, Pandanus Veitchii, GuiUelma utiUs, Macrozamia
spiralis, Primula japonica, Curculigo recurvata striata, Dracaina
Shepherdii, Maranta Seemanni, Maranta Makoyana, and Pan-
danus Lais. Mr. Croucher is second with several of the above,
Dracsena ornata, Macrozamia elegantissima, Dracaena splendens,

450

JOrKXAL OF HORTICrLTUKE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEK.

t Jane S, 1S73.

Stadmaimia amabilis, and Macrozamia spiralis ebnmea. Mr.
Carmichael, gardener to H. Tegwell, Esq., Cronrn Hall, Bath, is
third. In the nurseiymen's class the prizes went to Sir. Wim-
sett, Messrs. E. G. Henderson it Son, and Messrs. Downie & Co.,
of Stsnstead Park, Forest Hill.

For sis new plants introdnced by the exhibitor and not in
commerce, Messrs. Veitch are first with Dipladenia insignis
■with splendid deep rose-crimson flowers. Tillandsia Zahnii (first-
class certificate!, Adiantum speciosum, Aralia elegantissima
(first-class certificate), with dark green 9-10-lobed leaves, Dra-
csna amabilis, and D. Baptistii ifirst-class certificate). Mr. Bull
is second with Pritthardia grandis, a very handsome Palm ;
Cyathea Burkei, a remarkably fine tree Fern ; Croton majesti-
CTUn, very handsome : Cycas imperi.^.lis, a fine acquisition ; Dra-
caena Goldieana, and Encephalartos Jamesoni. For three new
plants, in or out of flower, introduced by the exhibitor in 1S72-3,
Messrs. Veitch bear the palm with a magnificent example of
Odoatoglossum vexillarium having twelve flowers much larger ,
than it has before appeared with, Aralia Yeitchii, and Croton
"Weismanni. |

MiscEXiAXEOcs. — An extra prize was awarded to Mr. B. S.
Williams for a capital group of new and rare plants ; those ■
most striking are Croton irregulare, Dsmonorops periacanthus,
and J), fissus. From Mr. W. Bull comes a very interesting and
varied collection, amotg them being Croton spirale, and C. cor-
nigerum. These, as T.-ell as some others, received first-class
certificates. An extra prize was awarded. Messrs. Veitch and
Sons have a large and highly meritorious collection. Here
are Croton Hookerii and some others, Dracaenas, Palms, Orchids,
Ferns, and Acers of di^erent coloured foliage. An extra
prize was awarded. Messrs. E. G. Henderson, of St. John's
Wood, send a group of Golden and Silver Tricolor Geraniums,
Coleus, Petunias, Anthuriums, Caladiums, and cut flowers of
Mimnlns. Mr. Wheeler, gardener to Sir F. Goldsmid, Bart.,
Kegent's Park, has a well-diveisified group of greenhouse plants
and hardy Ferns. Mr. Charles ?soble, of Bagshor, received an
extra prize for a group of Spiraea japonica and Clematises.
Messrs. Standish it Co., of Ascot, have a group of plants, the most
conspicuous being a collection of Acers, and take an extra prize
for plants of Abutilon Boule de Xeige. Messrs. Cutbush, of
Highgate, send a large basket of Weigela hortensis nivea — a
suitable companion to the well-known W. rosea, and which will .
no doubt do as well for forcing. Mr. W. Bull has an extra prize
for a good collection of Palms of the us^ial sorts.

Mr. W. Denning, gsidener to Lord Londesborough, contributes
a collection of Orchids, in which there is the very handsome
Odontoglossum vexiliarium, as well as Masdevallia Lindeni
and others of interest. Mr. Aldous, florist, Gloucester Boad,
South Kensington, received an extra prize for a group of mixed
greenhouse plants, consisting of Palms, Crotons, Dracaenas, and
Ferns. Mr. Pescridge, Greenway Xursery, Uxbridge, has twenty
baskets of Tricolor Geraniums, dwarf in habit, good in colour,
and offering a great variety of foliage. An extra prize was
awarded.

Standard Rhododendrons of great beauty come from Messrs.
Veitch Ji: Sons, as well as boxes of cut blooms, also boxes of .
Ghent Azaleas and an interesting box of hardy flowering shrubs, j
An extra prize was awarded. Messrs. Osbom & Sons, Fulham, \
have a very fine plant in a tub of Phormium tenax variegatum, ;
one of the finest plants of the kind. Mr. C. Turner, Slough, has
baskets of Show Pelargoniums, and certificates were granted to
several of them by the Floral Committee. !

Among cut flowers, one of the most interesting things on the i
centre table of the tent is a large and beautiful collection of !
Ixias, Tritonias, Sciilas, Irises, <tc. ; this bos was quite besieged ;
by admirers. Pansies in cut blooms were also sent by Mr. T. S.
Ware, of Tottenham ; a very dark one, named Pluto, which has ;
been noticed in previous reports, is shown as a bedding variety.

FBTirr. I

The exhibition of Fruit is varied and extensive ; the show of ;
Grapes for the season being good and varied in character, thanks j
to the wisely-compiled schedule, wherein they are divided into j
classes, so that Frontigcans cannot be exhibited against Muscats, |
or Black Hamburgh against Black Prince. '•

PxxE Apples. — Of these there is a poor show. In the class I
for three Queens Mr. J. Hepper, gardener to C. Ledward, |
Esq., The Elms, Acton, is the only exhibitor, and gains a second
prize. In the Any variety class Mr. Rutland is first with
Prickly Cayenne, Sir. Hepper being second with a Queen.

Gbapes.— Class 37. — Basket of not less than 12 lbs. Here I
there are seven exhibitors. Mr. T. Bannerman, gardener to
Lord Bagot, Blithfield, Rugeley, is firs; with a splendid basket,
the berries jet black and covered with a beautiful bloom. Mr.
Bone.=i, gardener to D. Mcintosh, Esq., Havering Park, Bomford,
is second : the third prize going to Mr. H. Stapleton, gardener
to H. D. Davies, Esq., Spring Grove House, Isleworth. Class 38.
— Single dishes of Black Hamburgh. — Here the competition is
also keen. Mr. Bannerman again takes the lead with a splen-
did dish, colour and bloom almost perfect. Mr. Douglas is
second with a well-finished dish, but the bunches are not so

I large. The third prize goes to Mr. J. Craven, at Mr. Davies

Nursery, Friern Bamet, for a good dish. Class 41. — Any black

variety except Hamburgh, Gros Guillaume, and Madresfield

I Court. — Mr. Bannerman is first with a splendid dish. In the

I Frontignan class Mr. Bannerman is again first with Grizzly

j Frontignan; Mr. D. Pizzey, gardener to Sir E. Perry, Fulmer,

I Slough, being second with the white variety. In a class ex-

i clusively devoted to Buckland Sweetwater, Mr. Douglas is first

with a well-finished dish, Mr. A. Eeid, gardener to L. Huth,

Esq., Possingworth. Hawkhurst, being second, the bunches and

I berries large. In Class io, any White variety except Muscat of

Alexandria, Frontignan, and Buckland Sweetwater, Mr. W.

i Hill, gardener to Kev. W. Sneyd, Eeele Hall, Stafford, is first

with well-ripened Fosters White Seedling, Mr. Pizzey taking a

third prize with White Muscadine.

PzACHXs. — Class 46. — There are five very nice dishes exhibited,

' though not quite so well finished as we have seen them at the

. summer exhibition of tbig Society. Mr. G. Sage, gardener to

Earl Brownlow, Ashridge Park, Berkhampstead, is first with

1 Violette Hative, Mr. W. TTill being second with Royal George,

the third prize going to Mr. T. Bannerman for the same variety.

There is rather a poor exhibition of Nectarines. Mr. W.

Gardiner, gardener to E. P. Shirley, Esq., Lower Eatingtoc

Park, Stratford-on-Avon, is first with Violette Hative ; Mr.

G. T. Miles, gardener to Lord Carington, Wycombe Abbey,

High Wycombe, is second with pretty well-colotired Elruge ;

and Mr. W. Hill third, also with Ebruge.

Two very good dishes of Figs are exhibited. Mr. G. Sage is
first with Brown Turkey, Mr. G. T. Miles being second with
Ischis.

Black and White Cherries are exhibited by Mr. G. T. Miles ;
he worthily holds the first prizes with Black Circassian and
Elton.

Stka\\"eerkies of the British Qneen and Dr. Hogg class.
Mr. J. Douglas is first with excellent British Queen; Mr.
W. Bones is second with British Queen ; Mr. H. Stapleton
third with Sir C. Napier. Class 53. — President, Premier, or any
dark-coloured variety not Pine-flavoured. Mr. Douglas is agaiii
first with large well-coloured fruit of Premier ; Mr. J. W. Chard,
gardener to Sir F. Bathtirst, Clarendon Park, Salisbury, is se-
cond with President.

Melons, Green-fleshed. — Of these there are one or two good
fruits, the others are inferior. Mr. G. T. Miles is first with a
nice hybrid Cashmere ; Mr. Bacnerman second with Bellamore
Hybrid. Mr. G. Ward is third with Wilson's Seedling. The
Scarlet- fleshed are inferior. The only prize awarded is a second
one to Mr. G. T. Miles for Eoyal Ascot.

Peas. — Six dishes of Peas, to include Maclean's Blue Peter
Carter's White Gem, and Carter's First Crop Blue ; prizes
oSered by Messrs. Carter. Mr. G. Brown, gardener to E. Mack-
enzie, Esq., Fawlcy Court, Henley-on-Thames, is the only exhi-
bitor, and takes the first prize with nice dishes of the varieties
named, and William L, Prizetaker, and Supreme.

In the Miscellaneous class equal second prizes are awarded to
Mr. A. Eeid for Cape Gooseberries, and to Mr. W. Gardiner for
a collection of well-kept Apples.

FstnT CoiDCTTEK. — ^A. Smee.Esq., F.R.S.,inthe chair. From
Mr. Bennett, gardener to the Marquis of Salisbury, came a bos
of Blue Gown Cucumber, which was said to be the true kind.
He also sent a box of Dr. Hogg Strawberries ; these were very
fine, and a cultural commendation was awarded for them. Mr.
Watts again sent his Northampton Hero Broccoli in good
order. Mr. E. P. Francis, nurseryman, Hertford, sent a Broc-
coli, which did not merit any special notice. Mr. Hill, gardener
to E. Hanbury, Esq., The Poles, Ware, sent the same sort.
From the Royal Gardens, Frogmore, came a seedling Straw-
berry called La Grosse Sucree, said to be a perpetual bearer,
having fruit in three stages upon one plant, but its flavour
was not considered so good as other sorts in cultivation. A
commendation was awarded to Mr. Earley, Valentines, Hford,
for a well-kept collection of Apples.

FiOBAi CojixiTTEE. — ^W. B. Kcllock, Esq., in the chair. The
certificates granted on this occasion were unusually numerous,
including as they did many of the subjects forming part of the
Show. Uur remarks must be brief, and confined to little more
ban a bare enumeration of them. Mr. Btdi had first-class certi-
ficates for Cyathea Dredgei, Campsidium filicifolium, Dracsna
rosea.D. Goldieana. PhyUoticnium mirabile, Croton cornigerum,
Cyathea Burkei. Cycas imperialis, Odontoglossum Insleayii
leopardinnm, very handsome ; Chamaerops hnmilis variegata,
variegated with yellow; Croton grande, Pritchardia grandis,
Bertolonia superbissima, very beautiful : Croton spirale, one of
the most remarkable of the genus, and Cattleya Mendelii.

Messrs. Veitch had first-class certificates for Aralia elegantis-
sima, Tillandsia Zahnii, Dieffenbachia brasiliensis, extremely
handsome ; Phycella pulchra, scarlet, with the lower part of
the tube green ; Laelia Wolstenholmire ; Anthurium crystallinum,
a sterling novelty with broad silvery veins ; and Veronica dios-
mffiiolia with pale lilac flowers.

Jane 5, 1873. ]

JOtJBNAXi OP HOBTICULTUKE AXD COTTAGE GABDEKEB.

iol

E. B. Foster, Esq., liad a fiirat-class certificate for ShowPelar-
^oniams Protector, rose carmine, "white throat, dark-veined
top edged with rose ; Blue Boy, lilac blotched with porple, dark
top; Constance, soft rose, white throat ; and Dachess, marbled
rose, dark top, white throat. Similar awards were made to Mr.
Drewry, Bnrton-on-Trent, for Bed Gauntlet; to Mr. Turner, of
Slouch, for decorative Pelargonium Sanray and Triomphe de
St. Maude, magenta rose, apparently a fine market kind; to
Mr. G. Smith for Zonal Adelina Patti, large rose-scarlet, and
Fair Eosamond, salmon; to Mr. E. Dean, Ealing, for shrubby
Calceolaria Aurora, a very fine free-flowering yellow and brown-
■crimson kind : for Pansy Lothair, violet blue, fine ; to Mr. W.
Paul, Waltham Cross, for Pelargonium Miss Farrer; and to
Mr. Cole, for Silene pendula compacta, very showy.

Messrs. E. G. Henderson had certificatesfor Begonia vivicans,
Coleus Verschaffelti splendens, and a high commendation for
their strain of Mimulus.

From Messrs. Backhouse, of York, came Odontoglossum
Insleayii leopardinum already noticed, which received a first-
class certificate ; and a similar award was made to Messrs. Dixon,
of Moorgate Street, for a double blue Lobelia, very free-flower-
ing, and, we are informed, continuous-flowering as well. Mr.

I accomplished wife of the Director of Kew, edited and adapted
to the system of botany taught in the schools, and practised by
the botanists, of Great Britain and America.

The work consists of two parts, the first being ontlines of
organography, anatomy, and physiology; and the second, de-
scriptions and illustrations of the orders. It is a large book,
consisting of over a thousand quarto pages, but it is so copi-
ously and so artistically illustrated a? altogether to remove
the charge of ''heaviness " which is too frequently, and often
unreasonably, made against the study of botanical works. With
such a work as this before him, the student of botany must be
; dull who cannot comprehend the subject, for to any inteUigeut
I mind the instruction is so plain, and the iUustrations bo accu-
rate, that we cannot suppose there would be any difficulty in
acquiring a thorough knowledge of botany. Many of the
woodcuts which iUustrate the work will be recognised by those
who are familiar with some of the botanical text-books already
published, but this merely shows whence the authors of these
works have derived their "aid. We have here ooOO illustrations
executed in the highest style of wood-engraving, and drawn

Pestridge, Uxbridge, had also a first-class certificate for Tricolor j by the most skilfol FTench artists, representing' almost every

form of structure to be found m the vegetable kingdom. We
believe there is no organ or arrangement of organs that is not
shown in so clear a manner and on such a scale as to make it
perfectly intelligible to the most ignorant beginner. We regret
it is not in our power to furnish some examples of these iUos-
trations.

To commend such a work as this is snper3uo:is. The names
of those concerned in it are the best guarantee f its excellence
and utility. Le Maout and Deoaisne as authors, Decaisne,
Steinheil, and Biocreux as artists, are its original creators ;
and who shall say that in the hands of Dr. and Mrs. Hooker
the English edition of this admirable work will be unworthy
to rank with its French prototype ? The name of Longman ai
once speaks as to the manner in which the work has been pro-
duced. We would most gladly have given an extract by way
of Ulastrating the nature of the work, but without the illus-
trations it would have but little interest.

Pelargonium Marie Stuart, as did Mr. Perkins, of Leamington.,
ior Verbena Edward Perkins, with fijie trusses of white flowers
having a rose eye.

BLACK PRINCE AND KING ALFRED PINE
APPLES.

I FiXD, on looking over the article of " J. M. C." at page 350,
that he still believes Prince Albert Pine Apple to be distinct
from Black Prince and King Alfred. He says the great pecu-
liarity of Foden's Black Prince throwing up its long fruiting
stem never occurs with the variety which has so long retained
the unquestioned name of Prince Albert ; also that he has a
strong aversion, for obvious reasons, to the naked stem and
invariable minimum produce of the pedestal type. He also
cays the finest fruits in every respect are produced by plants
which at once show a vigorous formation. This I deny, for it
must be adoiitted by all that the exception sometimes overcomes
•the rule. Again, he considers the pnrple-tinted leav^ of King
Alfred no reliable distinction. I still maintain that Black
Prince and King Alfred are as distinct from each other as any
two Pine Apple plants that are grown. Had Mr. Joseph Foden
been of the same opinion as '• J. M. C," and had as strong
an aversion to the naked stem and small formation of the frtiit
of the pedestal type, I can assure him that the Black Prince
Pine Apple would not have been in existence to-day ; for when

the parent plant sent up its bold, erect, and ahnost naked . - .

stem with scarcely any formation of fruit i>erceptible for a P^ny species, and plants of such varied tints, as are comprised
time, it was then "thought bv manv that it would be nothing "" *-^^ ^^S^ family, can nevertheless boast of a considerable
but a blind show. Mr. Entwisle liimself told my late father ' ^^ increasing number, nearly all of which are plants of a
to take the plant out of the pit and throw it on the rubbish- j JiigWy ornamental character. The most prevalent colours of
heap. After a little patience the fruit began to expand in every I ^^ genus are red or scarlet, and reddish purple ; there are,
way, and it became evident that it would make a noble fruit, ' however, a few species with blue flowers, of which the plant
for" it soon gained the ascendancy over all the other plants. °°.!!!. '^SP®^ "^T ^ regarded as the oldest, it not the best.
Mr. Entwisle was anxious that the fruit should be shown if
possible ; but as it did not ripen in time, it was cut in a green
state and sent to the Manchester Exchange for exhibition. It
'weighed 10 lbs. 4 ozs., was eighteen and nineteen pips deep,
and 24 inches in circumference.

I hope to have the pleasure of seeing the Prince Albert Pine
Apple this season, and of observing if it is anything different
■from the Black Prince. — James Fodes, Gardener, The Laund,
Accrington, Lancashire. |

[The correspondence on this subject may now cease. — Eds.]

FLO^^VERS FOB OUR BORDERS.— No. 8.

PESTSTEMOX SPZCIOSUM.— Showy PEXTSTXilox.

Webe we so tmfortunate as to be compeUed to limit otir col-
lection of plants to two genera, we think we should, without
hesitation, select for one of these the Pentstemons, and for the
other the Salvias.

The genus Pentstemon, although it scarcelv includes so

Shododexdbons iT THE Eegext's Paks. — As we have before
intimated, Messrs. Lane & Son have tbu year taJien the place
of Messrs. Waterer at the Eoyal Botanic Society's Gardens.
During the next week the plants will be in full bloom, and »e
hope then to report on them in detaU.

NEW BOOK.
Ji Generat Stjstem of Botany, Descriptive and Analytical.

By Emm. Le itiotn^ and J. Decaisxe. Translated by Mes.

HoOKEB, and Edited by J. D. Hooker, C.B. Loudon:

Longmans.

The title of this book is too long to be quoted at the head
of this notice, but its scope and object will be learned from
the observation we are about to make. Tiiis " General System
of Botany "" is a translation of the " Traite Generale de Bota-
nique " of MM. Le Maout and Decaisne, by Mrs. Hooker, the

The P. speeiosum grows about 2 feet high, and produces its
beautiful deep blue flowers daring two or three months of the
summer ; being generally in blossom by midsummer or soon
after, and remaining in flower until the end of August or the be-
I ginning of September. It is far less common than it deserves
to be, and this is perhaps owing to the fact that it is not
strictly speaking a perennial, as is usually supposed, for it
; generally dies at the end of the second flowering season, and
I consequently requires to be kept up by seeds or cuttings. The
I seeds should be sown as soon as ripe, in pots or pans of sandy
j loam, and the yoimg plants, which will soon mate their ap-
[ pearance, must be preserved from frost during the succeeding
winter in a cold frame. Where this convenience is not at
hand, the seedlings most be kept in a window ; when this is
impracticable, it will be better to defer sowinj the seeds until
the following March, although, in all probability, but a moiety
of them wDl then vegetate. When potted-off in the spring,
the seedUngs wiU require a rich soil, kept porous by sand or
very sandy loam, and it will be advisable to protect them after
potting by any available means from the chilling spring
frosts.

At the season when bedding plants are turned out of their
winter quarters, the Pentstemon speeiosum may also be planted
in the situation where it is designed to bloom the following
year: though the plants will take no harm, but rather benefit
from being kept in a cold frame nntH autumn, provided they
are, as occasion requires, shifted into larger pots and duly
supplied with air and water.

452

JOUKNAL OF HOBTICULTUBB AND COTTAGE GABDENEE,

[ June 5, 1873.

Where sufEcient space can be spared, theywill be found very
suitable plants for a bed, or a clump of them may be planted
together in the mixed flower border ; and in either situation
they will, when in bloom, form a highly pleasing contrast to
the numerous flowers of scarlet hue with which the flower
garden abounds in the summer season. Plants with blossoms
of clear unambiguous blue are not so numerous as could be
wished, for there is no colour, we think, on which the eye rests
with greater satisfaction than on " Heaven's own tint."

We must not neglect to observe, that although the P. speci-
osum is a native of the bleak Oregon Territory, it requires, not-
withstanding, to be guarded from excessive moisture during
the winter season. This may be partially accomplished by
covering the earth in the immediate neighbourhood of the
roots with dry Fern, and also by planting the specimens in
soil well drained and of an open sandy texture, supplying any
deficiency of vegetable matter by a top-dressing of thoroughly
rotten manure in the spring, to be afterwards dug in.

If the plant, after flowering the first season, be allowed to
ripen its seed, it is generally so much exhausted by the opera-
tion, that it seldom blooms well the second year ; but if cut
down immediately after the first production of flowers is over,
it "breaks" for the next season. It may be increased by
cuttings or slips, but they are very sparingly afforded, the
habit of the plant being in this respect singularly opposed to
that of most of the species.

Pentstemon Bpeciosum.

There tie several other very showy blue Pentstemons, not to
mention those of a purple tint, such as the now common
P. gentianoides, which may frequently be met with 7 or 8 feet
high.

Perhaps the best of these is the P. ovatum, a species which,
in some respects, is superior to that just described ; it has the
largest foliage of any of the Pentstemous, and flowers of an
interesting blue tint at the mouth and throat, though the
outside of the tube is of a brownish purple. — (W. Thompson's
English Flower Garden.)

LAEGE PEACH HOUSE AND VINERIES

AT MK. GODWIN'S, JIAIDSTONE.
The late Sir Eobert Peel, in abolishing the duty on glass
and removing the restrictions which fettered its manufacture,
did more to encourage the higher branches of horticulture than
any other man of the present century. In making this obser-
vation I by no means deny the credit due to the eminent
writers and practitioners who have advanced so much the
calling in a professional way ; but we have only to look round
us to see the multitude of glass structures that have risen up
everywhere, and at the same time bear in mind how thinly
such things were scattered over the laud before the time of

that great statesman, and our gratitude to him ought to be more
general. Although I do not attach too much importance to
such things as require the aid of glass, there is no question
that it has been of immense service in the production of many
crops which our imcertain climate rendered precarious. Be-
sides, the denizens of many of our towns, whose back yards
afforded scarcely more room than was required to dust a cai'pet,
aud which could only with the utmost skill and economy be
made to produce anything either useful or ornamental, can now
make them wholly or in part conducive to the pleasure of the^
master of the house, his family, and visitors, and to afi'ord
the means of enlivening many an hour after the cares and
anxieties of business.

Apart from the multitude of small plant structures that
afford so much enjoyment to the amateur of small means, we
have also to look to the caterers for the public market, and
there we find what may not inaptly be called whole streets of
glass structures, and their number is daily increasing. 01
late we have heard of the magnificent Grape houses Mr. Thom-
son has erected in one of the border counties, whDe a simUar
establishment, over which Mr. Meredith presides, has existed
for some years in the vicmity of Liverpool ; and many others
might be noted, including the extensive glass structures of our
leading nurserymen. Many of these, as well as the other build-
ings of which glass forms so important a part, owe their origin
to the impulse which cheap glass gave to such things, and we
cannot take a railway journey, or even enter a station, with-
out being reminded of what has been done with this material.
To the above notes of what has been efi'ected by glass might
be added much that does not always meet the eye at the gresi
number of places of which the general gardening world has
heard but little, and yet some of them are scarcely inferior to
those which have obtained a wide repute. A visit to Maid-
stone a few days ago brought me to one of these places, and
two or three years ago I believe I called attention to one of the
glass houses that was being erected, and remarked on its unusual
size. A second visit has enabled me to furnish some further
particulars, which may be interesting to the amateur and pro-
fessional gardener, and as the houses have been erected and
are managed by one of the former class, the latter will pro-
bably be glad to hear the result.

In one of the suburbs of the town, three or four acres of
waste land were purchased by Mr. Godwin. The ground had
been a Kentish ragstone quarry, and although offering one ol
the prettiest prospects for building, the fact of its being quar-
ried deterred builders from venturing upon it, and the debris
of the quarry, together with what had been its surface soil, lay
in the usual disorderly heaps. The situation, however, was a
favourable one — a rather steep incline to the south — and the
lower part of it was within a stone's throw of the river Med-
way. On this unpromising plot Mr. Godwin determined to
try his hand at growing some choice fruits, and at the base
of the hill erected certainly one of the largest glass houses
I have ever seen. It is a sort of half-span, the longer rafter
being 18 feet, and the shorter one 5 feet in length, with a fronts
light 2 feet high, and a total length, undivided by any partition,
of 385 feet. Is there any similar house that exceeds this in
size'? But this house is not the only one, for immediately be-
hind it, with an open space of 00 feet between, there is another
house of the same dimensions, except that it is 20 feet shorter,
or 365 feet in length.

These structures were erected by Mr. Godwin from his own
design. The width of each is 16 feet, and the back aud front
wall were constructed of the materials which the ground
afforded. Some stone was still to be had, aud some of the
best of it was burnt into lime ; with the aid of this and the
other waste stone that was found in levelling and puttiug the
ground in order, the back and front walls of these two glass
houses were built, not in the ordinary way, for the stones,
being so small, it was impossible to build them like ordinary
masonry, but as a concrete wall, wider at bottom than at
top. The wall being thickly whitewashed outside had a pleas-
ing appearance, and, from what I saw of it, was likely to stand
the weather well — in fact, Mr. Godwin said that the portion of
it first built was getting as hard as in buildings that had
stood the test of centuries. The front wall is built on arches
of the same material, the wall plate embedded on the top, and
the woodwork attached in the usual way. The front upright
lights are all moveable as ventilators, so are many of the
back lights, while a row of pillars inside at, I believe, 8 feet
apart support the roof. The main roof is fixed; the sasli-
bars stouter than ordinary, and every fifth bar is a rafter.

June 5, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTXTBE AND COTTAGE GAEDSNER.

453

with bars of angle iron uniting tlie smaller bars with it. The
glazing is of the nsual order, and the squares upwards of
l(i inches wide. The house is an exceedingly light one, and
its appearance, as seen from a little way off, all that could be
desired.

I will now endeavour to describe the contents of these houses,
and shall begin with the shorter of the two, as it is that which
the visitor first enters. It has been planted with Peaches only,
and it would be impossible to find any more promising than
they. The glazing of the house was only commenced on the 11th
of March, 1871, and the trees (maidens) were all planted at that
time or a few days before, and now many of them are up-
wards of 10 feet high, and 5 or <j feet through, with every twig
laden with blossom buds, which at the time of my visit
(February 12th) were just ready to burst. The trees were
planted in three rows, and were 12 feet apart in the rows. The
front and back row trees were opposite each other, and the

removed, and the young Peach trees will speedily occupy the

whole space.

The lesson to be learned from this ought not to be lost.
Here ai'e two houses of immense size, only 60 feet apart, both
with borders made of the natural soil of the place with some
admixture, the one planted with Peaches and the other with
Grapes, and while the former luxuriates to a degree hardly to
be expected in our latitude, forming excellent bearing wood
from 1 to 2 feet in height. Vines are by no means satisfac-
tory. A better proof tliat the two plants require a different
soU cannot well be furnished, because the example is on so
large a scale that accidental circumstances are not likely to have
exercised any influence in the matter, all or nearly all tha
plants of both kinds in both houses being alike good or mdif-
ferent, yet both houses are treated alike, and both depend ou
sun heat alone for increasing their temperature.

Had the houses been buUt and their borders formed on the

Cronad,_Zin^^^^

The above section represents the two houses with the grounii rising 8 feet between them. A row of pillars, 8 or 10 feet apart, support the front roof as shown*

middle ones were placed at an angle between. Some wires
were fastened to the back wall to partly train the trees to ; but
little was done in that way, and wires were also strained under-
neath the glass on the front for the same purpose, but the
trees there, too, were allowed much of their own way — in fact,
Mr. Godwin said he had done very Uttle to them excepting
nipping off the tops of some very gross shoots during the grow-
ing season, and now and then cutting off one or two that were
encroaching on their neighbours ; yet such was the fruitful
character of the trees, that I noticed in some places where
the base of a shoot almost as thick as one's thumb had been
left some 2 or 3 inches long, that a healthy fine-looking fruit-
bud had been formed ; and Mr. Godwin pointed out to me a
Peach tree standing near the doorway that he said had been
so far injured during the summer of 1871, by wheelbarrows
and other traffic passing it, that in the March of 1872 it was
only some 4 or .5 inches high, whUe it is now quite 10 feet high,
and about half as much in diameter. The two or three first
shoots made last summer, which were stopped, formed others
equally strong, which, being also stopped, formed a number of
blossom-bearing laterals, or rather sub-laterals. These were
moderately short-jointed and well fui-nished with fruit-buds.
There are several much larger trees, and unless their growth
be checked by a crop I hai'dly know what wUl become of them.
The trees were all maidens two years ago, and after being
worked most of them have been untouched by the knife, or even
the finger and thumb. The cause of their success appears to
be, that the soU in which they are growing seems to answer all
the requirements of the Peach and Nectarine, of which several
varieties are grown, all in a state of healthy vigour and ap-
parent fruitfulness. The house is not heated, and a crop of
Potatoes planted all over the ground had tops several inches
high.

We now come to the further and larger of these houses, that
385 feet long, and here perhaps as important a lesson may be
learned as in the other case, but in a different way. This
house was prepared in exactly the same manner, but was built
two years previously. In the first season Cucumbers were
grown in it, then Vines were planted along the front in the
usual way, the front wall being on arches ; but to show that
the Vine and the Peach do not alike luxuriate on the same soil,
the progress of the Vines had not been at all satisfactory, and
Mr. Godwin had determined to turn the structure into a Peach
house. Peach trees are planted in it much in the same way as
in the first house ; one being planted between the Vines along
the front, at the same distance as in the other house — viz.,
12 feet ; but the Vines are left for one more year to see if
their tendency to mUdew can be overcome ; if not, they will be

debris of a sandstone quarry instead of a limestone one, I ex-
pect the Vines would have been more promising, as I have
generally remarked that the best Grapes are met with in dis-
tricts where such a subsoU is met with, excepting in cases
where great expense has been incurred in bringing soU from a
distance, and, of course, in such cases the natural soil of the
district plays a secondary part ; but here it was left to do the
whole, with only some unimportant additions in the way of
manure.

Before leaving this spot I was shown by Mr. Godwin the
commencement of another house behind those already de-
scribed, and sufiiciently far back to insure no injurious result
arising from shadmg, and, as will be understood, the houses,
standing as they do on the side of a hUl, have a consider-
able advantage in this respect. A great part of the back wall
was buUt, and men were wheeling soil into what would even-
tually be the inside of the house before the front wall was
buUt, for it must be observed that any contrivance likely to
lessen labour was taken advantage of. I should not wonder if
in a short time another house, only a few feet shorter than
the other two, were made. In the first house advantage has
been taken of a spring of water that issues from the rock, to
carry it in pipes, with tanks at every 20 or .SO feet, so as to afford
a water supply; but the second house, being on higher ground,
could not be fed from this source, and Mr. Godwin contem-
plates fixing an hydraulic ram at the bottom of his ground
to supply the whole. A plot of ground at the bottom of all is
planted with Strawberries, which have done remarkably well,
and there are some young standard Pears and Damsons equally
promising, the wood of the latter being of that fine deep
black hue which denotes the best of health, and the bloom-
buds are abundant all over the tree.

Besides the above houses, Mr. Godwin has erected one ad-
joining his own dwelling, which is on the opposite side of the
town, and nearly a mUe away. This house, which has recently
been enlarged, is also much larger than houses of a like kind
usually are, and as part of it was built some years ago, was
heated with hot-water pipes, and planted with Vines, it had
all the appearance of an established vinery. Originally it had
been a sort of half-span, one of the lights (the short one) rest-
ing on the boundary wall, but as the owner obtained possession
of the other side, the long rafter was made still longer, and a
long one added on the other side, so that now it is a full span-
roofed house, with front hghts respectively 2 and 4 feet high,
the length of rafter on the two sides being 26 and 29 feet. It
will therefore be seen it is a large house, the length being 70 feet,
and the height to the ridge I'.l feet. Some COOO feet of glass
was required to glaze it, which was done much in the same way

irA

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTURK AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB,

[ .Toiie 0, 1873.

as iu the two former bouses, which requii-eil, the one 10,1)00,
ami the other 9000 feet of glass.

I have already remarked that Grapes are grown in this
house, or rather on one side of it ; the other, which has been
glazed since Christmas, is planted with maiden Peaches at
8 or 10 feet apart, and it is purposed to have Vines also
if they do well, but at present there are ou the ground
floor four thousand Strawberry plants in pots, which will,
doubtless, come on and yield a fair crop, as they are not
much forced. — J. Eobson.

branches from the base upwards. What au attractive feature
an avenue or a group of such line trees would form."

MR. MITCHELL, OF PILTDOWN NURSERIES.
Those who have
for a long series of
years been accustom-
ed to see the portly
form and ruddy face
of Mr. James Mit-
cheU, of Piltdown, at
the metropolitan and
other southern Eose
shows, wUl regret to
learn that he is no
longer, having been
struck down on the
10th ult., at, for one
apparently so hale
and healthy, the early
age of sixty-five. He
bore his years so well
that one would have
supposed him fully
fifteen years younger.
A characteristic por-
trait of him, forming
a minor feature iu
connection with a re-
presentation of a fine
specimen of Arauca-
ria imbricata at his
nursery, was pub-
lished in this Journal
little more than a
year ago. Mr. Luck-
hurst remarked in a
notice of this place :
— " The many kinds
of Conifers culti-
vated at this nur-
sery are remarkably
healthy and vigorous,
and a clear idea of
their relative value
can easUy be obtained
from the number
there associated. The
Araucaria, however,
was the one which
particularly attracted
my attention. For
some way along each
side of a broad walk
are rows of this tree,
all of them symmetri-
cal, but some notably
so. I remarked a
fine specimen about
30 feet high, which
has its branches so
regularly arranged as
to render it conspicu-
ous even among the others. Another large plant is a strange
yet beautiful object, having long twisted arms closely set with
spinous leaves, but presenting a naked appearance from the
absence of any lateral growth. Many of the lower branches
spring out fully 10 feet from the bole, twisting in a singular
and not ungraceful manner, so as to stamp the tree as being
almost a distinct variety. At the entrance of the avenue
stands by far the finest specimen I have ever seen. It is a
vigorous tree, 4.3 feet high, and beautifuUv clothed with

Araucaria imbricata at Piltdown.

FURNISHING A CONSERVATORY.

[A GENTLEMAN who had Seen the wood engraving accompany-
ing these notes, wished to know the approximate expense of
such a structure, and how it should be furnished. We wrote
to Mr. Edwin Lloyd, Horticultural Works, Grantham, and he
obUged us by sending the woodblock, which wUl enable us to
publish the engraving, and says, "It would cost about £700.
The same description of construction appUesto the above as to
the conservatory hot exhibiting by rue at Vienna. The ad-
vantages of my con-
structions over others
are their exceeding
portability combined
with great strength
and Ughtness ; they
are bolted .together,
and can be taken
apart like a bedstead,
and are constructed
so as to be a tenant's
fixture. They can be
taken down, removed,
and refixed in a very
short time and at a
small cost, without
injury to the struc-
ture. They are fixed
together at my works
before I send them
away, the parts all
numbered, and every
facihty afforded for
fixing by the pur-
chaser."!

Were I called upon
to furnish such a con-
servatory as that in
the accompanying en-
graving, 45 feet long
by 28 feet wide, with
glass on all sides and
heated by hot water,
and supposing the
path or promenade
to be in the centre of
the house, leaving the
space for plant-grow-
ing next to the glass,
the following would
be my choice of plants
and ideas of arrange-
rcent

As will be seen, it
is a handsome build-
ing as well as a lofty
one, and disappoint-
ment would be likely
to arise unless some
proper preparation
were made for the
growth of plants to a.
considerable size. Al-
though smaU plants
are indispensable they
would not have the
decorative effect, and
the building would
not be so well furnished without large plants also. As the
glass starts from within 2 feet of the ground line, the house
does not admit of stages being erected, neither should I advise
them, because it would bring the pots into view from the out-
side ; and shelves would be objectionable in such a handsome
building, unless they were very naiTow ones for small plants
that hide the pots with their foUage. Instead of shelves and
stages, I would prefer converting the space for plants into a
continuous bed of boU round the house, the bed 3 or 4 feet in.

June 5, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HOKTICULTUHE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

455

u'm

flilil'

i,

456

JOUBNA.L OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB.

[ Jane 5, 1873.

depth. The front line might be broken at convenient place.";
by a recess for the reception of a good specimen in a pot, or
by projections in the curved form at other places, so as to
break up the formal appearance of a straight line. In this bed
on each side of the entrance, also at each corner of the house,
as well as two or three intermediate spaces, I should plant
specimens for permanent effect, and partition-off a place for
each plant by 4J-inch brickwork (half a brick wide). This
would prevent the intrusion of the roots of other plants into
the border, and they could then have water apphed according
to their particular requirements.

The border proper I would give up entirely to a selection of
climbers. In a lofty building a lot of healthy, free-growing,
climbing plants rambling over the roof are a great ornament,
but they will not thrive satisfactorily in cramped-up spaces :
hence my reason for assigning them the remainder of the
border. This done, the rest of the arrangement can be com-
pleted by the introduction of pot plants, placing the tallest at
the back or near the glass, and the dwarfer ones iu the front,
facing them all to the path.

Assuming the dimensions of the building given above to be
outside measure, and deducting 2 feet on each side and each
end for thickness of brickwork, it leaves the interior 41 feet
by 24 in the clear ; and taking off a width of 7 feet all round
for border, it gives a space 27 feet long by 10 feet wide for
promenade. This, then, affords room for a small circular bed
in the centre of the house for growing a handsome specimen
tree Fern, Palm, or a standard Orange tree. Then, if the sur-
face of the bed be covered with Selaginella denticulata, it will
give it an attractive appearance. Whatever plant be placed
in the centre, it should have a stem tall enough for visitors to
walk under its branches, otherwise the space will be inconve-
niently taken up.

The next thing to be considered is a choice of plants to be
grown, and 1 will begin with the climbers. Tacsonia Van-
Volxemi, Passiflora quadrangularis, Ehynchospermum jasmin-
oides, MandevLlla suaveolens, Biguonia Chrere, Coba;a scandens
variegata, Habrothamnus elegans, Kennedya Marryattas.Lapa-
geria rosea, Heliotropium peruvianum, Jasminum odoratum,
and light and dark coarse-growing Fuchsias. The above have
good growing qualities and bloom freely ; they also include
variety of colour of flower and foliage, and wUl all grow with
greenhouse treatment, and are all evergreen.

Taking next the plants for permanent effect, I would place
on each side of the doorway a nice plant of Draea;na austraUs
or indivisa ; they are tall-growing handsome plants with grace-
fully drooping foliage. In other places I would plant white
Camellias ; Fimbriata, a fine white, and Imbricata, a deep rose,
both of which are good standard sorts. Then there is Jubilee,
delicate pink and a tine flower, plant strong-growing ; Bealii,
bright crimson ; and Marchioness of Exeter, fine rose. Others
might be added, but the above wiU not disappoint. There
ought to be included a couple of plants of LucuUa gratissima,
than which there is no better plant for a conservatory. After
these come standard or bush-grown Orange trees, which ought
to be included in the building, as well as Acacia grandis and
Brugmansia sanguinea, Kuightii, and arborea, and Aralia Sie-
boldi or japonica, which latter is the jiroper specific name. I
would not omit a couple of plants of Pittosporum Tobira, and
a standard plant of scarlet Rhododendron and one of Gibsoni.

I might go on enumerating plants till one would be puzzled
as to which to choose. All the above are well-tried plants for
such a purpose, and would be sure to please. My aim would
be to grow these plants into large specimens, but more for
height than breadth, so that their branches would be clear of
the dwarfer plants to be arranged under them, and give a more
natural effect to the interior of the building. The above num-
ber would be quite as many as it would be advisable to plant-
out, depending upon pot plants to complete the decoration,
and of these a goodly number may be easily grown in the
house all the year round, and at the same time add to the va-
riety and distinctness of fohage to be distributed amongst
other plants of a conirasting habit. These may include Sea-
lorthia elegans, .\reca sapida and rubra, Chamierops excelsa
and humilis, and Latania biSrbonica, all Palms of a more or
less elegant appearance. After these I should rely upon
several varieties of Ferns to improve the general appearance,
such as Blechnum coreovadeuse, Dicksonia antarctica (small
plants), Lomaria gibba, Nephrodium moUe, Nephrolepis exal-
tita, Woodwardia radicans, I'teris serrulata, serrulata cristata,
aad longitolia, as well as Adiatum formoaum, cuneatum, and
Cipillus-Veneris. i

Considering the above to be the permanent occnpants of the
conservatory, the decoration will not be complete without
a liberal addition of flowering plants from time to time. I
think I may reasonably assume that whoever spent £700 in
building such a conservatory as shown in the engraving would
not be unwilhng to build a plant house from which to draw
plants for its decoration. One portion of this house should
be for forcing plants into flower, and the other as a green-
house ; therefore in winter I should endeavour to have iu
bloom Lilacs, Ribes, Deutzia gracilis, Roses of sorts, Spira?a
japonica and Reevesii, Lily of the Valley, Azaleas of sorts.
Hyacinths, and Tulips, as well as several other things. In
the spring and summer months will be coming iu such plants
as Cinerarias, Primulas (also iu winter), Cytisns racemosus,
Coronilla glauca, CamelUas, Azaleas, Fuchsias, Geraniums,
Heaths, and a variety of other useful decorative plants com-
monly met with in a plant house. These, added to what have
been mentioned, will make up a very pretty and interesting
display, and, it tastefully arranged, ought to please the most
fastidious.

I have found from experience that the mixing of colours in
conservatory arrangement is generally the most pleasing, and
have, therefore, followed it up iu the present instance. I should,
however, consider there was little or no difficulty in varying
my arrangements so as to produce a change of effect in a
building of this description, and any colour that would be more
pleasing in a mass, or a plant or plants that would be desirable
to show off conspicuously, could be done.

I am an advocate for any design in the interior of a conser-
vatory which does not crowd plants, but allows for plenty of
root-growth as well as development of branch. Many dis-
appointments have arisen through the builder having the
allotment of spaces for plant-growing instead of the gardener ;
the consequence is that many times plants have to grow, or
strive to grow, iu cramped-up places, and are seldom for any
length of time fit subjects to adorn the places to which they
have been consigned. — Thomas Eecokd.

PKIMULA SIEBOLDI var. LILACINA.

This Primula is a native of .Japan, and was introduced into
Europe in 18(52. Since then it has been shown at some of the
spring exhibitions, as well as at the florists', where this charm-
ing plant is always admired for the freshness of its green, its
graceful habit, and its large, open, soft Ulac flowers. It re-
sembles the Chinese Primula which everyone knows, and
which is such an adornment to the conservatory and drawhig-
room, but is more graceful in habit and more delicate in the
colour of its blossoms.

In his beautiful " Flora," M. H. Witte states that the type
of this Primrose with rosy-purple flowers was introduced in
1862 by Von Siebold, of Leyden, from whom it passed to
Messrs. Veitch. The first flowers of Messrs. Veitch's plants
were submitted to Dr. Lindley, who assigned them to Primula
cortusoides, distinguishing two varieties, amo'na and striata ;
and at the present day, by most botanists, and among horti-
culturists generally, these Primulas are considered to be va-
rieties of P. cortusoides.

Primula cortusoides was found in Siberia by Gmeliu ; it is a
weak-growing little plant, pretty, but very delicate, and of
small proportions. Linua>us took it for a hybrid between
Primula integrifolia and Cortusa Matthioli, regarding it as
having the leaves of the former and the flowers of the latter.
It was figured in 1797 iu the " Botanical Magazine," with a
rosy purple corolla having five acute, entire segments. It is a
scarce and deUcate plant, requiring to be wintered in a green-
house or frame, and flowering iu June or July. It loses its
leaves at the end of autumn, and remains dormant till spring.
N. J. Jacijuin, in describing in 1798 the rare plants in the
Imperial Garden at Schonbrunn, Vienna, noticed one in-
teresting variety in which the flower-scape produced several
whorls of flowers — precisely the character of Primula japonica —
but the rosy violet flowers were insigniflcant. Lehmann,
" Monographie des Primevcres," pubUshedin 1817, mentions a
white-flowered variety of Primula cortusoides, and according to
Thunberg there is another kind not only to be found in
Siberia, but in the wooded mountains of Japan. Duby, in 1844,
extends the range of the plant to the Ural. In an article in
tlie " Revue Horticole," by M. Grffiuland in 1859, it is stated
that the flowers open in spring and again in autumn, that the
plant is herbaceous, and flourishes in light soil in a somewhat
shady situation. Dr. Lindley records it not only in Dahuria

June 5, 1873. ]

JOUKNAL OP HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB,

457

and Japan, but also in Mautchouria, near the Amoor and
Schilka rivers.

After a minute examination of the varieties introduced from
Japan by Siebold, we have come to the conclusion that they
constitute a distinct species which we name after the introducer
Primula Sieboldi. The Cortusa-leaved Primrose has obtuse
bi-crenated leaves — that is, the lobes are softly rounded, while
in P. Sieboldi they are bidentate, with sharp toothings. The
leaflets of the involucre are narrow and linear in P. cortusoides,
whUst they are lanceolate and often dentate in P. Sieboldi.
The divisions of the calyx are narrow, short, and adpressed,
but are broad, lanceolate, and divergent in P. Sieboldi. The
segments of the corolla, which are lanceolate and pointed in
P. cortusoides, are generaDy obtuse and crenulated in P. Sie-
holdi, at least in the variety lilacina.

The distinctions between the two species have struck many.
M. C. Lemaire ascribed the difference to hybridisation, and
supposed that P. sinensis had something to do with it, and
one might well believe that P. Sieboldi had some of the blood
of P. sinensis ; but there is no evidence that such a pre-
sumption ought to be admitted, for P. Sieboldi reproduces itself
true from seeds. M. Herincq affirms that what are considered
to be Japanese varieties of P. cortusoides belong to a distinct
species. All horticulturists whom we have consulted are of
the same opinion, and as proofs they adduce the difference of
habit, culture, growth, and time of flowering.

There are several very distinct varieties of Primula Sieboldi.
The first we shall notice is that named aiiuvna by Lindley, be-
cause in the colour and general appearance of the flowers it
reminds us of Azalea amoina. It has large, beautiful, rosy
purple flowers. It was figured in the " Botanical Magazine "
in 186.5, in M. Witte's " Flora " in 18G8, and in the " Florist
and Pomologist " in 1870. It was exhibited at Paris in 1867
by Messrs. Veitch, where it made a great impression, and it is
now cultivated by many florists. The second variety was
named striata by Lindley, it has smaller flowers, hlac, striped
with purple. The third variety, which ought to be called r;ra«rft-
Itora, has flowers, white on the inside, purple on the outside. In
lilacina they are large, delicate Ulac, bordered with white, and
scolloped at the edges. There is also a white-flowered variety.
— (Belgique Horticole.)

WELLS.

We read in a provincial paper that at Tissington, in Derby-
shire, on the 22nd of last month, being Ascension-day, the old
custom of dressing the village wells was duly observed. The
weUs are five in number, and for centuries it has been the
custom on this day to decorate them with designs beautifully
worked in flowers. Of recent years this pleasing custom has
spread to Buxton, Matlock, and Wirksworth. This year several
of the wells at Tissington were even more tastefully decorative
than usual. The Town Well, especially, had colours brighter
and warmer, and better blended than usual. The inscription
over the arch was " God Has Gone Up." The superscriptions
of all the wells appeared this year to have been chosen with
special reference to the day. Hands or Anns Well took the se-
cond place in the opinion of most. Certainly it was very taste-
fully done, and the colours, although not so bright as those on
the Town Well, were very good, and evidently a great deal of
trouble and labour had been bestowed upon it. The design
contained in the centre a large cross, entwined with a Vine
with two bunches of Grapes, the inscription being " I am the
True Vine." The whole was surmounted with a crown, beau-
tifully worked with crimson and white flowers. The Cnflin
Well, Goodiimi's Well, and the Hall Well, were all nicely de-
corated. The attendance of visitors was rather larger than in
former years, owing, no doubt, to the fine day. As is the usual
custom, service was held in the church, and a sermon preached.
A procession was afterwards formed, and a psalm or hymn
sung at each well.

In every district of the United British Islands are wells
that at some season of the year were, and in many places
stUl are, visited and decorated as were those at Tissing-
ton. It is no invention of Christian times, for in heathen
Eome fontiualia was a religious feast, celebrated on the J. 3th
of October, iu honour of the nymphs of wells and fountains.
The ceremony consisted iu throwing nosegays into the foun-
tains, and putting crowns of flowers upon the weUs. Nor has
the offermg been confined to flowers, for we read of pins, rusty
nails, and even rags being thrown into the well, or being about
its surroundings. At Llandegla, in Wales, says Pennant, is a

small spring, the water of which was believed to cure certain
ailments. If the afllicted be of the male sex, he makes an
offering of a cock ; if of the fair sex, a hen. The fowl is carried
iu a basket, first round the well, after that into the church-
yard, when the same orisons and the same ciroumambulations
are performed round the church. The votary then enters the
church, gets under the communion table, Ues down with the
bible under his or her head, is covered with the carpet or cloth,
and rests there till break of day, departing after offering 6<Z.,
and leaving the fowl in the church. If the bird dies, the cure
is supposed to have been effected, and the disease transferred
to the devoted victim.

The grave men of Oxford were not superior to such proceed-
ings, for says Aubrey, writing about the year 1690, " the
fellows of New College have, time out of mind, every Holy
Thursday, betwixt the hours of eight and nine, gonne to tho
hospitall called Bart'lemews neer Oxford, when they retire
into the chapell, and certaine prayers are read, and an an-
theme sung : from thence they goe to the upper end of the
grove adjoyniug to the chapell (the way being beforehand
strewed with flowers by the poor people of the hospitall), they
place themselves round about the well there, where they
warble forth melodiously a song of three, four, or five parts ;
which being performed, they refresh themselves with a morn-
ing's draught there, and retire to Oxford before sermon."

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.
Me. Stevens sold 219 lots of Orchids for £476 on the 15th
ult. Aerides odoratum was knocked down for £6, Vanda
suavia for £7 10s., and Calanthe Veitchii for £5 15.5.

Under the name of " Herbarium Mycologicum (Eco-

nomicum," F. Baron Thiimen proposes to form a collection of
those P.1KASITIC FUNGI which are injurious (including, also, any
that are useful), in forestry, agriculture, horticulture, or in
any other branch of industry. The specimens of each species
will be labelled with the scientific name, diagnosis, and any
needful remarks, and, where possible, will be sufficiently nu-
merous for a portion to be submitted to microscopic exami-
nation. The collection will be issued in fasciculi of fifty
species, at the price of three thalers each, and may be obtained
of the coDector, at Tephtz, in Bohemia. — (Nature.)

Between the 2nd of April and the 21st of May sixty-six

new Fellows have been added to the Eoyal Horticultural
Society.

M. VicTOK Chatel continues his experiments on the

action of pulvekised coal as manobe, and on the influence of
various coloured glasses on vegetation. As to the latter, ha
finds — 1, That under red, violet, and green glass, the sur-
face of the ground remains completely moist, while it is dried
under white glass, and also, but much less, under sky-blue,
and clear orange yellow ; 2, That the evaporation of dew ia
very rapid under violet glass, and that hoar frost remains long
under sky-blue; 3, That under the sky-blue glass the growth
of seeds and slips is very rapid. — [English Mechanic.)

NOTES ON THE GIPSY MOTH, AND LAWS FOR
THE DESTRUCTION OF INSECTS.
Insect Ufe, as it is observable in our gardens, orchards, and
shrubberies, has its ebbs and flows. Each species has its
variations, since very few appear in successive years in the same
paucity or abundance ; and some species pass away entirely,
and new ones become troublesome, which, if previously existent,
had at least been unnoticed. The Gipsy (Liparis dispar), is
one of those which was formerly, it is presumed, more common
than it has been within the remembrance of the oldest students
of entomology ; and in France and Belgium it is plentiful — in
the latter country often too plentiful. May it not be the fact
that the caterpillar of this moth thrives best in a rather moist
atmosphere, and the improved drainage of modern days and
the diminution of marsh lands have perhaps conduced to its
being brought to its present scarcity in Britain ? Stragglers
have occurred both in England and Scotland dm'ing the last
year or two, but it does not seem likely ever to be again an
annoyance to our cultivators of fruit. Indeed I have myself,
to confess the truth, set at liberty some larviB of the species,
though in an open place where they could not do any injury
to cultivated plants. Subsequent research in the same place
failed to show that the Gipsies had settled there. I must ac-
knowledge that I did once contemplate depositing eggs of this

458

JOUBNAIi OF HORTICULTURE AXD COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ June 5, 1873,

moth on the fruit trees of a rather imperious " lord of the
soil," who had threatened me for a presumed trespass ; but I
did not know how the law would view suuh au action !

I refer to this species, however, as an instance of how much
might be done to keep down the number of the annual brood
of caterpillars by a careful search after the eggs of the moth
in the winter months. The legislative enactments for the
destruction of insects in Belgium fail in this respect, that while
providing for the killing of caterpillars, no measures are taken
for the extiuctiou of the germs of insect lite — undoubtedly a
most efficient plan. There are species of Liparis, such as
L. auriflua and salieis, both well known in this couutry, which
may be easily dealt with in winter by huntiug-up the hyber-
nating communities, similarly, also, the caterpillars of the
Black-veined White Butterfly (A. Cratiegi), of a like habit.
Mr. Birchall notes that a regular annual destruction of these
takes place in some parts of Belgium in November or February ;
but he noticed on a Cherry tree near Antwerp fifteen batches
of the eggs of L. dispar, in which lurked thousands of cater-
pillars, of whose existence no one took any cognisance. Doubt-
less a similar neglect is shown in other instances, and it is to
be hoped, if we ever legislate on the subject, the extirpation of
the eggs of insects will be made duly important. We in Eng-
land have done somewhat in the way of protecting birds, a
regulation for which is sorely needed in Belgium and other
parts of Europe, where the slaughter of small birds is ruthlessly
carried on, especially in the spring and early summer, when it
is highly prejudicial in its results upon the bu'ds and their
nestlings. — J. B. S. C.

THE UNSUBDUABLE ANTS.
The greater the number of specifics for a disease, the greater
the probability tliat it is incurable. The continued questions
that you receive about ants seem to show that the great desi-
deratum is yet to be found. I have repeatedly tried arsenic
mixed with sugar, and also with treacle, but my ants are too
Bagacious to touch it. This spring, seeing the avidity with
which they devoured raisin skins, I mashed up some with
arsenic. They cxammed the dainty, but respectfully decUned
it. The oil remedy, stated on good authority to be useful, bas
with me proved useless. Every morning for several months
past a kettle of boUing water has killed numbers in an orchard
house, but they still swarm there. Gunpowder has been put
into their holes and ignited, but the entrance is so small that
probably it is instantaneously closed, and no smoke descends
into the nest. By saucers fiUed with syrup I drown many, but,
like the Hydra, they multiply still ; carbohc acid is disagree-
able to them, but will not persuade them to flit. — G. S.

WOKK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GiBDEN.

Continue to thin the crops that require it, while they are still
small, and in every case where practicable loosen the soil about
them, and if dry give them a good watering. This will greatly
benefit them after disturbing their roots, and, the soil being
loose, the eifect will be so much greater. Basil and Marjoram
that have been sown in beds should be thinned-out to'about
6 inches from plant to plant. Make another sowing of Broad
Beans in the beginning of the week ; top the forward crop if not
yet done. To have the Cape varieties of Broccoli fine, the seed
should be sown where the plants are to remain ; deep drills
should be drawn, and two or three seeds dropped in at the dis-
tance of 2i feet apart; slightly cover the seed, and keep it
watered if dry weather should occur. When it is up thin to
cue plant at the distance above named. This is a good time to
sow a little Cabbage seed for autumn i)roduce ; auy of the small
sorts should be preferred for this sowing. Plant out some
Cauliflowers from the first sowing in the open ground; a small
quantity planted from two or three several sowings will keep up
a better succession than the small stunted plants of very early
sowings. Peg-down the Cucumber plants on the ridges as they
advance in growth, and when the hand-glasses will no longer
contain them, set these on three bricks placed edgeways, or on
forked sticks ; when they require water give it them milkwarm
early in the day. After thinning the Onions loosen the soil
between the rows, and if the weather is dry give them a tho-
rough watering. The thinnings of the beds may bo planted out,
but must be watered every night if the weather prove dry,
until they take fresh roothold ; this must be particularly
attended to, as the roots will of necessity be very near the
surface. The last sowing of Knight's Dwarf Green Marrow
Peas should now be made, as it is longer in coming into bearing
than any other. Continue to earth-up and stick the advancing
crops. If the pods of the early crop do not fill well in conse-

quence of drought, give them one good root-soaking, which will
be sutBcient for them while they last. Make another sowing of
Radishes of the various sorts to succeed those sown the middle
of last mouth. Plant out some of the early-sown Savoi/s ; the
dwarf sorts may be planted at li foot apart in the row, the rows
to be 2 feet from each other. The larger sorts should be at the
latter distance in the row, and the rows 2* feet apart. As
Tomatoes are usually planted under a south "wall, where they
receive little benefit from a passing shower, they should be occa-
sionally watered and kept mulched with short litter ; nail and
stop the shoots as they advance in growth.

FRUIT GARDEN,

Continue to pay attention to fruit trees ; naD-in the strong
shoots of those agaiust walls. If Cherry trees are attacked by
insects, dip the ends of the shoots in tobacco water. Yines on
walls require much attention to briug the fruit to perfection ; it-
deed, if proper attention is not paid to them in stopping, reg:i-
lating, and nailiug-in the shoots, they are not worth retaining.
Pinch out the poiuts of Fig-tree shoots that are rather rampant ;
this will cause the young fruit to swell better, and will have a
tendency to render the shoots more fruitful. In making a fresh
plantation secure a diy situation, and keep the plant growing
from one stem, as the sucker-like appearance which our Fig
trees generally present is a great drawback to their management.

FLOWER GARDEN.

Remove everything in the way of early bedding plants whose
beauty may be over or that is at all ineffective, and introduce good
things from pots in the reserve ground. A good reserve ground,
if properly situated and systematically planned and conducted,
would be one of the most useful plots about a garden. Such a
valuable adjunct as this would, however, require the constant
attention of a man possessing some knowledge of flowers, and
therefore could not be carried out where there is a scarcity of
labourers. Decayed patches of bulbs which are required to
stand for early spring flowering may have Verbenas and other
plants introduced from pots between them, so as to give gaiety
to the place they occupy. Cuttings of Pansies should be put
out in succession before the shoots are too much exhausted. All
boundary or other hedges should be clipped forthwith. Auricula
seedlings must be shaded from the glare of the mid-day sun, and
especially watch the attacks of aphis or green fly, which usually
secretes itself in the heart of the plant, and multiplies amaz-
ingly in hot weather. If you wish to save yourself a great deal
of trouble you will remove the insects as they appear. Place
two or three oyster shells on the surface of the soil in the large
pots ; it prevents evaporation, and also saves the roots from
being washed bare in watering them. Polyanthuses are very
subject to the attacks of red spider ; to keep these pests down,
shade your plants, and if in a bed keep the soil moist around
them. Break ofE the capsules of Tulips to strengthen the roots.
The bulbs on the offset beds will soon be ready to take up should
the weather be dry. The stakes ought to be put down to DahUas
without delay, and the plants will be the better of beiug
mulched with rotten manure,

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY,

As soon as Azaleas and other plants of the kind shall have
been placed in summer quarters out of doors, painting aud other
repairs required by any of the plant houses should be com-
menced, as they can be more conveniently done then than at
any other season. As recommended, pay great attention to
plants for autumn and early winter decoration. Let them have
plenty of pot room, good rich compost to grow in, a moist atmo-
sphere, and plenty of space for jjerfect deTelopmeut, regulating
the temperature according to the nature of the plant, and they
will make rapid growth. Many of the New Holland plants and
other greenhouse subjects will soon be getting past their best,
and some foresight and care will be necessary to avoid being
short of specimens in bloom with which to supply their places.
Where circumstances "will admit, plants that have been grown
in a warm moist atmosphere should be removed to an inter-
mediate house about a fortnight previous to theu' being taken to
the conservatory, and gradually inured to a free circulation of
air. By attention to this and placing the plants in the warmest
corners of the conservatory, Clerodendrons, Allamandas, Achi-
menes, Arc, will continue growing slowly and bloom for some
three mouths, whereas if this is neglected their beauty may
be very short-lived. Aim at maintaining an even temperature
in the conservatory after removing thence plants that have
grown in the stove, and avoid allowing the atmosphere to be-
come very dry on bright warm days. Also see that every plant
is perfectly clean before placing it in this house, aud that
climbers, etc., are not infested with insects. Go over the house
every morning, and remove decaying flowers and leaves as they
make their appearance. Young stock in pits and frames will
now be making rapid growth, and must be carefully attended to
as to watering, stopping, training, A'c. New conservatories
where a collection of climbers has been planted this spring
should now be kept as hot as a stove, and as damp as water can
make them day and night. It is bad policy to use the common
routine for such a house the first season. We often hsar of

Jnna 5, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENER.

459

largo conservatories becoming too hot and injuring the plants in
summer, but it is the want of moisture in the atmosphere and
not the heat which causes the mischief.

STOVE.

One of the chief ornaments of the stove we consider to be
climbing plants. Where the shrubby plants are large, the
climbers, hanging in loose disorder, give the house a sort of
tropical character which is highly interesting. Although they
may hang iu loose disorder, they require pruning and regulating
so as to prevent their becoming one entangled mass of wood and
foliage, and it is only by constant attention that this can be
prevented. See that young growing stock is not allowed to
suffer for want of pot room. Attend carefully to watering, giving
manure water to all "plants in free growth that require it. Gar-
denias and other plants that have been in the conservatory while
in bloom should be replaced in heat as soon as their beauty is
over, in order to allow time for getting their growth ripened
before short days and dull weather have arrived. Orchids in a
growing state will require encouragement. Shading must be
promptly attended to in bright weather. Allow, however, as
mucli light as they will beai- without injury, using a very light
screen, and that only when absolutely necessary. — W. Keane.

DOINGS OP THE LAST WEEK.

TnE weather continues fine, but crops make little progress as
the ground is dry, and though, during sunshine, it is com-
paratively warm, yet the wind is cold, and it is very chilly at
night. A warm shower would refresh and invigorate all grow-
ing crops. On examining the fruit crops in the open air in the
kitchen garden, there seems to be a good set on all small fruits.
Gooseberries, Currants, Raspberries, and Strawberries are abun-
dant. Apples and Pears seem to have set well ; Cherries and
Plums, considering the abundant crop of blossom, are only
moderately good. The frost on the 20th did no damage to any
out-doors fruit, excepting Strawberries ; where the tlowers were
expanded a large number of them are now quite black, but they
can be spared, as the plants are literally sheets of bloom.

ZITCHEM GAKDEN.

Early Potatoes on a sheltered border escaped the frost and are
nearly ready, indeed many would use them in the stage the seeds
are. I have heard of an amateur who has had a dish from the
open ground, but the quality was very indifferent. The sort I
prefer now is Myatt's Prolific Ashleaf, kindly sent by " D.,
Deal." It is rather earlier than the old Ashleaf, and a much
better cropper. Veitcb's Perfection, round, is not quite so for-
ward, but will come in for succession.

Last year we had the first dish of Peas from the open ground
the first week in June. The slats are now just formed, and are
a miserable crop, owing to the wet state of the ground when the
seeds were sown. The Early Horn Carrots are ready at the exhi-
bitions early in June. Our Carrots generally hold the first place,
not that they are better grown than those from others, only earlier.
We had 28 feet of Rivers's ground vinery, and under these
Carrots, Lettuces, and Radishes are sown about the first week of
February. Refuse soil from the potting-shed sifted, or any fine
dry loam is laid on the surface to the depth of 3 or 4 inches ; the
Carrots and Lettuce are sown in rows 9 or 10 inches apart, and
Radishes between the rows. These are pulled before they do
any harm to the other crops. These ground vineries can be
made cheaply, and are invaluable for forwarding crops of vege-
tables, placing over rows of Strawberries to hasten their ripen-
ing, &c.

We have been hoeing and earthing-up Broad Beans and
Scarlet Runners, as well as placing sticks to the latter. The
Strawberry beds are clear of weeds, but we had the Dutch hoe
run amongst the rows to kill any incipient weeds and to loosen
the ground ; they will not require any more hoeing. All the
Cabbage tribe are doing well this year. The plants of the second
sowing of Cauliflowers are dwarf and healthy. Frequent hoeing
amongst such crops is very beneficial.

TBniT AKD FOECINO BOUSBS.

The Pine Apples are now growing freely. The houses where
fruit was ripening required to be shaded by the end of May in
previous years, as yet we have not had a day of scorching sun-
shine. The ripening fruit is apt to be injured by the sun if it
is too powerful. Owing to the season we have not much used
the evaporating-troughs, as a moisture-laden atmosphere causes
the crowns to grow out of all proportion to the fruit, especially
with such sorts as Charlotte Rothschild. In the succession-
house the plants are acquiring a dwarf healthy growth.

Vineries. — Much the same as last week. Grapes iu the Mus-
cat house are thinned, and in the late house mostly planted
with L idy Downe's and Black Hamburgh, they are now being
thinned. Golden Champion is doing badly with us this year.
It was jjlanted in three different houses, ripening at different
seasons. In the latest house it was destroyed last year. In the
earliest house it promised well early in the season, the berries set
well, and the bunches were large. Now, what with shanking and

spotting, there is not a single bunch presentable ; it must also
go next year. In the second early house it has always dono
pretty well, but it is not so good as it has been in previous years.
I wish I had never seen any of the new Grapes. I often think
of the remark made by a very old gardener when I told him that
we had planted over twenty sorts of Grapes. *' I'll tell you what
I think, Douglas ; you had better have planted Muscat of Alex-
andria and Black Hamburgh only." Young gardeners, make a
note of this. It is not the extra guineas required to purchase
the highly-lauded novelties ; it is the valuable space taken up,
the expectant waiting, and the final disappointment.

Melons in the second house are now set and swelling nicely ;
they are remarkably healthy, and show no signs of disease.
Stopping and training the shoots. They are not grown in frames,
but in houses trained to a trellis overhead. The Cucumbers
are grown in a similar house. The Tomatoes grown on the
back wall of those houses are now in ; the fruit is remarkably
fine. The Orangefield is the best sort we have grown for forcing ;
the plants are dwarf, and bear a good crop of large even-si^ed
fruit.

OBCHAKD HOUSE.

The fruit trees in pots have ouly required the usual attention
as regards watering, thinning some of the fruit whei'e it had
been left too thick, and pinching the vigorous-growing shoots
as opportunity offers.

CONSEEVATORT AXD PLANT STOVE.

We have been necessitated to leave other pressing work to
wash with water, in which soft soap has been dissolved, bug-
infested plants. At this season mealy bug spreads with singular
rapidity, and if not destroyed in time will become quite a nui-
sance. There is a probabihty, if the plants can be thoroughly
cleansed at this time, of getting rid of it altogether ; but it re-
quires extreme vigilance to look out for its appearance after-
wards and wash it off immediately. All flnefoliaged plants
are in full growth, and require attention. Many of the Aloca-
sias become infested with red spider, likewise some of the
Crotons; these must be kept quite clean by syi-inging, as, if
red spider is allowed to increase, the beauty of the plants will
be sadly marred. Palms requiring repotting should be done at
once ; good turfy loam, with a little fibrous peat (if not suffi-
ciently porous add a little sand), seems to suit them well, but
by all means avoid overpotting. A plant that has well fiUed
a 5-inch pot with roots may be shifted into a 7-inch pot, or
sufficient space may be allowed between the ball and side of the
pot to permit of not more than an inch of soil all round,
which ought to be pressed iu quite firmly; thorough drainage
is also essential. Orchids are grown in the same house with
flowering and fine-foliaged plants. Those in flower must not be
spattered with water when the syringe is being used, as it will
cause the flowers to become spotted, which sadly mars their
beauty.

Chrysanthemums have required attention as regards training
the shoots ; this must be done before they become hard, other-
wise it is very difficult to bend them without snapping them off
at the joints. This year as well as last the autumn-struck cut-
tings nearly all run to flower. The plants go on all right rmtil
AprU, when the points of all the young growing shoots become
furnished with flower buds, and as fast as they are pinched off
fresh buds are formed, so much so that the plants have to be
destroyed. Spring-struck cuttings seem to succeed well. All
the plants have been infested with aphis. They were fumigated
frequently when under glass, but could not have been quite
clean when placed out of doors. Dusting the points of the
shoots with dry Scotch snuff kills the aphides, so will dipping
them in water wherein soft soap has been dissolved, and 2 oza.
of tobacco to each gallon of water. We have appropriated a
small house entu-ely for Rose culture. The plants had become
too crowded, and as a consequence the shoots were drawn.
Half of the plants were placed out of doors iu a sheltered place,
and will, from being grown under glass for some time, ilower
earlier than those growing out of doors.

We put in cuttings of stage Pelargoniums, one cutting in the
centre of a small 60-pot, the compost used being about equal,
parts loam and leaf mould. The pots were placed in a cold
frame and plunged in cocoa-nut fibre refuse ; the cuttings would
have done as well on a shelf near the glass in a cool greenhouse.
We have been training and thinning-out the growing shoots
of climbers, re-arranging plants, removing those which have
flowered out of doors, and replacing with young specimens which
will come into flower at once.

FLOWER G.UIDEN.

The lawn requires frequent mowing, as Daisies continue to
bloom, and the flowers, if not cut off, spoil the appearance of the
lawn. A full crop of weeds has appeared on tlie flower beds,
and as the surface of the ground was a little caked, the Dutch
hoe run lightly between the rows will desti'oy the weeds, and by
loosening the soil be of great benefit to the plants. We do not
Uke to water so early in the season, but if it do not rain soon
the Calceolarias and Verbenas must be watered, as they show
signs of distress in sunshine. Put in cuttings of Phlox Bufiruti »

460

JOUKNAIi OF HOKTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Juue 5, 1873.

cosa, and a few of P. pyratnidalis. "We are very late with them.
March is a better month ; the cuttings should be taken when
the shoots are about an inch or two above the gi-ouad. They
were treated exactly as the Pelargoniums, and placed in the
same frame. — J. Douglas.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*^* We request that no one will wi-ite privately to any of the
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing th-^y
are subjected to unjustifiable troublo aud expense. All
commuuieatious should therefore bo addressed solely to
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, (^c.^ 111^ 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
answered promptly and conveniently, but write them on
separate communications. Also never to send more than
two or three questions at once.

K.B. — Many questions mast remain unanswered until nest
week.

Ox-ETE Daisy in Meadows {A Suh^criher). — This weed is peculiar to some
soils, and a small field near us used to be quite white with it about the
end of May, until the owner determined one season to feed it off closely
with sheep. Giving these some artificial food, the ground was much
benefited, and the Chrysanthemum (for this plant is one) almost disap-
f)6ared. We presume the sheep eat it down so closely that it dies. Hand-
weeding is too tedious for a meadow field, although in a pleasure ground it is
dnilispensable. We may further remark that a piece of rich cow pasture near
ns, that used to be quite yellow with Buttercups in the month of May, is now
almost without them. The proprietor encoura:;ed rabbits to a great extent,
and they rooted up most of the Crowfoot, and the field is now without them.
As the Ox-eye Daisy is much less tenacious of life, hard feeding by sheep will
most likely destroy it. Stones on a meadow are usually gathered off in
spring before it is finally rolled, which must be done before the grass attains
any considerable length.

Melons and Cccumbers Diseased (if. W.), — Ibis not easy witboufc see-
ing the plants to say what is the cause of the discoloration of the leaves and
the other tokens of ill health of which you speak. Sudden changes from cold
winds to bright hot sun, and inattention in air-giving, and shutting up the
frame or pit, are apt to affect the foliage. Frequently the whole of the under
Burface of the leaf becomes covered with a soi't of eruption. A much worse
disease has often attacked Cucumbers of late, covering the leaf with black
blotches; this threatens to become a sort of murrain. We imagine, however,
that the disease has been caused by the plants having been subjected to great
-extremes of heat and perhaps cold, or rather by a large admission of cold air
when the plants were unduly heated ; the leaves present the appearance that
they often do when such has been the case. If very severely affected destroy
the plants and start fresh ones. Melons rarely do well when once injured.
Careful and steady treatment of young plants is more likely to be successful
than nursing injured old ones.

EARTiriNG-up Potatoes {J. P.).— Opinions differ on this practice, aud we
believe the conflicting results arise from the difference of soil and climate.
In light soils earthuig-up is beneficial in some respects. Leave two or three
rows unearthed, and let us know if their produce is less or more, earlier or
later, than that of the neighboui-ing rows.

EosE Cuttings in a Cold Frame (J. B. F.).— The best time to take the
cuttings to be struck in a cold frame is July, directly the flowers are shed, as
the wood is then ripe. The cuttings should be taken from the shoot below
the flower; remove the upper part with three or four joints, cut across below
•the lowest joint and remove the leaf there ; then insert them 1 inch or 1^ inch
deep in a small pot, filled with a compost of two parts light fibrous loam, one
part sandy peat, and one part sand. Place them in a cold frame and keep
them close and shaded from sun, but sprinkle with water every morning.
They will bo rooted in about six weeks, aud should then have air, and be
inured to light. Shift them into larger pots in September, and winter them
with the pots plunged in a cold frame.

Double Wallflowers {Gardenia).— li will be of little use removing them
to the kitchen garden in the hope of their being again available for planting-
out to give a good display next spring. They might produce side shoots
from which you could take cutti'-gs; but we should advise seed to be sown
forthwith, and if you have a good stock of seed we do not see why you should
not have a good per-centage of double-flowered plants.

Double Daisies for Second Year {Idem).— Th&j should be removed
-after flowering, be divided, and planted in a rather shady border. If removed
with balls they may be used for next year's flowering. Nemophila aud Candy-
tuft sown in autumn maybe transplanted in spring, taking care to have a
ball of soil to each plant. They ai», however, best sown where they are to
flower.

Error.— In " Ornamental Planting," page 433, column two, line thirty-
seven from bottom, for " Weeping Birch," read " Weeping Beech."

Picea Nordmanniana Unhealthy [A, C.).— The Picea Nordmanniana
10 feet high, that has been in its present position two years, with no better
result than having the growth of last year all dead, and the very feeble shoots
of the present season thickly infested with aphides, is probably past recovery.
If, however, you are disposed to try to save it, examine first of all the con-
dition of the roots. If these prove alive and plump you may hope to succeed,
but if the majority of them are dead, then all efforts to reclaim the tree will
be vain. Should the condition of the roots bo favourable, open a trench
around their extremities a foot wide, and quite to the bottom of the original
ball, fill this with rich soil that is light and porous rather than of a close
adhesive nature; water the ball thoroughly, forcing a few holes into it with
a pointed stick, rather than fail to reach the wbole of the roots ; cover the
surface with a thick mulching of litter; clear the branches of all decayed
wood, and syringe the foliage frequently— two or three times daily will not be
too often. Secure the tree firmly with wires stretched from the stem to pegs

driven in the ground equidistant from each other In the form of a triangle.
The saturated condition of the soil during the past winter of excessive wet
has probably killed the roots, which would cause the growth of last season to
perish as it has done. We have lately examined a Thujopsis borealis that
was killed outright in this way. If you replace the unhealthy tree with
another, plant it on a slight mound that is raised a foot or two above the
general level, in sound sweet soil that is well drained. Secure it immediately
with wire and pegs, mulching the surface with litter, or, if the position ia
conspicuous, using moss. Apply water freely and frequently, taking care
that it penetrates the ball and constantly reaches the whole of the loots, and
there will be little risk of future failure.

Salt on Asparagus Beds — Liquid Manure to Cabbages {J. N.). —
Strewing salt on Asparagus beds 1 inch thick in patches would act prejudic^y
on the roots, especially if near the surface. Liquid manure is higlily bene-
ficial to Cabbages, and should be poured between the rows. The soil will be
rendered firm to a certain extent by the watering, but this need not hinder
the application of the liquid manure, it being better than allowing the grouncl
to remain loose and not apply the hquid.

CvcLAMENS after Flowering (J. G. R.). — Those which have not flowered,
as well as those which have, should be allowed a season of rest, but at no time
should Cyclamens be permitted to become dry at the roots. They are best
planted out in a cold frame, taking up and repotting in August when begin-
ning to grow afresh.

BiGNONiA Pandor.'e (australis) NOT THRIVING {Temotr Cottage). — Plant it
out in a border in the greenhouse or conservatory, aud train the shoots 9 inches
or a foot from the glass. It will then grow freely, aud will probably flower
next year. The Wistaria does best on a south-west aspect, but would probably
succeed with you on an east or west aspect. We should, however, give it south,
if you can. It likes good, rich, i-ather light loamy soil, with one-tliird of leaf-
soil and one-fourth of peat. It would not succeed well on a wall with Ivy ;
the wood would not be sufficiently well ripened for flowering.

Vines Unhealthy (R.). — As the borders have been very wet, and the Vines
have been heavily cropped in previous yearf?, there is sufficient to account for
their sickly appearance. Take a moderate crop from them this year, do not
give air too freely in the day during dull cold weather, and shut up the house
about four o'clock in the afteruoou. If your district is wet you should have
some wooden shutters for your Vine borders to throw off the rain. Our lot ia
cast where the rainfall sometimes does not exceed 20 inches in twelve months,
so that shutters are only necessary for the early houses.

Ventilating Vinerv — Temperature {0. P.). — You have done well to
have the house provided with top as well as front ventilation. Our advice Is
to use the back or top ventilation only so long as the temperature does not
x-ise too high, and then the front as well as the top to keep the temperature
from rising too high, always commencing with the top ventilation first, then
extending it if need be to the front, and reducing the ventilation in reverse
order, commencing to reduce in front first, and at the top last. The extreme
temperature we should allow would be 90- from sun heat ; but you ought to
give air at 75", and a little before that point is reached, aud it ought not to
exceed 80- before you admit more air, having full air on if it keep at that
without lowering the temperature, which it ought to do in all instances. The
art in giving air is to do so with a rising temperatui'e, and to reduce the
amount by the time the heat of the house begins to fall, closing at 75^

ToDEA suPERBA CULTURE [A Sfvcii-ijears Sub.ifribrr). — It should be grown
in a pot well drained, using a compost of three parts fibrous peat, one part
yellow loam, aud a half part each of sandstone or crocks broken rather small,
and silver sand. The peat aud loam should be torn-up moderately small, and
the whole should be well mixed ; pot moderately firmly. Keep tlie soil con-
stantly moist, and place the plants in a moist shaiy part of the greenhouse.
If the house be small it will do without a glass, but if not sufficiently close
and mo'st it should be covered with a glass just resting wiohin the rim of the
pot, and if it have no holes in the top it should be taken off and wiped dry
once daily. The plant should be gently sprinkled with water once a-day
through a very fine-rosed watering-pot. If the glass have n) holes at top tilt
it a little on one side at night, shutting close in the day. The plants having
the requisite moisture, the fronds will be covered with minute dewdrop-like
spots of water in the morning from the condensation of water during the
night.

Ferns SntirrELLED (TT. M. G.). — The fronds of Ferns sent us have the
appearance of being "scalded," probably from exposure to the direct rays of
the sun. They are also blackened, which shows that they have been heavily
syringed; the water constantly hanging from the euds of the fronds and the
sun shining on them whilst we6, cause their destruction. Another likely
cause, though the above are the most jjrobable, is that they have been fumi-
gated strongly with tobacco, the house being filled too full, which has made
the atmosphere so dry as to cause the fronds to shrivel. Keep the atmo-
sphere moist by sprinkling evaporating surfaces in the house twice or thrice
a-day, syringe the plants only at night, and shade from bright sun from
8 A.M. to 5 P.M. with tiffany or other light material, commencing with April
and contLnuiug in bright weather up to September inclusive. If the plants
are screened from powerful sun by climbers or Vines over them, the shading
will not be necessary.

Grapes Spotted (Tjtnrvillc). — They are severely spotted. See what wa
said in answer to another correspondent in our last number, page 411.

Laburnum with Purplish and Yellow Flowers {T. Harkn-eU).— It
frequently occurs. Some years since Mr. Fish observed; — "The changes pro-
duced on the Laburnum when grafted are sometimes wonderful and wholly
nnaccountable. We have rarely seen the common or Scotch Laburnum sport
into other varieties. We recoUect of only one instance in which flowers of
purpurascens appeared. But if you graft either of the Laburnums with
Cytisus purpureus or Cytisus supinus, the vagaries which sometimes take
place are astonishing. I can see any day a small standard of Cytisus alpinns
which was grafted with Cytisus purpureus, and on the same branch will
sometimes ho found small pieces of yellow and purple, and at the very point
strong shoots of the Cytisus alpinus, the ' blood' of the stock finding its way
through the more weakly growth of the scion. What is remarkable is, that
grafting or budding with one variety will frequently, as the plant grows, pre-
sent you with three or four varieties, or what are called ' species.' "

Conservatory G-ay from November to April (F. P. G.).— To have the
house gay at the time you name, the plants you have will be very suitable,
and with good culture during the summer will produce a very effecti%-e dis-
play. In adlition to the plants you have, of Primulas we should sow at
once another packet of seed, and of Roses we would add at least another
dozen to your present stock. Of Epacrises add also a dozen. The Geraniums
cut down now, aud their growth encouraged during the summer, stopping up

June 5, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

461

to the end of July, and keeping from flowerin? up to the beginning of Sep-
tember, will afford a fine display in autumn. We prenurao they are Zonals.
The Intermetliate Stocks will no doubt serve you well, and the Mii^ouette ;
but we should have potted them off sincjly and shifted into larger pota aa
required, picking off all flowers as they appear up to September. The Cine-
rarias will also come in well. The first addition we should sug^'est are Chry-
eauthemums ; they will make a tine show — in fact, be the beginning of your
display, say two dozen Large-flowered, one dozen Pompon, and a dozen
Japanese. In September add bulbs, as Hyacinths, Narcissus, Tulips, Ac, to
your liking, and have Dentzia gracdis, Lily of the Valley, Dielytra specta-
bihs, and SpLnea japonica. The Dielytra you have will answer well for forcing.
The Lilacs you must procui'e and have set with flower buds, potting them in
autumn. The early-flowering Rhododendrons and varieties of Azalea pontica
are very fine for conservatory decoration, also Kalmia latifolia. They should
be procured in autumn set with bloom buds.

WniT WILL Ra-bbits not lc:.kT 2—Dorathca wishes for a list of plants
that rabbits will not eat.

Drumstick Asparagus (Tdem). — To obtain Asparagus white all but quite
the point, nothing more is needed, bo soon as the point of a shoot appears
above the surface, than to cut it as low beneath the siu-face as a knife can be
thrust. Such white-stalked useless shoots we never tolerate. Wo let the
shoots grow until 3 or 4 inches above the surface are quite green. Those
inches are all eatable and high-flavoured. The white-stalkeil shoots, which we
coil drumsticks, have only their tips eatable, and they are insipid.

Insects on Vines and Peach Treks (R. B.).— The insects eating the
Vine stems and Peach leaves are small beetles called weevils, to bo caught at
night by spreading a white doth beneath each tree and shaking it. The
spfccimens you have sent are CurcuUo oblongus, or Oblong Weevil.

Insects on Plum and Apple Trees { — ).— The dark chestnut-
coloured objects like halves of large peas on the twigs of these trees are the
females of a species of scale insect (Coccus), beneath each of which is a mass
of eggs. If not cleared off at once you will have to cut down and burn your
trees very soon. — I. O. W.

Names of Plants (D. H.).— We cannot tell the names of Roses, they are
legion. Tours will grow from cuttini^s the same as any other. The other plant
is the common Cytisus, Cytisus sessilifolius. It is propagated by seed, which
it yields plentifully.

POULTRY, BEE, AM PIGEON OHRONIOLE,

BEFOKM IN POULTBY PACKAGES.

I FULLY endorse what your correspondent says as to the desir-
ability of some improved fastening for baskets conveying speci-
mens to and from the various exhibitions. It is quite apparent
that some more secure and expert system than the present
needle-and-thread sewing should be adopted. For my own part
I cannot conceive anything more simple and secure than a short
strap and buckle, which would cause a great saving of time in
penning and repacking the birds, and thus accelerate the return
of specimens. Many of the packages in which specimens are
sent for the selhng classes are literally wretched ; and I take
this opportunity of calling attention to it, as it has been with
difficulty we could patch some of them up so as to be sufficiently
secure to send the birds away from our Ipswich Shows ; and
this, I think, is imposing too much on committees, who, with
the best regulations, find an immense amount of hard work
attending these exhibitions. "We make it a rule to dispatch for
their homeward journey all specimens the same night as the
Show closes ; and it is hoped the improvements will be apparent
at the next Ipswich Show, which is advertised to take place
October 15th and 16th, when the single-bird system, so strongly
advocated in a recent Journal, will be again adopted. — W. B.
Jeffhies, Ipsivich.

BLACK COCHINS.

I HAVE two strains of Black Cochins, one imported from China,
the other obtained from a cross of Whites and Buff ; the former
are of excellent colour, and never had a vestige of white or
coloured feathers, these are always long in legs. I therefore
keep the other strain for my own breeding and crossing with the
imported birds, and heuce obtain shape. The pullets obtained
in this case are generally good black, but the cocks are often
stained on the hackle ; I have never had a black bird turn the
colour of his feathers after moult as "E. S." observes.

Another observation I would like to make is that all my im-
ported birds have black legs, whereas the cross-bred as above
mentioned have yellow legs ; we may therefore safely say that
Black Cochins must be an original breed and not obtained. Mr.
Hole observes justly that the chickens are light when first
hatched from imported birds, but turn jet Ijlack and remain so,
I never saw one jet black when first out of the shell. — A. A.
Vandek Meeesch, Merton Boad, Tooting.

BATH AND WEST OF ENGLAND SOCIETY'S

POULTRY SHOW.
Tins is held at Pl3Tiiouth, beginning on the 2nd, and to con-
tinue until the 6th. Our notes on it will be published next week.

Spanish.— Cocfc.—l, 2. and Cap, E. Jones. Clifton, Bristol. 3. E. Jackson,
Finchfielil. Wolverhampton, he, E. Jackson; R S. Samwavs, Soathampton.
Hejt<.—\ and 2. E. Jones. 3, W. Wooilhouse, Lynn, he, T. BamSeW, Clitton
<2J; MIbb E. Browne, Chard ; W. Woodhouse; E. Jones. c.E. Jackson.

Tin-B.KitfOS,— Coloured,— CocTc.—\, Rev. J. G. A. Baker, Old Warden. Biiygles-
wade. 2, Withheld. 3. J. Martin, Claines, Worcester. Beiu.~\ and uup. J.
Martin. 3. Henry Lintrwood, Barking, Needhani Market. 3, E. Burton, Truro.
lie, Mrs. Wollocoinbe, Lewdown.

DoKKiNGS.— ir/i(^^ orBhte,—Coek.—\ and he, O. E. Cres3well, Early Wood.
Baeshot. 2, J. H. NichoUs, Lostwithiel. Hem.-~\, O. E. Cresswell. 2, J. H.
Nioholls. he, A. Darbv.

CocuisR.— Cinnamon and Buff.~Cock.~-\ and Cup. Henry Lingwood. 2, Mrs.
.\ll9opp. Worcester, he, H. Yardley. Birmintrtiam ; J. C. Cojper, Limerick; C.
Taylor. Gloucester ; T. F. Ansdell. St. Helen's : S. K. Harris, St. Day. e, J. K.
Fowler. Aylesbury ; Jliss J. Milward. Newton St. Loe. Bens.—\, T. F. Ansdell.
2. H. Yardley. 'he, Mrs. H. J. Bailey, Rosedale, Tenbury; H. Tomlinson,
Birmingham.

Cochins —Broitwi and Partridge-feathered.— Cock, — 1, A. C. Travers, Fal-
mouth. 2, J. H. Nicholls. Hen3.—l. A. C. Travers. 2, H. Yardley. he, J. K.
Fowler.

Cochins.— TT/iite.—Cncit.—l. S. W. Prohert. Lostwithiel. 2. H. Tombnson,
Birmingham, he, S. W. Prohert : O. E. Cresswell, Early Wood. Banshot ; R.
W Beachev. Finder, Kingskerwell ; R. S. S. Woodgate, Perabnry, Tunbridge
Wells. Hen-i.—l and he, R. W. Beachey. 2, R. S. S. Woodgate. e, J. H.
Nicholls.

BRAHMiS —Darfc.—Cocfc —I and Cnp. T. F. Ansdell. 2, Horace Lmgwood,
Greeting, Needham Market, he, E. Ensor. Bristol. Hens.— 1,T. i'. Ansdeli.

2, Horace Lingwood. he, S. Allen, jun.. Plymouth.

BRiHsiAS.— Li/iftf. -Cocfc.- 1. J. H. Nicholls. 2. Rev. J. G. Ridley, Newbury.
he, J. Pares, Postford, Guildford ;T- A- Dean. Marden. Here^ird; N. Heath,
Totnes. Bens—I, Horace Lingwood. 2. J. Pares, Postford, Guildford.

OiLilE.—Blaek-breastrd nedf.—Coek.—l, J. Mason, 3t. John's. 2. Rev. G. S.
CruwvB. Cruwys Morchard, Tiverton, he. Dr. W. K. BuUmore. Falmouth; E.
W. Williams. Herringston, Dorchester. Hen.-l, E. C. Pope, Falmouth. '2, W.
H Sta"^, Netheravon. Ifc. J. T. Browne. St. Austell; J. Jeken, Eliham.

GkilE—Brou'nbreasl^d Redx.-Cock.-l, J. Jeken.i 2, Rev. G. S. Cruwys. hCj
J. T. Browne ; S. Matthew, Stowmarket. Hfrt.— 1, J. Jeken. 2, S. Matthew.
he, J. Westacott. Barnstaple. „ , , ^ „ , m

Gm^.-Diickwing and other Greys and Blues.— Cock.— \ and Cup, J. T.
Browne. 2, Dr. W. K. Bntlmore. lie. S. Matthew, e. Rev. G. S Cruwys;
J.Mason. Hen— 1, J. T. Browne. 2, S. Matthew. Any other ruriety.— Cock.
—1, Rev. G. S. Cruwys. 2. No competition.

Hamburghs.— Gor'/''«.sj)an'7f«'(i.— Cocfc,— 1,1- Davies.Harbome. Birmingham.
2 N Barter, Plymouth, he, W. A. Hyde, Hurst, Ashton-under-Lyne; Mrs. J.
p'attison. Dorchester. Hens.—\, W. Driver. Keighley. 2, 1. Davies. he, S. E.
Harri». Cusgarne. St Day; W. A. Hyde; Mrs. J. Pattison. „ .,,

H^MBURGHS- .S)/U''r-.»;miifj/C(i~Cocfc. — 1. Mrs. J. Pattison. 2. Ashton and
Booth, Bro.»dbottom. Mottram. Ilens.—\, Miss E. Browne. Chard. 2, N.
Barter. Plvmonlh. )«-. Mrs. J. Pattison. _ „ , ...

Hamburghs. — ^o^i.-7i-j><v(C!//r(f — Cocfc. — 1 and Cnp, T. Edmonds. ]un.,
Totnes. 2, V. Barter, he, G. Lias, Par Station. Hens.— I, G. Packham,
Exeter; 2. Mrs. Trove, Bampton. , „ „ , „ „ ^ . o

Hambcrghs.- Siircr-jicnrillfrf.- Coefc.— 1, N. Barter. 2. H. Feast, Swansea.
Hen-s.-l, N. Barter. 2, H. Fea.t. „„..,. „.

Polish —Coek.—\, T. P. Edwards, Lyndhurst. 2 and he, G. C. Adkms, Bir-
mingham. 3, S. W. Prohert, Lostwithiel. Hi-n«.-l, T. P. Edwards. 2. A.
Darby, Bridgnorth, Salop. 3, J. Hinton, Warmmster. c, S. W. Prohert ; G. C.

HoroiNS — Cocfc — 1, H. Feast. Swansea. 2, G. Slade, Crewkerne. he, F.
Brewer. Lostwithiel. Beiu.-\, F. Brewer. 2, W. Dring, Faversham. c, Mrs.
WoUocombe, Lewdown. „. ^ ^ „ x- ■ ^ x. t v

Cri!ve-C.i:ok«.— Cock— 1, H. Feast. 2. J. C. Cooper, Limenck. he. J. K.
Fowler- Mrs. H. J. Bailey, Tenbury; W. Humphreys, Liskeard. e. Mrs. E.
Bamett Bodmin. Hcn^'i—l, J. J. Maldeu. Biggleswade, Beds. 2, J. K. Fowler,
he. J. C.Cooper; H. Feast, c, Mrs. E. Bamett ,,„,,„ , ,, „

Any other Distinct Variety.— Cock. -1, H. Feast (Black Hamburgh!. 2.
J. H. Nicholls. Lostwithiel. 3, S. W. Probert (Ptarmigan), he. S. E. Hams,
Cus^arne (Malay)- Rev G. S. Cruwys. Tiverton (White Minorca) ; J. Blarney,
iun° Penrvn- J. H. Bring; J. Hinton (Malay), c, J. K. Fowler; Rev. N. J,
Ridley Newbury (La Fleche). Hens.—\, Miss S. Northcotc, Lympstone
(White Minorca). 2, H. Leworthv, Newport, Barnstaple (Black Minorca).

3. Rev. N. J. Ridley (Malay), he. J. K. Fowler (La Fleche); J. Blarney, jun.

''d'ijoks (White Ayleshnry).— land Cnp, S. R. Harris, Cnsgamo. 2 and 8, J. K.
DucK5(Boneii).—l, J. N. C.Pope, Bristol. 2, J. T. Browne, St. Austell. 3,

Dc'cKslAnvother variety).— 1,H. Yardley, Birmingham (Whistling Ducks).
2. J. J. Maiden (Buenos Avrean). 8, Miss E. Browne. Chard (Carolinas). lie,
Mrs H J Bailey. Tenbury (White Calls); G. S. Sainsburj- (Buenos AjTean).

TuRKEY'8.-CoclS-land'2. Rev. N.J. Ridley. 3, J. Oliver, Lifton.

Geese —1 J. H Nicholls. Lostwithiel. 2 and 9. J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury.

Bantams —Gold and •silver Sebrwhts.-l, C. Petherick. St. Austell. 2, Rev. G.
S. Cruwvs.Tiverton. Block or If ;li(c.-l. B. F. PaiTott, Henbury. 2, E. Cam-
bridge. Ootham. Bristol, he. S. W. Probert ; Rev. G. S. Cruwys; R. H. Ashton,
Mottram • B. F. Parrot, finmc.-l, N. Barter, Plymouth. 2, W. Currah. ;.c,J.
Martin, Claines. e, S. W. Probert. „ „ „ . . o ,

Bantam3.-.4ii!( colour or rari<(y.-Cocfc.-l. Master F. S. Robinson, Sunder-
land. '3. R. Wilkinson, Guildford, he, S. W. Probert; .4. M. Pigotl, Exeter;

^- "■'■''""" PIGEONS. ,„, ^^

CAHBiERS.-Cocfc.-l and he, W. B. Ford. Weymouth. 2, J. Broad, Plymouth.
c, H. Yardley. Birmingham. Hrn.-l, H Yardley. 2 and c. W. B. Ford.

PouTERS.-Cock.-l. W. B. Ford. 2.Miss J. Milward. Newton St. Loe. ht, H.
Yardley ■ W B. Ford, e, J. Roberts. Plymouth. Hen.— 1, H. Yardley. 2, t>.
Parkham, Exeter. )ic. W. B. Ford (2). , ,„ c • . =,„„,

Rhnts —1 and 2, H. Yardley. he, J. Wheeler & Sons, Shipston-on-Stour.

Dbagoons.-I.G. Parkham'. 2, H. Yardley. c, J. Raen. Lostwithiel.

Fantails.— 1. F. Braund, Bideford. 2, J. L. Smith, Barnstaple, he, O. E.
Cresswell, Bagshot. Surrey. , ^ tj-^.,.j

TR03IPP.TERS — 1 F. Braund. 2. BuUen & Joce, Barnstaple, he, J. Broad.
c, H. G. Evers, Plymouth ; H. Yardley : G. Parkham.

Barus.— 1 and2. BuUen & Joce. he, Bullen cSi Joce ; H. Yardley (2).

ARCHANGELS —1. H. Yardlev. 2. O. E. Cresswell. c, BuUen 4 Joce.

TusBiTS —1. O. E. Cresswell. 2, J. Croote. Heavitree, Exeter, he, J. Oroote ;
J. Blamev,' jun, Penrvn; H. Yardley. c, BuUen & Joce. , „ ,. ,,

TuMBLER3.-.l!miOi.i -1, H. Yardley. Any other variety,-!, H. Yardley.

Ndns.— Prizes withheld. Trimmed. ,„,..,, .v

Owls —1, F. Braund. 2, J. L. Smith, he, H. Lewis, Plymouth.

Jacobins.-I. H. Yardley. 2. F. Braund. „ ^ ^, ^,

Any other Vasiety.-I, BuUen & Joce. 2, H. Yardley.

JvDo-ES.— Poultry : Mr. B. Hewitt, Birmingham. Pigeons :
Mr. W. B. Tegetmeier, London.

MR. W. J. PETTITT'S API.^EY.

" Where there's a will there's a way," is illustrated by Mr.
W. J. Pettitt, of Snargate Street, Dover, who, at a great amount
of troulile and expense, has, by the aid of flights of stone steps,
h.alf scaled the cUS at the back of his residence and constructed
there an apiary which has few equals. The bee colony having
' been formed, the difficulty in the way of bee-keeping was not

462

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE";^ AND: COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ June 5, 1873.

great. True, honey-yielding flowers are not indigenous to the
region of chimney-pots, but innumerable flowers of numeroiis
species find a lodgment on the jutting edges of the white cUffs
about Dover; and certainly, were it not for the visit of Mr.
Pettitt'a army of workers, they would have to " blush unseen
and waste their sweetness."

Even the instinct of the bee can be improved by education,
and very apt pupils the little insects seem to be under Mr.
Pettitt's teaching. The improvement on the natural method
is to induce the bees to build their comb in frames. The idea of
placing straight bars across the top of the hive to help the bees
in commencing their work is a very old one, but it proved to be
of little advantage. The addition of three other sides, making a
complete frame, was the first approach to real improvement.
This frame not only compels the bees to construct iheir comb
entirely strai^jht, but it also gives facilities for examining the
comb while the work is in progress. The other day we saw a
practical illustration of the value of these frames when on a visit
to Mr. Pettitt's apiary. We had expressed a wish to see the
queen that presided over a certain hive, and Mr. Pettitt, with
his usual courtesy, undertook to introduce us to her majesty.
The hive being a bar-frame one, he took out frame after frame,
notwithstanding that they were filled with comb and covered
with bees, and ultimately the queen was discovered with a num-
ber of her subjects clustered round her. These bar-frame hives
are made in great numbers at Mr. Pettitt's establishment, with
certain improvements which his long experience has suggested.
One valuable improvement in the Pettitt bar-frame hive is that
the top bars of the frames project quite through the back and
front of the hive. This projection greatly facilitates the lifting
or removal of the frames, which rest in a pair of patent metallic
bar-holders, invented by Mr. Pettitt some ten years since, and
are now extensively used in all parts of the kingdom. Mr.
Pettitt's observatory hive is very interesting. It revolves on a
turntable, has glass sides, and is so arranged that all parts of
the comb can be examined when the bees are in full work with-
out taking out the frames.

A gi-eat feature of Mr. Pettitt's apiary now is the general in-
troduction of the Ligurian bees, found between the two chains
to the right and left of Lombardy and the Rhsetian Alps. They
are more prolific, less sensitive to cold, and more docile than
the common English bee. Throughout the country the Ligu-
rians are rapidly replacing the common black bees. During the
summer months Mr. Pettitt receives importations of Ligurian
queens. These beautiful queens being successfully introduced
into an English stock iu lieu of its native queen, the whole colony
become pure Ligurians in a few months. — [Dove?- Neivs.)

Gainseoeough Poultry S^ow. — This is in connection with
the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society. The prizes are good, and
the town of Gainsborough gives some £5 prizes in addition. The
entries close on the 21st inst.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Age for Koosting {White Dorkritfj).—Ii the fowls can and do find a
tolerably sheltered and comfortable &pot, it will not hui-t them to roost. The
nights me phort at this time of year, and sometimes they are warm. We do
not think it will hurt them at this time of year.

Fleas in Poultry-hotjre {J. G.). — Sweep the walls with bii-nh brooms.
Stop all ciacts, fill all holes, then lime-white the whole of it, putting it on
thick and wet. Take cfF the t-nrface of Ibe floor, and put down another of
clay and lime, or chalk mixed, and rammed or trodden down hard. Very often
the fowls bring the fleas into the house instead of catching them there.
"Wherever fowls cannot take their duet bath tbey will have fleas. They should
have heaps of duet, road grit, and bricklayers" rubbish about tbeii- haunts.
This is the only ture preventive against vermin.

Eggs UNrBonucTivE {Mrs. Dallas). — Your complaint is almost the uni-
versal cue. Ficm all quarters people write to ask why their eggs hatch so
badly. TVe attribute much of it to the bitter east wind. "We do not know
what the ''winter wind" was in thakeRpeare's time, but man's ingratitude
must be very great indeed if it be worse than the wind we have bad fur some
months. It makes the hens sit hollow; if they are in contact with it, it makes
them fidgetty ; if the eggs ai-o left a little longer than usual -while the hen is
off, it dries and chills them. We believe much disappointment will be pre-
vented if the hens aie always confined when tbey are sitting. We do not
mean to be shut in an outbc ufo with a locked door, but at liberty to leave the
nests if tbey chooee ; but to be shut in a fmall basket. We have made
capital nests with butter fiikins, sometimes knocking uut the top, sometimes
the top and bottom. In these caf^es we have a lid to cover the top. We have
just passed through the season for batching Pbeaeants' eggs. As the eggs of
these birds are to be had only for a limited period, and cannot be replaced if
spoUed, every precaution is used to avoid failure. In many cases th« boxes
in which the hens 6it are so low they do not allow the bij-ds to raise them-
selves off the eggs. Wbolepalo loss, such as you speak of, is unk-nown to
them, and, viewing the hatching season now drawing to a close, we are dis-
posed to think the subject of sitting is not sufliciently studied. Ere long
we promise our readers a paper on the subject. In the meantime we advise
our con-etpondent to shut her sitting hens in the tub in which they are,
and to moisten the eggs erery day after the first week when the hen is off
the nest.

Bees Bcilding from the Boaud and Sides of Glasses {Hortus). —
■Wben bees work upwards in glasses their combs often fall over, and much
time and labour are lost in repairing damages and renewing the fabric ; there-

fore it is better to have some sort of wooden framework inside, with guide
combs affixed, to enable the bees to work with efftct and econtmy of labour.
We ourselves have long ago discarded glasses, and use low supers with side
windows.

Dysentery in Ligurians (An Ulversion Bec-'keeper).~-Yo-ar case is an un-
happy one. There is no cure for dysenteiy so good as to transfer the bees to
an entirely new hive, which is easy at this period of the year. But we never
heard of dysentery so late in the season as this. There must be some pecu-
liarity in the position or circumstances of your stocks of which we are
igncrant. We bhould drive cut the bees, and if necessaiy make an artificial
swarm of them, or it may be enough tu cut away the foul comb.

3VIETE0R0L0GICAL OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Square, London.

Lat. 51° 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0° 8^ 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date.

9 A.M.

In the Day.

1873.

May

and

Juuo.

Hygrome-
ter.

Shade Tem-
perature.

Radiation
Temperature.

i

S

Dry.

Wet.

Mai.

Min.

In On
BUD. grass

Inches

dcg.

deg.

deg.

deg.

d^sr.

deg. deg.

In.

We. 28

30 1%

50.S

46.9

N.

54 7

69 9

46.1

.S5.2

43.1

—

Th. S9

;:0..114

55.2

49.7

N.

53.4

(66

4S.3

1178

40 0

0.110

Fri. SO

3 '.269

62.4

48.2

N.

66.8

66 7

47.5

118.8

47.7

—

Sat. 31

30.107

52.8

48.4

N.W.

55.0

68.2

43.1

lil.O

39,0

0.068

hun. 1

29.875

62.5

51 0

N.

66.8

6' .8

44.5

113.7

45.0

0.028

Mo. a

SO.'M

69.3

54.8

N.

64.8

70 7

46 8

12(1.9

43 6

0.274

Tu. 3

29 8i(i

5li.7

56.0

B.

65.6

71.0

4S.9

120.3

476

—

Means

30.115

•.64.2

60.6

66.0

66.3

45 6

114,0

43.8

0.480

BEMAEKS.
2Sth. — Pleasant day, cloudy at times and cool; sunshine good part of the day.
29th. — Brilliant morning ; rather cloudy aftei-noon ; fine evening, but rain

at 11 P.M.
30th. — Fine bright day, though cool and rather cloudy at intervals.
3lst. — Cool cloudy morning; fine and warm in the afternoon.
June Ist. — Windy and dull; early rain at 8.45 a.m., heavy shower. Rather

dull day, and very cold iu the evening.
2nd. — Fine and bright ; rather cloudy between 5 and 6 P.ii., but on the whole

a very enjtjyable day.
3rd. — Eain heavy at -i a.m. ; thunder at S a.m. ; dull till about 11 a.m. ; aftei*

that time very fine, bright, and warm.
Temperature nearly the same as last week, one ortwo days (notably June 1st)
being very cold. Owing to hot sun and cold winds the temperature of the
ground has continued to rise, while that of the air has been stationary or
cooler.— G. J. Svmons.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— Ju NE 4.
Supply and demand have both improved, and a steady amount of trade per-
vades both wholesale and retail markets, the fine display of plants and
flowers forming a considerable attraction for the general public. Prices havo
remained steady both iu English and foreign produce. Heavy consignments
of new Potatoes are again to hand li'om the Mediterranean, Portugal, France^
Germany, and the Channel Islands.

Apples .1 sieve

Apricots doz.

Cnerries ^ box

Chestnuts bushel

Currants i sieve

Black do.

FigB doz,

Fubei-ts lb.

Cobs lb.

Gooseberries quart

Grapes, hothouse lb.

Lemons ^100

Melons each

Artichokes doz.

Asparafius ^100

French

Beans. Kidney :if» 100

Beet, Red doz

Broccoli bundle

Cabbage doz.

Cap&icums %' 100

Carrots bunch

Caulitlower doz.

Celery bundle

Coleworta.. doz. bunches
Cucumbers each

pickling doz.

Endive doz.

Fennel bunch

GarJic lb.

Herbs bunch

HorseradiBh bundle

Leeks bunch

Lettuce duz.

s. d.

S

2 0

2 6

0 0

0 0

0 0

G 0

0 0

2 0

0 S

G 0

S. d.
o.^ 0

3 0

4 0
0 0
0 0

0

10 0

0 0

2 6

0 6

12 0

10 0

I 8. d. 5. ds

Mulberries ">lb. 0 Otoo 0

1 Nectarines doz. 15 0 30

; Oranges ^100 4 0 10

I Peacbes doz. 15 0 SO

Pears, kitchen goz. 1 0

dessei-t doz. 6 0

Pine Apples lb.

Plums i sieve 0

Quinces doz. "

Raspberries lb.

Strawberries %> lb. G

Walnuts buahel 15

ditto ^ 100 2

0

0

0 0

VEGETABLES.

. d. S.d.

OtoG 0

6

n

12

a

I

6

2

6

1

ij

3

II

1)

9

1

6

1

11

1

6

0

0

II

0

(1

6

0

0

3

u

6

0

1

R

2

II

2

B

4

(1

(1

6

1

II

(1

(1

II

II

;'.

0

II

II

0

3

n

(I

(1

n

0

II

r)

3

11

II

3

II

4

II

(1

«

II

II

1

0

i

0

Mushrooms pottle

IWu&lard &. Cress. .punnet
Unions buthel

pickling quait

Parsley per doz. bunches

Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

bidney do.

Pound . do.

Kadialies.. doz. bunches

Phubarb bundle

Salsafy bundle

Savoys di'Z.

Scorzonera bundle

Sea-kale bftbket

bhallota lb.

Spinach bushel

lomatoes duz.

Turnips bunch

VeRetable Marrows

B. d. B. d.
0 0to2 "

0 0

0 a

2 0

6 0

0 0

0 0

1 0

0 6

1 0
0

POULTRY MARKET.— June 4.
PuioES are still maintained, and the scarcity of Ducks is unusual.
B. d. B. d.

Large Fowls C 0 to 6 C

- 0 ~ '

buialifr ditto i

CbickAtig n

Goslings 7 0

G^e^n Geese 0 0

Ducklings 4 6

4 0

7 6

0 0

5 0

d. s. a.
0 to 0 e

0 0 0

Pheasants 0

PHitiidges 0

Hares 0 0 0 0

Kabbi'.s 16 16

Wildditto 0 9 0 10

Pigeons 0 10 10

June 12, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOETIGULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

46S

WEEKLY CALENDAR.

Day Day

ol I ol

Month I Week.

12
13
14
15
16
17
18

Th

F

S

Sdn
M
Tn
W

JUNE 12—18, 1873.

Average Tempera- 1 Kain in
tore near Loudon. 43 years.

Snn
Kisea.

Snn
Sets.

Moon
Ki&eB.

Royal Botanic Society's Show close.s.

1 Sunday after Trinitv,

MeetinK of Zoolopical Society, 8.30 P.M.
Royal Horticultural Society's Fruit, Floral,
rnud General Meeting.

Day.

NiBht.

Mean.

Days.

m.

h.

m. h.

71.4

46.1

58.8

21

45 »f 3

15 a«8

71.9

47.4

59.8

20

44

3

15 8

72.6

47.9

i;o.3

19

44

3

16 8

72.8

4a2

60.5

19

44

3

16 8

72.6

48.3

00.4

18

44

3

17 8

72.9

47.3

60.1

as

44

S

17 8

723

C0.4

61.3

21

44

S

18 8

,36 10

20 11

60 11
Morn.

13 0

SO 0

46 0

Moon
Sets.

84

Moon's
Age.

Clock
after
Sun.

Tny

of

. Year.

2 10
27 11
after

Days.
17
18
19
20
21

c

28

m. 8.

0 28

0 16

0 4

heforo

0 22

0 35

0 48

163
1B4
105
166
167
168
ICil

From observations taken near London durinR forty.threo years, the averaKo day temperature of the -week is 72.S" ; and its night tempernture
47.9'. The greatest heat was 90^. on the 12th and 13th, 1842 ; and the lowest cold 30-^ on ths 15th, 1850. The greatest faU of rain was 1.4S mch.

APPLE TREES AS DWARF BUSHES.

VERY large proportion of the readers of
The .Jouunal of Horticulture are also the
owners of small gardens, and to such a few
practical details of the culture of the Apple
tree as a dwarf hush may be useful. The
instructions may seem tedious to those who
know " all about it," but to those but little
acquainted with the culture of fruit trees
this does not seem so clear. A friend of my
own, a retired tradesman, who does all the
light work in his garden, has under my direction taken to
the summer management of his Vines and fruit trees.
On one occasion after I had clearly explained the pinch-
ing and training of the Vines, and shown him how easy
it was, he said, " Yes, it seems easy to you, but to me it is
very ditficult." So in our writings, if we wrote only for
trained gardeners we might take a good deal for granted ;
but in writing for the uninitiated even minute details are
important.

A well-trained hne of dwarf bushes worked on the
Paradise stock is a very pretty sight in any garden, and
they offer the following advantages: — The trees are
easily managed, being always under the control of the
cultivator; the dangerous practice of using long ladders
or climbing amongst the branches is unnecessary ; a great
variety of fruit can be obtained from a small space of
ground ; and the trees worked on this stock, and trained
as advised, will come into bearing much sooner than
they would worked on the Crab stock, and planted as
standards. A little of my own experience may be useful
here. "Wlieu I entered my present situation the kitchen
garden was encumbered with old Apple and Pear trees in
every stage of decay and canker. Planting young trees
amongst them had been tried, but after a few years canker
invariably attacked them. Although the trees were un-
sightly objects, and overhung the ground so much that
vegetables did not succeed, they bore tolerable crops of
fruit, and though it was of inferior quality, there was no
other source of supply ; so we could not destroy all the
trees at once, but borders were formed 9 feet wide on
each side of the main walks — this space was cleared of
all the old trees growing on it. The next operation was
to trench the ground 2 feet deep, also as the soil was
poor, some decayed manure was added, and a good
baiTowload of turfy clayey loam to each 3-feet trench.
The trees were planted about 6 feet 6 inches from the
Box-edging, and G feet apart ; the remaining part of
the border being planted with Gooseben-y and Red Cur-
rant bushes, and that part nearest the Box-edging was
made available for Strawberries, Lettuces, and other
small crops. Though all the young Apple trees that
were planted previous to this were subject to canker,
none of those planted iu the trenches and prepared
borders have been affected in the least. I may add
that they were all removed a second time, the borders
being trenched over, and the trees being replanted with
plenty of maiden loam round the roots. When the
No. 637.— Vol. XXTV. New Series.

young trees came into bearing, all the old ones wero
removed.

Borders planted as I have described either with dwarf
bush or pyramid-trained trees look very well in a kitchen
garden, and where the garden is moderately large, and
two walks run parallel to each other throughout the length
of the garden, the space within the walks and borders
may be laid-out in squares for the usual kitchen-garden
crops. Of course, if the owner of a garden determines to
plant dwarf trees, many other positions may be assigned
them according to the taste of the owner, size and form
of the garden, &c. But to all intending planters I would
say. Prepare the ground well, especially if it has been
long used as a garden ; do not attempt to plant unless
the ground has been trenched, and if the soil is light, some
clayey loam should be added to it. If the soil is very
poor, some decayed manure may be worked in. When
the trees are planted, a hole sufficiently large to allow
the roots to be spread out to their full extent should be
dug, and if possible some rotted turfy loam should bo
placed under and over the roots.

Besides preparing the ground well, it is also very im-
portant to obtain trees on the proper stock. If the old
Crab or wild Apple stock is used, the trees would have
a greater tendency to produce young wood than to form
fruit or blossom-buds, and they would not come into
bearing so early. The French Paradise stock is the best
of all for dwarfing the trees and inducing fruitfulness ;
but there are, doubtless, many forms of Paradise stocks,
as they have been obtained in many ways. When the
old trees were rooted out of the garden here I found one
with a host of suckers clustering round the bole ; all these
were pulled out with portions of roots attached, and
planted. All of them had a tendency to send the roots
out near the surface, which is one of the most valuable
characteristics of stocks for small gardens. They were
worked with different sorts of Apples, and came into
bearing very early after being worked.

To those intending to purchase trees, it will be neces-
sary to apply to some nurseryman who understands the
nature of stocks, and also the ground to be planted.
Trees are, no doubt, to be obtained at a cheap rate from
vendors who know very little about the article they are
selling, but it is a waste of time, labour, and money to
purchase ti-ees wrongly named and not worked on the
right stock. Two-year-old trees are the best, and if
possible they should be selected in the nursery in the
autumn, .and removed as soon as ready. The ground
should have been prepared some time previously, and
be ready for the trees when they come to hand. If the
proper stock has been used for grafting upon, the young
trees will be more or less furnished with blossom-buds,
and many of them will bear an apple or two the first
season after bemg planted. It is as well to allow them
to remain to prove the sorts. Trees grafted on the
French Paradise stock are worked close to the surface
of the ground, and in planting them the soil should just
come in contact with the lower part of the union, and
; a dressing of rotted stable manure round each tree will

No 12S9.- Vol. XLIX., Old Series,

ibi

JOURNAL OF HOKTIGULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

I June 12, 1873.

he very beueficial ; this should be allowed to remain aU the
summer, as it keeps a uniform temperature and moisture round
that part of the ground where the roots are ; it also causes an
emission of active rootlets near the surface of the ground.

Nearly aU the pruning and training requh-ed should be done
in summer. To allow fruit trees of any description to make
strong young shoots, and to prune them when the trees are
at rest, is very injudicious treatment. Cutting or pinching-
back the young shoots to a certain number of leaves on all
the varieties indiscriminately is bad practice, as some sorts
make three times as much young wood as others. I examined
a .large plantation of young trees not long ago, and many of
them were perfect thickets of wood through summer-pinching ;
the wood had not been thiuned-out, consequently suu and air
had not free access to the heai't of the trees, and blossom-buds
were formed very sparingly. The young shoots should be
thinned-out and stopped about midsummer, and the final
pruning may be attended to about the end of August. The
branches should be well thinned-out ; they had far better be
too few than be too much crowded, as if they are too numerous
the fi'uit will not ripen well, nor will blossom-buds be formed
for the ensuing year's crop. The length to which the young
wood must be cut-back will be regulated by the intentions of
the cultivator with respect to his trees. If these are to remain
very dwarf, the young wood must be cut-back closely ; or they
may be allowed to grow to a considerable size by only taking
the iJoints out of the young wood.

Sometimes the trees have a tendency to grow with too much
vigour, and if such is the case blossom-buds will not form
freely. Generally this is caused by the trees being planted in
soU that is too rich. The best way to check this over-luxuri-
ance is to lift the trees, and replant them in ijure loam, or
they may be only partially lifted ; but either way the operator
must be careful not to injure or bruise the roots in any way.
It is beat to form a circle round the trees, large or small accord-
ing to the size of the trees. A trench must be dug to the
depth of 18 inches or 2 feet, cuttiug away all the roots extend-
ing beyond the radius, then work with a fork under the ball of
earth, so that any roots running into the subsoil may be cut
away. It is best to remove the old soil, and replace it with
fresh loam.

There are two insect enemies which are special pests on the
Apple trees in this neighbourhood — viz., the larvre of the
gigantic Goat moth (Cossus ligniperda) ; they eat into the heart
of the tree and cause much damage. They are destroyed by
having a wire thrust into the hole, but they have a habit of
winding about so that they are not easily reached. A more
troublesome pest still is a small caterpillar which eats into the
hearts of the fruit, and causes it to drop in an unripe state. It
answers to the description of Tinea pomonella. The way we
get rid of them is to go round the trees daily and pick up all
affected fruit and destroy it. The Bombyx Neustria in a
caterpillar stage devours the leaves ; they live in colonies,
sheltered by a web-Uke tent, and should be picked off by hand
and destroyed when in an early stage of their development.
The eggs may be found in the winter deposited in cells, and
firmly glued in rings round the small twigs. — J. Douglas.

OENAMBNTAL PLANTING.— No. 3.
Yeky much of the beauty and life of our English landscapes
fleets on the wings of the autumnal winds which, sweeping off
the pale and yellow leaves, render most trees that are in-
digenous, as well as many acclimatised exotics, appear cold
and bare. On all sides the monotony of bare branches assails
us, and we involuntarily long for the warmth and fulness of
aspect that is gone. It is then that the value of evergreen
forms is fully appreciated. It is the artist's time of trial,
when the eye of able ciiticism tests his work at such a period
of the year, for it is then that the forms " with verdure clad "
stand out in such bold and striking contrast to those with-
out foliage, that the intention and aim of the planter may
be read like a book. It is in reality a page of nature em-
bellished by art, and its effect upon a sympathetic and appre-
ciative beholder will be very much in proportion to the manner
in which it has been wrought out. I (jnalify this assertion
somewhat, because, as Emerson says — " If you criticise a fine
genius, the odds are that you are out of your reckoning, and,
instead of the poet, are censuring your own caricature of
him ;" and so we might say, rather, that the effect produced
upon the mind is pretty much in proportion to its power of
comprehension.

The scene is tame, flat, and heavy; our object, therefore,
must be to impart relief, richness, and warmth of colouring.
No mixed style of planting will answer in thi.s instance. A crisp
bold contrast is required rather than a soft, harmonious blend-
ing, and in striving to effect this by the introduction of clumps
of kinds possessing strongly-marked characteristics, we again
tm-u to the Conifers for our materials. Of these the familiar
form of the Scotch Fir immediately claims notice, and de-
servedly BO too, for its admhable fitness for such a purpose has
long been an established fact. The dense mass of healthy
dark green fohage with which it is invariably clothed, the bright
reddish hue of its bark, the large size to which it grows, its
picturesque appearance when old, its hardy nature and suit-
ableness for the most exposed positions, and the marked effect
which it so quickly produces, are among the many excellencies
for which we so highly value it. We have nothing better
wherewith to clothe such bluffs and headlands as are some-
times seen jutting-out in bareness and sterility in very exposed
situations, or to form snug shelter for a house standing upon
some sweeping slope or steep hillside. Without dwelling
further upon the numerous excellent qualities of this useful
tree, it may be well to offer a word of caution on the manage-
ment of clumps and belts of it. The young trees are usually
planted so thickly as to require frequent attention in thinning
till none but the permanent trees remain. Watch the trees
closely, and let the growth and spread of the branches be the
guide as to distance apart, always remembering that for a tree
to attain its fullest size it must have abundance of healthy
branches, and foliage tolerably exposed to atmospheric in-
fluences, and however hardy and sturdy it may be, if these
conditions are wanting it may certainly exist but it will not
thrive. Very little good can be done to an old neglected Pine
clump, for when the trees have received little or no attention
after they were planted tor, perhaps, a generation, the outer
row ^-ill be found to contain all the largest trees, while those
in the interior, taken singly, are wretched objects unworthy to
be called trees, and are mere slender sticks drawn up and at-
tenuated, and with just a tuft of living btanchlets at the top.
Now, if one were to act upon the first impulse most of the
spoilt trees would be taken down, but if this were done it would
seriously affect the appearance of the clump, and the remain-
ing trees would probably be blown over by the first gale of
wind ; it is better, therefore, to leave such old clumps intact,
only removing those trees that exhibit symptoms of decay.

Next comes the beautiful SUver Fir (Picea pectinata), wliich
appears to me to be equally hardy with the Scotch, and is
certainly much more elegant in appearance. It is a wonder-
fully vigorous tree, thriving in a poor shallow soil to a degree
that is equalled by few other trees with greater advantages. I
had ample proof of this about a year ago when making a deep
cutting for a road through a thick bed of gravel covered upon
its surface by about 10 inches of soil of the poorest description ;
in this soil only a few feet from the edge of one side of the
cutting there are three noble examples of this Pinus which
must be nearly 100 feet high, models of symmetry, in most
perfect health, and clothed with branches to the ground. Nor
have they the advantage of shelter, for they stand upon a
western slope facing a wide expanse of waste, over which fre-
quent south-western gales sweep with great force. The Norway
Spruce, too, forms a fine clump. I was sorry to see such a
bad account of it from Mr. Kobson ; when it does succeed
there are few trees even among Conifers that equal it in vigour
or beauty. There are fine clumps and belts of it at Maresfield
Park, tho seat of Lady Shelley, that are so beautiful as to
tempt anyone to plant it.

The Deodar, Wellingtonia, Ai-aucaria, Douglas Fir, Yew,
and Pinus macrocarpa all form good clumps ; so, also, do many
Evergreen Oaks. The Portugal Laurel likewise blends into
a large mass of deep green glossy fohage that is very effective.
Nor must I omit the common Holly, the most hardy and
robust of all evergreen shrubs. Unaffected by drip, or smoke,
or poverty of soil, it flourishes equally weU in deepest shade or
brightest sunshine ; only let it become faii'ly established, and
further care is unnecessary. It worthily riinks high as a de-
corative shrub, it is at all times beautiful, and when laden
with its bright berries it is quite unique. There is no better
plant for clothing a mound with perennial greenery, and in
assigning it a prominent position among select shrubs for
grouijing, I would strongly advise the preparation of mounds
for it whenever a bold and striking effect is required. The
double Corse (Ulex enropaia flore-pleno), though not so ac-
commodating in its nature as the HoUy, is equally hardy, and

Juuo 12, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOBTIOULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

4C5

nothing can surpass the frorgeous display produced by a clump
of it when in llower. The white Spanish and the common
yellow Broom are both ueeful for dwarf clumps. The white
kind in particular is very valuable for its air of sprightly grace,
and the green bark renders both kinds ornamental even when
they are not in flower. — Edwakd Luckhukst.

BAD SOIL FOR KOSES.

Will you inform me how to improve the worst kind of
sandy gravelly soil, which we call here in Dorset "ridscript?"
All my garden books give pages of instruction as the improve-
ment of clay soils, but no work that I can find offers any
advice as to how I can improve my " unkindly soil." What
I do at present, though at immense labour and expense, is to
remove it 2 to 3 feet deep for Roses, and, indeed, every kind
of flower or Conifer ; but if you could tell me a way of im-
proving this miserably poor soil, or the names of any flowers
which wUl grow freely in it with the aid of unlimited manure,
I shall be very much obliged to you. A friend of mine, a
most successful rosarian at Exeter, laughed to scorn the idea
that I had a bad soil. " A man that can show Eoses like you
do to talk of having a bad soil is utter bosh," was the polite
response I met with, and on my assuring him that every tree
grew in soil that I had prepared and wheeled there myself, I
saw that he thought I was romancing. Mr. Rivers, of Saw-
bridgeworth, states, iu the "Rose Amateur's Guide," that
there is no soil so bad that the Rose when worked on the
Manetti stock will not do well in. So two years ago I sent him
a hamper of my soil, and asked him whether he could grow Ma-
netti Roses in it, to which he replied that he would try ; but I
regret to say that owing to an oversight he has not been able
to tell me the result of the trial.

I send you a small box of the soil by post, and I shall be
much obliged if you will tell me what kind of flower, or shrub,
or Conifer, or even forest tree, will grow in such a soil ; and if
you can name one flower worth growing, I promise to do my
best to improve it by excessive cultivation. If at the same
time you will tell me any way of improving the soil short
of removing it, so that I may grow my Roses without this
drawback, you will confer on me the greatest possible kindness.
— John B. M. Camm.

[Yours is about the most hopelessly bad soil that we have
ever seen, and your remedy seems the only likely one — that is,
removing it. It can be materially improved by adding clay
and loam, with leaf soil; it has the material to give Eoses
colour, provided you add plenty of other ingredients to it.
You deserve much praise for the great success which has
attended your efforts at Rose-growing, and we are not sur-
prised at your being so decided an advocate for the JIanetti
stock, of which, if we remember aright, you have advocated
the cause in another gardening periodical, as experience will
have told you that in your soil no other stock is likely to suit.
We cannot, we fear, give you much information which you do
not already possess. We should be inclined to think super-
phosphate of lime would be more efficacious than guano, and
that a slight top-dressing of nitrate of soda in the spring and
autumn would be of great sei-vice. Sedums, Saxifrages, An-
tirrhinums, Wallflowers, Foxgloves, Arabis, Aubrietia, Ar-
meria, Sweet WUliams, Valerian, Variegated Thyme, Cistus,
Phlox vema, frondosa, Nelsoni, Alyssum, Ai-temisia, dwarf
Dianthus of sorts, Helianthemum of sorts, Linaria, Liuum
of sorts, and Sempervivums, are the plants most likely to
succeed with you.]

WIEEWOEMS AND THE GLADIOLUS.

A nENTLEMAx personally unknown to me, but a lover of the
Gladiolus, sent me the other day two shoots which had come
up in a bed of some bulbs which he had purchased this season.
The shoots appeared above ground and then died-off. In
sending them he asked. Was this the disease ? In my reply I
said. No, but that it looked suspiciously like the effects of
wireworm. Before he received my letter, however, he had found
out that my surmise was true, for finding another going off,
he had taken heart of grace and examined his bulbs, and found
a couple of the "varmint" at every bulb. I was the more
alive to the subject from having had my bulbs attacked in a
similar manner three years ago, as I have mentioned iu my
little work on " The Gladiolus," page 12. It is too late to
warn people this year, as all the planting is done ; but I would
strongly urge that the advice sometimes given of planting in

new ground should never be followed ; it is a most dangerous
practice. One may escape, but the chances are that the
wireworm will master him. The worst of these destroyers
is that soot, lime, and such-like things seem to leave them
positively unharmed, and the only way of getting rid of them
is by hand-picking. We are obliged to do this with the soil
we use for Picotees, and if I had any doubt of the compost
I was using for Gladiolus I should do the same ; and this is
one of the reasons that has made my friend Souchet say that
good market garden soil is the best calculated for the growth
of the Gladiolus. It is pretty sure to be free from wu'eworms,
and mellow iu other respects. — D., Deal.

NOTES ON GEEANIUMS.

I HAVE read with deep interest the notes of the Rev. C. P.
Peach on the merits of Geraniums at pages 111 and 300 ; and
though I agree with him to a certain extent, I do not do so
in the main.

I purchased the new sorts which Mr. Pearson sent out last
year, and the set of new ones sent out by him this season I
received early in the year ; moreover, I last year saw those
sent out in the present season on the trial beds at Mr.
Pearson's.

Of crimsons. Dr. Tate stands pre-eminent, and when once
it is known it will be as much sought after as the famous
Bayard. Mr. Pearson considers it one of the very best he has
raised. It is one of the new ones of last year. Rev. T. F. Fenn
is, as described by your correspondent the Rev. C. P. Peach,
distinguished by a line large truss, with a wonderful freedom
of inflorescence, good in habit, and a fitting companion for
Dr. Tate. Samuel Bennett is dropped oirt of the catalogue
this year. I cannot speak so favourably as your correspondent
respecting Miss Sibray, Mrs. Vincent, and Miss Sanders for out-
door decoration, yet they are all good for pot-culture.

As a red or rosy crimson. Colonel Holden is the best, and
to all appearance will prove one of our most useful bedding
varieties. Shakespeare and Mrs. Vincent Fenn disappointed
me ; in all honesty I must put them do'wu as only second-rate.
As they seem to possess some of the blood of Violet Hill, I
shall give them another trial.

Coming to the scarlets, I must offer an encomium on your
correspondent's namesake, the Rev. C. P. Peach. By many
who have seen it, it has been considered the best scarlet we
possess, and as a pot plant under glass its colour comes out to
perfection. WTieu turned out of doors it is too straggling in
habit, and a very bad grower. Mrs. Hetley is likely to prove
a formidable rival to it. In the reds. Amy Robsart is a decided
acquisition ; it is very dwarf and compact, of line habit, re-
markably free-flowering, and its beautiful trusses rise well
above the foliage.

Of rosy pinks we have Rose Bradwardine, Amaranth, and
Florence Durand, which stood almost unscathed during the
unfavourable weather we experienced last year. Amaranth is
becoming so well known that it scarcely needs anj' eulogium
here ; and Florence Durand is so good that it deserves a
tribute of praise. It is pre-eminent in the conservatory ; and
its freedom of bloom and strength of petal render it equally
good for out-door decoration. Rose Peach is perfectly distinct
in colour, handsome as a pot plant, but I fear will never be-
come popular. The young lady will require very good cultiva-
tion and high keeping before she can be brought out so as to
secure the admiration of the multitude. Mrs. Hole is a ma-
genta of the colour of Arthur Pearson, but being so very dwarf
and compact in habit, and having fine large trusses produced
in such abundance, it is likely to become much more popular.

The above are what I consider the cream of what Mr. Pear-
son sent out in 1872. If I am wrong in my estimate, either
Mr. Pearson or some other correspondent who has grown
them wUl, perhaps, correct me.

I must, before concluding these rambling notes, add a word
about those of this year. Contessa Quarto and Mrs. Fytche are
in advance of all that have gone before them. They possess
superior properties for bedding purposes, and as the progress
in pink kinds has been but slow, these will be hailed with
delight by those who have to cater for the flower garden. Mrs.
Augusta MUes and Mrs. Holden are also good, either for in
or out-door use ; their large trusses resemble those of a finely-
grown Hydrangea. Of the very dark crimsons. General Outram
and Edward Sutton are of sterling merit, and only require to
be seen to be appreciated.

I have tried to make a selection from the numerous varieties

4GiJ

JOUENAL OF HORTICOLTURE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEB.

[ Jane 12, 1873.

raised aud sent out from Chilwell ; what we have approved
and recommended cannot fail to give the utmost satisfaction.

Of old sorts, Bayard and Douglas Pearson are still favourites,
and are likely to hold their po.=itiou for years to come. — Qcintin
Seab, Plenslnj Vale, Manxfi,hl.

THE BEAUTIFUL AND USEFUL INSECTS OF
OUR GARDENS.— No. 5.
The season of 1872 will stand in entomological annals as
rather memorable, because that usually rare and beautiful
insect, the Camberwell Beauty, appeared in so many places
throughout these islands, and here and there it might almost
be said to be numerous — notable in entomological history,
ana also a " red-letter " year in indiridual experience, since
many collectors actually caught and placed in their cabinets a
butterUy they had little or no expectation of ever seeing alive
in Britain. Some caught these insects, and some, unfortu-
nately, only saw them, and could not secure a specimen, for
the species flies both high and strong. The fascinations of
iiower-beds sometimes bring this and other wary butterflies
within range of the net, but the stroke must be rapid and
well aimed. One circumstance which made the appearance of
this rare butterfly more remarkable was the unquestionable
fact that the year was not at all favourable for most insects of
the Lepidopterous order, which were greatly diminished in
number by the cold nngenial spring.

Vanessa Antiopa (Camberwell Beauty

[V^It may be questioned whether the Camberwell Beauty
(Vanessa Antiopa) was ever common in England, as are some
of its congeners, not even when many more streams and brooks
than we now boast were fringed by shady willows, upon which
the caterpillar of the species prefers to feed, though it has
been found upon the Birch, and also upon a plant as dissimilar
to these as the Nettle (Urtica dioica). It may have been pretty
plentiful in the time of the old " Aureliau " Moses Harris. So
thinks Mr. Newman, though Lewin states that to his belief
none were observed in England between 1748 and 1783. From
its appearing in abundance at Camberwell during a few years
the insect got its well-known name, and also that of the
" Grand Surprise ;" but as far as the former name is con-
cerned it might as well have been called the Battersea Beauty,
for many specimens were taken there towards the end of the
last century, and in adjacent spots in Surrey. "Beauty" and
"Battersea" are scarcely associable now, for that district is
largely given over to factories and railway lines ; the park
alone is a redeeming feature, though scarcely situate in Bat-
tersea proper.

No record of the butterfly's re-appearance last year in these
two old haunts has been made, though specimens were taken
at Dulwich, and several at Shirley, iu Surrey. One most
singular capture was that made on the 23rd of August, when a
fine individual flew into a room near Euston Square — not a
promising locality for butterfly-catching. Others were ob-
served in London suburbs and in the vicinity of various towns,
and many more in open places throughout England, and some
even in Scotland. If we were to accept the theory so warmly
advocated by some, that these butterflies came last year as
visitants from Norway, it might lead us to expect that more
would occur in North Britain than in the south, which did not
prove to be actually the case. The eastern counties of Eng-

* From Figuier's " Insect World."

land yielded most, and though a few were seen on the coast,
the preponderance occurred inland.

Vanessa Antiopa is not at all a scarce butterfly in many
continental countries, occurring every year with some i-egu-
larity. The species occurs iu France, though not so plentifully
as in central and northern Europe, and therefore it is not
only possible, but most probable, that some individuals may
cross the Channel, even if none indulge in a longer flight, in
order to reach our shores, though what they should wish to
visit us for it is not easy to determine. Entomologists of a
past generation used to rely upon the white border as the dis-
tinctive mark whereby a true Briton of this species might be
at once known ; the continental butterflies, it was assumed,
had the margin yellowish. But here we are at sea with regard
to the captures of 1872, since some of them had white borders
and some yellow : hence, say some, a part of those seen and
captured were immigrants, and a part natives ; but this does
not satisfactorily clear up the mystery, because both were occa-
sionally taken under precisely the same cu'cumstances. Again,
it is now asserted that Antiopa in the Scandinavian peninsula
and the Alpine regions has usually a white border to its wings.
Still further to complicate the matter, one observer states that
a butterfly which came under his notice had a yellow border
at first, which afterwards turned white. But really the un-
questionably fresh condition in which many were taken com-
pletely knocks over the supposition that they had just taken a
long aerial journey.

Mr. Newman has justly remarked that the conjecture that
the eggs of V. Antiopa, " like the seeds of some vegetables, may
occasionally lie dormant for several seasons, and not hatch
until some extraordinary but undiscovered coincidences awake
them into active life," is baseless, since the eggs of the Vanes-
sid;i', and, indeed, of most British butterflies, hatch very
speedily. Then, though some moths, as, for instance, such as
Eriogaster lauestris, will pass two, three, or even five years iu
the pupa state, such cannot be the case with this butterfly,
whose life-history gives it the imago state in which to pass the
winter. Nor can the mature butterfly have its existence pro-
longed many months amid the changes of our variable climate.
The opinion of Mr. Barrett comes, seemingly, nearer the mark,
for he says that an examination into its history as recorded
shows that individuals are seen iu some part of England
nearly every year, and as the insect often flies high, others
occur that are never seen by entomologists. A sufficient
number at any rate occur, as he thinks, to continue the species
from year to yeai'. " Most of the young larvfe usually perish
from the dampness of the climate, but iu 1872 the extreme
heat of the begiuuing of July enabled them to feed up safely."
If there is a probability of the British climate becoming drier,
as some argue (though recent appearances are not in favour of
this), we may yet have this gorgeous butterfly as frequent a
visitant to our gardens as are the Peacocks and TortoisesheUs.

Allusion has been made to the partiaUty shown by V. An-
tiopa to flowers, especially those cultivated, and, indeed, no
sweet compounds appear to come amiss to the insect, and
compounds also sometimes which are far from being sweet.
The records of its capture in 1872 throw some hght upon the
butterfly's tastes and habits if we throw a few of them to-
gether. At Barnsley one was taken August 23rd on a manure
heap ; some time in that month one near Chester on cow
droppings ; one iu a Peach house, Melbourne Gardens, Derby-
shire, August 29th ; three seen in an orchard near Waltham,
Lincolnshire ; one on September 14th, at Badenhall, Stafford-
shire, flying with other insects about a tree from which sap
was exuding by means of the attacks of the larv* of the Goat
moth ; thereupon Mr. Boyes reports from Yorkshire that
several ef these butterflies came on different days to a garden
at Beverley, attracted by the fallen fruit in August, and one
was taken at Hull in the highly improper act of sipping from
a rum cask. At Old Malton one was taken on a Plum tree.
At Oakley, in Suffolk, a butterfly was observed first at the Fig
houses and then at the Peach houses, as recorded in this
Journal. Though at first frightened off, it returned to the
spot and was netted. In a garden at Horsey, in Norfolk,
August 29th. Other captures iu or near gardens are re-
ported from that and other counties.

^Vhither do these butterflies go in the winter ? it has been
asked. At least a fair proportion survive the ungeuial season,
and come forth to deposit eggs in the spring, in the instance
of the Vanessidaj. It was therefore hoped that the abundance
of Autiopas last year would leave a certain balance of them
that, defying bii'ds and entomologists, might continue the

June 12, 1873. J

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AXD COTTAGE GARDENER.

467

choice species this spring. Some hybernating specimens were
observed, one in a hollow tree, another beneath a heap of
stones, and another under rockwork, and some of the butter-
flies likewise get into woodstacks, it may be presumed, like
their relatives. We will hope that those now coming forth on
the wing (for several appearances of Antiopa have aheady been
noted) will be spared by the boy insect-hunters, who are rarely
discriminating.

Our entomological journals give us no account of the capture
of the butterfly in this country in its early stages. The eggs
are presumably laid in April and May, and the caterpillars, at
least while young, feed in parties — so they report from abroad.
I imagine, however, that the account quoted by Benuie of the
harm done by these iu some districts on the Continent is a
mistake, since V. Polychloros is more likely to be the insect
referred to. This caterpillar has long compound spines, the
body and head are black, with a few reddish spots, according
to Hubner, and the chrysalis is also blackish and much angu-
lated. These particulars we may, perhaps, verify in Britain
during 1S73.

A pretty Uttle moth belonging to the Geometriue section is
not uncommon in our gardens about this time (there^are some
counties, however, in which it is rarely seen). Some seasons
it would be about after the winter's pupation, in the week I
am writing, but the temperature has given it a check. This is
the Waved Umber (Hemerophila abruptaria). In the day-
time it sits upon walls and palings, where it easily escapes
notice when the latter assimOates to its own colour ; and even
upon a tarred paling it deceives the eye sometimes, as it rests
with expanded wings, looking like a withered leaf which has
been fastened there by some spider. The wings are beautifully
varied with lines and tints of brown, in some specimens of a
much deeper hue than in others ; but the most conspicuous
markings are central dots on the forewings, with a long deep
brown patch, bounded by a waved black line ; the hindwings,
which have scolloped margins, show also a broad dark baud,
edged by black on one side, and fading into light brown on the
other. The males may be at once distinguished from the
females by their feathered antenna;. Of course these moths
must be on the wing at some hour in the evening, but I have
never caught one flying.

Occasionally there is a second emergence of this moth in
August, owing to the rapid feeding-up of the summer cater-
pillars ; this rarely occurs in the \'iciuity of London, however.
The ordinary course is that the caterpillars hatch-out in June
or July, feeding in gardens upon the Lilac, and less frequently
upon the Rose, but never iu such a number as to be in any
degree injurious. They will also eat leaves of other plants, as
the White Thorn and Black Thorn. These are of aduUbrowu
colour, and " loop " in walking ; in the day the}' are frequently
at rest on twigs. Mr. HelUns says that when first hatched
tiiey have a purple stripe on the back, which disappears at the
first change of skin. When they have passed the last change
of skin they exhibit a white ring behind the head, which is
very conspicuous. Newman states that the adult caterpillar
" spins a silken cocoon on the twigs just behind the point
where two twigs separate." I have not seen the cocoon thus
placed, and in a state of captivity the caterpillar usually forms
a cocoon on the surface of the earth. The Small-waved
Umber (Phibalapteryx vitalbata) has a superficial resemblance
to the preceding, though less in size. It is not of general
occurrence in gardens, though a straggler may occasionally fly
in. This caterpillar is a feeder on the " Traveller's Joy "
(Clematis Vitalba).— J. R. S. C.

hke of which has not been heretofore seen in the West of
England. The exhibition, which will be held on the Wednes-
day evening (June 25th|, will be devoted to the illustration of
the growth, structure, and products of plants, and to the
animal pests affecting the vegetable world.— (/><(( /i Express
and County Herald.)

EoYAi. HoHTicuLTURix SociETi's Bath Show. — We under-
stand that apphcation has been made by one firm in the
neighbourhood for three thousand tickets, which will be dis-
tributed among the employees. Mr. Eyles has been again
busily engaged allotting the space for the tents and machinery,
the re-arrangement of which was rendered necessary by the
large number of entries. In the principal tent a quantity of
perforated stones obtained from Claverton Down has been
artistically grouped so as to form a grotto and cascade. It is
intended to adorn this ornamental erection with Ferns, and
■when finished it is likely to prove one of the " lions " of the
Show. We are glad to hear that the soiree of the Microscopical
Society will be one of the special elements of attraction during
the week. The Bath and Bristol Associations have united for
the occasion, and as a result of the exertions of the combined
bodies, we are promised such a collection of microscopes the

KOYAL BOTANIC SOCIETI'S SHOW.

June 11th axd 12th.

The second summer Show of this Society opened yesterday,
aud in the florioultural department is good, though perhaps
thinner than usual. The exhibition of fruit, however, is meagre
in the extreme. The weather on the first day was favourable ;
and as Messrs. Lane's Rhododendrons were in full bloom, the
Exhibition, taken as a whole, was so far an enjoyable one.

In stove and greenhouse plants Mr. Barnes, gardener to H.
MichoUs, Esq., Southgate, as usual takes the lead with magni-
ficent specimens, which have nearly all been noticed in the
reports of previous shows. He is first for twelve, Mr. Ward
bemg second, and Mr. J. Wheeler, gardener to J. Phillpott, Esq.,
Stamford Hill, third, and is aUo first for six, with Mr. J.
Wheeler second, aud Mr. Kemp, gardener to the Duke of North-
umberland, Albury Park, third. In the nurserymen's class
Messrs. Jackson & Son, of Kingston, Mr. Morse, Epsom, and
Mr. WiUiams are prizetakers with excellent collections. For
twelve in 12-inch pots Mr. Wai-d and Mr. Morse take the fore-
most positions.

Of Orchids there is a very good show, and the specimens are
well flowered. Mr. Ward, iu the amateurs' class for twelve, has
fine specimens of MasdevaUia Harryaua, Odontoglossum Alex-
andra, Cypripedium viUosum, and Phalieuopsis grandiflora;
while Mr. Cuthbert, gardener to Mrs. Adams, Enfield, and Mr. G.
Wheeler take the remaining prizes. Mr. Ward is again first for
six. In the nurserymen's classes Messrs. WiUiams, BuU, Morse,
and Jackson & Son have excellent examples of Aerides Lobbii,
Thunia Bensoniaj, and Thunia alba, Miltonia festiva, Anguloa
Clowesii, and Cypripediums. C. caudatuni from Mr. WilUams
has eighteen flowers, besides five unexpanded.

Of Koses in pots we only noticed one group, a fine one from
Messrs. Paul A- Son ; but passing to Show Pelargoniums, Mr.
Nye, gardener to E. Foster, Esq., Clewer Manor, fairly disposed
of ah lamentations as to the decline in the quaUty of the speci-
mens of this flower, by showing plants fully 4 i feet, some of
them we should think more nearly .5 feet, in diameter, and
bloomed to perfection. Fair Rosamond, Shakspeare, Desde-
mona, and MdUe. Patti are the largest, but closely pressing on
them come Lord Clyde, Woman in White, Alabama, Elegans,
and Rob Boy. When we add that Mr. Ward is second, the ex-
cellence of the first nine will be the better appreciated. Nestor,
Lord Clyde, and Bob Boy, as shown in his collection, are won-
derfully fine. Mr. James and Messrs. Dobson, of Isleworth,
take the remaining honours ; whilst for six, as also for the same
number of Fancies, Mr. Weir and Mr. James take the lead.

Heaths, Palms, fine-fohaged plants, and Ferns are very well
represented, Mr. Baines, among others, showing a fine Sarra-
cenia purpurea. Both Mr. Parker, of Tooting, and Mr. Ware,
have charming groups of hardy herbaceous plants, as well as cut
flowers of these. Mr. W. Paul exhibits Tricolor and other
Geraniums trained as low standards, and among them lanthe is
very conspicuous by the fine colour of its flowers, aud the free-
dorn with which they are produced. He also exhibits baskets of
Variegated aud Tricolor kinds. Among cut flowers, stands of
splendid blooms of Marechal Niel Bose come from R. Webb,
Esq., of Reading, and stands of mixed kinds from J. HoUing-
worth, Esq., Turkey Mills, Maidstone, and Mr. Chard, Claren-
don Park, Salisbury. Mr. Hooper, of Bath, has fine stands of
Pansies — Show, Fancy, and Bedding, also Ranunculuses. Messrs.
Jackman & Son, of Clematises, and Mr. Pestridge, of Uibridge,
along with a remarkably fine group of Tricolor Pelargoniums,
exhibits a rich-coloured highly-scented Clove Carnation. Mr.
Parker, of Tooting, has a collection of cut flowers of German
Irises and Pyrethrums ; whilst Mr. A. Forsyth, of Stoke Newing-
ton, exhibits a stand of Chrysanthemums, which in June are
certainly unexpected visitants.

Large groups of new plants are exhibited by Messrs. Veitch,
Mr. Bull, Messrs. RoUisson, Messrs. E. G. Henderson, and Mr.
WiUiams, also one of succulents by Mr. Croucher, gardener to
J. T. Peacock, Esq., Hammersmith. The certificates granted
for these were very numerous, and we cannot pretend to giva
anything hke a complete list of them. Messrs. EoUisson had
certificates for iEchmea bracteata and Gloxinia Brilliant, the
latter answering well to its name, having magenta-flushed
crimson lobes. In Messrs. Veitch's group (in which was the
rarely-seen Fremontia californica, and along with it stands
of Clematises), AraUa elegans, Adiantum speciosum, and Cypri-
pedium Stonei platytsemum were certificated ; in Mr. Bull's,
Draca;na amcena, Cyathea Burkei, Cycas imperialis, Odonto-

4C3

JOUEXAL OF HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

[ June 12, 187S.

glossnm Insleayii leopariTimim, Campsidium filicifolium, Croton
grande, Dracreua Fraseri, and others; aud in Mr. Croucher's,
Agave Gilbeyi, A. striata Richardsoni, A.Baxteri, A. Kerchovei,
and two or three more. E. Foster, Esq., bad also a first-class
certificate for Show Pelargonium Grand Monarque, very fine
form, rose, veined with deep rose, dark top edged with rose,
white throat.

In the Friiit division of the Show there are half a dozen Queen
Pines, some of which may weigh 2S lbs. The best single fruit
of that variety, as well as the best pair, is from Mr. Hepper,
gardener to E. O. Ledward, Esq., The Elms, Acton. The best
dish of Black Hamburgh Grapes comes from Mr. Bashford, East
Sutton, Kent; the second best from Mr. Coleman, gardener to
Earl Somers, Eastnor Castle — these are very well finished, as
also are those from Mr. Bannerman, gardener to Lord Bagot,
Blithfield. Mr. Little, gardener to Sir G. East, Maidenhead, is
first for a 12-lb. basket. Mr. Bannerman and Mr. Davis, gardener
to C. Scholefield, Esq., Hanley, show the best Black Prince,
not large, like all the fruit this year. For two dishes of Peaches
(distinct), Mr. Coleman is first with A Bee and Early Grosse
Mignonue, fine ; Mr. Bennett, gardener to the Marq>iis of Salis-
bui-j', an excellent second ; and Mr. Bannerman third with Eoyal
George and Millet's Mignonne, which latter, if correct, is a
synonym of Koyal George, to which, indeed, the fruit on casual
examination bore a close resemblance. Hunt's Tawny and Elruge
Nectarines from Mr. Kemp, gardener to the Duke of North-
umberland, Albury Park, Guildford, walked over the course
with the only dishes exhibited.

Of the few Melons shown, the best in the Green-fiesbed class
is Bellamore Hybrid from Mr. Cross, and in the Scarlet-fleshed
Moretou Hall, from Mr. Coleman.

For a single dish of Strawberries, Mr. Davis comes first with
President; Mr. Bennett second with Dr. Hogg; Mr. Plumridge
third with Sir J. Paxton. The best Cherries are Elton and
Black Tartarian from Mr. Miles, gardener to Lord Carington,
Wycombe Abbey, and Rose de Lyon from Mr. Ward, Bishop
Stortford, the last remarkably fine. Mr. Coleman sends good
Brown Turkey F'igs, and Mr. Gardiner, Lower Eatington Park
Gardens, several dishes of Apples in good preservation.

EXTEACTS FEOM DB. HOOKER'S EEPORT

ON THE BOYAL GABDEN.S AT KEW, DDEING 1872.

DiiiiiN-G the year 1872 the Eoyal Gardens were visited by
E53,2i0 persons, an increase of a little more than UOUO over the
numbers in 1871. The numbers of each class of visitors were
much the same as in last year, except that there was a greater
attendance of professional gardeners, an increase attributabie
chiefly to the greater facilities for naming the Ferns and orna-
mental herbaceous plants. Increased interest has also been
shown in the arboretum as it progresses towards completions
and especially in the collections of deciduous trees, the planting
of which has in this country, during the last quarter of a century,
been to a very great extent superseded by that of Conifers.

The degree to which the displacement of deciduous trees and
shrubs by Conifers has extended in England is best illustrated
by a comparison of both public and private parks planted during
the last century and the beginning of this, with those more
recently laid out, and an examination of nurserymen's catalogues
gives the same result.

Thus, in the Kew grounds, as at those of Sion House, Bicton,
&c., very many kinds of South European, Western Asiatic, and
American timber trees, besides numbers of shrubs, still survive,
few or none of which are now planted or are to be had in English
nurseries; and even twenty-five years ago, when the Kew
arboretum was commenced, various American Maples, Oaks,
Poplars, Limes, itc, were procured in England, for which resort
must now be had to continental nitrserymen or to America.

The demand for deciduous trees and shrubs is rapidly reviv-
ing, and over and above the interest of this department to
botanists, I have every reason to believe that the named collec-
tion in the Kew arboretum will soon be as much frequented by
planters and landscape gardeners as the Botanic Ciarden and
plant-houses now are by amateurs aud professional gardeners.

The American garden at tlie back of the Palm house, which
had not been renewed since its formation in 1847, has been in
gi-eat part renovated. A named collection of Ivies has been
placed along the Eoee walk, the species being trained up tree
stumps 8 feet high, which alternate with the pillar Eoses.

A great improvement has baen effected by the Works Depart-
meui in the painting of the plant houses, both as regards the
durability of the composition and the colours used. The intro-
duction of a little blue on the girders of the long succulent
house (200 feet long), and the temperate house in the pleasure
grounds, has been much approved. The dark green glass with
which the Fern houses have been glazed has answered well, and
I have had very numerous inquiries respecting its use in this
establishment. I have no reason to suppose that it has any
specific effect whatever on the plants grown under it, beyond
that, by partially intercepting the sun's heat rays, it prevents

scorching of the plants and drying-up of the houses, whence its
use in doing away with the necessity for expensive shading
during a great part of the year, and in days of alternate sun and
cloud, is very manifest, as also in maintaining a more uniform
temperature and humidity.

The labour and expense involved in procuring ground tallies
for such a large collection are great, and the subject is fuE of
difficulties ; I have, consequently, numerous inquiries from
public aud private establishments, especially in the United
States and the provinces, as to the best kind of tally to adopt ill
public gardens, parks, &c. The tallies should be so firmly
planted in the ground as not to be easily removed — so strong as
to resist the blow of the butt end of the scythe, so legible as to
be clearly read, aud, indeed, to attract attention at five paces*
distance, and should last many years without repainting. Maw's
parian tallies are imperishable, aud -by far the neatest, but they
are shivered by a scythe blow. Cast-iron tallies, well smoothed^
and painted black on a white gi-ound (with the best paint,
thoroughly ground and mixed), if well done, should last from,
eight to ten years at least ; a great number of these are in use
in the arboretum ; the best have an oblong top or face of 5 by
4 inches, and a leg 10 inches long. The face is perpendicular
(not slanting backwards from the leg), and the top edge is shai-p,
to prevent birds sitting on it and defiling the writing. Experi-
ments are being made of coating the paint with paraffin, the
results of which will be reported hereafter. A trial is being
made of Slate, Teak, and Australian Gum-tree wood taUies,
15 by 3 inches, of which the upper 9 inches are painted white
with black letters (reading vertically, like a pot tally.)

Hanging wooden tallies are very durable, but are not always
easily discovered on the trees, and from hanging obliquely are
pulled aside to be read, and hence detached by visitors, who
afterwards simply fling them on the ground. They should be of
a light wood (good deal answers well), hung with well-tarred
twine or strips of oiled hide.

Iron hanging labels, fixed with wire, are very objectionable,,
their weight and motion in the wind soon breaking the wire.

The writing on the tallies is confined to the vernacular name
(given only when in common use), the Latin name with its
author's initials, and the native country. Synonyms are added
only when the plant is equally well or better known under such^
English names not in general use, and especially such as axe
formed by translating the Latin one, are useless and pedantic^
In the case of varieties, the varietal name follows the specific.

The receipts during the year have been 2700 seed packets, and
11,240 plants of all kinds.

The accessions to the herbarium are of exceptional importance
as regards novelties. The number of specimens acquired during
1872 has been about 17,500, of which 1500 were purchased, and
the rest procured by gift or exchange.

[It is very gratifying to note the continued increase of visitors
to Kew Gardens, for it is an unmistakeable evidence of the in-
crease of taste for healthy amusement and information. More
than 600O visitors went in 1872 over the previous year, and on
Whit-Monday of the present year there were 59,152 visitors, all
very orderly aud well conducted. This is by far the largest
number ever there on one day. On the Whit-Monday of last
year there were 37,795 visitors. — Eds.]

THE EHODODENDEON SHOWS.

EvEEY year, as June comes round, those marveHoiis masses
of colour at what are called the American Shows are brought
before our eyes. They are dazzling in the extreme ; once Been
they are never forgotten, even by those least sensible to the
beauties of plants.

At the Eoyal Horticultural Society's gardens at South Een.
sington, Mr. Anthony Waterer, of Knap Hill, Woking, fur-
nishes the Exhibition, and an extensive and excellent one it is,
occupying a vast tent at the southern side of the garden.
Owing to the backwardness of the seafou it has only just
attained to beauty, and will probably continue in fine condi-
tion for a fortnight or three weeks. When we visited it the
other day there were many plants only in bud, and several
seedlings only coming out. Among kinds more especially
conspicuous for their beauty of colour aud free-flowering we
noticed Alexander Dancer, bright rose, very free ; Brayanum,,
an old aud well-known variety ; Charles Bagley, extra fine,
cherry red ; Old Port, rich plum ; Stella, pale rose ; Titian,,
scarlet ; and Towardii. Mr. A. Waterer has also a similar exhi-
bition at Manchester.

Messrs. Lane, of Great Berkhampstead, as already noticed,
make the exhibition at the Eegent's Park, aud have shown that,
though not having peat soil.Ehododeudrous can bo brought to
perfection with them. Their show is now a sheet of bloom,,
and does great credit to their euterpiise in what, as regards

June 12, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOETICULTUEB AND COTTAGE GARDENER

469

Lonilon at loast, is to them a new field. "We have so often
noted varieties of excellence that it seems to bo travcUing over
the same ground again to repeat tho names aud colours of
the best, but the following are especially noteworthy — viz.,
Sir Robert Peel, Mrs. John Glutton, Lord John Russell,
Madame Vau der Weyer, Towardianum, Verschaffeltii, Levi-
athan, Fastuosum flore-pleuo, Everestianum, Alarm, Duchess
of Sutherland, Lady Armstrong, The Queen, Sherwoodiauum,
Victoria, Sh- Isaac Newton, and Titian.

LETTERS FROM JAPAN.— No. 1.

[The foliowiui? are OKtracts from one of a series of letters written to the
" Art Journal " by Mr. John Tasker Foster, formerly of York, for many
years in the Eleetric Telegraijh Company's service, and now an oflioer in
the employ of the Emperor of Japan as TeloRraph Engineer in that
.country. We ore indebted for them to the father of their intelligent writer.]

A YISIT TO J.iPAN.— THE KIOTO EXHIBITION.
I WILL endeavour to give your readers an account of Kioto,
:aud a description of the three national exhibitions now being
held here, aud which are opened to all foreigners who have
obtained a passport from their consul. Of course, being in the
service of the Mikado I required no such passport, as my
officers and guards cleared me at the three custom houses. I
left Osaka at 6 a.m. on the 1st May, for Kioto, by Japanese
steamer, and I arrived at Fushima, which is about seven
miles from Kioto, where we had tiffin, at 3.30 p.m., aud pro-
ceeded in jiu-ri-shos from that place. A jiu-ri-sho is a kind of
light spring carriage, which can be covered with a hood in
case of rain. I required ten in number to carry myself, my
officers, aud baggage, and we arrived at Kioto in about an
hour aud a half. Each carriage is drawn by two coolies. The
general speed is about six to eight miles an hour.

Kioto is one of the principal cities in Japan, and was, until
two years ago, the residence of the Mikado, where his palace
and that of his imperial mother is situated, both being of
great extent, aud surrounded by waUs. Kioto is about forty
miles from Osaka, aud the principal trade is linen manufacture ;
in fact, it is the Manchester of Japan. The town is located on
a flat area ; but a splendid view can be obtained from any of
the numerous temples on the hillsideis. The population is esti-
mated at about one million. The exhibitions which I am about
to describe were held in three temples. The first one I visited
is called Kenninji. It is hardly one mile from Nakamuraiya-
Juitei's Hotel, which is conducted on the European principle.
The rate of charge is four dollars per day without wine, so it
is rather expensive ; but I only paid three dollars, as I am a
regular customer of Juitei at Osaka.

Arriving at the Exhibition we purchased for one dollar three
passes. To those who have been to the South Kensington
Museum it will not be difficult to realise the interior of most
of the rooms at each of the Kioto Exhibitions. The " curio "
stands proper might have been taken from the Soulages col-
lection. The same medley of warlike, ecclesiastical, and
domestic relics of media3val times are to be found here as in
their prototype in London. Owing to the absence of descrip-
tions in European languages, more noticeable among the curios
(which to the ordinary sight-seer are more wanted than even
in the other departments), I was obliged to adopt the ouly
course open to me, of asking for information respecting such
articles which from their beauty or singularity attracted my
notice. The collection would appear to a stranger to be rich
in native and Chinese gold and copper coins, silver being less
numerous. One of the huge oval gold coins yclept " ooban,"
was pointed out to me as having been presented by the Shoguu
Hide-yoski, who flourished some three hundred years ago, to
the priests of the Great Osaka Pagado Temple, called Tennji.
In those days the " ooban " stood for ten rios ; now it is
worth a hundred, and rarely to be met with. I noticed that
they were all in small and shallow cases, with loose glass lids,
and, if safe in Japan, they certainly would not be so for half
an hour iu England at any exhibition of the same kind. Near
the coins is an arrow-head of iron, stated to be a thousand
years old. Here, too, are several of the curious bell-like
" ye-ki-de," both of bronze and of iron. These were given by
the Emperors to their envoys when sent on business of great
importance, seemingly having the same use as signet rings
occasionally had with us in the middle ages. Near these last
were the hon seals of a great Chinese warrior, and a small
statuette of the hero himself. Musical instruments in great
variety, including the " sho," not unlike a piccolo, the harp-
like sounding koto, drums, aud flutes in great numbers. One

group of Chinese musical instruments is said to have beeu
made during the Ming dynasty. One of a number of gongs is
credited with eight hundred years' existem c. From either this
or one of its fellows can be produced by far the richest bass
notes that ever I heard from any such an instrument. After a
cup of the delicious Uji tea, I paid a visit to the bird room. A
pair of peacocks attracted my attention — the price asked was
eighty-five dollars. Among the varieties here are a pair of
acho birds, about the size of blackbirds, but canary-coloured,
except a few feathers on the head and wings, which are black.
They are valued at sixty-five dollars the pair. But tlw birds
of the collection are a pair called by the Japanese Kin-Kamo,
blackbirds, rather larger than the acho, with orange biUs and
a bright yellow patch on each side of the head. These birds
seem to repeat all that is whistled, and a good deal even of
what is said to them. In the tea room are on sale sample
packets of tea, from twenty-five cents each ; tea caddies at a
rio each ; painted and carved figures made of the wood of the
tea tree, thirty-five and fifty cents each ; and, most curious,
perhaps, of all, pots of tea flower-buds, preserved in sugar,
five cents each. There are also to be had the tea-powder
biscuits. In a large wooden box are three tea shrubs ; one,
which is about 12 inches high by 12 inches in diameter, bears
the following inscription, " Tea tree old for 7 Jears." There
are also other two trees with the same mistake, which is the
fault of the careless translator. Three aquaria were also there,
but were all unfinished. A large water lizard, which was in-
tended for one of them, was placed in a large tub, and around
him the unconscious minnows, which are destined for his
tiffin.

The adjoining room contains a collection of foreign and
native drugs and medicines, half-decayed tiger bones, coiled
and dried snakes, cockroaches, newts, &c. Another place, not
unlike a decent lumber-room, is filled with an extensive col-
lection of seeds of all sorts, sizes, and colours ; dingy screens,
only one or two of which, in the absence of all knowledge of
their history, appear of interest. Last of all, in a kind of
outer gallery, is a small and anything but remarkable collec-
tion of plants iu pots. One was like something of the Currant
tribe, a tolerably good Polyanthus, some Primulas, and a pretty
and rather uncommon-looking red-flaked white Camellia. A
basket of earth attracted my attention, and on inquiry I was
told that it is a peculiar kind of mould much prized by the
native florists.

On the following morning I visited Chioin, by far the most
picturesquely-situated of all the three Exhibition Temples, and,
on the whole, I think the most interesting. The Exhibition is
held in what, so far as I could see, is the uppermost of the
many buildings which constitute the Temple of Chioin. A long
and winding flight of stone steps leads from just below the
main entrance of Juitei's Hotel, which latter was formerly one
of the priestly residences. It is situated in the temple grounds,
on the right of the Chioin exhibition building. On two sides
of the Exhibition are two pretty lakes with rocky islands and
overhanging trees and shrubs, which grow in the wildest luxu-
riance. Upon entering the Exhibition, the first conspicuous
objects were some very wide rolls of thick waxed or oiled paper.
The widest of these were probably 15 feet iu breadth. Most
of the material was plain and of a yellowish-white colour, but
some were embellished with coloured scrollwork, and other roUs
were faintly embossed. Passing this I entered what might well
pass for the museum of some Japanese inspector of weights
and measures. Here were scales, steelyards, aud dry aud wet
measures of all sizes, ages, and descriptions. Some worm-
eaten and time-worn square wooden grain measures bore dates
which left the Houganji oamlle quite in the shade. Here are
some verbatim specimens of the English inscriptions affixed
to them: —

13th year of Auvo, 304 years ago.

16th yeai- of Eisobo, 354 „

2ud year of Kenmu, 539 „

A pretty decent old age for a quartern measure ! Near these,
two gourds, with iron frames and handles, are inscribed,
"Used by Taiho." Twu more gourds were marked "Great
Calabash." Near here are a lot of skins, but none remarkable
iu any degree. A quantity of natural history specimens, as
sculls of tigers, bill of ken fish, three-footed frogs, etc. ; but
curio of curios — " Tochiu kaso " — this was marked in English,
" This insect will change to grass when the summer comes."
It did not look to me as if it would change to anything more
wonderful than dust, but no doubt the translator knows best.
From these we next encountered a lot of dye stuffs, drugs, &a

470

JOUBNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB.

[ Jane 12, 187S.

One monster is labelled " Uttkon of Corea," and was, I am
told, brought from thence in Japanese craft, showing, if true,
that the country is opened to the Japanese, at any rate ; and
finally a lot of desiccated native delicacies— sea slugs, sea-
weeds, and Mushi'ooms.

Eetracing my steps I proceeded to inspect the toilette de-
partment. Here are tooth powders, face powders, carnation
and green bronze-hned bowls for lip-tinting, hair pins in silver
and gold, some coral-mounted and others gold-set; combs in
ivory, tortoiseshell, &c. — a beautiful tortoisesheh bowl about a
6 inches by 4, attracted my notice ; — hair ties, wigs, chignons
(for the Japanese all wear chignons, or, at least, ninety-nine
out of a hundred women), silk sewing threads, braids and
cords of all breadths, colours, patterns, and sizes. Near these
are a number of musters of raw silk, the choicest being under
glass — one very coarse sample of dirty yellow ochre-colour is
labelled " raw silk of Corea ;"— a card of silkworm's eggs in a
glass case, in which some of the " seed " has hatched. Leaving
these I entered upon the final room of the silk department.
Here are scores of rich robes of bygone priests and princes, all
heavy with gold embroidery. The walls are hung with ancient
tapestry of many a wonderful design, but as there was no
account attached to them I cannot give you further particu-
lars. Here was a black gauze head-dress labelled, " a crown
worn by Taiko." A beautiful fan, its gold and colours as
fresh as if painted but yesterday, is stated to have belonged to
a former Empress. Patterns of sUk concluded the Exhibition,
and they were of great variety.

I have given you a short account of the contents of the first
series of exhibitions attempted by the Japanese, and I must
on the whole congratulate them upon their success. I am in-
formed that they intend to attempt one in Yedo next year,
which will, no doubt, be well attended by the foreign com-
munity. You will, I think, agree with me that I am now
living in a country the most remarkable, and with a people the
most surprising, in the known world. — J. Taseer Foster.

FLOWERS FOR OUR BORDERS.— No. 9.

TROP^OIiDM SPECIOSUM.— Showy Indian-Ceesb.

The genus Troproolum bids fair to become in time one of
considerable extent, for not a year now elapses in which
several additions are not made to it. The curious structure
of their showy flowers, and the freeness with which they are
produced by most of the species, have rendered them general
favourites ; and from their extensive range throughout South
America, where they are found from Venezuela to the most
southern part of Chili, generally at a considerable distance
above the level of the sea, species may be selected suited to
every class of cultivators, from those whose means enable
them to indulge their plants with an artificial cUmate, to
that more numerous section restricted to the cultivation of
hardy plants.

The TropfEolum speciosum is a perennial plant, and well
adapted for cultivation in the open border during the summer
months ; whether it is in the fuUest sense of the word hardy
we are not yet in a condition to state, but there can be no
doubt that it will bear our mild winters.

The roots are not tuberous, as in the case of T. tricolor and
Bome others, but fibrous, like those of Lobbianum and crenati-
florum. When planted in the open ground a border by a west
wall will be found the most suitable situation for it ; if on a
south wall it should be partially shaded, as the plant does not
well bear full exposure to sunshine : it flourishes most in a
compost of turfy loam, peat, and sand roughly mixed, but wUl
do very well in any good garden soil where these ingredients
are not easily attainable. It is not advisable to plant it in a
rich manured border, as this would result in the production
of foliage at the expense of the flowers.

When the plant is grown in a pot, or preserved in one
through the cold season, the stems usually make their appear-
ance about February or March, according to the temperature
at which it has been kept ; but if allowed to remain in the
borders during winter, and covered with a hand-light, over
which a thick matting should be thrown in severe weather,
they will begin to grow in April, and as long as there is any
danger of frost the hand-light must be allowed to remain. In
May, however, all covering may be removed, and with the
genial temperature common to this mouth the plant will make
rapid progress, and speedily reach the height of 5 or G feet.

As it is a climber, some provision must, of course, be made
for supporting its feeble stems ; and for this purpose we

know of nothing more suitable than a flat wii'e trellis, or one
composed of narrow splines placed diagonally across each
other, the side pieces being of something rather more sub-
stantial. The lower ends of the two upright pieces should be
well charred, which will retard theu- decay when thrust into
the ground, and if to this precaution we add that of well
painting the whole of the treUis, it will then last for years.
If the trellis is of wire, it should be kept from immediate con-
tact with the wall to allow the stems to intertwine freely. The
plant forma an elegant object trained against a verandah, and
a striking effect may be produced by associating with it young
plants of the annual T. aduncum, also called canariense or
peregrinum, with which we anticipate it will hybridise. The
small wire globes and trellises may be employed for specimens
grown in pots, but they are quite unsuited to the plant when
cultivated in the open borders, where it attains a much larger
size.

Tropaeolam Bpeciosuro.

The bright carmine-tinted flowers appear in June, and ar9
produced in succession for at least two months. The plant
ripens its fruit very freely, and from the seeds thus obtained it
may be readDy increased, as well as by dividing the roots iQ
spring.

\fe know of few summer-flowering plants that more deserve
the little care requisite for its management.

We may remark, incidentally, that many of the species of
Tropffiolum are hardier than is commonly supposed ; ths
T. tricolor, in particular, flourishes in the open air in summer
— that is, when planted as we have recommended this speciea
to be, rather deeply in the open ground, and well protected
from frost and damp in winter by a heap of dry ashes, over
which a hand-glass or large flower pot is placed. It will then
grow prodigiously in the summer months, so as to be scarcely
recognisable by those who have been accustomed to see it only
in pots. — (W. Thompson's English Floicer Garden.)

Sweet-scented Tulip. — I last week had the pleasure of in-
specting at Laurel Bank, the picturesque villa residence of
A. Stirling, Esq., Galashiels, an unnamed sweet-scented Tulip,
the hke of which I do not recollect having met with before.
Tulips usually are void of any pleasing odour. None that I
am acquainted with merits being classed with sweet-scented
flowers. This at Laurel Bank is equal in fragrance to the
(inest-scented Eose. Mrs. Stirling, who is a great lover of
flowers, and a good judge of them as well, told me she pre-
ferred it for the delicious perfume which it emitted, as a cut
flower in the rooms, before any Kose. It is growing in an
outside border in rather a shaded position, where it was placed
some years ago. In form the bloom is semi-double ; in colour

Jano 13, 1S73. ]

JOURNAL OF HOKTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

471

an orange ground prettily striped Tvith chocolate. It would
be much appreciated in our conservatories and room vases, or
wherever odoriferous flowers are in demand. — J. M. C.

POKTEAITS OP PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND
FEUITS.

Odontoglossum vexillakium. Nat. onl., Orchidacea;. Linn.,
Gynandria Monaudria. — Native of New Grenada. We recently
pubUshed a portrait of the flowers of this grand Orchid. " The
plant was overlooked by Warscewicz, discovered by the late
lamented Bowman on the western slope of the Andes of New
Grenada, and sent home aUve, but in a dying state, first by
Mr. WaUis when collecting for Mr. Linden, and secondly by
Mr. Koezl, also dead, and lastly by Mr. Henry Chesterton, whose
plants flowered with Messrs. Veitch." — (Bot. Motj-, t. G0:!7.)

L.V.I. lA JoNGiiiANA. Nat. ord., Orchidacea. Linn., Gynan-
dria Monandria. — Native of BrazU. Flowers bright crimson
])uvple, the lips white, yeUow, and crimson. " According to
Professor Reichenbach this very distinct and beautiful plant
was discovered by M. Libon, an iU-fated young traveller, who
fell a victim to his zeal in the Brazils, and after whom the
pretty genus Libonia was named ; and the introduction is due
to Mr. de .Jonghe of Brussels, an eminent cultivator, after
wliom it was named in accordance with M. Libon's wishes.
Tlie specimen here figured was communicated by Messrs.
Veitch, with whom it flowered in March of the present year."
—{Ibid t. 60.38.)

13EG0NIA HERBACEA. A'«(. or(7. , BegoniaceiB. L/nn., Monoecia
I'olyandria. — Flowers white. " This singular species of Be-
gonia belongs to a small and very little known Brazilian section
of the genus, of which there are three supposed species, all
very imperfectly described. They differ from their congeners
in the moncEcious inflorescence, on which the male flowers are
raised on long scapes, and the females are sessile in the axils
of the leaves. The species here figured is a native of Rio de
Janeiro."— (/ti(Z. t. 6039.)

Grevia Sutherland:. Nat. ord., Sapindacea?. Linn., De-
candria Monogynia. — Native of Natal. Flowers scarlet. " This
singular and beautiful plant, which was raised by Dr. Moore
from seed introduced into the Glasnevin Gardens about the
year 185'J, has been so extensively distributed both by himself
and from Kew, that it is now one of the commonest plants in
European Botanic Gardens. Singularly enough, though grow-
ing very freely and even luxiuiantly in our greenhouses, it had
never flowered in Europe, except (I believe) in the south of
France, till March of the present year, when a small plant in a
6-inch pot, in the Chelsea Botanic Gardens, having been starved
for the purpose, threw off aU its leaves, and put forth instead
a raceme of coral-like buds, which the curator, Mr. Thomas
Moore, was good enough to communicate to me for figuring in
the " Botanical Magazine." This, though much inferior as to
its inflorescence to the wild specimens (which bear upwards
of one hundred flowers in racemes 2 to 3 inches in diameter)
is so characteristic, that I gladly take the opportunity of
figuring it.

" Greyia Sutherland! forms a smaU tree at Port Natal, de-
scribed by its discoverer, Dr. Sutherland, the Surveyor-General
of the colony and an ardent naturalist, as gi-owing in clefts of
much-exposed headlands, at elevations of 2000 to 6000 feet, in
the Drakenburg mountains, and flowering in August and
September (early spring). It was named after Sir George
Grey, K.C.B., Governor-General of the Cape Colouy at the
time of its discovery." — [Ibid. t. 60i0.)

Linaria iieterophylla. A'aJ.onZ., Scrophulariaceie. Linn.,
Didynamia Angiospermia. — Flowers white with yellow blotch.
" L. paUidiflora was raised from seed brought by Mr. Maw and
myself from Marocco in 1871, and flowered in July of the fol-
lomng year. It is a native of Sicily and Cyprus, but was dis-
covered by besfontaines in North -\frica, and described and
figured by him as L. heterophyUa in 1798. WiUdenow in
IMOO, referring all Linarias to Antirrhinum, in which there was
already an A. heterophyllum, altered the trivial name to
apariuoides ; lastly, Chavin, in 1833, restored the plant to
Linaria, but carelessly adopted WLlldenow's trivial name, in
wliich he has been followed by subsequent authors. The
Ij. tingitana of Bossier and Heldreich is a more robust variety,
with broader leaves, which has been gathered by Mr. Ball and
myself at Cape Spartel. The Mount Atlas specimens are much
more slender than those found nearer the coast. The L. vis-
cosa, Dnin., of Spain, is probably another form." — (Ibid.
(.,0041.)

Camellia — Princes.i Manj.—" In April, 186(), this very fine
variety of CameUia japonica was exhibited by Mr. Salter, of
Hammersmith, at a meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society's
Floral Committee, and was awarded a first-class certificate.
On the retirement of Mr. Salter the plant came into the hands
of Mr. Bull, of Chelsea. The plant is, we believe, of EngUsh
origin, and is remarkable for its bold and rich deep green foli-
age— a feature which adds very greatly to the value, as decora-
tive evergreen shrubs, of those varieties which possess it. The
flowers are of full average size, and furnished with broad,
smooth, stout petals, arranged with remarkable symmetrj-, and
of a bright crimson-red colour. It is a variety in every way
worthy of the most extended cultivation." — [Florist and Pomo-
loriitt, 3 s.,vi., 121.)

Peach — Princss of Wales. — " Our figtn-e of this noble late
Peach was prepared from specimens kindly transmitted by the
Rev. W. F. Radclyile. It is one of the novelties for which we
are indebted to the successful efforts of Mr. Thomas Rivers, of
Sawbridgeworth, who raised it from Pavie de Pompone. Mr.
Radclyfle remarks concerning it : — ' Its season here, at Okeford
Kitzpaine, is from about the Pith to the 24th of October. The
specimens sent had not arrived at their full size, which is
about from 9 inches to 10 inches, as, owing to the mischief
done by insects, I could not let them stay longer. The skin
is cream-coloured, and the cheek towards the sun is either
blush or mottled hke those sent. The flesh is melting for so
late a season, and not wooUy ; it is of good flavour, and the
flesh is very red for some depth round the stone. Though
raised from a clingstone, its flesh separates freely from the
stone. The trees here, three in number, are very hardy and
robust. It sets its flowers better than most sorts. Its flowers
are very large and lovely. The glands are round.'

" Our note of the fruit sent runs thus : — Fruit above medium
size, straw-coloured, with a greenish tint on the shaded side,
flushed with red where exposed, and there marked with ii-re-
gular spots and blotches of deeper purpUsh red. Flesh pale
yeUow, deeply tinted with red round the stone, which parts
freely. Dr. Hogg descrilies it as very large and terminated by
a nipple; the flesh melting, juicy, and very richly flavoured.
Very large ; one of the largest Peaches known, and one of the
most beautiful, its colour cream, with a rosy cheek ; melting,
rich, and excellent ; ripens just before Desse Tardive, and is
very valuable. Flowers very large and beantilaV— {Ibid.}

GARDENING IN THE WEST.

1.— BATH.

The origin of the term " Go to Bath" is, we beUeve, in-
volved in obscurity, and we are not aware that even the pages
of our curious contemporary " Notes and Queries" have ever
been enlivened by a discussion on the subject. It is generally
employed in a denunciatory sense to those who vainly attempt
to impose on the creduUty of others who consider they know
better ; but how it originated has never been satisfactorily
explained. Probably — and we merely throw it out as a hint
to those learned in antiquarian lore — it may have been used
to King Bladud when he related the circumstance of the pigs
rushing into "the oozy bed," and being cured of their dis-
order. Whatever force or meaning the expression may now
have, it was good advice proft'ered to the Council of the Royal
Horticultural Society when they were told this year to "go to
Bath."

This western city has for centuries been a centre of attrac-
tion. Here fashion has reigned and horticulture has flourished.
Its name has served as an adjunct to some of the commonest
and most valued of our commercial and domestic products.
Who has not heard of Bath buns and Bath bricks, Bath post
and Bath polonies, Bath cheese and Bath chaps? Some of
these, however, are only specialties in name, for the buns, the
post, and the polonies are now to be had elsewhere ; the bricks
always did come from Bridgewater, and the chaps are chiefly
manufactured at Cahie. But Bath horticulture, like its waters,
is especially cherished by its people. Though there are no
large gardens in or near the city, its inhabitants are a race of
gardeners. From the eai-Uest times there have been florists'
and horticultural societies in Bath. Bath Pinks and Picotees
have formed the subject of discussion at many a club, where
the members in long coats and bush wigs assembled round the
punch-bowl, relating their experiences while they whiSed their
yard of " Broseley." But here, as elsewhere, the modern hor-
ticultural society has supplanted the florists' club, and for
many years Bath has had one of the most important horti-

472

JOUHNAL OP HORTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GAKDENER.

[ June 12, 1873.

cultural societies in Euglaud, and its shows can boast of pro-
ductions as meritorious as are to be found at some where greater
pretension is made. Perhaps there is no place in England of
its size where ilowers are so extensively grown, and where ve-
getables are produced in greater excellence ; and although the
gardens about the city are small and the nurseries limited in
extent, there is no lack of the

true gardening spirit among the

inhabitauts. The Victoria Park, '

where the Exhibition of the

Eoyal Horticultural Society is

to be held on the 24th of this

month, is an evidence of the

public taste in this way.

The Royal Victoria Park, of
which we gave a plan at page
.388 of our present volume, oc-
cupies twenty-one acres, and
was laid out in 18oO,wheu 2.5,0(10
trees were used in planting it.
The architect was Mr. Edward
Davis, who at the time, and for
some years afterw.ards, took a
prominent lead in the advance-
ment of the horticulture of
Bath.

The principal approach to the
Victoria Park is from Queen's
Square, from which there is a
triplet entrance, the centre being
a wide cai'riage way, and the
two sides narrow gates for pe-
destrians, the two latter sur-
mounted each by a cast figure
of the British lion gamboUiag
with a cannon ball as kittens
gambol with a ball of worsted.
The ample drive, which is caUed
the Royal Avenue, ascends a
pretty steep incline, and winds
in a bold curve to the left,
where it is flanked on either
side by a handsome avenue of
trees, which stretches through-
out its whole length through
the park. The left side of tliiE
avenue, extending as far as the
obeUsk, is of various species
and varieties of Elms, and the
right entirely of Horse Chest-
nuts, which on the occasion of
our visit were in fuU bloom.

No sooner had we entered
upon this avenue than we saw
an index to the Bathouian mind,
to which we strongly request the
attention of Borough Boards
and other heads of departments.
Every tree in this avenue of
Elms is marked with a con-
spicuous and distinctly written
label, with the botanical and
English names ; and those who
wish for enlightenment on the
difficult nomenclature of the
many forms of the native Elms
will here find a ready and re-
liable help. These trees were
planted about forty years ago,
when study of permanent orna-
ment held the place which is
now given to temporai-y de-
coration, and before bedding-
out occupied so much of the
gardening taste of the country.
But here the Bathonian judg-
ment is displayed in fostering both tastes ; for though atten-
tion is stiU paid to the arboricultural specialty of the park,
seasonable decoration is not neglected. This is as it ought to
be. This is indeed true gardening. All one thing or all
another thing indicates poverty of taste and poverty of genius.
Horticulture is a various and versatUe art, and he who fails or

refuses to cultivate more than one branch of it is like a man
of one idea. The Victoria Park of Bath furnishes evidence
that the Bath people possess considerably more than one idea,
and can appreciate with varied tastes objects which are worthy
of all admiration.
But to return to the avenue. We found among the Elms

full-grown specimens of many varieties which it would be diffi-
cult now to find, or at least to identify. The nomenclature of
these has been carefully preserved, and we commend the study
of them to those of the forthcoming visitors to the Royal Hor-
ticultural Society's meeting who are interested in arboriculture.
Some of the specimens we remarked more particularly were

Ja3C 12, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTIGDLTUKE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEB.

473

Ulmns montana glabra, V. m. vulgaris, U. m. rugosa, U. m.
nigra, U. campestris, U. c. sarniensis, U. c. concav.tfolia, U. c.
cornubiensis or stricta, and one called U. glabra major, or the
Canterbury Elm, which appeared to us to be a variety of
montana, a noble fast-growing tree.

At a distance of 500 yards or thereabouts from the entrance
we come to another gateway, which has a small arch on either
side spanning the footpaths. These are surmounted with
sedate-looking sphinxes, as a contrast to the playful lions at
the entrance ; and about 100 yards farther on we come to a
third gateway, which is the entrance proper, and in front of
which, just inside the park, is the memorial obelisk shown in
our engraving, and which bears on its base a large medallion
portrait of Her present Majesty, and the following inscription
occupying the three sides: — "The inhabitants and visitors
of Bath to the Princess Victoria on the Attainment of her
Majority. '2-lth May, 1837." "Completed October, 1837, in
the first year of the reign of Queen Victoria. Vivat Regina."
"Victoria." "Her Maje.sty Queen Victoria, married to His
Royal Highness Prince Albert of Saxe Coburg and Gotha,
February 10th, 1840."

Beyond the obelisk the trees in the avenue become more
varied. Though still consisting mainly of Horse Chestnuts
and Elms, we see here and there the decided tone of the Purple
Beech asserting itself, the light foliage of the Ailantus, the
golden tassels of the Laburnum, and the gorgeous splendour of
the single and double scarlet Thorns, here and there varied with
the double white. .Just beyond the obelisk on the right is a
group of Hollies, and a little beyond are groups of large Yews
kept in a somewhat pyramidal form interspersed with Ever-
green Oaks, Laurustinus, and Portugal Laurels. A little farther
on there is a pond on the right with waterfowl, and on its
banks some venerable Weeping Willows. As we approach the
part where Park Lane unites with Weston Road we come to a
pretty undulating corner, nicely varied with mounds, glades,
and serpentine walks. This appears to have been formed by
considerable excavations of soil or stone, and the effect pro-
duced has been a great gain to the park. Mr. Ayrton might
do worse than take a hint from this for the improvement of
Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. With the views of eco-
nomy held by the present Government, we recommend Mr.
Ayrton to dig for gravel in the public parks, and instead of
offering these excavations as a "free shoot" for enterprising
builders to deposit their superfluous rubbish, let him entrust
them to Mr. Gibson or the other superintendents to deal with
them in such a way as to contribute towards the embelhshment
of the parks by breaking the monotony of the surface, which is
so characteristic of the parks on the north side of the Thames,
and thereby introduce landscape effects. These dells are
planted with great taste, and contain many excellent specimens
of Conifers and other evergreens, all of which are carefully
and correctly named. And just by way of finish there is a
great Jack- in-the-green with his head surmounting an Ivy bush ;
but whether the head represents that of King Bladud, Jupiter
Tonans, or the first mayor we cannot tell by the portrait.

The preparations for the meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society in the Park have made good progress. The framework
of the Exhibition tent has been for some time completed, and
the turf banks on which the plants are to be staged are already
firm and well clad with verdure. The day on which we visited
the spot we were pleased to see a man mowing the surface ;
and this is a great improvement on what we have had to regret
on some former occasions, when, during the whole time of the
Exhibition, the turf never looked otherwise than uncomfort-
able. The site of the Exhibition could not have been better
chosen ; it is commodious and picturesque. The design of the
Exhibition ground enclosed in the tent is admirable ; and if
the weather favour the Society, we prognosticate one of the
best and most successful meetings the Society has ever held
will be that which opens at Bath on the 24th of this month.

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

Mb. Geobge, the skilful gardener at Rood Ashton, in Wilts,
informs us that he can keep the Wasps from every Grape in
the houses, except Madresfield Court, and that he cannot save
from their ravages. They fairly beat him in the struggle.

If the meeting of the Royal Hoeticulturaij Society

AT Bath is not a success it will not be the fault of the Local
Committee; tor every town, village, and railway station in the
west is placarded with bills of attractive dimensions and
colours, enough to excite the population of the whole country.

We understand that at the forthcoming Exhibition of

the Royal Horticultural Society at Bath, the Mayor of that
city (Mr. Alderman Blaine) will give a gi'and banquet, after
the inaugural ceremony, to the Council of the Society and its
officers.

It is reported that Hemp, when the blossoms are just

opened, is an infallible presers'ative of textile fabrics against the
attacks of moths. The stalk, with leaves and flowers, is cut when
blooming (about July), and dried in the shade. It is said to
preserve its properties for several years. — (English Meehanic.)

Dk. J. E. Gkay says that the Wild Biids' Protection

Act is having an effect contrary to what was intended. The
fruit-growers of Kent and other parts, it appears, employ boys
to go about destroying the eggs in the nests of all kinds of
birds indiscriminately. Insect-eating birds, especially star-
lings, are the victims of this system, as well as those that
really do a "balance" of harm. — (KiipUsli Mecliaiiic.)

Dr. a. Kep.ner reprints from the Proceedings of the

Scientific Society of Innsbriick an interesting paper on the
means of Protection of the Pollen of Plants against pre-
mature displacement or damp. As the vitality of pollen is
immediately destroyed by exposure to the action of either rain
or dew, he finds in nature a variety of contrivances to protect
it against these injurious influences during the interval be-
tween its escape from the anther and its being carried away by
insects, these contrivances beiug generally absent iu those
plants where fertilisation is affected by the poUen being con-
veyed at once to the stigma by the wind. In plants with
coherent poUen, fertilised by insect agency, where some of the
anthers are so placed as to be necessarily exposed to the weather,
these are generally found to be barren, or destitute of pollen,
and where they would interfere with the entrance of insects
into the flower, they are altogether abortive or rudimentaiy.
Plants with coherent pollen, which require insect agency for
their fertilisation. Dr. Kerner behoves to be of more recent
geological occurrence than those with powdery pollen, which
requu:e only the wind to convey it to the stigma. — {Nature.)

NEW BOOK.

The Dhtribiitlon of liahi over the British Isles during 1872.
By G. J. Symons, F.M.S., &c. London : E. Stanford.
The name of the author of this little volume is a guarantee
of its accm-acy, and we commend it to our readers, not merely
because it contains the observations recorded at 1700 stations
during last year, but because it contains also full du-ections
for securing accurate results by those who keep registers of
the rainfall. One extract will indicate the nature of the
work's pi-incipal contents.

Mean Ratio of Rainfall during the six years 1860-65 to that
of the ten years 1860-69 (taken as 100) for England, Scotland,
and Ireland, and for the whole of the British Isles.

England 97.9 I Ireland 98.6

Scotland 99.8 | British Isles 98.8

" These results are remarkably accordant, for it will be found
that out of seventy-four stations,

16 do not differ more than 1 per cent.

30 „

44 „ „

54

58 ,, t)

73

and only 1 differs by more than
— viz., Cromarty Lighthouse, at which the fall during the six
years, 1860-65, was 7.2 per cent, above that during the ten years,
1860-09. .

" Moreover, it will be found that tliere is a general agreement
between adjacent stations, which testifies to the accuracy of
the observations upon which this table is based. The widest
differences are in the north midland counties, and are, perhaps,
due to the remarkably heavy local rains which have occurred
at isolated stations several times during the last few years, or
there may have been some alteration iu the position of one of
the gauges. Raising or lowering the orifice of any of the gauges
2 or :3 feet would produce quite as great a discordance as is here
noticed ; which, by-the-by, incidentally shows how carefully the
observations must be taken to render such a change the most
glaring feature iu the inquiry."

SHAPE YOUR TREES FOR THE WIND.
While few objects in the landscape are more beautiful to
the eye than a tine-formed evergreen or ornamental tree, so
none is more offensive to the true horticulturist and lover of

474

JOURNAL OF HCRTICOLTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Juue 12, 187S.

tbe beautiful in nature than au unsightly, neglected, and mis-
shaped tree of any kind.

In and around San Francisco, and in many of our valleys
and slopes, we are subject to strong periodical winds, which in
the spring and growing season, when the tree is heavy with
foliage, bends or careens the tree in one direction for a period
of time long enough to cause it to grow in that direction, for
" just as the twig is bent the tree's inclined " is fully veiitied,
as all " who have eyes to see " can see if they wiU but observe
as they travel over our State.

We will now point out briefly a sure remedy for trees ex-
posed to strong or sweeping winds, as the leaves of the tree
are its lungs by which life is sustained. It will be noticed that
trees bent over to a certain angle are bereft of their leaves on
the windward side, because the winds have a double force and
sweep them off on that side, while the opposite side of the
trees are full and the limbs grow larger, thus adding to their
weight, and this careens the tree over, causing it to grow into
a mis-shaped tree.

The remedy for this evil is easy. Prune the tree severely on
the leeward side, leaving double the (juantity of branches on
the windward, and leaving them thick ; these meet the force of
the winds and resist them, while the opposite side of the tree,
being shorn of weight, prevents the tree from careening over,
aud yet with less than half the branches on the opposite of the
tree it will grow faster and come up to a good form, aud make
a handsome tree, healthful, and pleasant to look upon. What
we say of an ornamental tree of any kind will apply equally to
fruit trees. — (Galiforiiian Farmer.)

WOKK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GABDEN.

Wheneveb it is necessary to water do so copiously, as a slight
sprinkling is worse than useless. Whenever the weather is
suitable for destroying weeds the hoe should be constantly plied
between all growing crops, both for the purpose of destroying
the weeds and retaining moisture. To maintain the strength of
Asparagus next year, no more of the produce should be cut.
Late and close cutting is, without doubt, one of the principal
causes of weak "grass." The plants of Cauliflowers which are
now forming their heads should be watered aud mulched with
short litter, this will cause them to be close and compact.
The advantage in planting in Cclenj trenches as we formerly re-
commended, will now be api)arent where adopted from the su-
periority over the jilants on the level ground. Continue to
plant successional crops of Celery in trenches; take up the
plants with as much earth around the roots as possible, and by
no means shorten any of the leaves. Immediately after plant-
ing give them a good soaking with water. The earlier crops
should have the earth loosened about their roots, as the frequent
watering it requires hardens the surface and prevents its receiv-
ing the benefit it should do from future waterings. To produce
fine Cucumbers the Unings of the frames should still be kept-
up, they should also be covered with mats at night, as it is
sometimes very cold. After the plants have been bearing for
some time and the shoots get a httle irregular, cut them back,
give them a good watering, and add 2 or 3 inches of fresh soil.
After this keep the plants nearly without air for a few days,
shading them when the sun is very powerful. Sprinkle the
plants with tepid water early every tine afternoon. With this
treatment they will make fresh shoots, and wUl be found more
productive than before. Make a sowing of the main autumn
crop of Endive. Plant-out a few of the early sowing. Iveep
them watered till they get roothold. Some of the Herbs will
shortly be fit to cut for drying. The best time for doing so is
just as they are coming into flower. Keeji a quantity of Lettuce
tied-up for blanching. Make another sowing in di-ills where
they are to remain. There is a much greater difficulty in pro-
ducing Mushrooms at this season than at any other, unless in a
house constructed for the purpose. It is necessary to keep the
temperature of the house down to 60' ; to do tliis water should
be frequently poured down so as to produce cold by evaporation.
Earth-up the main crop of Potatoes immediately after rain.
Keep the ground between the rows loose. Sow a few rows of
Spinach for succession; if the weather continue dry, water the
drills before sowing and again after covering them.

FRUIT G.aiDEN.

Wall trees demand attention in pruning and naihng. The very
gross-grow-ing shoots may be stopped to cause them to throw
out laterals. If there are any large shoots to remove, this is the
best time to remove them. Keep all the newly-planted fruit
tl'ees watered and mulched, and if dry v.eather continue all
wall trees would be benefited by a thorough watering. It will
be necessary if the weather continue dry to water Strawberries
copiously, afterwards lay straw ov short grass between the rows,
to preserve the fruit from dirt aud to retain moisture. Layer the

early runners in pots for forcing. Net Cherry trees and Straw-
berries to preserve them from birds. Remove all suckers from
Filberts as they appear, examine the young fi-uit, aud look after
caterpillars, as they are making sad havoc in some places. Shorten
and remove the summer wood of Gfooseberrics and Currants in
the manner recommended for fruit trees. Give the fruit of
Peach and Apricot trees their final thinning; nail the young
shoots close to the wall, leaving no more than can be fully ex-
posed to light, recollecting that now and not next spring is the
period for removing aU superabundant shoots.

FLOWER GARDEN.

I would wish to call the attention of your readers to two or
three important points relating to the flower garden which are
sometimes wholly neglected, or at others very inefficiently at-
tended to. In the first place I wish to see the thinning of hardv
annuals more generally adopted; one of the chief causes of their
remaining so short a time in flower may be traced to their being
so thick that it is quite impossible for them to branch out, and,
consequently, they only have a flower or two at the end of each
spindhng stem. From three to half a dozen plants in each
patch are quite sufficient to leave. Another point to which 1
would call attention is, the thinning of the flower stems of herb-
aceous plants. This is but very rarely done, but is not the less
necessary to insure good flowers. Staking is another operation
in which there is not sufficient care taken. The numerous flower
stems of herbaceous plants, and the mode of tying them up, give
them the resemblance of a green faggot set on end, rather than of
a hving plant. Half-hardy plants, such as Verbenas, &c., should
also be pegged down as much as possible with their heads to
the north, which will cause them to be drawn upright by the
sun more eflectuaUy than if they were pegged down at random.
Insects and caterpillars are becoming very numerous, there-
fore keep a sharp look-out to frustrate their attempts at colo-
nisation. As soon as the leaves of seedling Tulips become
withered take up the bulbs. Great care must be observed not to
injure them, as in most cases they push a bulb down several
inches into the ground. Let them dry gradually in tbe shade.
The bulbs of Ranunculuses should be frequently examined, as
the green caterpillar, scarcely distinguishable from the stalk,
often lodges just beneath them ; they are also much infested with
the cuckoo spit (Tettigonia spumaria), both of which are seriously
detrimental to the blooms. Where the flowers are sufficiently
advanced a light awning may be put over them. StUl persevere
in the extermination of the green fly on Carnations, either by
brushing off or using Scotch snuff, pufling on the buds by means
of a small indiarubber bottle with a tube in the neck. Take off
laterals as they appear, and reduce the stems thrown up by
strong-growing seedhngs to one, so that the energy of the plant
may be directed to the proper formation for blooming. If you
examine the heads of Pinks closelj' you will find some attacked
by a small grey grub which eats its way through the lower part
of the calyx and devours the inside. Continue to propagate
Pansies by slips or cuttings, and all seediugs of au inferior
character, or which are not a decided improvement on the va-
rieties ah-eady in cultivation, may be pulled up as they appear.

GREENHOUSE .4.ND CONSERVATORY.

While out-of-doors flowers may soon be expected in abun-
dance, nothing should be brought here at present but what is
well grown and rooted, nor should any plants be allowed to
remain that are at all shabby, for it seems a waste of means,
and certainly betrays bad management, to occupy glass houses
with plants of an inferior interest to such as may be expected
in the open air. It is not desirable, however, to crowd the
house w'ith flowering plants ; the aim should rather be to have
a moderate number of handsome specimens effectively arranged,
which wiU yield more sohd interest and pleasure than a greater
amount of floral display from plants of no individual merit. A
thin arrangement will also be advisable on account of the per-
manent occupants of the beds or borders, which at this season
should be allowed plenty of space in order to secure strong and
well-ripened wood, without which they need not be expected to
bloom finely. Use every means to keep down insects. Give
clear weak manure water to young growing specimens, and repot
any that are intended to have another shift this season, so as to
have the pots well filled with roots before winter. Maintain a
moist growing temperature, and syringe vigorously any plant
at all infested with red spider.

STOVE.

Many of the plants will require potting throughout the sum-
mer. Young seedUng exotics should be potted as soon as they
are sufficiently large. A hotbed would be the best place for
them until they make fresh roots, in the absence of which they
should be placed in the warmest part of the house and covered
with a hand-glass. Encourage backward plants of Orchids with
plenty of heat and moisture while it can be done with safety.
See that the plants on blocks and in baskets are properly sup-
plied with moisture at the root. To jjrevent any mistake in
this matter carefully examine every plant at least once a-week,
and immerse any found to be di*y in tepid water until the
1 material about the roots shall have become well soaked. Syringe

Jane 12, 1873. ]

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

475

lightly morning and evening, and sprinkle floors, &c., in order
to keep the atmosphere thoroughly moist.

PITS AND FRAMES.

As I have before observed, the frames for propagation will
at this season be better adapted for the purpose if placed facing
the north ; the bottom heat should be kept up, and the cut-
tings and young seedling plants duly supplied with moisture. —
W. Keane.

DOINGS OP THE LAST WEEK.
We have had a week of very favourable weather for all grow"
ing crops. A warm shower or two, and a much higher nigh'
temperature, have caused luxuriant growth.

KITCHEN garden.

With a free growth of all crops, " ill weeds grow apace." _ The
Dutch hoe has been kept at work wherever they made their ap-
pearance.

Peas. — We made another sowing of Champion of England
and Veitch's Perfection. This will be the last sowing of such
late sorts as Perfection. Our next sowing will be of Eastes'
Kentish Invicta, Laxton's Alpha, and Taber's Early Perfection.
On onr light gravelly sou late-sown Peas seldom do well, being
very liable to the attacks of mildew.

We have been catting very good Cauliflowers from the plants
that were put out under the hand-lijjhts in autumn ; the suc-
cession lot are also looking extremely well ; they were planted
on deeply-trenched highly-manured soil, and have had no artifi-
cial watering. The crops of Carrots and Parsnips have had a
final thinning, except in the case of the Early Horn, which is
singled out, so that a handful can be pulled when required for
the kitchen, and the crop be left sufficiently thick.

The earliest Celery has been planted out in trenches. We
prefer a single row in a trench ; others who have less spare
ground plant it out in beds, three or four rows in each. We
have been hoeing and thinning Sea-kale. Our practice is to sow
a certain space of ground every year; a large number of the
plants come in for forcing with the small plants of the previous
year's sowing, which are planted out early in the year, and of
course make the strongest plants.

ERUIT AND FORCING HOUSES.

Pine Apples. — Queens are swelling-off in the fruiting house ;
as soon as the fruit begins to change colour no more water is
applied to the roots. As a rule, the fruit is small with us this
year, and it seems that other people are no better oS than our-
selves. Though liberal prizes were offered at the last show at
South Kensington, very few growers came forward to claim
them, and the fruit exhibited were far from first-rate. When
the beds were renewed with fresh tan some time ago the pots
were not plunged to more than half their depth, in case the
roots should be burned; we shall now, if time can be spared,
fiU-in the bed with fresh tan up to the rims of the pots.

Vineries. — In the early houses, where the Grapes are ripe or
nearly so, there is very httle work required. Where the Grapes
are quite ripe we keep a cool temperature, but withal a dry
atmosphere ; it has been necessary all through to guard against
mildew. We know the atmospheric conditions that cause it to
appear, and so are on our guard ; prevention in this case is
much better than cure. In the late houses we do not remember
ever to have seen such strong growths ; the foHage is also stout
and healthy, and as the roof is quite covered with it, all after-
growths are stopped as soon as they appear. It is necessary to
go over the houses about every fifth day, so that the young
shoots may be stopped as soon as they begin to grow. All the
Grapes will be thinned before this appears in print. There is
no trace of red spider in any of the houses ; should it appear, it
is best to wash the infested leaves with a sponge dipped in
water in which soft soap has been dissolved. It is not advisable
to paint the pipes with sulphur until the Grapes have arrived
at the stoning period, as when they are in an early stage of their
growth they are very liable to rust.

Melons ripening in our earhest house have a drier atmosphere,
with a brisk heat from the hot-water pipes, and ventilation at
the highest part of the house at night. We have an excellent
crop of Tomatoes from the back wall ; the pots have been re-
moved to an airy cool house to retard the plants until they are
required. In the second Melon house there is a good crop of
Figs in pots. The Brown Turkey was our favourite at one time,
but we find Bourjassotte Grise a better-flavoured and more pro-
lific variety. Gros Verte is also a very dwarf-growing prolific
sort of excellent flavour. In a third house a few St. Michael's
and Tangerine Oranges are grown in pots ; they are some
trouble to keep clean, but we get a few dishes of remarkably
fine fruit from them about Christmas.

ORCHABD HOUSE.

The Strawberries are ripening, and necessitate much care
in syringing the fruit trees. A variety obtained from the
Continent named Alexander II., is one of the earliest to ripen,
and carries a most abundant crop of even-sized fruit, which is
large, cone-shaped, and of a bright crimson colour. President is

our standard sort ; it is also coming in. Amateur we will report
upon at another time; it is the most subject to mildew of any in
our collection.

Peaches, Nectarines, Plums, and Pears have been surface-
dressed. Nothing suits them better than the mixture recom-
mended by Mr. Bivers, of Sawbridgeworth — horse droppings
picked up from the roads, and an equal quantity of malt or kiln
dust added. We use horse droppings one part, malt dust one,
and one part of loam. This dressing starts the trees into luxu-
riant growth ; we have sometimes used weak manure water as
well, but this is injurious to the trees.

CONSERVATORY AND PLANT STOVE.

In the stove we have been repotting and rebasketing those
Orchids that were not done earlier. Nearly all the subjects here
are making rapid growth, and require a moist atmosphere with
a high temperature. Shutting up early in the afternoon, and
allowing the sun to shine on the glass for an hour or so, is better
than too much artificial heat at this season of the year. The
paths aud stages should be well sprinkled with water, and all
plants that require it should be syringed before shutting-up.
A gentleman who had hved in India came into our stove after
the house was shut-up on one occasion, and he exclaimed at
once, " This is exactly like Bombay in the rains."

The work here has been similar to that of last week, tying and
training cUmbers, picking decaying flowers and seed-pods from
Azaleas, Geraniums, ttc, and potting-on any plant requiring it.
Placing sticks to Liliums and Phloxes in pots. The LiUuma
succeed well with us; they are grown in cold fiames until
the growths come in contact with the glass, when the sides of
the frame are raised a foot higher on bricks, and by the time
the growths have again touched the glass the plants are placed
out of doors. We do not find L. auratum quite so hardy as the
varieties of lancifoUum. Tree Carnations have become infested
with green fly ; we have cleared them off with a camel-hair
brush ; this is sometimes more convenient than smoking when
only a few plants become infested.

FLOWER G-UIDEN.

Weeds are appearing in the flower borders, and the ground is
hard on the surface. We ran the Dutch hoe through all borders
and beds, and, the weather being favourable, planted out aU the
more tender bedding plants. Notwithstanding so much uncon-
genial weather, the bedding plants are looking very well and
making good growth ; under favourable auspices the beds will
be pretty well covered in ten days. Planted out Asters, Stocks,
and other half-hardy annuals. They had been pricked-out in
boxes, were well hardened-off, and having been lifted with good
balls of earth at the roots, they wiU grow away at once. — J.
Douglas.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.
*,* We request that no one will write privately to any of the
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing thoy
are subjected to unjustifiable troublo and expense. All
communicationB should therefore be addressed solely to
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, dc. 111, Fleet
Street, London, E.G.
N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until next
week.
Books {B. Adams). — '* The Treaauiy of Botany," Longman & Co., defines
botanical terms. " The Cottage Gardeners' Dictionary " explains many
gardening terms.

Horticultural Shows near London {T. TT.). — There is one at the Royal
Botanic Society's on the 9th of July.

PiNK-PLOwERED LABURNUM ( W. Qrfen). — We believe from the leaves yoa
enclosed that your tree is Cytisus purpureas. It occasionally bears some
yellow flowers, as the common Laburnum also sometimes bears purplish
or pink flowers. See what we said to a correspondent last week.

Rose Leaves Brown-spotted (E. Rathar). — Yonr Boses, as also yonr
grass, suffer from poverty of soil. Carefully scrape the top soil away from their
roots without disturbing them, aud mulch with good short pig manure. Re-
placing the soil, give guano water. Syringe the trees in the evening with clear
soot water, made by putting fresh soot into a tub of water, stirring well, and
using the liquid when it has settled. It must not be used too strong. Water
the grass with liquid manure, and sow White Clover and Medicago lupulina,
dusting a little tine soil over it. This had better he done in September or
March.

Gloxinia Seedlings (J. F.). — We never saw an unattractive Gloxinia, but
we do not think yours differ materially from many already in our houses. If
you like, you can send pot specimens to the next meeting of the Boyal Hor-
ticultural Society's Floral Committee.

Moles Destroying Garden Crop {A DUheartened Amateur). — We do
not know of any mode of destroying them except by trapping, which, how-
ever, requires some dexterity, especially in loose-dug ground ; for the mole,
instead of traversing its old run, is most likely to make a fresli one. In such
a case we have sometimes succeeded in catching it by trampling the ground
on each side of an important run very firmly, and carefully setting the trap
at that place, placing stones or other hard substances at each side of it
Moles often do much mischief ere they can be taken. Probably the Belgian
trap recently described might be adopted with advantage in light tillage
ground, for which it seems well adapted. The traps in common use, and of

476

JOUBNAL OF HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Jime 12, 1873.

which there are two or three kinds, would seem better suited to firm pasture
and, but in all cases skill in the setting is important in securing success.

KosES IN Pots for Spuing Eloomisq (H. N. O.).— The plants should be
potted at once into 8-inch pots, kept in cold frames at first till the roots have
taken hold of the soil, and then pliin;:;ed in a sheltered but sunny spot, where
they can ripen their wood. Care must he taken that worms do not get into
the soil. AVater freely, and give liquid manure when the plants aie well
established. It will do no harm to take a few blooms from the strongest
plants, but do not overdo it. Roses in pots reqiiire good soil, and crashed
bones are very useful for drainage. When in cold pits or frames stand them
en ashes.

CocoA-Nrr Fibre fob Cuttings (Idem).— It is best mixed with a little
light loam and silver sand, though many things root freely in it when it par-
takes more uf the nature of waste than of fibre. All the plants you name
strike freely in it, as nearly every softwooded plant does.

Tacsonia Van-Volxeui (Idnn).— It is hardy enough in any greenhouse
from which frost is excluded. Repot, and establish the plant before planting
in a border : it does much better in a border than in a pot. Train on wires
close to the glass, and thin-out weak shoots, allowing the leading shoots to
ramble at will.

Judas Tree (Mrs. C). — The flowers enclosed seem to be those of the Judas
Tree, Cercis Siliquastrum. They grow, as you describe, iu bunches. The
shrub with white flowers you mention, and popularly known as " Syringa,"
is the Philadelphus coronarius, or Mock Orange.

RosF.s {J. C. Go//).— The Rose is certainly not Mar-'chal Niel, and we think
it is CUmbing Devoniensis, though the petals had fallen so much that it was
rather difficult to be quite certain; still the leaf, bud, and petals correspond,
as also your description of its growth, with Climbing Devoniensis. ( W. F. R. ).
■ — The blooms of Baronne Louise Uxkull you sent are certainly promising, the
scent good, reminding us much of that good old kind the Duchess of Suther-
land, from which we think it is a descendant. It is difficult to judge of the
shape by blooms sent without water-tubes. It is somewhat deficient of centre
petals and too much incurved, from what we can judge of the specimens sent.
It is, however, decidedly, from what we have beard and seen elsewhere, a
good variety, and like a deeper-coloured Abel Grand, nearly approaching to
the colour of Jules Margottin or Marquise de Castellane.

Impregnating Melon Flowers {J. H. 5.).— The female flowers have the
fruit du-ectly under the flowers, whilst the male flowers are simply like female
:flower3 without the fruit below. Impregnation is effected by taking the
male flower when fully expanded by its stalk, and, whilst holding the stalk
between the finger and thumb, removing the corolla, then placing the central
part so as to touch the centre of the female flower; thus some of the pollen
5s placed on the stigma of the female. Tlie anther of the male, or the flower
, denuded of its corolla, may be left in the female flower. This should be
repeated on all the flowers, selecting a fine clear day when there arc several
flowei's open, so as to secure simultaneous setting with the requisite number
— three or four fruits — to each i)lant. It is not necessarj- to impresjuate the
flowers of Cucumbers unless seed be needed, then impregnate the flowers in
the same way as those of Melons. Cucumbers require to have more moisture
than I\Ie'ons, and the soil should be fighter. Melons require a strong loam
inade firm. "When setting, the atmosphere for Melons should be dry, also
when ripening.

DorBLE White Pelargontttms— Wintering Coleus— Fuchsias and
Pelakgoniitms for Market t3f.). — We do not know whether you mean
double white Pelargoniums of the Zonal or Show varieties, but of the show
varieties we only know of Album plenum ; whilst of the double Zonals, Alice
■Crousse, white with salmon centre, and Aline Sisley are good. Colvu^es are
best wintered from cuttings struck in July and placed in G-inch pots by Sep-
tember, and should have a light airy position in a house with a temperature
■of 45'^ to 5(P, giving no more water than sufliciGnt to keep them fresh. Six
Fuclisias are Avalanche (Smith's), Bine Boy, and Lord Calthorpe, these have
double corollas ; Arabella, Sedan, and Ki 11 iec rankle. GohU-ii Tricolor Pclar-
{/oniums—Mre. Rutter, Reynolds Hole, Mrs. Headly, Prince of Wales, Lady
<>ullum, and Achievement.

Camellias and Azaleas after Flowering (3f. Y. L.).— The plants are
to be potted if it be required, and placed in a house or pit with a teraperatuie
of 55= from fire heat, keeping moist, sprinkling overhead twice daily, and
shading from bright sun. Water moderately until the roots are working
freely in the fresh soil, then copiously. Admit air moderately, and let the
temperature rise to 65^ or 70° by day, and TS'' or 80° on bi-igbt days. After
the growth is complete admit air more freely, and when the buds aie set give
air fieely, and place the plants in a cold pit, under a wall, or in any spot
where they will be shaded from sun during the middle of the day. We do not
remove om- Camellias from the greenhouse. They have now completed then-
growth, and are shaded by tifftiny. The Azaleas are placed in gentle heat to
make fresh growth, and when it is completed they are moved to a cold pit,
and have abundance of aii- and light, with shade from jtowerful sun.

Watering NE-n'LV-PLANTED Bedding Plants (Stibscriber).— It is not
judicious to water newly-put-out bedding plants with liquid manure. The
plants are to be slightly watered overhead until they are rooting freely, and
then liquid mamire much diluted with water in dry weather may be given
once or twice a-week. It ought to be applied to the bed from the spout of the
watering- pot, pouring it between the plants.

Pelargonium Leases Spotted [G. ir.).— The leaves sent show that the
plants have been syringed and kept close, and without air at night and early
in the day. They should not be syringed after March, and should have a
little air at night, so as to keep the moisture of the atmosphere from con-
densing on the leaves. Give air early, leave a little on at night, and discon-
tinue the syringing, and the foliage will be all right if kept free of insects.

CcctTMEER Leaves Spotted {Idem).— It probably arises from the steam
©scaping from the feed-cistern, which you say you have to heat to boiling
point. Why not have a close lid ? Your house is sufficiently heated. A more
likely cause of the spotted leaves is heavy syriugings ami the sim shining
powerfully on the foliage whilst wet. With brighter weather, so a« not to
cause the necessity for heating the pipes to so high a temperature, the evil
will probably disappear.

Ten-week Stocks Damping-off (B. B.).—The seedlings have damped-off
at the neck or collar, from their having been kept too close, not being suffi-
ciently near the glass, and standuig too near each other. Instead of shading
from bright sim, we should have given air, and exposed fully to light as soon
as the plants appeai'od. and with this and water only to keep the soil moist
very few, if any. would have damped-off. They are best watered but little
until the plants have a pair of rough leaves, and then should be pricked out

an inch apart in a frame, watering before pricfcing-oufc, then give a light water-
ing and keep rather close, sprinkling overhead every morning, and admit air
during the early part of the day, shading from bright sun, and closing early
in the afternoon. After they are growing freely they cannot have too much
air and light, with a gentle watering overhead every morning. They ai'e the
better of slight bottom heat. Plant out before they become crowded. Light
moderately rich soil is most suitable.

Hastening Asparagus {W. H.). — There is not, that we know, any speedy
mode of securing Aspaiasjus, even at the sacrifice of the plants. Two yeais
after planting is the earliest time the plants will produce heads fit to cut, hut
we have knowu strong three-year-old plants, planted in June, taken up vei-y
carefully, planted without drying the roots, and well watered with liquid
manure, afford good heads the following spring.

Force Pcmp (G. Wahh). — We cannot tell of any special maker, but if you
were to .show the drawing to any ironmonger he would obtain or make one.

Scotch Fir and Spruce Bmik for Bottom Heat (ir. X).— We do not
think it is of any value ; Lai'ch and Oak hark, however, is so after it comea
from the lanyard. It should be laid in a heap to ferment, and when at a good
heat be placed in the bed for Melons or Cucumbers 3 to -l feet deep. The
spent bark is useful as a plunging material.

Plants for Greenhouse (Mem). — You do not say whether you have
means to keep out frost. We presume you will have before frost. We should
have CameUias, Azaleas — say half a dozen of each to begin with, Coronilla
glauca, Cytisus racemosus ; Acacias armata, pulchoUa, platyptera. and longi-
folia magnifica; Correas Brilliant and Harrisi, Polygala Dalmaisiaua, half
a dozen Epacrises, and Fuchsias, Pelargoniums, Cinerarias, Primulas, aud Cal-
ceolarias, with Cyclamens, and bulbs, as Hyacinths, Narcissus, Tulips ; Spiraea
japonica, Deutzia gracifis, Dielytra spectablis, and a few Tea-scented Roses.

Geraniums Losing their Leaves (LIi'iil). — The leaves have fallen in con-
sequence of the plants ha^'iug received a check. Probably they had been kept
in or raised iu a warm house, and not well hardened-off when you had them,
and placing them in a cool house has given them a check; or the evil may
have been occasioned by the pottiug. It would have been better to have kept
them in the pots as received, until they had recovered the journey and begun
to grow. The compost we hanily approve of, " stick ashes " especially. Turn
them out of the pots, remove all the old soil, and iilace in pors that will hold
the roots well, using a compost of light fibrous loam with a fourth uf well-
rotted manure, and a sixth of sand, placing them in a frame, and keeping
them rather close until growing, then admit air freely.

Seedling Cabnation {H. S.). — It is inferior to very many.

Asparagus-bed Making (W. TV.).— Add to your light soil a foot thick of
stable or fai'myard manm'e, and G inches thick of sea sand, and mis them
thoroughly with the soil. If you have any leaf mould or decayed vegetable
matter, mil it with the soil. This will increase the depth to 3 feet 0 inches.
Instead of planting, sow the seed in two rows at 1 foot apart, then leave a
3-feet space between, and thin-out the plants to 6 inches apart. We find we
get Asparagus sooner fit to cut this way, and veiy much bettor beds than by
planting shoots of any age. Supply the plants with liquid maniu-e during
growth ; they can hardly have too much from June to" September.

Beddixg Plants and Eabdits {E. D. B.). — No lime is used with tho
cow's urine mentioned for sprinkling the plants as a preservative, on page 115
of our thirteenth volume.

Cats Trespassing IE. 0.).—lt would not be legal to destroy them, and
you would not escape ridicule if you sued the owners. A gentleman we know
caught them in a drop-trap, put the trap into a pond, dug a hole, emptied
tho contents of the trap into the hole at night, so that the trespasser was
never seen, aud no owner exasperated.

Grapes Diseased (Amateur). — By your description we fancy the berries
have been mildewed. This disease has been common in the present season.
It is caused by the uncongenial weather. The atmosphere of the house
should be kept moderately di'y and warm, aud the hot-water pipes should ho
coated with sulphur mixed with water to the consistency of thin paint. If
the disease is veiy severe it will be necessary to throw some flowers of sulphur
on the hunches by moans of a sulphm-ator. If the rafters of your house are,
say, It) feet long, and the Vines are planted 2 feet 9 inches apart, 20 lbs. of
Grapes to each I'od will be a good crop.

Lapageria rosea Failing ildevi). — The soil in which it is planted is un-
suitable. Plant in turfy peat with good diniinage underneath, water freely in
the summer months, and syringe fi'eely when the plant is growing.

Fruit Trees for Light Soils (G. M. V.). — If you can obtain clayey
loam you ought to work as much as you can into the soil intended for your
fruit trees. Light sandy soils are unsuitable for them. We recommend the
following: — Dessert Applet. — Ci)mt-Pendu-Plat, Cox's Orange Pippin, Early
Harvest, Pitmaston Golden Pippin, Kerry Pippin, King of the Pippins, Old
Nonpareil, Scarlet Nonpareil, Oslic, Irish Peach Apple, Claygate Peai-main,
Mannington's Peai'iUain, Scarlet Pearmain, Devonshire Quarrenden, Ileiuetto
du Canada, Golden Reinette. Kelnette Jaune Hative, Boston Russet, Syko
House Russet, and Stiu-mer Pippin. Kitchen Apples. -Bedfordshire Found-
ling. Blenheim Orange, Cellini, Keswick Codlin, Cox's Pomona, Daraelow's
Seedling, Emperor Alexander, Gooseberry Apple, Hawthornden, New Haw-
thomden, London Pippin, Lord Suffield, Rymer, Tower uf Glamis, Waltham
Abbey Seedling, and Warner's King. The list of Pmr.^ we have found to do
well on light soils is a small one. We advise the foUowing: — Beurn- Bosc,
Beurre d'Aremberg, Beurre d'Amanlis, BeuiTe de Ranee, Beurro Superfin, Bon
Chretien, Conseiller de la Cour, Doyenne du Cornice, Fondante d'Automno,
Jargonelle, Louise Bonne of Jersey, Marie Lnuise d'Uccle, Napoleon, Passe
Colmar, and Zrphirin Gregoire. Cherries. — Eigarreau, Black Eagle. Black
Tartarian, Elton, Givemor Wood, Knight's Early Black, Archduke, Duchesse
de Palluau, and May Duke. We also gi'ow the Kent-ish for an early kitchen
Cherry, succeeded by Morello, the most useful of all. Dessert Plums. — Angelina
Burdett. Bryanstono Gage, Early Favomite, Golden Esperen, Guthrie's Late
Green, Ku-ke's, Reine Claude de Bavay. Kitchen Plums. — Belle de Septembre,
Diamond, Early Prolilie, Mitchelson's, Orleans, Pond's Seedling, Prince of
Wales. Prince Englebert, and Victoria.

Raising Rock Plants from Seed (7*. 3/.). — Alyssum saxatile compactuni,
Aubrietia deltoidea grandiflora, Crucianella stylosa, Diantbus deltoides,
Erinus alpinus, Gentiana verna, Iberis saxatile, I. Tenoreaua, Liuaria alpina,
L. Cymbalaria, Saponaria ocymoides, Sedum Aizoon, S. glaucura, S. kamt-
schaticum, Silene alpestris, Soldanella montaua, Statice Pseudo-Armeria,
Aiubis alpiua, (Enothera macrocarpa, and Osalis tropieoloides. The seeds
should tie sown in pans weU drained, and filled with a compost of equal parts
of fibrous loam, sandy peat, leaf soil, aud sand, making tho surface very One.
Sow the seeds evenly, and cover them with fine soil to a depth equal to tho

June 12, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

477

diameter of the seetl. Water gently, place in a frame, and keep close, moist,
and shaded until tlie plants appear, then let them have air and light. When
lar!,'e enough to haadle prick-out an iuch apart iu pans, return them to the
frame, and keep them close and shaded until they are growing freely, then
admit abundance of air. Thoy may be planted out iu rows G inches apart,
allowing 3 inches between the plants iu the rows. A sheltered position and
sandy soil should be chosen. They will 8ucceed better if potted-off singly
in small pots, and wintered in a frame, with abundance of air, but protection
from frost. Wo do not know where you could secure a salo for Watercrosses.
Consult a gi-eengrocer.

Italian Rve Grass neah the Sea (E. li. P.).-— lb would answer very
■well if sown where it is to remain in September, but we have no experience of
plantiug it. We should sow two buBbels of Pacey'a Perenniarand one bushel
of Italian per acre.

Pots for Pise Suckers and Soil {Id/^m). — The plants having good roots
will need i)-inch pots. Three parts fibrous loam oad one pai-t old manure wiU
grow them well.

Caterpillaes on Gooseberry Trees (.7. A. V. C). — Dust them with
white liellebore powder. Syringe the trees afterwards, and repeat the treat-
ment if necessary. These green caterpillars are the offspring of the Goose-
berry t?aw Fly, Nematus Ribesii. If by " ribhled oats " you mean crushed
oats, they will not do the same as gi'ound oats for poultry. Ground oata are
a powder to mis with water.

Names of Plants (Stockbridgc). — Collinsia bicolor. (F. W. H.). — An-
chusa italica, Italian Bugloss. (G. S.). — Phlomis fruticosa, Jerusalem Sage.
{T. P.). — 1, Amygdalus; 2, Spiraea sp.,but these are too imperfect for naming;

3, Asperula odorata; 4, Geranium Robei-tianum. (Alphui. — Specimens in-
sufficient for determination. 1, Vitis sp. ; 2, Probably Skimmia japonica;

4, Perhaps Onoelea sensibilis. The rest we can make nothing of. [A. M.).—
1 and 3, Selaginella ; 3, Allosorua c-ispus ; 4, Polystichum augulare; 6, A
variety of Saxifraga hypnoides. All but the last very imperfect, t^^- C.). — We
do not undertake to name more than six specimens at a time. 1, A Pelar-
gonium, near P. incrassatum, but not that species. Specimen hardly sutlicient.
Rest next week. {R. S.).— 1, Asphodelus luteus ; 2, Louicera puuicea;
3, Veronica geutianoides. {Lee Rogers). — 1, Viburnum pubescens; 2, Prunus
virginiana, or a near ally.

POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON OHROMOLE.

DOUBLE-CHICKED EGG.

Philip Crowley, Esq., Croydon, showed us a Golden-spangled
Hamburgh's egg which had not hatched, but which upon its end
being oj^ened showed the heads of two chicks. We had never
seen so unmistakeable an instance of twin chickens, and we
submitted the egg, without disturbing the chicks, to a good
authority. He w^rites to us as follows : —

" It is many days since I met with any case so interesting as
that of this egg. Many years ago it was a disputed point whether
that which was called a double egg was good for anything.
Sitting was not dreamed of ; it was held to* be a monster ou the
breakfast table, and was transferred to the kitchen, where it wag
broken and carefully examined by smelling before it was used.
I believe if a fault had been found with an omelette in which
one had entered, ' that nasty double egg ' would have furnished
the excuse. Then one day many years ago, the poultry world
■was stunned by a letter from a scientific man, stating he had
hatched two chickens from one egg. Everybody sought for an
explanation that would allow him to disbelieve the assertion
without casting doubt ou the author. Our best men smiled be-
niguantly, and shook their heads gravely. Those who believed
were reminded when they said thirteen chickens came from
twelve eggs, that sometimes the broody hen laid an egg after
she was down ; that it was possible another hen had stepped on
the nest and laid in it while the sitter was off. Then I heard
of another case and another. Still they were few, and hardly
anyone had seen an authenticated case. I have never seen oue
so good and clear as that of this Hamburgh egg. I have pre-
served it. The two chickens are perfectly formed and well-
feathered. They are quite distinct one from the other, adhering
to the remainder of the yolk by separate vessels. I can see
nothing to have prevented their hatching."

DAEK BKAHMAS.

Much has been said lately about this useful and popular breed
of fowl. My opinion is that there is not a more thoroughly use-
ful fowl in existence. As a proof of what I state aUow me to
make a few remarks.

A friend of mine who is well known as a Brahma breeder has
this year reared sixty-one chickens. The first brood consisted
of eleven from eleven eggs, turning out to be six cockerels and
five pullets ; this lot of chicks were sixteen weeks old on May 31st,
and on that day a pair (cockerel and pullet) weighed exactly
11 lbs. Three of the five pullets commenced laying at fifteen
weeks old, and laid nine eggs during thel ast week. These two
facts are quite sufficient to prove the qualities of the Brahma,
not only as a rapidly growing bird but also as a good layer.
Some of your readers perhaps may say, "Ah ! but this is only a
solitary instance." In answer to that I state the following : — The
same breeder's birds in 1871 commenced laying at seventeen
■weeks old. In 1872 the pullets commenced laying at sixteen
■weeks, and this year they are a week in advance. The gentle-

man to whom I allude is Mr. W. Mansfield, of Cambridge, and 1
liave no doubt that the forward condition of his birds is simply
due to the high feeding and good attention which they receive
at his hands.

A few more remarks and I have done. No man can breed
good fowls without care and trouble, but to be really successful
he must have a knowledge of the habits and w ants of the variety
he cultivates, which takes a long time to acquire. I have bred
different varieties, but have found the Brahma equal, if not
superior to all. — F. W. Metcalfe, Cavibridge.

BLACK COCHINS.

I HA"VE received promises of subscriptions for a cup for Black
Cochins at the next Great London Show, as follows : — viz.,
Martin Smith, Esq., £1 Is. ; A. A. Vander Meersch, Esq., JlIIs.;
Col. Hassard, i-l Is.; Alfred Darbv, Esq., £1 Is.; H. A. Bur-
nell, Esq., 10s. CtZ. ; B. Taaffe, Esq. (if the value of the cup be in-
creased to £i), £1. C. Marshall Hole, Esq., has also promised a
subscription, and I hear from Mr. Wragg that a gentleman at
Ipswich will give a £5 cup on certain conditions, which he will
arrange with the Secretary.

I wish publicly to thank all concerned for their great support in
the matter, and I think it would be well if they would communi-
cate their wishes as to the disposal of the funds, either for adults,
chickens, cockerels, or pullets, or allow the funds to be sent to
the Secretary for his apportionment. — F. C. Hassard, Shecrness^

THE BATH AND WEST OP ENGLAND SOCIETY'S
POULTRY EXHIBITION.

A GREAT amount of interest is always excited among poultry
amateurs respecting this Show, as being not only the beginning
of the season for poultry exhibitions, but also because for a long
succession of years this division of the Bath and West of England
Agricultural Society's Meeting obtains every possible attention
and support from the managers of that long-established Society,
The efforts of the Local Committee at Plymouth to give out-of-
door interest to this year's meeting were unusually successful.
Along all the principal streets leading through Plymouth to the
show ground the decorations were ample. Venetian poles ■were
placed near the Jcurbstones at intervals of about 4U feet ; and
from them, garlands of laurels and flowers were stretched from
one side to the other, the top of each pole having a gilt spear-
head, and each bearing a large wreath of artificial flowers, also a
parti-coloured streamer enriched with heraldic devices. These
two continuous lines along the sides of the street, coupled with
hundreds of the gayest bunting flags from the windows, and
numerous very well-constructed triumphal arches, gave such a
holiday expression to Plymouth as it has not exhibited for
many years.

On entering the showyard the first object that attracted the
eye of the visitor was an immense tent to the left hand, in
which all the poultry and Pigeons ■n-ere exhibited in single tier.
The light was exceedingly good, and the attention of the poultry
Stewards, Messrs. Biish and Edwards, merited the highest corn-
mendation. These two gentlemen, long known as most experi-
enced amateurs, left nothing undone to provide for the comfort
of every bird on view ; and here we must not fail to speak most
approvingly ot an item in the management that every com-
mittee might do well to copy. A very long waterproof tent was
erected for the especial preservation from wet of all the ernpty
baskets ; it insured iu these cases preservation from all injury
that might have ensued from repacking in baskets exposed for
days to the uncertainty of the weather. The Sjia n ish were very firs
classes, and for June no Spanish fowls were ever shown in better
condition. The Grey Dorl-lng cock class was very meagre, and
the second prize was withheld. The hens were infiuitely better,
however, a pen of rosy-combed ones being the cuptakers. The
Buff Cochins were the strongest classes seen for years as to
general good quality, and the Dark Brahmas were similarly good.
Mr. Ansdell was the ■winner of the Brahma cup, with the cock
recently claimed at i£30, he being stiU in the highest condition.
Light Brahmas were not so good. The White Cochins, how-
ever, were excellent. Among the Game fowls many were sadly
wanting in condition, and also fast lapsing into moult ; still, a
grand Duck^wing shown by Mr. Brown, of Cornwall, was in th»
highest show trim, and obtained the Game cup. It is rarely
even in Lancashire or Yorkshire that so thoroughly good Ham-
burghs are shown, every class being good, and almost every bird
in these classes was unusually near perfection. A splendid
Golden-pencilled cock that was in the highest plumage took the
cup. Strange to say, in large entries of Folands the Blacks
were the best of any. The French classes were excellent, but
many of these varieties were exhibited with the diseased feet
of late so unfortunately prevalent ; some were so far gone as to
be unable to stand many minutes together.

There was a first-class entry of Bucks, Geese, and Turkeys,
but not a single Turkey hen was on the groimd, as from the time

478

JOUKNAL 05- HORTICULTURE ANL COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Jane 12, 1873.

of year nothiuf^ could be devised more undesirable than to take
them from their youug broods.

In the Pigeon classes the Barbs were very noteworthy, as
were the Trainpetera and Archangels. A very large entry of
good Pouters caused much attention. In Nuns, in a very fair
entry, the whole class was disciualifiedfor trimming, not a single
pen being found that had not been tampered with, and some of
them most grossly so. Certainly we may hope the time may
come when such deceptive practices will not be attempted.

The attendance of visitors by far exceeded the most sanguine
expectations, and the Plymouth Poultry Show will be long re-
membered by those who had the opportunity of witnessing the
arrangements. We published the awards last week.

POULTRY EXHIBITION AT HOLLINGWORTH
LAKE.

On the 4th audSth iust. a poultry, Pigeon, and Dog Show was
held at Hollingworth Lake. The Show was on a more extensive
scale than has been hitherto witnessed in the neighbourhood,
and is the first of its kind at that place, though it is likely enough
that it will now become an annual institution. Occurring, too,
in Whit-week, it drew a large number of pleasure-seekers to the
beautiful environs of the Lake, itself a sufficient attraction at
almost every season or day of the year that promises fine weather.
This Show, we think, was entirely establislied by the exertions of
its Secretary, Mr, James T.aylor. It was well supported, and
deservedly, for, in addition to the three prizes in each class,
twenty three-guinea cups were awarded. The arrangements
were ample. A liandsome poultry tent was erected on the
croquet ground adjoining Mr. Tarwood's Lake Hotel, and in
close proximity to it was the shedding for the Pigeons.

The Judges in the poultry and Pigeon department expressed
their unqualified approval of the specimens brought under their
notice, which were equal, they believed, to any stock they had
seen at any show within the past few years.

The prize list was as follows : —

Gat>ie.— Black hrcmUd and othrr Reds. — Coek.—l find 2. C W. Brierley.
MiddletoD. 3. R. Heraintiway, Halifix. Hrn.—l and 2. C. W. Brierley. H, O,
T-aylor, Cromptim. he, B. Consterdine, Littleborough ; H. Jennings, Ailertou.
c, T. Dyson. Halifax.

Game.— ^Tiy other variety.— Cock.— \, C. W. Brierley. 2. J. R. Armistead,
Eceleshill. 3, Wilson & Hodgson, lUingworth. Ben.—i, C. W. Brierley. 2, T.
Dyson.

Spanish.— Cocfc,—l and 3. J. Powell. T^radford. 2. R. Newbitl. Eoworth.
Hc;i.—1, J. Powell. 2. C. W. Brierley. 3,Mr3. Tonkina, BriBtol. /ic, J. Bbwness,
Newchurch. c, 3. Thresh. Bradford.

Brahmas.— CocA:.— 1 and 2, T. F. Ansdell, St. Helens. S, H. Lacy, Hebden
Bridge. hc,1. Lord, Littleborongh ; W. Peacock, Caldermoor, Littleborough.
Ben.—\, 2. and 8, T. F. Anbdell. he, E. Kendrick, jun., Lichfield; J. ^Vatt3,
Birmingham.

Cochins.— Cinnajfion and. Buff,— I and 2, W. A. Taylor. Manchester. 8, W.
Harvey, Sheffield, he. C. SuU'wick. Keighley. Sfn.-i, W. A. Taylor. 2, "W.
Harvey. 3, C. Sidgwick ^c, E. KendricK.jun.; W.A.Taylor.

Cochins. —..'Injy otrier variety.— Cock.— I, T. Aspden, Churrh. Lancashire.
2, W. A. Taylor. 3, H. Beldoo, Btngley. ftc. "W. A. Taylor : J Walker. Cronkev-
Bhaw. i/t'».— 1,T. Asprien. 2, W. A. Taylor. 3, R. S. S. Woodgate. /ic, Rev. L.
Storey, Eedale; W. A. Taylor.

PoLANDs.— CocA:— 1, H. Beldon. 2, W. Harvey. 3, P. Unsworth. H«n.— 1 and
2, H. Bi^Jdon. 8, W. Harvey.

DoRKi.vGS.- Cocfc.— 1..J. White, Northallerton. 2. .T. Strttt. Healev. 3, Rev.
E. Bartrum. Berkbampstead. he, W. Harvey; W. H. King. Rochdale; E.
Leach, Rochdale; J. Slott. He7i.—l,J. Stott. 2, Rev. E. Bartrum. 3, W. H.
King.

Hambtjkqtis.— Goldeiispanoled.— Cock.— I, Jl. Beldon. 2, J. Bownesa. 3, J.
Hall, Stackateada. he, J Ogdcn. Widdleton. Hen —1 and 2, G. & J. Duckworth,
Chnrch. 3. J. Hall, silner span<jled.—Coek:—l. H. Beldon. 2. J. Fielding,
Newchurch. 3, H. Beldon. he, Abhton & Booth, Broadbottom. Mottram. Hen.
—1 and 3, J. Fielding. 2, H. Beldon. he, Ashton & Booth ; H. Beldon ; J. W.
Edge.

HKMTWRGns.—Golden-jn-uciVed.-Coek —1, G. & J. Duckworth. 2, H. Beldon.
8, T. Wrigley, jun.. Middletoo. He/i.—l, J. Bowness. 2, H. BeHon. 3. T.
Wrigley, juu. fiilver-penciUed.—Cock.—l and 3, J. Bownesa. 2, J. Anhwortb,
Burnley, ifen.— 1, J Ashworth. 2, H. Beldon. 3, J. Bowness. /i-;, J. W. Edge ;
J, Rhodes, Accringion.

JiiK}WRGKS.— Black.— Cock.— 1, H. Beldon, 2, J. Bowness. 5. C. Sidgwick.
Se]l.—^. H. Beldon. 2. .J. Bownoa. S, J. Hope, Waehbrook. he, H. Ashworth ;
H. Hoyle ; S. Lancashire. Chidderton.

Ant other Distinct Bhekd.— 1, W. Harvey. 2, J. J. Maiden. EigglcBwade.
8, J. H, Fielden, Todmorden, he, Q. Anderton, Acci-ington ; G. W. Hihbert,
Hyde. The beat bird in this class was a Cochin-China hen belonging to Mr. A.
Darby, of Bridirenorth. but it was wrongly entered.

Bantams —t^nmr.-Cocfc —1 and 3, S. Smith, Northowram. 2, C. Asbworth,
Halifax, he, A. Barlon. Haalingdon ; D. Binna, Milnrow. Ben.—l,S. Smith.

2, T. Sharpies, Rawten^tall. 3. W. H. Rnthwc-11, Rochdale, he, S. Smith. Any
other vanr'ty e.eeeptGame.—Cock.—l,'W A. Tiiylor. 2, H. B. Smith. Broughton.

3. E. Walton, he, G. AuderUm ; Mias J. M. Frew, Kirkcaldy : E. Walton. Hen.
—I, H. B. Smith. 2, W. A. Taylor. 3, E. Walton, he, T. Cropper ; Master A.
Frew : W. Harvey.

DvcKs.—Ayleshiiry.— Drake —1 and Cup, J. Walker, Rochdale. 2 and 3, R.
Hutchinson, Shawmoaa. HoUingwurlh. he, T. Tomlinson, Bury; J. Walker.
Duck.~l and 2, J. Walker. 3. R. Hutchinson.

'DvcK3.—Itoufn.-Drake.—\, P. West. Abram, Wigan. 2. S. H. Stott. 8. T.
Waketield, Newtnu-lt-Willowrt. he, P. Unsworth. Lowton, Newton-le-Willowa.
c, C. Holt, Roeh'lale. Duek. — 1, T. Wakefield. 2, E. Smith, Timperley,
Cheshire. 3. P. Unsworth.

Docks.— .-lou other variety —Drake.— 1, ,7. Watta, Birmingham (Carolina).
2 and 8, H. B. Smith, Broughton Halifax, he, C. W. BrieTley, Middleton ; J. .1.
Maiden, Biggleawade; J. Walker (Black East Indian). Duck. — 1, G. yV.
Brierley. 2. .f. J. Maiden. 8. H. B Smith, /ir, T- Tomlinson.

Gekre.— Grey.— Gander.— 1, J.Walker. 2. S. H. Stott, Preaton. 3, B. Con-
Bterdine. Littleborough. Qoose.-l, C. M. Royds, Greenhill, Rochdale. 2, S. H.
Stott. 3, J. Walker.

Geebe.— Wliitc.— Gander— 1 and 2, .T. Walker. Goose.— \ and 2, J. Walker.

Tdrkevb.- Cocfc.— 1 and Cnv, C. W. Brierley. 2, E. Kendrick, jun.. Lichfield.
S, E. Lord, Bacup. he, B. Conaterdiue, Littleberough. Hen. — 1, C. W. Brierley.
2, E. Kendrick, jun.

Selling Class.— CocA:.— 1, J. Bowness, Newchuroh. 2, A. Bamford, Middle-

ton. 3, C. W. Brierley. he, S. Fielden, Todinorden (Creve-Coeur); J. Lee,
Middletou (CochiQ-China); t:. Walton, Rawlenatall. c. H. Magson, Little-
borough. Hen — 1 and Cup, P. R. Furneas, Rawlnnstall. 2, U W. rtrierley. 3,
C. Holt, Rocbdale he. A. Bamford; Mrs. C. Carr, Biugley ; R.J. Edlestou : R.
Hutchinson, Hollingworth; J. PowcU, Bradford; R.' Unsworth, Lowton,
Newtonle- Willows.

PIGEONS.

Carriers.— U^rtc/.-. — CocA-s. — l and c, R Fulton, London. 2. H. Yardley,
Birmingham. 3 and he, E. Horner, Harewood, Leeda. Hens.— I, Cap, and 8,
K. Fulton. 2, E. Horner.

Carriers —,-l/ij/ other colour — Cockn —1, E. Horner. 2 and 3, R. Fulton,
Hens —1 and 3. K Fulton. 2, E. Horner.

PoL-TF.RS.-7f('(Z or Blne.—Cocl:s.—l, W. Harvey. Sheffield. 2. E. Horner. 3,
W. Nottage, Nonhflrapton. he, R. Fulton; E. Horutr. Hen'H.—l, K. Fulton
(Blue) *J and 3, F. Horner, he, W. Nottage.

PuL'TEKS.— ylHi/ othcr colour.—Cocks.—l. Cup, 2, and 3, R. Fulton (White and
Yellow), he. E. Horner; W. Harvey. Henx.—l and 3. R. Fulton (Yellow and
White. 2. W. Harvey, he, R. Fulton (White) ; E. Horner.

TvuBLKRs.— Short-faced Almond— Cock.— 1 and Cup, J. Ford. London. 2, R.
Fulton. 3, J. Fielding, jun., Rochdale. hc,ii. Fultou; K. Bcrner (2). Hen.—

1, J. Ford. 2, R. Fultun. 3, J. Fielding, juo. he, E. Horner; W. Harvey,
Sheffield: J. G. Taylur, Huddcrsfie d.

Tumblers.— .'l/)f/ other variety Short-faced —1 anA Cup, J. F-elding, jun. 2
and 3. J. G. Taylur. he, W. Harvey ; E. H->rner ; H. Yardley.
Tumblers.— ^ny other variety Long-faced —Single Bird— I and 3. J. Ford.

2. J. Watta. Staleybridge. he, R. Fulton (Yel ow Mottled); D. Riddihough,
jun., Bradford (2). c, W. J- Wajhurbt, Stalevbridge.

Owls— Foreign.— 1, T. W. Townson, Buwden. 2, 3, and he, J. Fielding, jun.

Hakks.— 1 and Cup, J. Fielding, juu. 2, K. Horner, Leeds. 3, G J.Taylor.
Hudderafield. he, J. C. Kenahaw. Little boron j,'h ; K, Fultou ; J. FiL-l-ling, jun.

Owls,— En>jli.sli.—i, J. Chadwick, BoUou. 2, R. Ciay, Mancheal^'r. 3, B.
Consterdine, Liitlef^orough.

TuKiiirs.— 1 and Cup. B. Consterdine. 2. J. G. Taylor. 3, W. LnLub. he, R.
Fulton ; W. Kitchen, Feniscowle, Blackburn.

Fantails.— 1 and 2, J. F. Loverside. he, E. Horner.

Trumpeters.— I.E. Homer. 2, W. Harvey, Sh.-ffield. hc,U Fulton.

JACoBisa.—Red or Yellua\—l and 2, R. Fultun. 9, E. Horner. Any other
colour.— I and 3. E. Horner. 2, G. H. Greaves. Blackbuni.

Dragoons.— BZuc or aiiver.-i and Cup, J. Wright, Mancheater. 2, W. Sefton,
Blackburn. 3, R. Brierley. Anu other colour.— 1 and 2, F. Graham. 8, J.
Holland.

Antwerps.— S/io?7-/accrf — Cock.— 1 and Cup, H. R. Wright. Korth Birming-
ham. 2, A. Juatice, Salfurd. 3, J. Holland, Manchester, he. J. W. Coiliuaon,
Halifax ; C. F. Copema::, Birmingham ; E. Horuer : A. Justice (:f ; W. Lutnb ;
H. Yardley. Hen —1, H. R. Wright. 2. A. Justice. H, C. F. Coi'tiu;m.

AtiTWEHPs.— Long-faced. — Cock.—]., J. Kobertahaw, Thorntun, Bradford. 2,
A. Judtice. 3, R.White. Hen.— I, J. Bishop, Skiplon. 2, W. Ualliwell, Little-
borough. 3, S. F. Heap, Littleborough.

ANTWERP^.— F/i/(»(7.— I aad Cup. J. Robertshaw. 2. W. Lund. Sbiplev. he,
W. Ellis, Idle; £. F. Heap; A. .fuatice ; H Mitchell, Bindley ; J. R-dinnahaw.

Any uthep. Varibty not Pkeviuusly Mentioned. — 1 and Cup. W. Lumb.
2, P. E. FuraesB. Kawtt-ustall. 3, R. White, he, E. Horner; J. Watta; H
Yardley; R. White, c, J W. Toweraon.

Selling Class.- 1, J. Fielding, jun. 2, E. Horner. 3, W.Harvey, ftc, W.
Lumb. c, T. & W. Oddie ; W. H. Rothwell.

The Judges were for Poultry : Mr. R. Teebay, Fiilwood, uear
Preston ; Pigeons : Mr. T. Eaquilaiit, Effra Road, Brixton.

BEDLINGTON POULTRY SHOW.

[From a Correspondent.)

This, held on the 3rd and 4th inst., was a success, and being
the ninth year's exhibition, I have no doubt it will continue to
prosper, for it is well conducted. It is worthy of note that the .
Judge had given satisfaction, although he had been engaged at
the eleventh hour, as the gentleman first appointed could not
attend.

In Dorkings the first-prize pen was good, but I thought the
cock much inferior to the hen. The second birds were very
good. Of Spanish I was glad to see a good entry, but some of
the birds show too much of the caulifiower face. Polish were
of fair merit, especially the first-prize pen. Gcunc (single cocks)
would have been an exhibition by themselves, and many were
birds of superior merit, the Brown Reds being particularly good.
The third-prize bird was of rather an inferior colour, which
was, probably, the cause of its being placed so low; he was the
most stylish bird in the Show, and one of the whip-tailed variety.
The Duckwinged and Piles were good, and most of the prize-
takers wiU no doubt be heard of again. Haniburghs oi all the
fuur classes were good birds, but I should like to see the Silver-
pencilled more clear in the neck ; a great improvement in this
point is required. In the Any variety class Black Hamburghs
took first, a splendid pen ; Malays the second. I hope to see
next year a class for the poor despised Malays, and I venture to
say they will muster more entries than several of the classes.
Northumberland and Durham are the localities for Bantmns.
There were seventy-three entries. Of the Game variety the
first-prize cock was a nice bird ; the second-prize bird was not
to my fancy, the hackle seemed twisted, although in other re-
spects the bird looked perfect.

DoBKiNGS — 1 ftud 3, J. White, Warlaby. 2, Miss Wilson, Woodliom Manor
he, Miaa Wilaun : J. J. Waller, Kendal.

Cochins.— i)'i(#or CinHonion —1 and 2, G. H. Proctor. Durham. 3, J.Shori-
hoee, Hartford Bridge, lie, J. Parkinson, New Delavai. e, J. N. Lawaon,
Hollycarr House. Any otlier variety.— 1 and 8. G. H. Pi'octor. ■.*, J. Shorthose.

Bbahm* PuoTRls.— 1 and Cup, W. Swann, Bedlington. '2, H. Beldon, Goit-
atock, Bingley. 3. K. Muore, Fast Rainton.

SPANian.— 1 and Cup, H, Beldon. 2, R. Newbitt, Epworth. 3. Pickering and
Duygleby, Driffield, he, il. Dale, Northallerton.

Polish. -1, H. Beldon. 2, J. Nelson, Hexham. 8, Misa Wilson, /tc, A.
BuKlasa Carvillo.

Barndoor.— 1 and 2, F. E. Schofield, Morpeth.

Gavie.- Any variety.— Cock.— I and 8, — Arkroyd, Eccleahill, Leeds. 2, J.
Stark. Bt-bsiJe. he, T. A J. Robson, Bishop Auckland; J. Brough, Carhale.
Hen.— l. 2. and 3, —Arkroyd, /ic. J, Stark ; D. Uwrley, Ediuburk-h. Blaek-
hnnsted and idker Reds. — i.,'r.\'imnff,BL\)\i\i\c. 2 —Arkroyd. 3. J. Nelson.
lie, T. Middlemiaa, Seaton I) elaval Colliery ; J. Brough. c, J. Dixon, Monk-
wearmouih. Duckwinga or vtlier Greys,— 1, Cup, aud 3, — Arkroyd. 2. D.

Jane 12, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

479

Harley. he, J. Nelson. Any othrr varic/jf.—l. J. Brown. Spfchill. 2, Pickering
and Duggleby. 3, — Drysilule. Lontrhirst Colliery, c, J. Brougb.

Hamdubghs.— GoWc;i-«iJi"!j/'''^— 1, Cup, jind 2, H. Beldon. 3. G. Holmes,
Great Driffield. lsHvcr-i*imii<jied—l and 2, H. Beldon. 3, ti. Holmes, he, G.
TarnbuU; R. Moore.

Bi.:iiuvnGas.— Golden-i)cncilhd.~l and 2, H. Beldon. 8. G. Kidson, Norby,
Tbirsk, he. Miss Elliott c, T. Jordan, Longborsley. Silfer-i)encilUd.—l and

2, H. Beldon. 3, G. HolmeB. he. D. Cbeyne. c, K. Moore.

Guinea Fowls. — 1, B. B. Blackwell. 2, Mrs. Robson. 3, Countess of
Tankerville.

Anv other Variety except Bantams.— 1. H. Beldon. 2, R. Hawkins, Sea-
ham. 3 and c, Misd Wilson.

Bantams.— Cocfc.—l, F. steel. Halifax. 2. J. Dout^lass, North Seaton Colliery.

3. E. Rutherford. Bedliii^'tun Collieiv. Bcn.—l, R. Nesbltt. 2, F. Steul. 3, G.
Hall, Kendal, he, E Walker; J. Nelson.

Game BANTXMs.—Black-brctiHtd ami other Reds.—l and Cup, G. Hall. 2, F.
Steel. 3, W. Davison, /le, J. Nelson, c. ci^. Bell. Any otkcrvarietj/.—UT. and
J. Robson. 2, F. Steel. 3, A. Frew, Kirkcaldy, he, E. Rutherford ; Rwss and
Pyle

Bantam s.— .-In?/ other variety except Game.— I, H. Beldon. 2, A, Frew. 8. J.
Neasham. he. G. Holmes.

DvcKs.—A)fksburii.—l. T. Carver. 2, W. Stonehouse. 3, Miss F. Wilson.
iJoue?t.— 1, Cup. and3, Miss F. Wilson. 2.J. Nelson, /ic, T. Carver. Any other
variety.— \ and 3, W. Binns, Pudsev, Leeds. 2, F. E. Schotiel'i.

TURKEVS.— Cni^fc —1 and 2, Miss F. Wilson. 3, M. Kew. Market Overton.

Sellinci Class.— l.W. Swann. 2 and /ic. H. Bel.ion. 3 MissF. Wilbon. he,
C. Gibson ; J. Parkinson ; W. Harle ; — Mason. Hen or Duck.—l, M. Aykroyd.
2, H. Beldon. 3. J. J. Waller, he, H. Beldon ; W. Ja-:gs. Bl.vth.

CoTTAGBRS — Game. — 1, R. Sharpe. 2, T. Yonntr. 8, J. Stark, he. G.
Taylor. Hainhumlis. — I and 2, G. Stnlker. 2, J. Wilson, c, D. Cheyne.
Any other variety exeept Bantams.— 1, A. Oliver. 2, J. Webster, 3, R. Parsons.
he. J. Mills ; M. Cooley.

B^iiTAias.— Any variety.— 1, J. Young. 2, W. Bell, Eedlington. 3, J. Short,
Bedlington.

PIGEONS.

Carriers.— 1, G. Sadler. 2, Thompson ^ Simpson. Wideopen. he. H. Yardley.
Birmingham. c.Lord A. Cecil. Woodhorn Manor; E. A. Ryott. Buteland.

ToMBLERs.—l and 2. R. i£ J. Andersen vhc. TlK^mpson tS Simpson :— Blen-
kinaopp. Newcastle; W. Brydone ; R. Blacklock, Sunderland, c, Thompson
and bimpson.

Pouters.— I, H. Simpson. 2, J. Bell, NewcaBtle-on-TjTie. he, H. Simpson;
Thompson & Simpson.

Dragoons.— I. H. Yardley. 2, — Blenkinaopp. he, W. Harrison.

Nuns.— 1, J. Watts. 2, H. O. Blenkinsopp.

Owls —I, H. Yardley. 2, — Blenkiusopp.

TnasiTS.- 1, J. Watts. 2. C. Laws. Newcastle.

Barbs.— 1 and 2, — Blenkinsopp. he. H. Yardley.

Jacobins.- 1, H. Yardley. 2, W. Brydone. he, — Blenkinsopp.

Fantails.- 1, W. Brydone. 2, J. G. Luversidge, Newark, he, J. Kemp, Ha8-
linglen.

Any Variety not Previodsly Mentioned.— 1, M. Orde, Sedgefield. 2, J.
"Watts, he, H. Yardley. c, R. Laws, Newcastle ; R. BlacklocK.

Selling Class.— 1, Thompson & Simpson. 2, W. Brydone. he, A. Frew, c,
R. Blacklock; W.J. Donkin, Newcastle.

CAGE BIRDS.

Canaries.— BcZpf'an {Clear or Buff-ticked).— 1, R. Hawman, Middlesborouph.
.N'ortric/t (iJlear Yellow).- 1, T. Arkle, Budlington Station. 2, W. Ward, Cam-
bois Colliery, he, J . Baxter, Newcastle. Norivich (Clear Buff). — 1, W.Ward.
2, T. Arkle. Norwieh (Crested).- 1 and 2, J. Baxter. Glasgow Dnns— I, W.
Mattbewson.Broorabill CoIlie*'y. 2, J. Kerr, Pegswood Colliery, il/w/e'.t (Yellow).
1,R. Hawman. 2, H. Clarke. Mules (Buflf).— 1, R. Laws. 2 and he, K. Haw-
man. c, J. Baxter. Common — 1, J. Stuphens, Middlesborough . 2. W. Dawoon,

Goldfinches.— 1, T. Curley. 2, T. Black, he, J. Baxter, c, J. Stephens.

Linnets (Brown).— 1, J. Baxter. 2, J. Stephens, c, W. & C. Barmston, Mid-
dlesborough. ",

Singing Birds (Any other variety).—! and c, "W. & C. Barmston, 2 and he,
J. Baxter.

Any other Variety Except Singing Birds.— 1, K. Pearcy, Bedlington. 2,
J. Young, e, J. Watson.

Selling Class.- 1, J. Baxter. 2 and e, T. Curley.

A Gold Medal awarded to the gainer of the greatest number of points in the
Pigeons was won by Mr. Bleokinaopp.

Judges. — Poultri/ : Mr. A. Sutherland, Accrington. Pigeons :
Mr. F. Esquilaut, Brixton. Cage Birds : Mr. J. Wilson, Cram-
lington.

LIMITING PRICES OF EXHIBITION PIGEONS.

In endeavouring to deal with the question of the limiting
business it is not my intention to advocate such a system as has
been carried out, and which proved so disastrous at the late
Dublin Exhibition, but to suggest a mode of regulating the
entry fees that will prove beneficial both to exhibitors and the
funds of au exhibition also. My oxiiniou on the limiting prin-
ciple is in accordance with the many opinions on the subject
already given in your columns, and I think it impossible to fix a
sum, except in the Selling classes, to be agreeable to a majority
of exhibitors, and to be attended with the desired result.

Evidently it is the wish of the fancy that the great monopoly
of prizes be prevented, yet at the same time none will, or can,
reasonably object to the best birds winning, however often they
may be shown. But when an exhibition is open to all, let us deal
■with the question fairly, whether the exhibitor be a fancier,
breeder, or dealer, or, in another case, the committeeman with
his i'5 bird, or the true and high-class fancier with birds no
money would buy.

I think the only way of settling the question is handicapping,
by making the entry fee on a sliding scale, so that birds which the
owner considers of merit (and those most likely to vrin) shaU pay
more for entrance than others of less value, and which a fancier
for various reasons has a desire to exhibit. The scale I have to
propose is in the following proportion, supposing the prizes be
205., 105., and 5s., with something in the shape of cups.

Entrance Fees.

For each entry the price not exceeding £5, 2s. per pen.

„ „ „ £10, 3s.

£30, is. „

„ „ any sum over £20, 5«. „

It is only necessary to provide au extra column for the entry

fees, next to the price column, for readiness in arriving at the
correct amount of entry fees.

The last rate provides for a prohibitory price for those birds
which the owners greatly desire to keep, and those who wish to
be careful of their entry money will put their birds in at the
least price for which they will part with them. In thiw way the
desired end will be accomplished — viz., in many cases the prize
birds will be placed at a price easily obtainable. By this means
prizetakers will be changing hands, and when next shown
will be another person's property; thus the prevention of
monopoly.

By those extra chances to obtain good birds the general fancy
will visit shows more frequently, and so add to the funds. This
principle will also have a tendency to prevent the point-cup
swindles, as in the case of borrowing birds. For that purpose
the exhibitor (I will only call him so in this case) will find the
entrance fees a stopper for him, as borrowed birds are not to be
sold.

I have been somewhat disappointed in not finding some re-
marks on my last subject — viz., " single-bird system." If it is
acknowledged as an established and thoroughly understood
thing, I can only say. Let it go ou in success already commenced ;
but I hope the general fancy will take the above matter up, and
that committees will adopt the j^roposed plan for their next ex-
hibitions, which will, with the already established principle of
single-bird exhibiting, make shows almost self-supporting. My
next notes will be on point cups. — Impabtiax.

JUDGES OF PIGEONS.

I WAS pleased to see Mr. Yardley's letter in your issue of May
22nd, so fully supporting Mr. Hewitt's views on the subject. As
a Pigeon exhibitor I am fully convinced that the greatest need
for reform is in the appointment of the judges. Often gentlemen
are appointed to adjutlicate who have never been large breeders
or exhibitors ; oftentimes gentlemen are so appointed who have
only kept one variety of Pigeon, and such a man cannot be
capable of judging twelve or more varieties of Pigeons. Again,
how often do we see committees appoint only one gentleman to
judge poultry and Pigeons ? In such a case can anyone give
satisfaction? Now that the question of Pigeon judging has been
raised by Mr. Yardley, and as that gentleman visits mauy shows
during the year, and is himself an acknowledged good judge,
perhaps he will name in your pages three or four of those whom
he considers to bo the best judges all round of Pigeons.

I hope the matter will be taken up in a fair spirit by other
correspondents, so that it may be properly sifted before the show-
ing season commences. — A Lancashlre Fancier.

The Sale of Game and Babbits. — According to a return to the
House of Lords, the licensed game-dealers last year in England
sold of game, 1,485,553; wild fowls, 536,254; Hares, 640,'293;
and 4,406,833 Rabbits. In the United Kingdom the game num-
bered 1,641,960 ; wild fowls, 5S0,386 ; Hares, 702,830 ; and Rabbits,
5,104,817.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Books {Fazhali).— Our " Poultry Book for the Many " will suit yon. You
can have it free by post if you enclose seven postage stamps with your
address.

Hens Dropping THEra Eggs (Idevi).— Provide your fowls with some
laying boxes, and if they will not use them take away their perches for a
few nights. After they have corrected their evil ways you may restore the
perches.

Leg- WEAKNESS— Chickens Dying (Owen).— Yon should tell us how your
fowls lodge and feed, and we might then, perhaps, find the cause of then:
ailments. The flooring of their houses, if of anything but earth, will cause
cramp. Insufficient or improper feeding will cause weakness, and that will
prevent them from standing up. The same causes may interfere with the
well-doing of the chickens, or the symptoms you name may be caused by paia-
sites. Your fowls should roost in a dry sheltered house with an earthen lloor.
They should be fed ou ground oats or barleymeal morning and evening, have a
midday feed of Indian corn, changed at times for kitchen scraps or oddH and
ends. Your cbickenB should have dough, bread and milk, chopped egg, cmd,
bread crumbs.

Addled Egos (Negro Novo).— A clear egg— i.tf., one that has never been
impregnated, suffers no change from incubation. After some days the Korm
becomes developed in a fertile egg. At the end of live days the tirst appear-
ance of life is vit^ible if the egg is eiposed to a strong Ught. Development
takes place every day, and there is soon vitahty enough in the egg to bo sus-
ceptible of change from exposure, and consequent loss of necessary heat. It
is a sort of death, and the warmth that wouldbave nourished the chick causes
the embryo to decay. Corruption and gas follow, and the egg as a natural
consequence explodes. There is no method of ascertaining the condition of
the eggs till the chicks oie sufficiently developed to feel the influence *>( any
change. If they are then put in warm water, those that contain live chickens
dance a merry jig on the surface, while the bad ones make no sign. No egg
explodes that has not had the germ developed, and fruitful fresh eggs are not
injured by travelling. The weather this year has upset the philosophy of
mauy a practised hand. Morning frosts have chilled the eggs that were most
exposed, and these have burst. This may have happened thi-ee times in your
nest. Straw is better than hay for a nest. It dues not favour vermin as

480

JOURNAL OF HOHTICULTURlii AND COTIAGE GARDENER.

[ June 12, 1873.

much ; it Joes not, in the event of accident and adhesion, require so mDch
trouble to remove. "Whenever an egg breaks and makes the others sticky, all
the whole ones phould be removed, washed in warm ■water, and thoroughly
dried before the hen returns.

Duck-keeping {Aspirant). — Three drakes to six Ducks is one diake too
many. If the birds are not akin to each other, and you have all the con-
veniences necepsary for each run, we advise you to pen them separately.
Three rune if you will, but they will do jn?t as well in two — a drake and three
Ducks in each. There is nothing gained by having too many drakes. Ducks
at four years old and older are very heavy, and useful lor exhibition, but we
should not breed from such a one.

Fo^x-KEEPiNG {Iih:m). — Your Houdans will do far better at Ubcrty than in
ooutinernent. No fowl prefers being shut up. It is only a makeshift for
thope who have no other means of keeping them. You can breed good
ohickena from the two sittings of different strains if you cross them, putting
the cocks of one to the pullets of the other, and vici.--vcr.^d. You can judge
for yourself about the ground oats. If properly ground, they mix into dough
as smooth and soft as the best harleymeal. There are only two or three
places where they are made. Ordinary ground oats mix as if they were com-
pounded pai-tly of chaff. Fowls will not look at them.

More Ciiicks than Eggs (H. I. L.). — There is no mystery and less diffi-
•nlty in that which you note. After the hen was put on the eggs she laid
two. We know that impregnation, if not interfered with, lasts fui weeks. The
fact of their cross breed proves theu" origin.

Fo^xs FOR Table (Gallus). — Wherever fowls are wanted for tablo pur-
poses, we advise Dorkings. You are about to fall into a common and fatal
error when you talk of trussing and drawing chickens intended for sale. You
take thereby much unnecessary trouble, and diminish the value of your goods.
"When your chickens are lit for the moiket have them fasted twelve hours
before killing, and picked clean while they aie hot. Do no more to them.
Avoid crosses, and eschew Polands for your piu-pose. None fatten so well as
the Dorkings.

PouLTHY Peckikg THEIR LEGS (L. A. B.). — The birds aie suffering from
itching. We advise you to confine them separately, to rub their legs with
grease which has no salt in it, and to feed them on cooling food, especially
lettuce. It is more than likely the Turkeys ate the feathers from the
Brahma's legs. That operation caused them to bleed. Ihe sight of blood
induces allpoulti-y to pick, and they would devour the legs till the bird died,
or the boue only was left.

Feeding Young Tvukeys INcio Ross). — Your feeding with curd, hard egg,
nettles, and pepper is judicious. You may now begin to give aome gi'ouud
oats if you can get them: if not, give some barleymeal mixed with milk.
Continue the nettles and the curd. For some weeks the hens must not bo
allowed their liberty, at any rate not till the sun is well up and every place
di-y. As a security, you wiU do better if you keep your hens \mder rips till
the poults are at least a month or six weeks old. An empty china crate is
a good rip for a hen Tmkey ; there is room for her to move about, and it
enables you to feed the poults without their choice food being taken by other
poultry. Let them have grass at will, lettuces, and all things of the sort.
"When they are two months old .you may give them dough made of two-thirds
barleyratal, and one of giound beans aud peas, mixed with milk. Even when
the hen has her liberty it must not be till all is hot and dry. The hen would
di-ag them about through white frost and culd dew, and though she started
with fifteen and came home with four, she would " rest and be thantful," and
ask no questions.

Artificial Hatching (Incvbatrix). — There is little difficulty in hatching
chickens artificiaUy, but the difficulty commences after they are hatched. "We
have known many incubators bought, iried, and abandoned.

Starting a Pigeon Loft (Inquirer). — You can start a Pigeon loft at any
time of the yeaj'. Now is by no means a bad time, as the birds would breed
at once, and consequently settle soon in theii- new home. With respect to
varieties for profit, if you had some common-bred Dragoons aud some mode-
rately-sized Bunts, they, if crosfccd, would produce good breeders and large-
sized Pigeons. The very large Runts, the prize birds, aie very dear, and also
bad breeders. A stout-built common Pouter cock or two answers to cross for
profit, but not Pouters by themselves, or the long thin prize birds. Your
having "ample room" is a gieat thing. Lots of young birds and "ample
room " go together, provided the old buds are well fed ; whereas, if the room
is small, quarrels, broken eggs, and young ones pecked to death natmally
ensue. Keep the new buds shut-in a month, and let them out at fiist in the
evening.

Bee Memoranda (Nnc Subscriber). — Mr. P. Eevan Fox wriles in reply to
your queries. '* 1st, The hive mentioned by mo at page 383, No. 632, is not
manu.actured for anyone for sale, but I could get them made for a ' New
Subscriber' if desired. At the same time I think the Woodbury hive,
which can be obtained of Messrs. Neighbour, of Regent Street, London, would
equally answer his purpose, though the dimensions of hive and frames are
Bomtwhat smaller. 2nd, Ihe advice given by ' B. & W.,' jia^e 422, as to the
iitijiiediate removal of a swarm to the old stock's stand, is quite sound.
No bees will be lost, as all the stragglers, on finding no queen at the place
where they first settled, will return to their old position, and there discover-
ing the object cf their affections, will gladly settle into their new quarters.
3rd, Bees can be kept in a room having a covered passage under the window,
or thruugh the wall, but the distance thc-y would have to travel in the plan
drawn by your coiTcepcndent would be much too great for success. 4th,
The combs are built straight on four of the bai-s of * New Scescrieer's'
hive, but the fifth comb is ccnstructcd close to the fourth, and the proper bar
is neglected. This should be rectified at once; the misplaced comb should be
cut out, secured to the bar, and reinserted. It would be advisabls to take out
the other combs, reverse the order of their standing, and perhaps shift them
so as to drop down the fifth comb between two regularly built ones. If by
this alteration of their positions, any portions of the combe should come into
contact, the projecting parts may be pared away at the next examination, and
straifiht combs ensured. Bar or frame hives are of no advantage, unless per-
fect facihty in rtmoval of combs is attained."

Ants in a Bee-hive (A Young Apiarian).~Ant8 are very difficult to get
rid of, but they can be prevented from crawling up your bee-stands by keep-
Dg up a constant taning of the under side of the stands. They will not
cross wet tar. We have got rid of them by pouring a quantity of petroline
about the stands from time to time.

Moving a Stock (J. N., Tiignmouth). — You acted very unwisely in re-
moving your hive 80 yards. The cluster of bees you discovered on tho old
stand was not a swarm as you supposed, but the poor unfortunate foragers
■which retuiTied to the place where they had been accustomed to find their

home. Sisters in affliction, not knowing what had become of their home and
of their beloved queen, they gi-adually clung together. No hive or feeding you
could give them would save their lives. The food was probably appropriated
by robbers.

Takjng-off Glass Supers (Alicia). — We think it better to take the super
off directly after swaiming if there is no brood in it. Should the super not
be full you can give it to some other hive which may want such a ddition, as
we often have done, after getting rid of the bees.

Wasps Attacking Hites (Belturbef). — We never heard of wasps destroy-
ing bees so early in the season as this. About us queen wasps are only begin-
ning their labours. Hang up bottles with sugared water ; this will trap a
great many and destroy the nests. Above all, look out for queen wasps and
kill them when you can. One year we killed as many as fifty in May and
June, and were remaikably free from wasp«, while om- neighbours a mile off
were plagued with them. They do not go far- from home.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS ,

Camden Square, London.

Lat. Sr 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0° 8' 0" "W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date. 9 a.m.

In the Day.

1873. ! gS"" .

Hygrome-
ter.

o*3

Shade Tem-
perature.

Radiation
Temperature.

.9

June, lb Sot

In On

a-"-

Dry.

Wet.

o°

HJ'~

Max. Mm.

sun. grass

Inches deer.

deg.

des.

dec.

deE.

deg.

dep.

In.

■We. i 21).867 1)3.7

59 8

E.

66.4

72.7

496

108.8

45 8

0.173

Th. 6

29.818

60.2

59.0

N.

57 2

72 0

6G.9

107,0

55,6

—

Fri. 6

3 1.032

55.0

63.3

N.

57.1

59 6

52.1

77,6

60.3

■ —

Sat. 7

30.253

67.8

61.9

N.

66 8

66.0

42,3

120.0

39,2

—

Sua. 8

30.220

65.4

53.0

N.W.

56.0

68,4

18.0

114.11

48.8

—

Mo. 9

30.097

60.0

65.9

N.W.

56.2

70 8

467

115,8

48.1

—

Tu. 10

29,795

60.1

65.2

S.W.

57.1

61,S

49.9

104.5

47.0

0.C87

Meaus

30.012

58.9

55.1

66.5

67.7

49.4

106.1

46.4

0,259

REMARKS.

4 th.— Dull morning; thunder and heavy rain for a short time in the after-
noon ; wet evening and night.

5th.^Yery dark all the morning, and at noon thick also, hut altenvards bright
aud fine.

Gth. — Dull morning ; fair aU day, hut with a cold wind and very little sun.

7th. — Dull moi-ning, hut getting brighter and blighter from noon.

bth. — Dull early, but very fine by noon, and so continued all day.

9th.— Fine from 11 am. (dull previously). On the whole a veiy pleasant day,
bright without being either too hot or too cold.

10th. — Rather dull day, hut little sun and strong cool wind.
Generally fine ; although northerly winds continue, the temperature has,riaen,

especially at night.— G. J, StMONS.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— June 11.
The markets generally are very steady, and prices remain almost without
alteiatiou. Continental suppHeshave been unusually heavy duiing the past
week.

FBUIT.
s. d. B, d. I B. d. 8. d.

Apples isieve 8 0to5 0 ' Mulberries ^ lb, 0 OtoO 0

Apricots doz. 2 0 3 0 | Nectarines doz. 15 0 30 0

■^ - • " ~ ^ 0 I Oranges ^100 4 0 10 0

0 n ■ Peaches doz. 16 n 80 0

0 0 ; Peare, kitchen aoz. 10""

CJierries T7*-box 2 6

Chestnuts bushel 0 0

Currants 4 sieve 0 0

Black do. 0 0

S 0

0 0 1

dessert doz. 6 0 lb 0

Figs .'....' doz. 6 0 ]0 0 Pine Apples!.'! lb. 8 0 12 0

0 0 i Plums M'e^e 0 0

2 6 Quinces doz. 0 0

0 6 Kaspberries lb. 0 0

12 0 Strawberries ^ lb- t* ** *^ 2

0
0 0
0 0

Filberts lb. 0 0

Cobs lb. 2 0

Gooseberiics quart 0 3

Grapes, hothouse lb. 6 0 — „ , ._....^„^^...^„ r --- -

Lemons ^100 6 0 lu 0 Walnuts buthel 15 0 aO 0

Melons each C 0 12 0 | ditto ^100 2 0 2 6

Artichokes doz.

Asparagus q*^100

French t> U

Beans. Kidney %* 100 1 6

Beet. Red doz 1 0

Broccoli bundle 0 9

Cabbage doz. 1 0

Capbieums q+ ll;0 0 0

Carrots bunch 0 6

Cauliflower doz. 3 0

Celery bundle 1 6

Coleworts. . doz. bunches 2 6

Cucumbers .^ tach 0 G

pickling doz. 0 0

Endive doz. 2 0

Fennel bunch 0 3

Garlic lb. 0 6

Heibe bunch 0 8

Horseradish bundle 8 0

Leeks bunch 0 2

Lettuce doz. 1 0

VEGETABLES.

d. s. d.
0to6 0
0 6 0
0 12 0
6 2

Mushrooms pottle

Muttard & Cress. .punnet
Unions buthel

pickling quart

Parsley pei' doz. bunches

Parsnips doz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Round do.

Eadishes.. doz. bunches

Bhubarb bundle

balsal'y bundle

Savoys di'Z.

f corzonera bundle

Sea-kale basket

thallots lb.

spinach bushel

Tomatoes doz.

Turnips bunch

VcRetable iiaiTowa

0 10
6 0

. d. B. d,
(jto2 0
2 0 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0

0
0

1

0 G

1 0

2 0

1 0
0 0
0 3

2 0
2 0
0 8

POULTRY MARKET.— .Tune 11,
The supply contiDues small, while tho trade improves. It will be long
remembered as a had breeding and late season.

8. d.

8. d.

Large Fowls 6 0 to 6

Smaller ditto 6

Chickens 3

GoslJugB 7

Grefn (iecae 0 0

Ducklings 0

6
6 4

0 7

Pheasants 0

Partridges 0

Bares 0

Rablii'.s 1

Wildditto 0

Pigeons 0

d. s. d
0 to 0 0
0 0 0

0 0

1 G
0 10
0 10

Jme 10, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

481

WEEKLY CALENDAR.

Day Day

ol I o(
Month, Week.

JUNE 19—25, 1873.

19

20
21

24
25

TH
F

a

Son

u

Tu

w

Meeting of Koyal and Linnean Societies.
Fermoy Horticultural Show.
LougeBt Day.

2 Sunday after Trinity.
Meet, of Royal Geographical Society, [opens.
Boyal Horticultural Society's Bath Show
„ ,, continued.

Averaffe Tempera-

Kain in

Snn

Snn

Moon

Moon

Moon's

Clock

before

Sun.

°;f7

tare near Loudon.

43 years.

Rises.

Sets.

Rises.

Sets.

Age.

Year

Day.

NiRht.

Mean.

Days.

ni. b.

m. h.

m.

h.

m. h.

Days.

m. 8.

70.8

48.6

69.7

22

44af 8

lSa(8

0

1

U 2

24

1 1

IVU

72.3

60.5

63.4

IH

44 3

18 8

15

1

S2 3

25

1 14

XVI

74.4

48.8

61.2

17

45 3

18 8

33

1

63 4

26

1 27

172

73.6

47.1

69.9

17

45 3

19 8

.■iS

1

13 6

27

1 40

iva

72.7

48.9

61.5

15

45 S

19 8

20

2

29 7

28

1 58

174

74.1

49.1

61.1

20

45 3

19 S

66

2

34 8-

•

2 6

176

73.0

49.2

61.7

20

40 3

19 8

43

8

27 9

1

2 19

IVb

From obseryationB taken near London daring forty-three years, the ayerage day temperature of the week is 73.0- ; and its night temperature
9=. The greatest heat was 93=, on the 19th, 1846 ; and the lowest cold 30', on the 20th, 1865. The greatest fall of rain was 0.72 inch.

STOVE AND GEEENHOUSB CLIMBERS.— No. 1.

HAVE long wi.shed and intended to say a
few words upon the merits of climbing
Iilants, and as I have during the past sea-
sou seen so many beautiful examples of
them, I am now induced to bring the subject
before the readers of this Journal, in order
to impress upon their minds the claims
^* i/ climbers have on the attention of all lovers

'*"^ and growers of plants, on account of the

rare beauty displayed by many of them, and
that, too, with but comparatively httle care. Ha\'ing
visited so many gardens throughout the country, as well
as having been practically connected with horticulture for
many years, I am quite aware that in many places great
attention is paid to the culture of these plants, and their
merits are fully appreciated, yet amongst amateur gar-
deners the very existence of climbers is almost ignored.
That bare rafters and walls have a bad appearance is a
fact I think no one will attempt to deny, and yet how
frequently do we see them in the villa greenhouse espe-
cially. This, then, is the reason why I would direct
attention to these plants, which with comparatively little
trouble will not only furnish those eyesores with a rich
covering of leafage and bloom, but in addition enable
those whose glass accommodation is limited to add a
number of really beautiful forms to their collection with-
out incommoding their pot plants, and thus to increase
their floral pleasures in the same area.

The objection raised against climbers by many of my
amateur friends is, that they gi-ov/ so rampant that they
soon smother the pot plants, and exclude the sun too
much for the well-being of the other occupants of the
stove or greenhouse. Now, if the climbing plants trained
upon the rafters are allowed to grow at random, I must
admit these objections are well founded ; but, then, there
are such operations as thinning-out and pruning, the non-
attention to which is the great stumblingblock to so many
amateur gardeners, and, I may add, to some gardeners
by profession also. In the case of Fuchsias, Geraniums,
and other similar plants, everyone admits they require
pinching and pruning ; yet the climbing plants in too
many instances receive no attention, save tying-up, and
the results are they smother the plants below them, they
become untidy in appearance and dirty, and are, conse-
quently, condemned as a nuisance, when, with a little
management, as I have before remarked, they would
materially add to the beauties of even a very small house.
Under these circumstances I venture to offer a few real
gems in the way of climbing plants to the amateur's
notice, trusting some of my readers may be induced to
extend the number of their rafter and pillar plants.

CLEEODENDEON.

C. uplendens. — In this superb plant we have one of the
most attractive subjects it is possible to train upon a
pillar or rafter in the stove. In planting-out thorough
drainage should be tlie first coadition to make sure of,
and the soil should be composed of a mixture of rich

No. 638.— Vol. XXIV., New Seeies.

loam and peat, with a fair proportion of sand. I have
found it best to limit the space the roots have to run
in, by which means a better command is obtained of all
such plants as require to be kept at rest more or less
during the winter.

This plant will not require much thinning-out. AVhen
it has grown up to the top of the rafter I have seen it
treated successfully upon the spur system, and thus it
may be kept within moderate bounds. The leaves are
broadly oblong, shining gi-een in colour, whilst the bright
scarlet flowers are borne in large branching panicles, pro-
ducing a spleniUd effect during the greater part of the
summer. It requires an abundant supply of water during
the summer, Imt towards autumn this should be with-
held to a great extent to assist in ripening the wood;
dm-ing winter very little will be necessary. Native of
Sierra Leone.

C. Balfowr'ii. — This is an improved or larger form of
the plant, introduced from Old Calabar, called C. Thom-
sonae. It is of a strong free growth, and will require
occasional thinnings to prevent its shading the plants
below it. The treatment maybe similar to the preceding
kind. The leaves are large and dark gi-een, and the
clusters or panicles of bloom are vivid scarlet, the beauty
of which is materially increased by the addition of very
large pure white calyces, thus rendering it a charming
and conspicuous object worthy of a place in every ama-
teur's stove.

STIGMAPHYLLON CILIATUM.

This is a free-growing and an abundant-flowering plant,
first inti'oduced to our collections towards the end of the
last century, yet seldom to be found occupying the posi-
tion it deser\-es. Its blooms are lu-ight orange yellow
produced in large umbels, whilst the cordate leaves are
light green, and furnished at the edges with numerous
eyelash-like hairs. The flowers, which at first sight re-
semble Orchid blooms, are produced for many months in
succession. It should be potted in a mixture of about
two parts loam, one part peat and leaf mould, and one
part sand. Native of Brazil.

TACSONIA.

As a genus this is nearly allied to Passiflora. The fol-
lowing species are all well deserving of general cultivation.
They have the following qualities to recommend them —
free growth and abundance of bloom, which cannot fail
to rivet the attention of all beholders. They should be
potted in peat, loam, and leaf mould in about equal parts
with a fair proportion of sharp sand added.

T. Van-Volxemi. — "Without doubt this is the finest
greenhouse climber in cultivation, and that is saying a
great deal. The leaves are deeply threo-lobed ; the lobes
lanceolate, acuminate, and toothed at the edges. The
flowers are very similar to those of a Passiflora in shape,
rich carmine crimson in colour, and are suspended upon
long thread-like footstalks, each blossom measuring some
5 inches or more in diameter. Native of New Grenada.

T. Buchanani. — Scarcely so free-flowering as the pre-
ceding, and requiring just the warmest corner in the
greenhouse, yet, nevertheless, well deserving a place in

No. 1290.-VoL.XI,IX.,Ol.D Seeies.

482

JOUENAL OF HCKTIUOLTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE.

[ Jiuia 19, 1873.

any collection where space can be afforded it. The leaves are
five-lobed, toothed, and dark green, whilst the flowers are large
and bright scarlet. Native of Panama. — Expeeto Ceede.

BOSES.

The yellow Eoses on the walls here (Okeford Fitzpaine)—
namely, Marcchal Niel, Gloire de Dijon, and Ci-Une Forestier,
ai-e as fine as I ever saw them, but the blooms of Koses in the
open are very bad as yet, many of them being green-centred,
and all of them small. This is not to be wondered at, as here
the buds began forming in February, and have been more or
less frosted ever since. We have had a iiue storm or two, and
I hope we shaU have some better blooms.

The following Koses are the best that I have tried of late
years, and they are good Itoses, and of good general attributes :
— Felix Genero, Marie Eady, Perfection de Lyon, Madame
Chirard, Edward Morren, Barou Chaurand, Madame Creyton,
and Baronne Louise Uxknll. The last two are planted out
under glass without fire heat. The Pioses preceding them
have been amply tested in large numbers — from six to forty
each in the open ground of my very exposed garden. They
are all very beautiful, and these are certainly first-class Koses
— namely, Edward Morren, Perfection de Lyon, Marie Eady,
and Madame Chirard. Of the last-named Rose I have six
plants on its own roots, and six on the Manetti stock. I see
no difference. It is a famous grower. I believe Baroness
Louise Uxkull will be a great favourite. It is a great beauty
at any rate.

I have read what Mr. Eobsou has said about pure white
Eoses. Baronne de Maynard is the only pure dead white
autumnal Eose, the others being more or less tinted. It is a
lovely CameUia-formed Eose, and an abundant and continuous
bloomer. The dead untinted whites of the summer Roses are
the Unique Provence, MagnoUa-shaped, Princess Clementiue,
Madame Plautier, and Pulcherie ; they are all beautiful Eoses.
The best summer creamy white Rose is Madame Zoutmann or
Soetmans, which is an improved Comte Plater. The new Eose
Madame Lacharme is not, I hear, a pure white Rose. We
sadly want a pure full-sized Hybrid Perpetual white Rose.

My Roses on the whole are in good condition ; but I fear
that persons who did not mulch their Roses and earth them up
over the mulching, will find that many of them will die off if
sultry weather sets in. AU mine were so protected. — W. F.
Bahclyffe.

THE PANSY.

Anyone who has taken the trouble to notice the stands of
cut blooms of Pansies which have been exhibited at the spring
shows this season must have been struck with the amazing
advance made of late years, especially in the Fancy Pansy class.
Compare the grand and finely shaped blooms which Messrs.
Downie, Laird, & Laing, James, and others now exhibit with
the small, rough, and iU-shapen things exhibited a few years
ago, and is there any class of flowers that can boast of greater
improvement in the same space of time ? while in the class of
bedding Pansies and Violas, now so useful for spring garden-
ing, a new path for improvement has been struck out. In
further evidence of this I have to notice a large collection of
blooms sent me by Messrs. Dicksfins & Co., of Edinburgh, long
noted for their successful culture of these flowers. The brief
descriptions which I have appended to this can give but a very
faint idea of the marvellous variety of those of the Fancy
section ; while the Show varieties, not so takuig to the general
public, yet charm the eye of the florist by their fine form and
smoothness.

Most of the bedding Violas and Pansies here named I have
growing in my own borders, and, although they have been in
bloom since April, are now giving promise of doing what then-
raisers say they will do — continue in bloom the whole summer.
Thpy are of many shades of colour, and in places where many
plants are required will, I have no doubt, prove most valuable ;
and even in smaller places they will be found very desu'able,
and form pleasing adjuncts in a bouquet of cut flowers. Most
of those named are new flowers of the present season. Those
in numbers are to be sent out the ensuing season.

FANCY PANSIES.

No. 7. — A remarkably large and high-coloured flower ; maroon
crimson, with large blotches.

Curio. — Top petals brownish lake; lower petals brown, veined
with dark crimooa, large blotch. Very curious colour.

104. — White, with immense purple blotch on each petal.

C9. — A remarkably smooth and fine flower. Ground white
but nearly covered with immense purple blotches. Extra fine. '

119. — Somewhat rough.

C2.— Bright magenta, with intense and large blotches, and
yellow eye.

132.— Claret gi-ouud, with large purple blotch. Very fine.

129. — Deep clai-et, with large purple blotch.

W. M. Welsh.— YeWovf ground, marguied with bronzy purple
lake ; large blotch. Very good.

Beauty.— Light gi-ound, with large blotches almost covering
the petals.

Mrs. Cutler. — Bright yellow, with very large blotches.

IGG.— Light primrose ground, with beautiful well-defined
blotches of brownish purple.

107.— White ground, with smooth blotches of light purple in
each petal. Extra fine.

Marquis of Lome. — A very high-coloured brownish crimson
flower, with deep blotches.

CO.— A well-shaped flower; yellow ground bordered with ma-
genta, and deep blotches.

82.— Rough.

111). — White, purple blotch. Rough.

lis. — White, with very large purple blotch.

SHOW PANSIES.

Defoe. — Beautiful smooth yellow ground, with intense purple
upper petals ; lower margined with the same colour.

10. — Very dark self. Smooth, and of good form.

Tannahill. — Yellow ground. Smooth purple top petals, and
belt.

48. — Of the same colour.

2. — Light yellow gi-ound ; Hght purplish top petals, and margin
of lower the same.

4. — Good white ; clear blotch and eye.

1- — Bright yellow gi-ound, splendid dark purple top petals,
lower margined with the same colour.

2.5. — Bright yellow self.

The Mede. — White ground ; light purple top petals, margins
of lower petals the same.

3. — BrUhaut yellow ; dark purple top petals.

8. — White ground. Large and fine.

Senator. — A large and remarkably fine yellow-ground flower,
with broad band of maroon, and dark top petals.

6. — Fine dark claret-coloured self.

Lavinia. — White ground, bluish purple. "

7. — An immense dark self.

Lochnagar. — Very fine dark plum-coloured self.

Robert Black. — Dark self, of great substance.

Janeij Anderson. — Very fine white ; soUd violet-purple blotch.

George White. — Cream-coloured or very light primrose self.
Quite a new shade.

BEDDING VIOLAS AND P.ANSIES.

Canary (Viola). — Immense size, clear golden yellow, pencilled.

The Tory (Viola). — Deep plum, with dark blotch. Great sub-
stance.

No. 1 (Pansy).— Immense size ; blue, in the way of Blue King.
Very fine.

No. 2. (Pansy). — Light violet blue, with dark blotch.
9 Snov'fialie (Viola). — Clear waxy white, sUghtly pencilled.

Claret (Pansy). — Ground colour shaded claret.

Deep Yelloiu (Viola).

Buby (Pansy). — Remarkably fine flower, of ruby-crimson
colour.

Scotia. — Clear azure blue, with yellow eye.

Advancer. — Lilac, shghtly marked with violet.

Strict a Alba. — White, of great substance.
— D., Deal.

THE BUFFALO BEEKY.

The vegetation of the seed of the above seems to be not under-
stood by your correspondent, Mr. Charles Downing, when he
says the seeds I have sown will not vegetate until the spring of
1874. I assure him, and all others intcicstod in the matter,
that opinion is incorrect, as the seedlings from the seeds I
sowed on the 1st of April of this year are already through the
ground. The seeds were not rubbed out of the pulp, neither
have they had any muck, as suggested by Mr. Downing ; they
were kept ((uite dry through the winter, and the pulp had be-
come somewhat shrivelled by the time I sowed, but that soon
went to decay in the soil.

In my opinion this is the most natural way to sow all seeds
of this description; the sarcocarp performing a most important
part in the preservation of the seed through the winter months.
I have often remarked the striking difference in the period of
vegetation of the seeds of Asparagus that have been washed
clear of the sareocai^p in autumn, and that kejit intact through
the winter. Though both be sown on the same day, the young
growth of the latter appears through the soil both earlier and

June 19, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HOETIGDLTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

4S3

stronger. This may account in some measure for tie want of
success attending Mr. Downing's experiments with Shepherdia
seedlings. I would suggest that his next experiment be made
by retaining the pulp ou the seeds through the winter. —
W. JIuiB, CI«;(o«. PnrJc.

HAEDY IBERISES.

A SHOET time ago there was a discussion in your pages about
hardy Iberises and their nomenclature. I send you a sprig of
each of the three kinds which we grow here. Though late in
the season, and the flowers consequently small, they never-
theless show sufficient distinctness of character to be entitled
to separate names. As each has separate claims on the atten-
tion of cultivators of hardy plants I append a few notes, having
grown these Candytufts rather extensively for some years, but
I leave it to others to say if the names I give them are the
right ones or not.

1. Iberis SE3IPERVIRENR. — This is white-flowered with no
tinge of lilac, and flowering in umbels on stems somewhat
t;Jler than I. corifolia. Its leaves are long and narrow, but
not pointed, and the plant, as its name implies, evergreen. It
is also very hardy, and is not particular as to situation.

2. Ibekis cokifolia. — I believe this is sometimes called I.
correa'folia, from the genus Corra^a, and I have had it with
the name of I. Tenoreana, under which I have certainly met
with it in more than one pubUc garden ; but I find it is
more often called I corifoUa; so, whether right or wrong, I
call it so. Perhaps, however, some one will be good enough
to give us the correct name. In the Manchester Botanic Gar-
den I see it is named I. Tenoreana. But, whatever be its
name, it is an exceedingly handsome hardy plant, somewhat
dwarfer than I. sempervirens and more compact ; the foliage
also is shorter and broader, and it flowers in a sort of spike
rather than in imibels, or the dense mass of florets which
compose the head form a sort of round-headed column of
pure white, the authers only being yellow. I place it amongst
the most useful and ornamental hardy plants which we have.
We have some edgings of beds formed of it that may be two
years old ; they are a pjif ;ct mass of flowers, and being low
they look exceedingly pretty. It is in my estimation by far
the best of its class, and superior to most other plants of a
like characler. Certainly with me it is much prettier than the
old but scarce dwarf white Eocket, as the latter is at best un-
certain and makes an uneven row. I have never observed it
ripen seeds, but it is easily propagated by cuttings.

3. Iberis gibraltaeica. — This diS'ers widely from either of
the two above named, being more irregular in its growth, often
becoming straggling, and I am not sure if it is so hardy, as I
have lost plants occasionally in winter ; nor does it present
that thrifty evergreen appearance in winter which renders the
others so cheerful to look upon ; its blooms, too, are widely
different, being when flrst opened of a deep hlac, which fades
into a paler colour as time advances, but they present an even
uniform umbel, and look pretty. It appears to be most at home
on rockwork, where its irregular or rather straggling growth
would find a congenial substance to rest upon ; and I think
it lilies to be dry , or to be planted in a dry position. Its foliage is
slightly wedge-shaped, being narrow at the base. It is, when
the plant is healthy, much larger than that of either of the
two kinds previously mentioned, but is often confined to the
tips of the shoots, leaving long naked stems destitute of leaves.
In my estimation it is far short of I. corifoha in beauty and
general utility, but is, nevertheless, weU worth growing as a
distinct kind.^T. Eobson.

Leeds Hoeticultukal Society. — I have just returned from
the Leeds Show, where I acted in the capacity of Judge with my
friend Mr. Peach, and I can testify that the Show was a great
credit to Leeds, and to the spirited Committee under whose
managemeut it was can-ied out. I'he plants were exhibited in
some of the finest tents I have ever seen — real tents, not large
frames covered with canvas. Here were arranged some splendid
collections of stove and greenhouse plants, notably those con-
tributed by Messrs. Cole & Sons ; while the Pelargoniums,
Show, Fancy, and Zonal, were infinitely beyond anything I have
seen in or near the metropolis. Of course Mr. Ward's collec-
tions are to be excepted ; but then, instead of a couple of com-
petitors in each class, there were five or six collections of twelves
and sixes, while Zonula were really grand. Eoses were not up
to the mark, but then it was late for pot Eoses. Pansies were
shown in large quantities, and the table decorations and bouquets
were reaUy some of them of exquisite taste. So far for the Show.

The arrangements seemed to be equally good. There was a go
in whole thing different from the dolcc far nientr style one is
accustomed to in some places. The Mayor opened the Show ;
the Committee worked with a will ; and the indefatigable Se-
cretary, Mr. Birbeck, must have been pleased at the result of
his labours. I think one may augur well for horticulture iu the
north when one sees such an exhibition held in a place so un-
favourable to the growth of plants as Leeds must be. — D., Deal.

GARDENING IN THE WEST.— No. 2.

B.\TH.— 2.

The other public places that claim attention iu Bath are
the Sidney Gardens and the Abbey Cemetery. The former are
situated at the end of Pulteney Street, and their formation
dates as far back as 1795. The grounds are tastefully laid out
and planted, and the trees, which have now attained gigantic
dimensions, contribute to make this charming retreat a pro-
menade of great beauty. Here it is that the shows of the
Bath Horticultural Society are held, and every evening through-
out the season there is a promenade with music. The ancient
restriction of " No dogs or livery servants admitted'' has been
removed, and those who are not subscribers are admitted on
payment of sixpence, irrespective of their being dogs or livery
servants. The Abbey Cemetery is interesting in one respect
only, as being the last work of Loudon. Its scope is limited,
and there is nothing remarkable in the design. The planting
may, however, command a passing observation, as exhibiting
less of the dull, heavy, sombre effect which is too frequently
seen in cemeteries. Here there is a Uveliness and a compara-
tive cheerfulness, to which we are unaccustomed in these places,
by the introduction of flowering trees and shrubs. Scarlet
Horse Chestnuts, Double and Single Scarlet Thorns, Cratiegus
of various species. Double Furze, Laburnums, Eoses, Weigelas,
Gueldres Eoses, and many others, not dotted here and there,
but liberally difi'used all over the ground in groups and lines.
And when we read, as we enter, such inscriptions as " licsurg-
am,'' " God is not the God of the dead, but of the living, " we
feel that there is harmony around, and that the sentiments
which these inscriptions convey and the truths they teach are
helped and strengthened by the beautiful and bright sur-
roundings of the new life which every retm-ning spring brings
with it.

We have already stated in a former paper that, although
there is great encouragement of horticulture in Bath, there
are no great gardens or places where gardening is carried out
either generally or specially. The city and its suburbs abound
in detached villas, varying in size from an eighth of an acre to
two or four acres. Thoy all have theh' gardens, and most of
them a conservatory, and their style of decoration assumes
the "bedding-out" form. The consequence is, the gardening
taste taken collectively is very great, and the places are indi-
vidually very small. These terraces upon terraces of detached
villas embosomed iu trees remind us of Moscow, and if their
roofs were painted as those of Moscow ai-e, the resemblance
would not be unlike.

An exception to all the places in the immediate vicinity of
Bath is Vellore, the lovely residence of the rector of the Abbey,
the Eov. Charles Kemble. It is situated at Bathwick, on an
eminence a little above the Sidney Gardens, and within an
area of about twelve acres is concentrated every feature and
representation of gardening. The pleasure grounds are artisti-
cally designed and planted ; and although there are basins,
fountains, statuary, rockwork, and grottoes introduced, there
is no crowding, no discord, and nothing to offend the eye by
its incongruity. The lawns, the glades, the terraces, the flower
beds and shrubberies are all spacious ; the trees are tastefully
grouped and embrace a great variety, and at the tune of our
visit the Scarlet Horse Chestnuts and the Thorns were gorgeous
in their spring array. The glass structures occupy an area of
an acre, and consist of a glazed corridor leading from the house
which serves as a conservatory. Then there are a stove, a
Palm house. Fern house, and smaller stove, a large orchard
house, in which the trees are planted out in the borders and
covered with fruit ; vineries, pits, and, in short, every form of
garden structure it is possible to imagine. Close to the house
there is an orchard of pyramidal trees well managed, and
showing a good crop of fruit. The place is kept iu the most
beautiful condition, and everything is done in the best style of
gardening, reflecting great credit on the skill of Mr. David
Wicks, who has been gardener here for the last twelve years.

It is not among the upper classes alone that this love of
gardening is fostered. It descends even to the labouring

484

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AKD COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Jmo 13, 1S7:

classes, some of whom make it their pastime, and in many
eases prosecute it as a help to the household. Instead of
keeping a pig they have a greenhouse or a frame or two, and
in these they propagate " bedding stuff," for which they find
a ready Bale, or which they send to an auction mart in the
city, where periodical sales of plants are held, and where they
reaUse rather unremunerative prices. These sales interfere
somewhat with the trade of the regular florist, who cannot com-
pete in the cost of production with these amateur growers.

The nurseries about Bath are, like the gardens, of limited
extent, the largest not being more than sixteen acres. This
to some extent is attributable to the high price of land in the
immediate vicinity of the city. The oldest are those of Mr.
Drummond, Mr. Carpenter, Mrs. Tiley, and Mr. Kitley. The
two former are situated in Weston Lane. Besides a general
stock of trees and shrubs, Mr. Drummond's speciality is in
house plants. Here may be seen good collections of stove and
greenhouse plants, and in some cases excellent specimens. AVe
observed among these a fine plant of Adiautum farleyense,
5 feet in diameter. This is one of the original plants, and
certainly one of the finest we have ever seen. The large speci-
men Azaleas were turned out of the house and were just going
out of bloom, and we observed in another house some good
specimens of Ericas, such as elegans and Cavendishii, &c. This
is undoubtedly the leading nursery in Bath for exotic plants.

Mrs. Tiley's is more of a general nursery, and is situated at
Bathwick, immediately behind Sidney Gardens. The extent
altogether is sixteen acres, a good deal of this being occupied
with ornamental trees and shrubs, and Roses, for which this
nurseiy has long had a reputation. The houses contain the
ordinary class of flowering greenhouse .and stove plants, and
Ferns, and we were pleased to see some attention paid to the
cultivation of herbaceous perennials and alpines.

Also adjoining Sidney Gardens is the small but select nur-
sery of Mr. Pavitt, where Tea-scented Roses are extensively
grown iu great perfection, and in the open air without any
protection. Mr. Pavitt cuts the plants down close to the
ground every year ; they begin to bloom in June, and from
that time tUl October there is a constant profusion of flowers,
lasting over a period of five months. Mr. Pavitt boasts of
having every known variety of Tea-scented Rose in his collec-
tion. Besides these, we observed a choice stock of variegated
^ees and ehrubs.

Mr. Kitley 's grounds, at Lyneombe Vale, are mainly occu-
pied with market-garden produce, but he also grows flowers to
a considerable extent. We mention Mr. Kitley, as being a
person long well known in the gardening world, a great culti-
vator of Strawberries, and as the raiser of Kitley's GoUath
and Carolina superba. At Walcot, the nursery formerly occu-
pied thirty years ago by Salter & Scammel is now iu the pos-
session of Mr. Walters, son of the nurseryman of that name
at Trowbridge.

In close proximity to Mr. Kitley is Mr. Alexander, who
devotes his attention mainly to forcing flowers for decoration
and bouquets, a trade which is confined mostly to the Bath
season, or the winter and spring months. Besides Hyacinths
and other bulbs extensively forced, are Christmas Roses and
Solomon's Seal. We here met with a Potato peculiar to the
district, called Shiner Kidney. It is not exactly a Kidney, but
half round, and it is said to be as early as the old Ashleaf,
and a much better cropper. Mr. Cooling has a nursery at
Batheaston, in which he grows a good general stock.

THE SLUG-WORM, OR SLIJIY GRUB, IN

NEW ZEALAND.

This is the larva of a Saw-fly, called by Linuteus Tenthredo
Cerasi, from its feeding upon Cherry trees. People here who
possess gardens large or small, are just becoming alive to the
depredations committed by this dirty slimy-looking caterpillar,
which is making such havoc (eating the parenchyma of the
leaves, leaving only the bkeleton behind) with our Pear trees,
Plums, Cherries, Thorns, Quinces, Willows, and other things.
Most of the trees mentioned are now quite denuded of their
leaves in and around Christ Church long before their right
season. We have been annoyed with these ugly grubs on
our trees every autumn for some years past, but this autumn
they are worse than ever. Many people here not acquainted
with them nor their history, ask me — What is the cause of the
leaves dropping off the trees so soon this year '? Judge of their
astonishment when I explain that the trees have been injured

by these slug-worms, and that these have probably already
robbed them of a crop of fruit iu the forthcoming year. If
I mention any of our remedies used iu gardens for tbe destruc-
tion of these slimy grubs, a dislike is soon expressed, by the
fair sex in particular, to touch or go near the grubs on account
of their disageeeable stench. It puzzles me, and many other
people here, how they can have found their way to the Anti-
podes. Here in Canterbury they are, at any rate, and iu very
great abundance too, to our very great annoyance.

Since dispatching my first scrap about the Slug-worm ]>y
Suez mail, another opportunity has occurred for me to com-
municate some additional ideas on the subject. This time
I send you a few fresh-gathered leaves for your considera-
tion. Our Bigarreau Cherry trees are generally the first to
become affected, and our Quince trees the last. I am almost
certain that if we had very wet autumns instead of such un-
usually fine ones we should not be so much troubled with this
pest. Depredations committed by it on the leaves seem to be
confined to the natural order Pomaceae, or Appleworts, with one
exception only as far as I can discover — namely, the common
Willow, but I have to state that the leaves of this are not
stripped in such a ravenous manner as in the Pomacea\

Fig. 1. — Teutlu'edo adiunbrata {larva state).

Here at the Antipodes we generally discover the slug-worm
in a very young state on the leaves about the end of January.
This is shortly, I presume, after the time the flies emerge
from their tombs. About the middle of April they seem to
have completed their ravages, only an odd one being left be-
hind here and there, they having disappeared iu the shape of
a cocoon, for the purpose of entering the earth. — WiLLiAii
Swale, Cavterbnnj, Neu' Zealand.

[Our correspondent gave a long extract of an article by the
late Mr. John Curtis, the entomologist ; but as some confusion
has existed between this and similar grubs, we subjoin the
following extract from Dr. Boisdnval's " Essai sur I'Entomo-
logie Horticole," from which also we copy a very characteristic
engraving of the destroyer at work ou the leaf. Under the
head of Tenthredo adumbrata, Kluff, he says : — Arboricul-
turists are familiar with a slimy black larva like a little leech,
which appears as if glued to the leaves of Pear trees, and
which is of very common occurrence in fruit gardens in Sep-
tember and October. From its form and appearance, Reaumur
called it the slug-worm. At the end of autumn, when it haa
attained its full size, it somewhat resembles a small tadpole.
It has twenty feet, which, however, cannot be seen without
dislodging it from the leaf. It does not begin at the edges of
the Pear leaf, but gnaws away the pai'enchyma iu the middle,
leaving the smallest veins and the epidermis of the under side
untouched, so that the leaves attacked are left like the finest
lace {aeejiij. 1).

After four times casting its skin it changes to an orange
yellow colour, comes down from the tree, and forms a cocoon
from particles of soil bound together by a few silken threads.

The perfect insect (see firi. 2), according to Hai'tig, is 2 J lines
long, smooth, black, and shining, with the horns almost as
long as the abdomen ; the legs are black, the joints and thighs
reddish brown, the wings obscure.

June ID, 1878. ]

JOUENAIi OF HOETICUliTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

485

This grub is frequently very destructive to wall trees. It
appears on Pear trees when the fruit are from one-half to two-
thirds of their fuU size, and by destrojdug the parenchyma of
the leaves it prevents the elaboration of tho sap, brings growth
to a standstill, and the Pears, instead of swelling, drop.

Some authors consider that the slug-worm of Keaumur pro-
<Iuces the'Tenthredo Cerasi of Linn;eus ; others consider it
to belong to the Tenthredo yEthiops of Fabricius. The in-
vestigations of Gorsky, Westwood, and M. Delacour have
set the question at
rest. They have shown
that there are several
slug-like grubs, which
are developed into in-
sects belonging to dis-
tinct species, and that
the T. Cerasi of Lin-
na3Us does not form its
cocoon in the ground,
but among the leaves
of the Cherry. To Dr.
Boisduval's description
of this pest we may add
that the best remedy is
to dust the trees with
quicklime as soon as the

slimy grub is perceived, and to repeat the dustiny
as may be necessary. — Eds.]

Fig. 2. — Teutliredn ndumbratft
(perfect insect).

as often

LETTEES FKOM JAPAN.— No. 2.

Isurumi, Sept. 7th, 1873.

Japan is quite an agricultural country, and in the island of
Kipon two crops are generally obtained every year. At the
cud of the month of November or the beginning of December
the farmers sow their Barley and Wheat, and these crops are
ready to cut in the months of May and June, when the soO is
again turned up, and the land flooded for the Bice crop, or
prepared for Turnips, &a. The Barley and Wheat are not set
BO closely as we grow ours in England, the rows being about
12 to 1.5 inches wide ; after the Wheat and Barley plants are
about 8 inches high they are earthed-up on both sides. The
plough used by the Japanese is made of wood, pointed at the
end with a small piece of iron, and is so light that a boy can
carry it. It is guided by a single handle only, and is a very
primitive affair. The harrow is a piece of wood 3 feet long,
filled with iron spikes, and with a handle to it, so placed that
the farmer can press the spikes into the ground. After the
Barley and Wheat crops are ripe they are cut with a siclde, the
same as the Irish labourers formerly used. The crop being
carried home, all tho heads of grain are puDed off from the
etraw by passing through a number of iron spikes. The heads
are then thrashed with a flail in a similar way to what was
formerly the plan in England, after which the corn is separated
from the chaff by being exposed to the wind.

The Eice crop is planted in the following way : — After care-
fully preparing a bed, the Rice is set very thick, the same as
Celery is in England, and after it has grown to be about
6 inches from the ground, it is replanted in bunches of about
six heads each in the paddy fields, which have aU been pre-
viously turned up, prepared, and manured for the purpose.
The distance between each bunch is about 6 inches. The Bice
plant having grown to about 1 foot high, the earth is pressed
round each bunch by hand, and all weeds carefully removed.
At the end of October or the beginning of November the crop
is ready to cut, after which it is thrashed, and the Bice put
into straw bags. Turnips, which are grown and used along
with Bice by the Japanese for their food, are sown in the
months of May and June. They are not the same shape or
description as the English Turnip, but are about the size and
form of a very large Carrot, only white in colour. Carrots,
Potatoes, Peas, Sweet Potatoes, Beans, and Mustard are oiflti-
vated in much the same way as we raise them in England.
The grass here is very coarse, and sheep will not hve on it.
The Japanese Government has commenced a large farm in the
island of Yesso, which I am informed is very rich soil, but
owing to the severe winters in that more northern latitude,
only one crop is obtained in the year.

Poultry is extensively reared. We have turkeys, fowls,
geese, ducks, and pigeons. The fowls and ducks are very
plentiful, and comparatively cheap.

Fruit is very fine and plentiful. It consists of Pears, Apples,

Grapes, Pomegranates, Melons, Peaches, Plums, and Oranges.
The latter are of a very rich sweet flavour though small, and do
not generally contain many pippins. Your English gardeners
would be surprised to see a Japanese orchard, as all the trees
are grafted dwarfs, and appear to be heavily laden with fruit —
so much so that the branches are supported by bamboo props.
I must not forget to mention that the Japanese have one great
fault in the gathering of their fruit, and that is they nearly
always puU it before it is ripe, and then leave it to ripen after-
wards in the house. We consequently do not get the full
flavour of their fine Peaches and Plums. — J. Taskf.k Fostek. —
{ISij favour of the writer's father. Editor of the Yorkshire
Gazette.)

INFLUENCE OF CLIMATE OVEB THE STATUEE
OF PLANTS.

At a meeting of the Acad«my of Natural Sciences at Phila-
delphia, Mr. Thomas Meehan remarked that, as botanists well
knew, Quercus prinoides seldom grew more than 2 feet in
height. It was one of the smallest of shrubs. lu his collec-
tions in Kansas he found Oaks in the vicinity of Leavenworth,
which made small trees from 10 to 15 feet high, and with
stems from 1 to 2 feet in circumference. He was entirely
satisfied that it is identical in every respect but size with the
Q. prinoides of the eastern States.

Among trees there are few which produce forms as low
shrubs ; but the Pinus Banksiana, in the east but a bush of
5 or 10 feet, grew often 40 feet along the shores of Lake
Superior ; the Castauea pumila. Chinquapin Chestnut, when
it gets out of the sands of New Jersey into the clayey soils
west of the Delaware, often grew as large as many fuU-growu
Apple trees ; while the Celtis occidentalis, which in the east is
generally but a straggling bush along fence corners, is in Ohio
a large spreading tree with an enormous trunk, and in Indiana
is as lofty and as graceful as an Elm.

He also exhibited a section of a stem of Wistaria sinensis,
and called the attention of members to a curious arrangement
of the wood and bark. The vertical section showed by the
annual rings of wood that it was about twelve years old. After
the eighth year's circle there was a layer of bark, and over this
layer two more circles of wood. On a portion of the section
another layer of bark had formed between the tenth and
eleventh years' circles of wood. The bark seemed to be wholly
of liber, the oeDular matter and external cortical layer of the
regular bark appeared to be wanting. A longitudinal section
showed where these internal layers of bark extended no further
upwards, and at this point there was an evident flow of
wood from the interior over and down this layer of enclosed
bark.

He remarked that this section of wood was taken from a stem
which had been led to support itself in an upright position.
When the Wistaria is permitted to trail along the ground nu-
merous rootlets are formed along its length. He thought
from the appearance of the wood, in the specimen presented,
that rootlets had partially formed in these erect stems, push-
ing through the Uber, and then, instead of penetrating entirely
through the bark and forming perfect rootlets, they remained
within the ceUular matter, and descending joined with the re-
gular woody layer in forming an annular course of wood.
■This explanation was the more plausible, he thought, from the
fact that woody stems formed on the ground. Where the
rootlets went quite through into the earth the stems were
nearly regularly cyhndrical ; but these upright stems on which
rootlets were never seen had an irregular fluted appearance.
Of course, this explanation does not accord with the formation
of wood in hgneous structures as generally understood ; but
he could not understand how the appearance presented could
have occurred in any other way than as he had supposed.

NEW BOOK.

Yan Houtte's Pomona. A Descriptive List of Fruit.-:, with
numerous Plates ; published in English and French. Part 1.
Pears. London, 171, Fleet Street, E.C.
The name of Mr. Van Houtte is already well known as a
botanical and horticultural author, and now after a long life
honourably spent in the service of Flora he has divided his
heart with her sister Pomona, and given to the world of horti-
culture a work which is at once creditable and useful. The
Pomona, which is gracefully dedicated to Dr. Eobert Hogg, is
published in an oblong form, and consists of short descriptions

456

JOURNAL OP HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDEHEE.

[ June 19, 187a

of the fruits cultivated in Jlr. Van Houtte's extensive nnr-
Beries at Ghent. The varieties here given are the choice sorts
which are best worth growing in private gardens, and the
letterpress is illustrated with admirably executed coloured
figures of most of the leading kinds. There are five sheets of
coloured engravings representing fifty varieties, and six sheets
in outlines representing thirty-six varieties. There will be a
continuation of the work, and other fruits besides Pears will be
treated upon.

We heartily commend the work to all lovers of fruit culture.

EOTAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.
June 18th.

The Show on this occasion was held in the western conser-
vatory corridor, and was of extremely limited extent, no doiibt
in a great measure owing to exhibitors holding back for the
great meeting at Bath.

Prizes were offered by G. F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., for collec-
tions of Lilies of the character of L. pardahnum, canadeuse, itc,
also for cut flowers of the same, but no one came forward to
claim them.

There were three classes for Fuchsias — namely, classes for
six plants from amateurs and nurserymen respectively, and an
open class for twelve. There were three groups of six from
amateurs, each containing well-bloomed plants. The largest
specimens came from Mr. Walker, gardener to H. J. Atkinson,
Esq., Gunnersbury House, Acton, but those from Mr. J. Weston,
gardener to D. Martiueau, Esq., Clapham Park, were the better-
bloomed. A lot of very compactly-grown plants from Mr.
James, gardener to W. F. Watson, Esq., Isleworth, was in good
bloom. Mr. Weston was first, Mr. Walker second, Mr. James
third. Of varieties with light corollas, Puritana and Conspicua
were the best ; of dark corollas Enoch Arden, Lord Derby, and
Souvenir de Cbiswick ; of wbite-sepaled kinds Lucy Mills and
Mrs. Marshall. There was no exhibition in the nurserymen's
class, and Mr. James was the only exhibitor of twelve, taking a
first prize.

For eight Palms, Mr. Bull, Chelsea, was first, and Mr. Aldous,
florist, Gloucester Road, South Kensington, second ; while for
six, Mr. W. Cole, gardener to J. S. Budgett, Esq., Eahng Park,
and Mr. J. Fewell, gardener to Mrs. Sargood, Broad Green
Lodge, Croydon, took the same relative positions. In these
collections we noticed nice specimens of Geonoma pumila,
Acantbophopnix crcnita, Areca lutescens ; and in Mr. Bull's
group Kentia Forsteriana, Dfemouorops melanochsetes, and
Verschaffeltia melauoch<setes.

The only group of six P^eonies in pots came from Mr. R.
Parker, Exotic Nursery, Tooting, and well deserved the first
prize, which was awarded. Charles Binder and Virginie were
remarkably good.

Baskets of plants arranged for effect were shown, and prizes
were awarded to Mr. Hepper, gardener, The Ehns, Acton; Mr.
Aldous, florist, South Kensington; and Mr. Cole, gardener to
J. S. Budgett, Esq., Ealing Park. The only stand of Ranuncu-
luses came from the Rev. H. H. Dombrain, Westwell Vicarage,
who had a first prize.

Among miscellaneous subjects Mr. Denning, gardener to Lord
Loudesborough, Norl>iton, had a fine group of Orchids, in which
were the charming Epidendrum crassifoliam with at least a
score of spikes, Dendrobium BensoniiD, the pretty Palumbina
Candida, Cattleya Warneri, splendid ; fine Aerides, &c. From
Mr. Noble, nurseryman, Sunningdale, Bagshot, came a group of
the beautiful and elegant crimson-flowered Spirfea palmata;
from Mr. Smith, Ealing Deane Nursery, a good collection of
Balsams ; and from Mr. Parker, Tooting, a fine lot of Pyreth-
rums in pots, cut flowers of the same, and a stand of varieties
of the German Iris. For the prizes offered some time ago by
Messrs. Barr & Sugden for typical forms of Cabbages, exclusive
of Savoys, Mr. Tisdale, Cambridge Lodge, Tooting, exhibited
some twenty-seven so-called kinds, not all of which, however,
were markedly distinct.

Feuit Committee. — Alfred Smee, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair.
Mr. J. Edwards, gardener to Lady Prescott, Heme Court, Kent,
sent two dishes of Royal George Peaches and two of Violette
HAtive Nectarines, which were in splendid condition, and were
awarded a cultural commendation. Mr. A. Colbourne, Wool-
hampton, sent a very fine dish of Pitmaston Orange, which also
had a cultural commendation. Mr. CoU^ourne also sent fruit of
the Lo(iuat, which was pronoirnced the finest iu flavour ever
submitted to the Committee. Mr. Tillery, of Welbeck Abbey,
sent dishes of forced Sti-awberries — British Queen, Empress
Eugenie, and Lucas. Mr. Cadger, gardener to Lord Strafford,
Wrotham Park, Barnet, sent a seedling Melon, called Wrotbam
Park. Mr. J. Gardner, gardener to Col. Astley, Elsham Hall,
Brigg, sent a hybrid Melon. Mr. Gilbert, the Gardens, Burgh-

ley, sent a hybrid Melon of an oval shape and yeUow skin, with
(Teen flesh. The flavour was remarkably rich, and the Com-
mittee aw.arded it a first-class certificate, naming it Gilbert's.
Green-flesh.

Messrs. Barr & Sugden exhibited three'new Lettuces : Wheeler's
Kingsholmo, Scott's Giant, Dimmock's Victoria, Burnell's Alex-
andra, all of which were identical, and the same as a good
stock of Paris White Cos ; but Mr. Barr stated that he had found
these hardier than the Paris Cos. Henderson's New American
Lettuce, also exhibited by Mr. Barr, was pronounced unworthy
of cultivation. The Committee was adjourned to meet on
Saturday next, at Cbiswick, to examine the early Peas, which
are now in pod.

Floral Committee. — W. E. KeUock, Esq., in the chair,
Messrs. Rollisson, of Tooting, had first-class certificates for
erect-flowering Gloxinia Brilliant, with magenta-fiusbed crimson
lobes; for Rev. A. H. Bridges, one of the drooping-flowered class,
soft rose, much dotted, and veined; Mrs. Fanny Wilders, erect-
flowered purple, broadly edged with white. Besides these
Messrs. Rollisson exhibited many others of considerable merit.
To the same firm a first-class certificate was awarded for
ilichmea bracteata, previously shown at the Regent's Park. Mr,
Croucher, gardener to J. T. Peacock, Esq., Sudbury House,
Hammersmith, sent several new Agaves. Messrs. Backhouse,
York, had a cultural commendation for a specimen of Cyclo-
bothra pulchella. Mr. Linden, Brussels, had a small collection
of new plants, among which were Phyllotfenium Lindeni, Cur-
meria picturata, Maranta hieroglyphica, and Anthurium crystal-
linum, all of which have been recently noticed.

Messrs. Downie, Laird, & Laing seot a stand of Fancy
Pansies, of which the following had first-class certificates — viz.,
Picotee, singularly Uned ; Thomas Granger, dark blotch, rich
brown edge and top ; Mrs. Neilson, violet, edged with white,
very pretty; D. B. Downie; and Richard Dean, dark brown,
edged with rich yellow. Messrs. Barr & Sugden, of Covent
Garden, had a cultural commendation for a fine basket of
Lilies, and exhibited, besides, a collection of Irises of different
classes, which, though not in good condition owing to the rain,
were very interesting. They also sent a violet bedding Pansy,
called Magnifica variegata, having leaves much variegated with
deep yellow.

Mr. R. Dean, EaHng and Bedfont, sent remarkably fine spikes
of white, pm-ple, and scarlet Intermediate Stocks, also Mauve
Beauty, a splendid pyramidal variety, together with a number
of his bedding Violas, and some double Canterbury Bells.
From H. Shaw, Esq., Highfield, Blackburn, came two fine
varieties of Cattleya Triauaai.

A CASE OP DISTRESS.

We earnestly call the attention of our readers to a case of
real distress, and solicit their aid in an endeavour to assist
those who are quite unable to help themselves. The late Mr.
Robert Glendinning, of the Chiswick Nursery, was well known
to most people in the horticultural world , and there were few
who knew him but would have assisted him in his lifetime.
At his death he left, among other members of his family, a
poor idiot son, who has for the last seventeen years been an
inmate of the asylum at Redhill. During the whole of that
time the father, and subsequent to his death the mother, paid
the annual charge of £60 for his m,aintenance. Now the
mother is dead, and evil days having come on the family, this
poor young man has no one to continue the maintenance for
him, and if something be not done he will have to be discharged
fi'om the asylum. Some friends of his parents have interested
themselves iu his behalf, and are endeavouring to have him
placed on the foundation, by which he will be maintained,
free ; and we shall be glad if anyone who reads this wUl regard
it as a pressing appeal to their charity, and render all the aid
they can to secure at the next election that this poor fellow
shall be placed on the foundation. Subscriptions and votes
will be thankfully received by Mrs. Bridges, Rupert House,
Chiswick, Mr. Francis Dancer, of Little Sutton, Chiswick, or
by the Editors of this Journal.

AoE OF Trees. — According to M. Ed. Andre, the editor of
L'Uluftraliun Ilorticole, the following are the ages attained by
several kinds of trees. Judas Tree (Cerois SUiquastrum), 300
years ; Elm (Ulmus campestris), 335 years ; Ivy (Hedera Helix),
450 years ; Maple (Acer campestre), 516 years; Beech (Betula
alba), 57lj years ; Orange (Citrus Aurautium), 630 years ; Ever-
green Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens), 800 years; OUve
(Olea europtea), 800 years ; Walnut (Juglans regia), 900 years ;

Jane 19, 1878. ]

JOUBNAIi OF HORTIGOXjTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

487

Oriental Plane (Platanus orientaUs), lOGO years; Lime (Tilia
europfea), 1100 years ; Oak (Quercusliobur), 1500 years ; Cedar
of Lebanon, 2000 years ; Taxodium distiuham, 3000 years ;
Yew (Taius baccata), :;200 years. These ages are taken from
the coucentrio annual layers of the oldest trees hitherto
observed.

EXTRACTS FKOM DB. HOOKER'S REPORT

ON THE KOYAL GAEDENS AT KEW, DDEI.\G 1&73.
[Concluded from page 4G8.)

Instructions have been received to introduce the Teak into
•Jamaica, and the West African (Liberian) Coffee into Ceylon,
where the ravages of the coffee blight, a minute fungus (Hemileia
vastatrix), are still very serious.

The cultivation of Tea in Ceylon (upon which a rejiort was
■called for from Kew a few years ago) is successfully established,
and the quality pronounced satisfactory. The Cinchona con-
tinues to flourish in the island, and the bark has been pro-
nounced of the best quality.

The Director of the Botanic Garden there is actively promot-
ing the cultivation of Chocolate, for which the climate of the
island is admirably suited.

A skilful Superintendent (trained in the Glasnevin Botanic
Garden) has been sent out from Kew to the Botanic Garden of
Natal, and has taken with him a large collection of economic
plants.

A gardener has been sent from Kew to the Embassy Garden
at Constautinople, and another as superintendent of the Agri-
Sorticultural Society's Garden at Calcutta.

Under instructions from the Secretary of State for the Colonies
•a skilled propagator has been sent from Kew to superintend the
extension of forest plantations in the Island of Mauritius.
Others have been selected for the Tea and Cotton plantations
in India.

Dr. Henderson, of the Indian Medical Service, after devoting
.a year to the study of his Turkestan collections at Kew, has
been appointed locum tenens at the Royal Botanic Gardens,
Calcutta, during the absence in Europe on sick leave of Dr. King,
the present Superintendent.

The yield of Cinchona in the Indian plantations is already
"very large, and the bark has fetched good prices in the English
market ; the manufacture of quinine has been estabhshed in
the Nilghiri plantations, and mil shortly be commenced in the
Sikkim Himalaya.

Among the most valuable presentations to the herbarium are
«the Eev. C. New's plants, collected on the Alpine zone of Kilima-
njaro, the only hitherto visited snow-clad mountain in equa-
torial Africa, which possesses a remarkable interest, as the
flora of the Alpine zone of Africa was previously wholly un-
known. A notice of it is being prepared for immediate publi-
cation. A fine collection of two thousand Brazilian plants has
been received from Mr. Glaziou, Director of public parks, .tc, at
Bio de Janeiro. A beautiful collection of Appalachian Mosses
has been received, with many other plants, from Dr. Gray, of
Cambridge, U.S. ; and of Mexican and New Caledonian plants
from the museum of the Jardin des Plantes, Paris. The very
valuable herbarium of Dr. Kottler, made by himself and the
■early missionaries in India, has been presented by the authori-
ties of King's College ; as containing the types of many species
imperfectly described by the first Indian botanists, and repre-
senting the state of the botany of the peninsula at the beginning
of the century, it is of great interest and importance both in a
scientific and historical point of view.

A beautiful collection of Burmese Orchids has been presented
fcy the Bev. C. Parish. Dr. Brandts, F.L.S., Conservator of
Forests for India, has placed his herbarium, formed in many
parts of India, at the disposal of this establishment, to be
selected from ; together with a collection of Tibetan plants,
■made by the Bev. Mr. Heyde. Mr. Kurz, Curator of the her-
barium of the Calcutta Botanic Garden, has transmitted large
Burmese collections made by him during a late mission to that
country.

For novelty as well as interest no contributions are of greater
"value than Beccari's Borneau plants, amounting to 1850 species,
communicated by Professor Parlatore, of Florence ; M. Maximo-
wicz's Japan plants, a splendid series ; Dr. Henderson's collec-
tions, made during Forsyth's mission to Ya.rkand ; and Dr.
J. Anderson's, made duringthe expedition to Tunan, the botany
of the two latter countries having previously been wholly un-
known to science.

Sales of Okchids — Mr. Stevens on the 28th of May sold
439 lots for about £500, and 380 lots on the 31st for £400.
Amongst the highest purchase bids were £8 lis. for a mass of
Dendrobium Bensonia! ; £5 15.s. for Cattleya Schilleriana Eeg-
nelli ; £5 10s. for LaiUa majalis ; £G lO;;. for Cattleya Mendelu ;

£9 for Masdevallia Harryana; and £12 12»-. for Disa grandi-
flora superba.

WOODLICE AND WEEDS.

I HAVE tried tlie plan suggested for trapping these vermin by
placing some boiled Potato in a flower pot laid on its side with
a little moss, but without the slightest effect. A much better
trap is a flower-pot saucer turned upside down, and if smeared
inside with a little ordure it will be the more effective. I catch
dozens under each early in the morning, and more in the
course of the day.

Salt boiled in water and applied direct from the kettle has
been recommended for destruction of weeds, which I have found
of Uttio avail, and it is, furthermore, an expensive process as
compared with hand-picking. A boy at Is. a-day will get rid
of them entirely at a tenth-part of the cost of salt. — J. M. A.

[Manure has nothing to do with the production of either
woodlice or slugs. The parents travel to the soils most suited
to them, and there breed. — Ens.]

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

Miss Stanley, sister of the Dean of Westminster, adopts
a novel mode of rewarding those of the deserving poor who
come within the sphere of her influence. This estimable
lady dispenses what may be called a kind of floeal chaeity,
and through the agency of district visitors distributes large
quantities of flowers to the poor at their own homes. It would
be impossible to find any class of the community who do not
take pleasure in the cultivation of flowers, and no one can
doubt that, by giving the humbler classes of the people oppor-
tunities for employing their time in this direction. Miss Stanley
is performing a work of genuine philanthropy. It is only to
go into one of the metropohtan parl:s on a Sunday afternoon
in the summer, to be convinced of the enjoyment which the
sight of the flower beds creates amongst the immense numbers
who congregate there, and it is very rare that an act of wilfal
damage has to be punished. A suggestion has been made that
hospitals have a claim upon public sympathy in this respect,
and that, as newspapers and periodicals are supplied to the
sick poor, flowers also might be furnished to them. The idea
is unquestionably a good one, and it might be worked out so
as to relieve the tedium of the dreary hours which many are
compelled to spend in our public institutions. — (Davenlnj
Express.)

We understand that Mr. B, S. Williams, of HoUoway,

has been intrusted with the Floeal Decorations at the Guild-
hall on the occasion of the Shah's visit to the City.

Amongst the industries in which soldiers employ their

leisure in France, not the least is Steawberky cultivation.
At Bagnolet, near Paris, three hundred soldiers from the forts
of Eosny and Eomaiuville are daily occupied for six hours in
watering the Strawberries. The fruit is picked from each
plant eight times in a year, the second gathering taking place
four days after the first, the four next at intervals of three
days, and the two next in ten days. In a good season the
grower gathers at one time five baskets per 100 yards, or six
hundred per hectare (a trifle over 2 acres). As each basket is
sold at Is. 3d., the eight gatherings bring in about £260 per
hectare. The grower, however, spends £140 on the culti-
vation of his ground, his clear profit being about £120. —
(Graphic.)

At a dinner recently given at Delmonico's in New

York, the Dinnee-eoom Decorations consisted of banks of
moss brought on purpose from the south, in which masses of
flowers of the choicest kinds were placed, " including several
hundred yellow Roses which cost one dollar each." Down the
centre was a tank full of water, over which was an aviary of
song birds, and in the midst of the water two live swans swam
about, the whole being adorned with superb flowers. Water
Lilies, and Ferns.

The Golden Champion Grape. — I entertain a very high
opinion of this Grape, and am sorry to find it has done so
badly with Mr. Douglas. With me it has succeeded admirably
in an early house, setting -well, and resembling in bunch that
famous Grape the Bowood Muscat, but larger in berry. My
late employer, T. V. Morgan, Esii., considered it one of the
finest-flavoured Grapes he had tasted. I remember showing
it to Mr. Wills the same season in excellent condition. I

4S8

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEB,

[ June 19, 1878.

therefore advise my brother gardeners to give it a fair trial | sider a most excellent Grape. — Thomas P. Tuknee, Gardener,
Lefore writing in disparagement of what I have reason to con- | Earl of Heath, Killruddcry Castle, Co. Wiclilow.

CAEICA AUEANTIACA

Thbough the kindness of Mr. William Bull, of the King's
Eoad, Chelsea, we are enabled to figure this newly-introduced
Papayad. It is described by him as having " stout, fleshy,

erect stems, and long-stalked palmately-parted smooth leaves
of a soft herbaceous texture, the centre lobo of which is pin-
natifid ; the lobes appear, from the sketches of the plant, to

Carica am-autiaca.

be about IJ inch broad. The fruit is globose, a Uttle over
3 inches in diameter, orange-coloured, and Orange-like. The
plant is free in habit, and of ornamental growth."

What this may prove to be in an economical or in an orna-
mental point of view we cannot venture to say. The Papaw-
tree, so ftenerally cultivated in the East, is also a native of
South America, but has dingy orange-coloured fruit of much
greater dimensions. In connection with this tree we may
mention its property of turning all meat tender ; it is even

said, and we believe with truth, that fresh-killed meat placect
under its foliage will be similarly affected. Such, at least, has
been our experience in India, as well as that of many of oui'
friends ; but there, however, the climate does much in the
same direction. The Papaw is propagated by seeds in India ;
and Mr. Speed, in his " Indian Gardener," recommends that
the tree should be grown in rich mould, otherwise the fruit
wiU become even more tasteless than it naturally is.

FLOWERS FOK OUR BORDERS.— No. 10.

GEAMIIANTHES GENTIANOIDES.— Gentian-like Orammanthes.

The Houseleek tribe inclndos within its limits so few plants
wliich are not perennial, that the present subject, an annual,
has some claim to be regarded as a novelty.

The Grammanthes gentianoides is a native of the Cape of
Good Hope, and is, we believe, a recent introduction. It grows
but a few inches high, and has smooth, rather brittle stems,
and bhiut, fleshy leaves, hke those of most Crassulaceous
plants. The flowers are of an orange-yellow tint, in terminal
clusters, each with five petals, five stamens, and five distinct
styles and carpels. The last feature is so eminently charac-

teristic of the plants of this order, that, taken in conjunction
with their succulent habit, it affords an easy method of dis-
tinguishing them from all other tribes.

The blossoms are remarkable for a dark stain at the base of
each lobe of the corolla, and which being continued along the
middle of each petal towards its extremity, partially divides
the ground colour, so as to give it an appearance which has
not been inaptly compared to that of the letter V ; and it is in
allusion to this circumstance that the genua has been named,
from orumma, a letter, and anthos, a flower.

Jme 19, 187S. ]

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENER.

489

It is well known that sncculeuts will flourish in a very small
amonut of soil, and that of the poorest ilescriptiou, and this
peculiarity must be borne in mind in the cultivation of the
Grammanthes. It requires to be sown in spring, in pots of
sandy soU, and placed in a moderate hotbed imtil the young
plants are an inch or two high, when, if very thickly placed,
they may be transferred to wider pots, but otherwise they
may remain in the seed-pot untU the weather is suiliciently
mild to permit of their removal to the borders. From their
limited growth, single specimens of the plant produce but
little effect ; it is therefore advisable to plant them in patches
as large as the supply of plants will admit of, ami where the
soU is not sandy it must be removed to the depth of 3 or
4 inches, its place being suppUed by the poorest material that
can be obtained. As a further precaution against excess of
moisture, a thin tile may ba placed beneath this stratum of
earth, and the surface of the ground covered with small
pebbles. The plant is, however, better suited to the rockery
than for the border, as in wet seasons it is liable to rot, not-
withstanding any precaution that may be taken.

Grammanthes gentianoides.

It must be remembered, that in the dry climate of the Cape
but little rain falls during several months of the year, and
that the aridity both of the atmosphere and soil is further
augmented by a temperature considerably higher than that
we enjoy in this country. Upon rockwork tho plant is cer-
tainly less exposed to the evils arising from a rich soil ; but the
atmospheric humidity not uncommon with us even in the
summer season, is not so easily guarded against. Tho nearest
approximation to the native cUmate of the Grammanthes
would, perhaps, be found in the greenhouse or a warm south
window, where we have found it succeed very well ; in any
case, however, the blossoms wUl only expand in bright weather.
Their tint varies considerably in depth, even on the same
plant ; those which have been the longest expanded are gene-
rally much darker, and there is a variety with paler flowers.

We believe the present species to be identical with one pub-
lished under the name of chlortefolia, for the supposed differ-
ences are quite inappreciable. The old Crassula retroflexa is
now added to this genus.

The least attentive observer cannot fail to be struck, in a
turvey of the vegetable kingdom, with the wonderful adapta-
siou of the various organs of the different tribes of plants to
the situations in which they are usually found.

If we at this time confine our observations to the leaves of
plants, we find that those species which are natives of moist
climates or boUs, and which consequently imbibe by theii-
roots a considerable amount of fluid, are furnished with leaves,
the cuticle of which is set with innumerable pores or stomata
— as they are termed in botanical parlance — through which the
redundant juices of the plant are exhaled into the atmosphere ,
whence they were originally derived ; whilst in those plants

which are parasitical, like the Mistletoe, or which are natives of
the saudy districts of warm climates, as in tho case of many
of those comprised in the orders Crassulacea) and Cactaceffi,
these breathing apertures are in direct proportion to the small
volume of root-nutriment absorbed by the plant, and are
therefore few in number. Of these plants Lindley has well
observed, that " soil is to them a something to keep them
stationary, rather than a source of nutriment," which is ob-
tained chiefly from the surrounding atmosphere ; for not only
does the peculiar structure of their cuticle enable them to
retain for a lengthened period their fluid contents, but they
appear to possess the faculty of absorbing, through its agency,
the heavy dews by which, in tropical climates, the absence oJ
the rain of more temperate regions is suppHed. — (W. Thomp-
son's English Flower Garden.)

GLOKIOSAS.

■What more beautiful plants than these can be had for the
decoration of pillars and rafters of the stove or intermediate
house during the summer and early autumn months ? and yet
they are very rarely to be found in either large or small gar-
dens throughout the country. This arises in some instances
from utter ignorance, not only of tho beauty of the various
kinds, but from total ignorance of their existence ; on the
other hand, I have found both amateurs and gardeners shrink
from attempting their culture, beheving them to be diflicult to
grow and shy to bloom. This is a state of things which should
not ejdst, and therefore, for the benefit of those of my readeia
who are labouring under tho latter impression, allow me to
say that my own experience with these plants has proved them
neither difficult to grow nor shy to flower, but that a fine dis-
play may be obtained from them with ordinary care.

I am quite at a loss to understand why these plants have
been so thoroughly neglected by gardeners, for not only are
they beautiful objects for home decoration, but when trained
upon a wire balloon-shaped trellis they produce a magnificent
effect upon the exhibition table, and therefore they cannot be
considered suitable for a certain class alone, but may be grown
and prove equally useful in the largo as in the small garden.

The finger-like tubers of these plants have a central crown ^^
which should be examined as to its soundness before potting in
the blooming pot, when, if perfect, they shoiHd be placed, either
in pairs or singly, 2 or 3 inches below the surface of the soil, with
the crown uppermost. I am particular in saying the bloom-
ing pots, for this system I have found by experience much the
best, because when first placed in small pots and subjected to
several shifts, some injury would invariably accrue, theh' scan-
dent stems and tendril-bearing leaves being extremely incon-
venient to the operator, and peculiarly liable to damage. I
have, therefore, adopted the method of planting in large pots
at the first potting, and have been very successful with them
under this treatment. The blooming pots for Gloriosas shoul(J
be about 13 inches in diameter. These, if properly drained,
will be sufficiently large, and the soil will not become sour or
stagnant during the whole season. For compost use one part
good turfy loam, one part of fibrous peat, one of good rough
leaf mould well decayed, and one of well-decomposed manure.
Add to this one part of silver or sharp river sand, and then
thoroughly mix, but on no account let a sieve be brought into
use, for nothing is so baneful in the hands of the amateur as
a sieve to make the soil fine.

After potting, the tubers should be started in gentle bottom
heat, but when the growths are some 18 inches long this, if
inconvenient, may be dispensed with ; they may then be placed
upon the pillar or rafter, or upon a wire trellis if this style of
culture has been determined upon. If a stock of these tubera
is in hand, it will be preferable to keep some of them back
until April and May, when a succession of grand flowers will
be obtained for several months. During the growing season
Gloriosas enjoy liberal suppUes of water at then- roots, and an
occasional appUoation of weak liquid manure will be found
very beneficial ; but the syringe, although used frequently,
must be handled carefully, and the water discharged from it
hghtly, otherwise the leaves will be much bruised and broken,
and thus the general appearance of the plants damaged.

The blooming season past, water must be gradually withheld,
but do not entirely cease to water them until the stems have
completely decayed, for if the tubers are prematurely put to
rest their strength will be deteriorated, and the quality and
quantity of the flowers the next season will be correspondingly
less.

430

JOURNAL OP HOBTIGOLTUBE AND COTrAGE GARDENER.

[ June 19. 1873.

While upon this subject I may just add that in too many
instances the starving system in connection with summer-
flowering bulbous plants has done more to bring them into bad
repute with amateurs than any other thing. By the starving
system I mean the total neglect of these plants after their
beauty is past ; like many plants, they require just at that tinae
particular attention in order to enable them to finish their
"rowth in good condition. The reverse of this treatment
leads to the formation of weak tubers, which produce but few
flowers the next season, and then we often hear the remark,
■"Tes, those plants did very well with me the first year, but I
never was able to manage them satisfactorily afterwards."
Therefore, referring specially to the treatment of Gloriosas, I
would say. Do not neglect or entirely refrain from watering
until the stems have quite decayed, then remove them to a
cool place, and keep them dry until required the following
spring.

G. suPEKBA.— This fine plant ought to be familiar to all
plant-growers, for it is considerably over a century and a half
since its introduction to what were then called our bark stoves.
It attains a height of S or 9 feet, and is subjected to the treat-
ment above detailed, but it must be grown in the stove. The
stems and leaves are smooth, shining, pale Ught green; the
leaves are ovate-lanceolate in shape, the apex being lengthened-
out into a long spiral tendril, which clings firmly to anything
with which it may come in contact. The flowers are produced
from the axils of the leaves ; petals six in number, narrow-
lanceolate, undulate, crispate at the margins, and measuring
about 3 inches in length. In young flowers the petals are
straight, but when fully expanded they reflex until they stand
almost erect, with their points nearly touching. The colour is
Tich orange red, and the appearance of dozens of these large
gaudy flowers must be seen to be fully appreciated. Native
of the East Indies.

G. GRANDiFLoKA.— In general habit this species resembles the
preceding ; it is, however, a much stronger-growing plant, and
is perfectly distinct in colour. Well do I remember the delight
which I experienced on blooming this species for the first time
after its introduction to England, for I had tended it diUgently
under the conviction that it was a new kind. It is a robust
and vigorous grower, attaining a height of from 10 to 12 feet.
The leaves are sessile, ovate-lanceolate in shape, terminating
in a long tendril, and pale green in colour. As with G. superba,
•the flowers are six-petaled, and like it also they become re-
flexed when mature ; the petals are lanceolate, about 4 inches
long and vary from pale sulphur to rich golden yellow m
colour. It succeeds best in the stove, but, like the first-named
kind, it will thrive admirably in an intermediate house, and
lasts nearly three months in beauty. Native of Western
Tropical Africa.

G. viKEscENs Plantii. — For an intermediate house early m
summer, or a snug place in the greenhouse later in the season,
few plants are more showy and attractive than the kind above-
named. It attains a height of about 8 feet ; leaves oblong-
lanceolate, with a short terminal tendril; flowers axillary, six-
petaled, and spathulate in shape, differing, however, from
<i. superba in the plain, not crispate margins. The lower half
of the petals is bright rich yellow, the upper portion bright
red tinged with orange. The blooms last long m full beauty,
and if attention be paid to potting the tubers successionally,
their brilUant flowers may be enjoyed for four or five months
during the summer and autumn. It is to be found in^o™^
gardens under the name of G. Leopoldiana. Native of Natal
and various parts of South Africa.— Expekto Gredh.

HAEDY PERENNIALS.— No. 1.

The practice now so extensively adopted of filling entire
compartments of the flower garden during summer with plants
not long since regarded as occupants of the greenhouse ex-
clusively, has no doubt imparted to the parterre a brilliancy
not hitherto attainable.

Vfe have no objections to urge against planting in masse^s,
or as it is usually termed, the "bedding system;" on the
contrary, we freely admit that very striking effects are thus
produced, and where the extent of ground permits it we see
no reason why every variety of plant employed for ornamental
purposes, whether annual or perennial, should not be disposed
in clumps or beds. But it is obvious that for gardens of small
extent this svstem of planting is entirely inappropriate, unless,
indeed, one could be content with a very few distinct species,
which very rarely happens. The preservation, too, of bedding

plants— at least of those of a tender character— durmg the
winter months involves some little trouble ; and then- in-
crease in spring is hardly to be effected without the aid of a
hotbed, especially when any quantity is required.^ , . , , ^

Now without going so far as to affirm that it is desirable to
exclude all plants incapable of supporting without mjury an
English winter— an opinion in which but few persons would
con'cur— we have no hesitation in saying that the number of
strictly hardy subjects is so great, that no difficulty whatever
would be found in fiUing with them a garden of considerable
extent, without the assistance of any plants requiring winter
protection, or only so much as could easUy bo afforded without
removing them from the soil. , ^ ,

Wc think it highlv probable that a reference to the best ot
these will be acceptable to those amateurs who, although
ardent lovers of Flora's beauties, have too little time at their
disposal to enable them to devote the reqmsite attention to
the more tender class of plants. , x -u

As our starting point, we may take the Ranunculus tribe,
usually placed first in botanical arrangements, and equaUy
entitled to a prominent position in an ornamental point ol
view The most showy plants of this order are the Columbmes
fAfluile.'ia), the perennial Larkspurs (Delphinium), and the
various°Bpecies of Clematis ; the first two especially ment the
attention of the amateur. The finest of the Aquilegias are
alpiua, with magnificent blue flowers 3 inches across ; okiuueri,
iucunda, glaudulosa, leptoceras, and fragrans, the last with
sweet-scented pale yellow blossoms ; the varieties of the com-
mon A. vulgaris are also many of them very ornamental.

The genus Delphinium comprises some of our most beautilul
herbaceous plants, and the species are very numei-ous ; no gar-
den should be without Barlowii, Iveryanum, Wheeleri, and
Hendersoni ; many of the older species are veiy ornamental,
especially grandiflorum, elatum, the common Bee Larkspur,
and azureum. , j. j.i

Most of the species ot Clematis are climbers, but there is
one of dwarf herbaceous habit which merits a place m the
mixed borders, the C. tubulosa from Mongolia. The other
species, would, perhaps, be more properly noticed under a
different head. ,, , _,_„

Among the fibrous-rooted Anemones there are several very
pretty plants; the A. narcissiflora, A. nivalis A. Pulsatilla,
and A. japonica, are of this number. Of the tuberous kinds,
in addition to the beautiful A. coronana and A. hortensis,
which are too weU esteemed to need further recommendation,
we may mention palmata and apennina ; the last has been
classed as an indigenous species, but erroneously. Several
other selections maybe made from this order such as the
Adonis vernahs, and aU the perennial species of this genus ;
that named is, however, the only one readily procurable : its
large bright yeUow flowers make it an object ot much interest
in early spring. The Thalicti-um aquilegifolium and several
other species of Meadow Hue may also be admitted, without
hesitation, to the back row ot the borders, where their tassel-
like flowers and fine foliage produce a good effect ; and the
Globe-flowers (TroUius) have recently received an accession to
their number from China, which will prove of some value as
a hardy ornamental perennial. t„i.„t

We must not, however, hnger over this group of plants, but
pass on to the Poppyworts, in which the Orien al Poppy
P orientale), the Braoted Poppy (P. bracteatum), and the
Norway Poppy (P. nudicaiile), claim our notice; and the Ar-
gemone grandiflora, which, although often treated as an
annual is of perennial duration, and in our opinion is entitled
to special mention ; it requnes, however, to be kept withm

^°In the Fiimeworts we have a group Umited in extent but
lii-hly interesting from its including the beautiful Dielytra
spectabihs. Most of the species of Corydahs "^^ 7;>. "3;
mental, and every collection of hardy plants should mcliide
such species as nobiUs, fabacea, and bulbosa. , , ,., ,

The Violet tribe it will he sufficient to name; but although
everybody cultivates the charming Viola odorata, and its more
gaudy sister, the Pansy, the other species many of w^ieh are
very interesting, are only rarely seen. The V Pe^ata is a
prettv plant, with large purple flowers; tl^.°«« "^ /^^ff "'^'^^^
whit;- pennsvlvanica, palmata, and primula^folia, aie also
Aperies of some interest and all three may be had of some of
the London florists ; we have seen them in the catalogue of
Messrs. Low & Co., of Clapton.

The Cruciferous plants are far more numerous than the pre-
ceding, but comparatively few of them can be said to be reaUy

June 19, 1E7S, ]

JOURNAL OP HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE,

491

orr ameutal, if we except the double-floweredEockets (Hesperis) ,
the Widldowei's, aud different species of Stocli (Matthiola).
The Alyssum saxatile, so appropriately named by our Gallic
neishboars Corbeille d'or, from the mass of golden flowers it
presents in spring; the Aubrietia purpurea and A. deltoidea,
both with purple blossoms ; the very pretty Calabrian Arabis
(A. rosea), and some of the Deutarias, are the principal ones
which suggest themselves, and they aro all worth cultivation.
The genus ^Ethionema contains a few plants of some beauty ;
the best species is jserhaps coridifolium, from Jlount Lebanon,
but the others may also be grown.

The Dianthus tribe, Oaryophyllacese, needs no recommenda-
tion, including as it does some of our most esteemed florists'
flowers ; not a twentieth part, however, of the plants comprised
in this order are in general cultivation, which is the more to be
regretted, as the whole are hardy, of dwarf habit, and abundant
flowerers. We may cite the Dianthus Fischeri, latifolius,
giganteus.Libanotis, lusitanicus,Balbisii, carthusianorum, and
Hendersonii ; the beautiful little Sapouaria ocymoides ; the
SUene Schafta, fimbriata, acaulis, alpestris, and speciosa ;
Gypsophila paniculata and perfoliata : and Lychnis fulgens,
coronata, and Bungeana, as a few of the most interesting
border plants, and nearly all of them are excellent for the
rockery.

The Flax family is oliiefly represented in our gardens by the
old Linum flavum, a very gay little evergreen ; but the genus
contains at least twenty other species equally deserving of
notice, among which we may mention the New Zealand Flax,
L. monogynum, white; arboreum, maritimum, and campanu-
latum, yellow; suffruticosum aud tenuifolium, pink; narbo-
nense, austriacum, alpinum, montanum, and hirsutum, blue ;
and lastly, ascyrifolium, with very handsome large blue and
white blossoms.

A few of the hardy species of Geranium and Erodium are
snflieiently showy to be admitted into the borders ; of the first
genus, anemonefolium, ibericum, argenteum, macrorhizon, and
Wallichianum, are the best ; and of the Erodiums, serotinum,
hymenodes, crassifolium, and Reichardii.

The Mallows tribe includes some highly ornamental subjects.
The Hibiscus roseus and H. Moscheutos are both splendid
plants, though a moist situation is indispensable, as they are
natives of swampy districts. They will succeed admirably by
the margin of a piece of water. The old genus Nuttallia, now
incorporated with the true Mallows, has a few hardy species,
though they are somewhat rare in this country ; digitata,
papaveracea, and pedata, are all beautiful, but the last is the
only species commonly kept by florists ; the N. grandiflora re-
quires some protection. The Malva Morenii and M. Monroana
are also herbaceous perennials of some merit. — (W. Thomi'Son's
English Flower Garden.)

PACKING AND TRANSMISSION OP PLANTS,

CUTTINGS, BULBS, AND SEEDS, TO DISTANT COUNTRIES.

There was a time when many enthusiasts supposed that
cuttings, stopped at each end with sealing-wax, and then put
in ajar securely corked, would traverse the globe in a vital
condition ; but I am a suffering witness to the truth, and in
my experience of such "home presents," found their only
value in dry sticks to light my hearth ! Undoubtedly, for a
few days' sea voyage or land journey the plan may succeed,
but as I know of so many better modes of preservation, I shall
never require it. Next came the Potato dodge — to wit, each
end of a cutting is inserted in one of those tubers, and the
bundle is made up together in a wrapper of wax cloth or paper
— not inferior to the last method, but the same remarks will
apply thereto. Strange to say, the primitive Hindoo was the
prime discoverer of the proper modus operandi in packing
tender cuttings, and to his intuitive simplicity 1 am heavily
indebted for a large portion of the floral treasures I collected
and had the pleasure of transmitting during my long sojourn
in the East and other quarters. Herewith a slight description
of the firren idea. Having tied your various cuttings up in lots,
and all of as nearly the same length as possible, proceed to cut
down that very ubiquitous tree, a " Banana." Say your cut-
tings are 18 inches long, you wUl require a case of 2 feet ; you
therefore chop off a thick portion of the above length, and,
neit with your axe, split it lengthways and remove the fleshy
bark, set like the coats of au Onion, layer upon layer. With-
in this case you tightly pack your cutting, securing the two
halves of the Banana stems with ties of bark or twine ; then
you make a stopper for each end of the same substance, and

dipping them first in moist clay, drive them in, and cut them
off quite even with your box. The package should then be
sewn-up in stout wax cloth, bearing the direction, destina-
tion, &c. I will now give two satisfactory instances of its
merits. A friend at a distance of some hundred miles, who
had promised me some choice Chinese Chrysanthemums, was
requested by me to pack them as above — the season being very
hot. He despatched them by transport waggon, but by some
accident the address had been defaced and the package sub-
sided among "lost goods." After several weeks' delay and
much correspondence, the same was duly forwarded to me,
and I opened the case rather anxiously — but what was my sur-
prise to see the plants all alive, and more than one with newly-
formed roots.

Again, I was on a tour in the North-west Himalayas, and
coming across a superb specimen of the great Climbing Rose in
the old garden of a ruined palace, I set to work, and soon
packed myself a collection of cuttings thereof in a Banana box ;
this I carried about with me in all manner of climates and
temperaturas for about five months. When I descended to the
plains of India two cuttings were alive, and I subsequently saw
one of these growing in the garden of the friend for whom I
carried them. I strongly recommend the importation of
this invaluable article from the West Indies. I believe horti-
culturists will prize it highly, especially the dealers in tender
exotics. This pithy porous article is cold as ice, strong and
elastic as leather, and moist and juicy as a Cabbageleaf — the great;
virtues in a plant-envelope. I will now give an illustration of
another substance I used, under particular circumstances, with
similar success. When sojourning in the North-east Himalayas
(the Upper Burrampooter region), the humidity of the air may
be conceived when I state the annual rainfall may be counted in
hundreds of inches (excepting Terra del Fuego, the greatest on
the earth). Here I found green Bamboo, for the above reason,
vastly superior to Banana ; almost equally cool, more capacious,
and with far less tendency to become mouldy during a very long
river voyage to Calcutta. Such are the dimensions of Bambusa
in those remote wDdernesses, that milk buckets are constructed
of one joint by the native herdsmen. I have since bethought
me of imitating the cool porous humidity of these natural
plant-oases, substituting a long box of sheet cork, thickly var-
nished outside with gutta percha and pitch (two parts of the
latter to one part of the former), this case to be lined with
spongio-piUne ; succulents to be packed therein in dry char-
coal dust ; all other plants or cuttings to be previously wrapped
in strips of linen moistened with distilled water, and the
spougio-pUine similarly damped. This answers well for long
voyages. The following modes of conveyance to the most dis-
tant countries have all been attended with success, but there
are obstacles to their general employment.

1. The bundle of cuttings, being packed air-tight and water-
tight in sheet indiarubber, is immersed in a ship's water-tank.

2. Packed similarly, they are stowed in the ship's ice-room.
S. Enwrapped in several folds of wax-cloth, and then dipped

several times in a liquefied mixture of soap and wax till densely-
covered, these many coats can be afterwards pressed with the
hand into a dense mass.

The beautiful Lilium giganteum of the Himalayas was long
in being introduced into Europe ; the bulbs invariably failed,
until Dr. Royle hit upon the soap-and-wax process. Collodion
for healing the points or ends of cuttings is also a modern
practice to prevent " bleeding" and exclude air.

There is a valuable substance in use throughout the N.W.
Himalayan Alps for roofing dwellings and granaries — i. e..
Birch bark ; this tough pliable product I found far superior to
any kind of paper or cloth as a wrapper. The plant-collector
spreads a quantity of fresh damp moss on one of these sheets,
and rolls the whole up tightly, using ties to secure the parcel ;
his bundles are then stowed into a " kilta," or long basket,
carried endways with a strap, on the back of a stiu'dy moun-
taineer.— Eos. — (English Meehanic.)

[A piece of a branch of a sappy growing tree might be em-
ployed instead of the Banana stem. — Ens.]

WOEK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GAKDEN.

Advant.ige should be taken of the present showery weather
to prick-out young Celery and seedlings of the Cabbage tribe in
nursery beds, and to transplant the strongest plants of early
sowings into theh* proper plaees. Make another sowing of
Broad Beans, but previous to doing so soak the seed in water,

492

JOUKNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

t June 19, 1878.

anil water the drills ; pincli-off the tops of those that are form-
ing their pods. The seed beds of the late crops of Broccoli
must be kept watered, as must also plants that have lately been
pricked out. The Cucumber plants will require a good supply
of water two or three times a-week. Sprinkle them every after-
noon, which will greatly refresh them ; keep them shaded during
the middle of the day. Make a good sowing of Kidneij Beans
for the autumn ; water the drills previous to planting them.
Sow some of the quick-bearing kinds of Peas for autumn use.
Steep the seed, and water the driUs as for Beans. Continue to
etick the advancing crops. Make a sowing of liadishcs for suc-
cession; if the weather is dry water the ground immediately
after sowing, and lay mats over it to prevent as much as possible
evaporation. A sowing of Scarlet Runners may yet be made to
come-in late in the autumn. Stick the advancing crops. It
will be necessary to water the late sowings of Turnips, and
every time after doing so sprinkle them with dust of any kind to
prevent the ravages of the fly. Another sowing should now be
made.

FEDIT G.UiDEN.

The important operation of disbudding wall trees is one to
which particular attention must now be paid. In carrying out
this operation care must be taken to avoid an indiscriminate
application of the principle. For example. Peaches and Nec-
tarines when finally disbudded wiU require to have every shoot
removed which is not required for the following year's fruiting.
Apricots and Plums, on the contrary, being much disposed to
bear on short spurs, will only require to be deprived of their
foreright aud gross shoots, leaving the rest to gi-ow until they
become somewhat firm, when they should he shortened to about
an inch from the main stems, taking care, of course, to retain a
gufBcient number of young shoots to flU-up vacancies and in-
crease the size of the trees. The same rule, with very slight
exceptions according to the sorts, will apply to Cherries. Dis-
bud Figs, retaining no more wood than is requii-ed for next
season. Be sure to select the short jointed shoots. Pay at-
tention to Vines on walls. Keep the shoots regulated, as it is
impossible for them to produce good fruit. Water Strawberries
to cause them to swell-off their fruit. Keep insects in check by
means of heavy syringings, both with tobacco water and ordi-
nary water. Insects, which usually make their appearance on
the ends of the shoots of Cherry trees, should be destroyed by
dipping them in tobacco water or a thin puddle of clay and
water. For mildew dust with flowers of sulphur, just wetting
the leaves to make the sulphur adhere to them.

FLOWER GARDEN.

Cuttings of Roses, where they can be procured, may now be
taken, and planted in a close cold frame in a northern aspect.
In about a month they will have shown a disposition to strike
root, when they may be taken up, carefully potted, and plunged
in a slight bottom heat. Treated thus, they will make nice
plants in a short time, and if kept under shght protection during
winter will fill their pots with roots, and be ready for planting-
out next May. Pink pipings put in early will soon be ready for
transplanting. If the situation ultimately intended for them is
vacant, they may indeed be planted there at once, but if occupied
at present by something else, let the young Pinks be planted
4 inches apart on reserved beds in an open situation, the soil of
which should consist chiefly of light loam, to which may be
added some charcoal dust or charred refuse. The rotten manure
from an old Mushroom bed answers very well for Pinks, as it
encourages a mass of fibres, and produces a healthy but not
over-gross development of top. As regards bedding plants,
some memoranda respecting their arrangement next season
should be made as soon as they come into bloom. Of the
flower garden a rough plan should be made, the beds on which
should be numbered, so as to correspond with an accompanying
list of plants with which it may be intended to fill them, and
along with this should be the quantity required for each bed. In
this way accurate information is at once obtained of the number
of plants which must bo propagated by cuttings and seed in the
spring. 'Whilst half-hardy plants are in full beauty, a tasteful
eye will soon discover the weak and improveable points, and by
closely observing the more satisfactory part, will readily per-
ceive the most desirable future arrangement. Auricula and
Polyanthus seed will now bo getting ripe ; as soon as the cap-
sules assume a brown colour, and give indications of opening,
dry them well, and put them in small tin boxes. Put a glass
shade over the seed-vessels of Tulips which are intended to be
saved, to prevent the wet lodging in the apex. Those bulbs, the
leaves of which have suffered from canker or have sustained
injury from early frost, may be taken up, as they are apt to mil-
dew if allowed to remain in the ground too long. Carefully
shade those Ranunculuses intended for exhibition; semi-doubles
for impregnation must not be covered, as the sun and air are
essential in the process of frnuudation. Water the paths about
the beds so as to make the surrounding atmosphere as moist as
possible. Continue to tie Carnations with soft worsted, examine
those previously fastened, and mind that the tie is sufficiently
loose on the stick to allow the stem to elongate. Thin out the

buds ; the crown or topmost bud usually produces the largest
aud liest bloom. If the plant is strong, reserve five ; on the con-
trary, three are sufticient if the plant is weak.

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY.

Now is the time to encourage rapid and sturdy growth in youug
Corrasas, Epacrises, Pimeleas, Chorozemas, Leschenaultias,
Polygalas, Heaths, etc. A constant stopping of gross shoots will
be necessary in order to equalise the distribution of sap and
encourage the lower jiarts of the plant to develope themselves.
Let shifting, if necessary, be done early, in order that the pots
may be well filled with roots before the approach of -n-iuter. A
compost consisting of three parts fibrous peat in a lumpy state,
one part free turfy loam, and a little silver sand, will suit most
kinds of half-hardy plants, with the exception of Heaths, which
succeed best in peat without any admixture, except that of a
little silver sand. In potting, take care to secure thorough
drainage. The crocks should be carefully placed to provide
various outlets for the water, these again should be protected by
a smaller size of pounded crocks and charcoal, and finally the
rough of the compost should be selected to place the ball on.
Attend to plants for autumn aud early winter decoration, such
as Scarlet Geraniums, Japan Lilies, scarlet Salvias, tree Carna-
tions, and Chrysanthemums. Give them plenty of pot-room,
good rich compost, a moist atmosphere, and plenty of space for
the development of their branches and leaves.

STOVE.

Let shading be used with caution, especially when the
weather is in any way dull, for, as some plants will soon be
ripening their young wood, they merit as much light, and even
moderate sunshine, as possible. In the case of Orchids this is
especially necessary, iu order that the young leaves and pseudo-
bulbs may be thoroughly matured. Plants pushed early into
growth should be removed forthwith to a cool house, and care
taken not to induce them to break again, as a fresh start would
interfere with their flowering next year. Dendrobium nobile
and others of that class sufficiently advanced should also be re-
moved to a house where they can have a moderate aud steady
temperature, abundance of air, and little water, till their stem^
are ripe and their flower-buds formed. Orchids which are still
in a gi*owing state should be placed in the most favourable
positions, aud encouraged by a suitable temperature for ripening
and hardening any 'growths which they may yet make. Let every
endeavour be made to secure thorough freedom from insects,
which about this season are unusually active, and require con-
stant looking after. — W. Keane.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

We are now experiencing something like summer ; although
it has not been hot weather, the thermometer only ranging
about a maximum of 70° in the shade, it is moderately warm
at night. Kitchen-garden crops are looking well, aud all sorts of
fruit promise to be abundant. SmaU fruit trees are loaded with
the weight of the crops. Pears and Plums suffered a little from
the frost when in flower, but there are plenty left for a crop.
Apples on the young pyramid trees are in many cases clustering
together like ropes of Onions.

KITCHEH GARDEN.

Here all gi-een crops would be benefited by a soaking of rain,
or a thorough watering artificially, but this we can seldom do
with our stock of fruit trees and pot plants to attend to. Having
had experience of the crops suffering during hot dry summers,
preparation is made by deep trenching in wiuter, and digging-iu
plenty of good manm"e. AVhen any of the crops show signs of
distress from drought, and an opportunity offers, we give a good
soaking, and mulch the ground with some decayed manure to
prevent evaporation.

We are now using Myatt's Prolific Ashleaf Potatoes from the
open border ; they have not been protected iu any way. Veitch'a
Perfection is nothiug behind them, it is a very good first-early
round. To succeed these, Dalmahoys, second-early round, were
planted on a south border with a good slope to the sun; they
were not earthed-up, which will cause the tubers to mature
more rapidly.

Of four sorts of early Feas sown together — viz., Taber's Early
Perfection, Laxton's Alpha and William I., and Eastes' Keutish
Invicta, there is but Uttle difference in the time of the pods
being ready to pick. Laxton's Alpha is certainly to l)e preferred,
as it is superior as regards flavour. William I. was sown for
comparison, and as we only had a small quantity it was sown
somewhat thinly, con.sequently there is only about half a crop;
the pods are long and fine-looking ; it will be valuable for those
who require early sorts for exhibition.

There are now plenty of fine Cauliflowers. We have tried a
goodly number of different sorts, but still adhere to the Early
London and Walcheren. Although we have had Uttle rain, the
weather being cold, weeds are not easily killed. A few days
being hot and dry, we kept the hoe at work ; it always pays to
keep ground clean.

Jane 19, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

493

We have been, and are now, going over all the pyi'amid and
bush fruit trees, cutting the young wood back to three leaves,
and cutting the shoots out entirely where they are too thickly
placed. Where the trees are intended to increase in size the
shoots are left much longer, but are stopped at this time to form
a second growth. We find a small maggot devouring the pith
of the young shoots, which causes them to die above the place.
A sharp look-out is kept for them, and the maggots are destroyed
at once. It is very annoying when they attack the leading shoots
of wall trees. We hearof Black Prince Strawberry being picked
in the open air in this neighbourhood ; our own are not changing
colour yet. We are placing sprays of Elm round the plants,
and the fruit is allowed to hang over from the clefts of the
branchlets.

FKUIT AND FOBCING HOUSES.

Pine Apples are now requiring attention. The plants intended
{or winter-fruiting have very nearly made their growth, and the
house requires more air and less moisture in the atmosphere.
Charlotte Rothschild and Smooth-leaved Cayenne are the best
Pines for winter. A few Black Jamaica may be grown ; it is a
richly-flavoured sort, but very small. For one sort we would
unhesitatingly recommend the Smooth-leaved Cayenne. The
Queen is the best for summer fruiting.

Vineries. — We have finished the thinning in late houses, and
Btopped all lateral growths, training the shoots so that the roof
may be equally covered with foliage without being crowded.
After this not so much attention will be required, as while the
fruit is swelling few lateral growths are made. The houses
require to be damped with a syringe or water-pot with a fine
rose three or four times a-day, and plenty of water to the roots
is essential. Airing the houses early in the morning, and leaving
a small chink for air all night when it is not too cold outside,
will induce a healthy growth, which will the more effectually
resist the attacks of red spider and mildew. Sulphur applied to
the hot-water pipes, if properly managed, will destroy either.

Melon and Cucumber Houses. — Since we were careful not to
use water which could by any means contain copperas, the
Melons have succeeded very well. No more plants have died-
off, and the fruit is ripening well. As previously stated, the
plants are trained to wire trellises overhead, consequently the
fruit requires to be supported in some way before it ripens.
We have boards about 9 inches square cut out of half -inch deal ;
a small hole is made at each corner, to which pieces of wire are
affixed, and a hook at the other end of the wire serves to fix the
board to the trellis in a way that the end of the fruit just rests
lapon the board. We get highly flavoured irwit even in dull
weather by keeping up a good supply of heat from the pipes,
ventilating freely by day, and leaving a little air on all night.
Cucumbers are kept perfectly free from thrips by fumigating
with tobacco, and syringing freely with clean rain water acts as
a deterrent to red spider. We have no trouble with fresh plan-
tations, as the same plants continue to produce abundantly, and
remain in perfect health for twelve months. The surface of the
beds requires to be dressed with decayed manui'e mixed with
an equal portion of good loam once in two months. After a
somewhat lengthened experience with Cucumbers and Melons
in well-constructed houses, we should not like to have anything
more to do with dung beds ; they are not nearly so certain as
houses and six times the trouble, besides the unsightly appear-
ance of the beds at all times.

ORCH-IKD HOUSE.

We have had much troiible with mildew on the Strawberries
this year, and many of the unripened fruits have dami)ed-off.
The season has been dull and cold, but it is necessary to syringe
the fruit trees, which causes a moist atmosphere. Even if much
care has been taken not to wet the fruit, the moisture is in-
jurious. A few Plum trees in the house had become infested
with aphides ; these have been washed off, or destroyed by dust-
ing with Scotch snuff. We would have the house fumigated
with tobacco smoke were it not for the ripe and ripening Straw-
berries. The fumes utterly spoil the flavour of the fruit, and
it is not convenient to carry them out while the operation is
being performed. We looked over the trees, and pinched back
any growing shoots requiring to be stopped ; and where the
crops are still too heavy the fruit was thinned out. It is very
bad management to allow too many fruit to remain on the trees.

COKSERVATOBY AND PLANT STOVE.

In the atove we keep up a good supply of heat and moisture ;
this is injurious to plants in flower, but it is essential to Orchids
and other plants making their growth. We should like an inter-
mediate house for stove plants and exotic Orchids in flower.
Where these could be arranged with choice Palms, Ferns, &c.,
a fine effect would be produced, and the plants in flower would
last much longer, and they would also be in a place where they
could be admired. Training and thinning-out the young grow-
ing shoots of cUmbers, and potting such plants as require it.
Everything in the conservatory is kept clean ; all dead and
decaying leaves and flowers are removed as soon as they are
perceived, and seed-pods are picked-ofi Azaleas as soon as the
flowers are faded.

I'LOWER GARDEN.

The bedding plants are growing freely and require attention.
Verbenas and plants of that description are being pegged-down ;
this should be attended to without delay, as it not only prevents
the plants from being broken by the wind, but they gi-ow more
freely after being pegged-down. We have been thinning the
flowers on Rose bushes where they are too much crowded. Our
bloom is stronger this year than usual, and the plants are free
from fly, nor have they suffered much from the attacks of the bud-
worm. Double Primroses have been well attended to in regard
to watering, as, if they are neglected at this time, they die-off
altogether. Red spider also attacks the under sides of the
leaves ; it can be removed by sjTringing underneath. — J. Douglas.

TRADE CATALOGUES EECEIVED.

Ant. Roozen it Son, Overveen, near Haarlem, Holland. — Cata-
logue of Hyacinths, Tulips, Crocuses, and all other Dutch and
Cape Bulbs, d-c. 1873.

James Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, King's Road,
Chelsea. — Catalogue of New and Beautiful Plants for 1873.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

',* We request that no one will write privately to any of the
correspondents of the " Journal of Horticulture, Cottage
Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing they
are subjected to unjustifiable troubla and expense. All
communications should therefore be addr-essed solely to
The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, dc, 111, Fleet
Street, London, E.G.

We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the
same sheet questions relating to Gardening and those ou
Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them
answered promptly and conveniently, but write them ou
separate communications. Also never to send more than
two or three questions at once.

N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered nntU nest
week.

Books {A. B.).—" Kitchen Gardening for the Many," free by post from om-
oflice for 5ii. (J. P.).— Eivers's " Orchard House " may be had from the
author for forty-two stamps, Messrs. Longmans, 39, Paternoster Kow, London,
or through any booliseller.

CoTENT Garden Market (J. TF.). — Write to Messrs. Webhor & Co.,
Central Avenue, Covent Garden Marl;et. Of early Strawberries Blaol: Piinco,
Keens' Seedling, and Eclipse would do for market.

Purple Borecole {Heysham). — It is very richly curled, and consequently
is superior for garnishing. The curled leaflets along the ribs are in tUo
manner of tho Cockscomb Borecole.

Ketardiso Cockscombs ^J. O.).— Alter the comb is full-sized it will retain
its beauty and be fit for exhibition for three or four weeks, sometimes six
weeks. The plant should be kept near the glass and shaded from bright sun
—temperature at night 55^ Cockscombs are best kept in a cool pit. If the
plant is healthy and clean the fohago will remain in good condition as long as
the comb continues fresh.

CccuMBER Culture [J. S.I.— Tour treatment is, no donbt, the best under
the circumstances, but it would have been better had the bed been furnished
with bottom heat. "We should keep the heat up to G5^ at night, and 7U- to lit'
by day, with a rise from sun heat and air to 80 ", So", or 9U\ Syringe the plants
hghtly twice a-day, but depend more on sprinkling the floors and other sur-
faces than on syringing the plants. Twice a-day would be too often to water
the bed. Twice or thrice a-week will be sufiicient. .\dmit air early in the
day and close early in the afternoon. Guano is a good liquid manure when
given once a-week at the rate of 1 oz. to the gallon of water; we use 1 lb. to
twenty gallons, which is rather weaker. All watering and syringing should
be with water of the temperature of the house. The treatment of the shoots
is right — at the fifth jomt, and then one joint beyond the fruit. Cut-out
those that have fruited, training others in their places.

Antexnaria tomentosa Propagation (ii. P.}.— This, which is one of the
best hardy white carpet plants in cultivation, is readily increased by cuttings.
Slip off the shoots when about 2 inches long, pare the base smooth with a
sharp knife, insert them in sandy soil in a shady border, and cover them with
a frame or hand-glass. Propagation may be effected in spring in gentle heat,
or in summer, up to September, without heat. Our " Kitchen Gardening for
the Many " contains particulars of Cocumher forcing. It may be had free by
post from our office for 5(i.

Carnations Gkub-eaten {Biecpt). — TVe do not know the grubs by the
description, but think they are more likely to.be wireworms than "leather-
jackets." Remove the soil about the plants, and dust with quicklime and soot
in equal proportions ; then fill it in, and again duat round the plants, and give
a good watering, say a gallon to each plant, with guano water — 1 oz. of guano
to the gallon. Round each plant insert in the ground about 2 inches half a
dozen baits of Carrot cut in pieces about 2 inches long; examine them fre-
quently, and you will probably find the grubs eating at the Carrots, after
destroying which the baits may be replaced and renewed as required. "We
should dust soot round the plants every week or ten days, and point it ia
lightly with a fork.

Black Hambcrgh Vine Unjiiuitful {A. H. D.). — Howcan yon expect
the dressing of manure and hones you applied to the soil this spring to have
any eflect on the Vine's fruitfulnesa or uufruitfulnoss this season ? The
growth of this year is that from which the fruit is produced in the next. All
the good tho dressing of manure and bones will do this year is, by enriching
the soil, to stimulate growth in the Vine, which is all very well if the growth
is we.Tk and the wood is well ripened. Tou say it grows well and looks very
healthy. We think youi- soil is suitable, otherwise this would not be the case

491

JOUENAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE.

[ June 19, 1873.

Train the shoots 1 foot 4 inches from the glass; stop them at the first tendril
or first joint beyoud the bunch, auii the lateral from tho uppermost leaf to
one joint, and that throiiiihout the season. lUmove the laterals at all the other
joints except the lowest two, and these stop at the first leaf. Allow the
leading fehoot to {^'row to tlie top of the rafter or house, then si op it, and stop
the laterals at the first joint, and so on throut;hout the season. Maintain a
moist atmosphere by spriukliug the floors and other surfaces twice daily up
to the midiUeof August, then discontinue sprinkling. Prune in December or
before .January, preferably about a fortnight after the leaves have fallen. We
presume your border is well drained— it cannot be too well drained. We have
repeatedly stated the most approved mode of providing a border for the Vina.

Pinching the Laterals of Young Vines (J. M., M. D.).—lt is as you
say ; the laterals unstopped would tend to increase the size of tho cane, but
we ai-e not prepared to admit that by allowing the laterals to grow the buds
at the bases of the leaven from which the laterals proceed would form "large
fruit buds and better bunches for next year." The buds result from the growth
of the leaf at the base of which they are situated. The first season of planting
we allow the laterals to grow, and this encourages root-action and free
growth. If the Vines' growth is weakly we cut them back eai-ly in June, and
obtain a strong caue in place of tlie weak one. If your Vines are newly
planted let the laterals grow, especially at the lower part of the cane, and
when the cane be^'ins to thicken upwards, becoming thicker than the lower
part, stop the laterals to one leaf and at every succeeding growth. The
laterals ought not to crowd or shade the principal leaves, for on their ex-
posure to Ught and air depends the due development of the buds or eyes at
their base. After the tijrat or second year, the laterals should be kept closely
pincbed-in to ono joint.

EcHEVERiA METALLicA PROPAGATING {J. ]\L).~It 18 best raised from
seeds, but the leaves root freely, the small leaves being best. They should be
put in from the present time up to August in very sandy soil, surfaced with
silver sand. Only insert the leaf deep enough to keep it in the soil, undnr a
frame, which should be kept close and moist, but not very wet until they
strike root.^ Shade from bright sun for a few days. Alter rooting expose to
light and air. Ilemove to a light airy position in a greenhouse before frost.

Sowing Early Spring-flowering Plants iLl^m). — Alyssum saxatile
compactura, yellow; Ai-abis alpiua, white; Aubrietia gi-^ca, purple; Bellis
perennis tlore-pleno, Double Daisy; Campanula carpatica, blue; and Belvoir
Castle Dwarf Yellow AVaiiflower. Sow at once, and prick out when large
enough to handle, in light rich soil in a sheltered border.

Rhododendiuin Prt-ning {H,).—Yon may cut-in the plants to the form
desired, but they will look bare for a long time, especially if the pruning be
deferred until after flowering, as the growth of the year is then considerably
advanced. We prefer to prune in April, and have a good growth the same
season, though it be at the sacrifice of the year's flowers. If you pruue now
they will not make wood that will flower neit year. Probably the pruning
need not be more than to remove the irregularities of growth, which we should
do directly after flowering; and having other young growth, the flowering
next year would not be lost.

Annual for Border— Planting Ivy (Petite). —The quickest -growing
annual is probably Candytuft, of which there are varieties with crimson or
purple, Ulac, and white flowers. Vu-ginian Stock, both red and white, is dwarf
and flowers early. The Ivy may be planted in October, or in spring before
growth commences. Periwinkle is goodas a surface-covering. Plant in autumn.

Select Yellow Chrysanthemums (3i'.D.,lHrt'rnfs»).— AureaMultiflora,
Golden Beverley, Guernsey Nugget, Duke of lioxburgb, Jai-itin des Plautes,
and Luca. These are of the large-floweriug varieties. Pompons with yellow
flowers aie— Aigle d'Or, Antonius, Golden Cedo Nulli, Golden Circle', ilrs.
Astie, and St. Michael.

Propagating Mrs. Pollock Geraniums (A. B.).— The best way is to
take oH cuttings with two joints and the growing point, remove the leaf from
the lowest joint, and insert them niugly in equal parts of fibrous loam and
sand up to the second joint. Place the pots in a cold frame on ashes, shade
from bright sun, but admit a little air. Cuttings will also strike freely on a
shelf in the greenbouso. The soil should be kept sufSciently moist, but dry
rather than otherwise.

Benewtng Asparagus Beds {Idcm).—YouT beds eight years old will not
need renewing for some time. They should remain good for from twelve to
twenty years. Should they, however, be bearing very indifferently, it would be
well to make new beds, and when the latter come into bearing do away with
the old beds. As long as the beds supply plenty of heads there is no need
for renewal, and it is better to form now beds than to patcfi-up old ones.

Asparagus Shoots Eaten by Grubs (E. J. Turner).~'WQ do not know
what the grubs may be, but we apprehend they are slugs cutting off the
shoot before it is out of the ground. Dress the beds at once with salt, 1 lb.
to every square yard. This, we think, will free you of the pests. It will not,
we thiuk, be necessary to make the bed afresh, but if the shoots do not come
freely this summer and are very thin, replant next spring.

Heating Small Greenhouse (Smsex).~A. gas stove would be best for
80 small a structure. Whatever stove you use must have a chimney to convey
the smoke or fumes into the open air, or they will kill your plants.

Training Froit Trees on Wired Fence (iJamn/Zw).— Apple and Pear
trees are usually tramed on the palmette system; Plums are fan-trained. Aa
yours are already trained nn the fan system, and succeeding, why alter them ?
"We advise you to leave them aa they are; do not train-in so much young
wood on the Pear and Apple trees as you do in the case of the Plum. The ex-
crescences on the Lime leaves sent are not uncommon.

Improving the Staple op Clayey Soil (C. C.).— So heavy a soil would
be best rendered more open by taking oft the top d inches, and then burning
the next £) inches, and mixing the ashes with the top soil that had been taken
off. Id addition, you may work in the sea sand abundantly.

Kidney Beans Failing (J. 3/. A.).-~U the seeds were old they will not
vegetate; cold and excessive wet also rot them.

Calceolaria's Leaves Eaten (Fi'/^7cr).— Tho leaves you sent us are com-
pletely skeletonised by some grub or caterpillai-, but what it is we are unable
to say in the absence of a specimen. Dust tho plants with quicklime. You
would probably take them at work if you were to examine tho plants after
dusk with a lantern. If the destroyer be a caterpillar, dust the plants with
white hellebore powder. The plants do not appear to be affected by canker.

GtiEENHOusE Ventilation iIiUm).~1he air should be admitted by the
top lights tirst ; let in a little at 65°, and increase the amoimt as tho tempera-
ture rises, having full air on at 75 '. Xo air need bo given in front as long as
the top ventilation is sufficient to prevent the temperature from rising too

high. The blooms of the fancy Pelargoniums will not be injured by the aii*-
giviug. For the Vine you ought to command a temperature from sun heat by
day of 75- to 80-, giviug air at 65' so as to suit the Pelargoniums, and lea\-ing
a little ou all night to prevent the deposition of dew or moisture on the Pelar-
gonium blooms. We shoiUd shut-up the house, or begin reducing the venti-
lation, at 75^ ttllo^ving a little air, as before stateii, to remain on all through,
the night.

Budding Roses on the Cabbage Rose (Alhurtj H*:ath).— Yon may bnd
Roses on the Cabbage Rose, but except for weak growers we fear it would not
answer, not being of suificientiy vigorous growth. A more free-growing stock
would be preferable, as the Manetti. The best time to hud is in July, as soon
as the flowers are shed, choosing moist weather.

CiNER,uiiA3 Going out of Bloom (Ignommux).— In general most people
prefer so\ving seed and raising a fresh supply every year, but if you have any
particular kind you wish to retain it is better to cut it down before its flowers
are too far advanced, as it is then more likely to start and grow at the collar.
Plant it out in a shady border, and about" the beginning of September or
before, you may take it up, divide, and pot. Gradually inure the divisions
to the full sun, so as to have sturdy plants with short leafstalks. If yoo.
prefer seedlings, only allow some of the vei^ best to stand, and sow the seed
as soon as ripe. We have often seen patches of healthy seedlings come up
on a hard bed of coal ashes under the shade of the plants that dropped the
seed, and such plants do very well here.

Winter Treatment of Pansies {Idem). — If you can have a hatch of
well-rooted cuttings ready to plant out by the end of September in a suitable
prepared bed, so as to insure their getting established before winter sets in,
they will require no further attention, but some dry fern thrown amongst
them may be of service at the tune of a very hard frost, when there is no
snow on the ground; still, they seldom require this pi-otection except in
exposed places. Plants estabUshed in their qmurters in the autumn flower
much better than those put in during the spring.

Soil for Pansies (Idem).— We think that your mixture of thi-ee-parts
leaf mould and one of sand will not retain sufficient moisture without hand-
watering to sustain your Pansies against the dry weather that may be expected
in July. The soil which you have adopted should be of a good depth, and yoa
must give the plants plenty of water, say twice a-week, or ofteuer in very dry
weather. We like a firmer soil, at the same time deeii and not invaded by the
roots of trees. In general, better Pansies are grown in Scotland and the north
and west of England, where the rainfall is abundant, thau iu the dry southern
and eastern counties. You ask where loam is to be had. and also what it is ?
Both are difheult questions. The first we can make no attempt at answering,
as any place we might name would probably be out of your reach. With
regard to the other we may remark, that whenever in travelling by rail yoa
notice land that has been tolerably firm when tumed-up by the plough, show-
ing a smooth almost shining furrow-slice, you may safely call tnat loam, and
if it shines very much you may pronounce it a clayey luam, or simple clay if yoa
like — i.e., if it be too adhesive. On the other hand, soils which show no such
appearance ai-e either sandy or gravelly, or it may be peaty. For our own
part we like a certain amount of adhesiveness; such soils support vegetation
better, and are less affected by vicissitudes of weather. "Wlien aided by
enriching substances, Pansies grow well in soils of this description. In your
case we fear the blooming period will be but short unless you use the water-
ing-pot hberally.

Tree Carnation Culture {S. P. 8. X.). — The soil should contain a great
deal of lime; we believe that success in a peat soil cannot be attained.
Assuming that yon have a quantity of overgrown plants, we v.ould say plant
them out on some suitable piece of ground, spreadint,' the tops all over it ; and
in a few days afterwards, when the tips are mostly turned upwards, layer them
in the usual way in the soil, and remove all blooms. By the end of August
you will have a number of well-rooted plants ; then take them up, and pot
two or three in a pot as you think fit, and by careful attention during tho
autumn they will all show flower, and will continue to bloom during the
winter. A portion may be retained in pots the following summer, plunging
them amongst ashes in a sunny place after potting, and removing aU flowers
showing during the summer. Now and then failure will occur, and at best
the number of flowers furnished by a successful plant is comparatively few, so
that a Carnation at Christmas is a greater luxury than a Camolha.

Names of Plants [H. Q. M.). — Claytonia perfoliata, a natiye of North
America, a hardy annual. (S. 0.). — Polygala vulgaris. {Siihscriberj St.
itro'iarrfa). — 1, Bunium flexuosum ; 2, Stollaria Holostea; 3, Lychnis diurna;
4, Asperula odorata; 5, Orobus niger; 6, Ranunculus aquatiUs. We restrict
our naming to sis at a time. {Canice). — Ulmus moutana, the Wych or
Scotch Elm. It is a native of this country and plentiful in Scotland, both
from self-sown seed and in x)lantfttion8. Its habit of gi-owth is not so upright
as that of the English Elm, and it does not attain so great a height, but its
branches are wide-spreading. The wood is very touj^h, and is used iu ship-
building, wheelwright's work, by cabinet makers, and for the handles of spades
and other tools. {C. L.). — The berries sent you as " Cottinenais" seem to b&
those of Cotoneaster microphylla. (H. IF.). — Pyms torminaUs.

POULTET, BEE, AM) PIGEON OHEONIOLE.

DOGS IN GENEEAL,

AND A VISIT TO THE HOME FOR LOST D0G3.— No. 1.
" The rich man's guardian, and the poor man's friend,
The only creature faithful to the end."

Whoeter it waa that wrote those two lines, it ig certain that
he waB a true poet, and he had also what ia just now more to the
purpose — a true knowledge and a thorou^'li appreciation of the
nature, instinct, and wondrous affectiou of a good dog. I say
of a good dog, for, like men, they vary. Some care only to be
petted; some are as crosa and cantankerous as some men and
women, giving not a kind look, nor one wag of the tail, save
when their belly is concerned ; some are but animals of sporty
good iu their class and for their work, but nothing more ; some
are too general iu their affection, and, like flirts, are little to be
cared for. As far aa my experience has gone, goodness with
dogd ia much connected with size, although I have known ex-

Juno 19, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AXD COTTAGE GARDENER,

405

ceptions to this rule. Still I would say, Large dog and large
heart go together. Not always the largest animal, but the
largest of a variety. A good dog is one that barks, not yaps ;
one capable of a sonorous bark, not a creature that can only yap
like a cur. The bark, too, must be a good bark, not the jirking
snapping sort of bark which indicates irritable temper. This
distinction between good and bad dogs is specially to bo marked ;
and those who affect to think all dogs good make a mistake, and
do harm, for those who do not love dogs confound the yapping
little wi-etches with their good brothers, and, pointing to some
cantankerous little selfish wretch with four legs and a tail, say,
*'I wonder how ever people can make such a fuss about dogs; I
think they are horrid animals." You may have many dogs, but
only one may come up to the standard ; but if you want a good
dog I do not think you will get one if it be a creature but the
size of a cat. Remember this rule, Goodness and size go very
much together.

Then, be kind and firm to your dog. Do not treat him as
foolish mothers do their children — over-pet one day, and be
passionate with them the nest ; such conduct spoils a child and
a dog too. Train well, and behave sensibly, for the master in a
great degree makes the dog. The master and the dog often
greatly resemble each other. A dog constantly in the atmo-
sphere of the bad-tempered grows bad-tempered too ; the sleek-
haired fur-capped rascal has his counterpart in the wicked-
looking brindle-marked bull-dog at his heels. But choose your
fntiu-e pet discreetly ; train him well, ti'eat him like a sensible
being; do not make him the one to endure your outbreaks of ill
temper ; do not at times kick the poor brute under the table —
in short, deserve his respect and love, and you will have them.
Then the two beautiful lines I have prefixed to this paper will
be exemplified in your dog ; he will delight to be the guardian
of your sleeping hours, the friend of your waking hours, and
will be faithful to you in sickness, when the mere acquaintance
will not think of j-ou, when many a friend will fear to intrude
upon you ; but when the near relatives are with you, the wife
of your youth, or your children are by you, then your good dog
will whine at the door of your sick-room and claim admittance,
and be sorry for you, and often sick with you, and not be bright
and happy until he sees you well again.

" Faithful to the end ;" yes, and sometimes faithful even be-
yond the end. As proof, take this true anecdote of what oc-
cirrred to my own knowledge during the past year only. A
large bull-terrier, the product of the first cross, stout of limb,
menacing to beggar and thief in look, yet a great kind-hearted
creature in spite of look to those of his own home — a child
might lead him with a thread ; just such a dog as Wood, the
naturalist, describes when he says, " The real bull-terrier of tlie
first cross is a marvellously brave animal, and far exceeding the
bulldog in agility and intellectual quickness. Fear seems no
part of his character, and he dashes with brilliant audacity at
any foe which his master may in licate to him, or which he
thinks it is his duty to attack." Well, a dog of tliis kind be-
came last year — chiefly for his suitability for a watch dog and his
powers of protection, for woe to the night thief that he got hold
of — became a clergyman's dog. His mistress was from the first
his friend, though " Tartar" did not look at all a lady 's dog. But
the words, " Come to missus," or, " Go to missus," were obeyed
with alacrity, and his great ugly face and little queer eyes
looked almost handsome when he bounded up to " Missus." By
one of those dispensations of Providence, strange to lis, but
which make us bow the head meekly, though we cannot yet
understand the why and wherefore, the dog's mistress died
almost suddenly and prematurely. As Wordsworth says —

" The good die first,
But they whose hearts are dry as summer dust
Bum to the socket."

Well, Tartar understood it all, noted all the events of the
dreadful days before and after, knew the grass, went each morn-
ing with his master to see it, stood by its side, not putting a
foot on it; he looked down sadly, looked up into his master's
face sympathisingly. This went on each day, when the master
was at the usual time of the visit summoned in haste to the
church for a register, and, therefore, passed by the grave with-
out stopping. But the dog stopped, and gave such a look, so
full of meaning and so continuous, that the master left the key
in the unopened door and went back to the grave, and then, but
not till then, the dog was satisfied. This was being faithful
even beyond the end.

But dogs— i.e., good dogs, for mark the difference, there are
thorough bad dogs, but often made bad by the companionship
of bad men. Good dogs, I say, are not only good to their
masters and those with whom they live, but good to each other.
Take this example, which occurred within the last few months.
A retriever and a young St. Bernard were companions at the
eame home, their kennels being in the same yard. Did my
readers ever make the acquaintance of, or possess, or bring-up a
St. Bernard pup ? Some may not have done. Take, then, this
description. In the words of Slender, in the " Merry Wives of
Windsor," " She's a great lubberly boy." Large-Umbed with

as yet no command of those large limbs ; legs going out spraw-
liugly when a run is attempted, a pu2)py far bigger than most
grown-up dogs ; therefore, all puppy waj's seeming in him or
her very out of place ; often a great coward, not daring to go
into a town, or away from home, flattening himself on the earth
in very cowardice ; in short an awkward hobbledehoy, or, as
Slender says, " She's a great lubberly boy." Tet this pup in
two years' time (for it takes two years for a large dog to become
adult), will become the massive, and strong, and well-knit, and
noble-bearing, and noble-looking, and courageous St. Bernard
dog ; the character, the appearance, the expression wholly
altered. Well, this retriever, a small one, and a half or three-
parts-grown St. Bernard, were companions and friends ; the
neat-limbed retriever, not a large one, and the as-yet somewhat
sprawling-limbed St. Bernard. The retriever — such a water
dog ! dashing in from any height, glorying in the limpid stream ;
but the St. Bernard, the big calf looking on and by no means
having heart enough to trust himself in the water. But he slips
in one day, and in terror splashes about and tries in his abject
fear to ascend the steepest part of the bank. This he cannot do,
and he is in peril, which as soon as the httle retriever sees, she,
for it was a "she" (little women have always the most pluck),
goes to the rescue, and puUs into safety the great quaking mass
of dog's flesh. The St. Bernard reciprocates the friendship and
now would anniliilate any dog that attacked his friend.

But as this paper has contained some sad lines, let me finish
it with some hues of humour. A friend of mine possesses a
white Pomeranian dog, white and small — both good points ;
foxy-faced, and with such a pair of sparkling black eyes and tulip
ears — all good points ! These dogs are pleasant cheerful com-
panions, not given to hunting game, but keeping company only
with their masters. Still they are not, as "Idstone" states,
" remarkable for intelligence," and they have a decided fault in
being apt to snap at people. My friend cautioned a new servant
boy as to the dog's propensity for snapping. " I am used to it,
ma'am ; for my late missus had a dog of the same sort, and when
I wheeled her in the Bath chair, he snapped at my calves every
day." Think of the defenceless position of the boy — both hands
pulling the chair, and his calves daily snapped at ! What a
lucky dog he must have deemed himself to have had calves each
day ready for snapping ! then they were so helpless and so
tempting. Then the coolness of tlie lad — so used to the dog's
teeth, he thought nothing of them. Just as " The hand of Uttla
employment hath the daintier sense," so the leg constantly
snapped at became bo used to it that it cared nothing for the
snapping. Perhaps the boy looked down with a grin, and even
learned to enjoy it. Who knows ? — Wiltshibe Eeciob.

GAPES : ITS CAUSE, PBEVENTION, AND CUBE.

The fact that the disease was caused by a worm was proved
by Dr. Wiesenthal, Professor of Anatomy at Baltimore, in 1797.
The only difference of opinion resulting from late investigations
is in the shape of the worm. A description of this worm — •
Sclerostoma Syngamus — I shall reserve for a future article, not
yet having examined the subject microscopically as fully as
I wish.

Nearly eight years ago the writer became convinced that the
progenitor of this troublesome worm was a tick or louse which
was found on the head of the young chick soon after hatching.
At that time, not having the facihties for a thorough microscopic
investigation, I simply communicated my views to the press
without illustration. Subsequent examination, aided by the
microscope, and experiments confirmed by several years' study,
have left no doubt in my mind that the theory then adopted is
the correct one — viz., that this insect deposits its eggs in the
nostril of the chick, where the warmth of the bird causes them
to hatch ; the larvte or worms thus generated work their way
.back or are conveyed thence by natural causes, and getting a lodg-
ment in the opening, of the trachea, there grow, and finally cause
the death of the bird by suffocation.

Having had no cases of gajjes upon my own yards for many
years, I have been obliged to depend upon the kindness of
brother fanciers for specimens of the insect, and these, in a
majority of eases, have been dead when received. This spring
I obtained three specimens from my own yards, and with the
aid of a powerful microscope I have made correct drawings of
both back and belly of the insect, as well as studied its motions
and formation. The dark markings on the back of the insect are
a deep brown, and the body a Hght leaden grey. The legs are
sis in number, and all terminating with a sharp curved hook.
This hook is attached to the end of the leg by a joint, and shuts
or closes upon a hard pad, thus obtaining a grip which can
hardly be dislodged short of tearing out either the claw or the
object in which it is inserted. The whole three pairs of legs
bend towards the head, while in the ordinary species of lice the
two posterior pairs bend backward. What appears to be the
first pair of legs are, in fact, feelers, formed of five-jointed sec-
tions, and moveable in all directions. The eyes of this insect
are very distinct and prominent; the mouth is seemingly devoid

49G

JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

I Jooe 19, 1873.

of teeth, nonrishmeufc evidently being obtained by suction ; the
under jaw or lip falling quite back, somewhat resembling that of
a sucker. Very few hairs are discernible, and those not in tufts
but singly. The markings on the back are very perfect in form,
and of a rich, dark brown colour. The shell of the insect is
laminated both on the back and belly, and appears to bear a con-
siderable amount of pressure without injury.

When my attention was first drawn to these insects I removed
them by picking them off, but finding that a tedious operation,
I tried consecutively mercurial ointment, kerosine, and lard,
sometimes with fatal result to the chicks, and at others with
only partial success. After several trials I compounded an oint-
ment of 1 oz. mercurial ointment, 1 oz. pure lard, i oz. flour of
sulphur, i oz. crude petroleum.

This I applied to the head of the chicks when taken from the
nest, iu a semi-fluid state, repeating the application once or
twice afterwards if deemed necessary. In all cases where the
insects were removed by hand or destroyed by the ointment, the
chicks escaped the gapes, although other broods in the same
yard not so treated had the disease, and nearly all died with it.
I have had the application tried in yards W'here the gapes had
swept off hundreds of chicks annually for many years, and the
result was the entire eradication of the disease. On one yard
where fowls have been bred for over forty years, and where,
ten years ago, three-fonrths of those hatched died of gapes,
there has not been a single case since this preventive was
thoroughly tried, six years ago. Mr. J.J. Black, in the " Bulletin "
of June, 1872, corroborates my opinion on this subject. A. Dr.
Cobbold, in a memoir jjresented to the Liunean Society in
England many years ago (see " The Ulustrated Book of Poultry,"
by L. Wright, page 196), makes a suggestion which seems to an-
ticipate this theory. He says: " By whatever mode the young
(of the gape worm) make their exit from the shell, it is manifest
that prior to their expulsion they are sufiiciently developed to
undertake an active migration ; their next habitation may occur
within the body of certain insect larv.*©." It seems almost cer-
tain that the insect is either the direct connecting link between
the egg of S. Syngamus and the perfect worm, or else, as Mr.
Wright suggests, " the vehicle for conveying either the ova or
the newly-hatched worm to the nostrils of the chickens ;" which
can only be ascertained by patient and protracted microscopic
investigation, and the solution of the case offers no adequate gain.

There is but one certain cure for the gapes yet known to the
poultry fraternity, and that is the vapour from carbolic acid.
Place a little of the crystallised acid in a spoon or metal saucer,
and hold it over a candle or lamp ; hold the bird so that it will
be obliged to inhale the fumes, being careful, however, not to
protract it so long as to kill the chick. One application, if
thorough, will usually be sufficient, though occasionally a second
may be necessary. — Mb. A. M. Halstead. — (American Poultry
Bulletin.)

MALDON POULTEY SHOW.

The annual meeting of the Essex Agricultural Society was
held at Maldon on the 11th and 12th inst. The route from the
railway station to the Exhibition, a distance of al^out one and a
half mile, was gaily decorated with garland.s, and flags innumer-
able were extended from window to window across the roads.
Several epecial trains brought crowds of visitors, so that the
Little borough was a scene of life and gaiety.

The show of poultry was enclosed from the agricultural exhi-
bition, and notwithstanding that an extra fee was demanded for
admission, it appeared to have its full share of jiatronage ; up to
one o'clock on Wednesday the fee was 2s. 6d. to the grounds, and
an extra 2s. Gd. to the poultry Show. About 180 visitors paid these
rather excessive admission fees.

The poultry entries numbered 168, those of the Pigeons fifty.
A silver cup value £i is. brought together a large entry of Dork-
ings. The first prize went to a grand pair, very dark in colour ;
the second and third prizes to birds of about the average quality;
and a pair of Silvers belonging to Messrs. Wren & Page also do-
served notice. The Buff Cochins were tolerably good. Cochins
of any other variety rather inferior. The Dark Brahmas were
in splendid condition, Mr. Ansdell securing another cup, rather
closely pressed by Mr. Lingwood. The Light Brahmas were of
average quality. The position of the first and second-prize pens
would certainly have been transposed had the legs of the hen iu
the second-prize pen matched those of the cock. The Red and
Duckwing classes of Game were generally of superior quality ;
Any variety of Game not so good. The Spanish class, with the
exception of the first-prize birds, was wretched in the extreme;
th6_ third prize was justly withheld. The French class was
again the best iu the Show, Cruves winning all the prizes ; they
have so improved that it appears almost useless entering
Houdans against them. The llamburghs v^ere good, the Game
Bantams moderate, and the ^Vny other Variety of Bantams were
much above the average. In the class for Any other distinct
breed, a fine pair of Malays belonging to Mr. Brooke arrived too
late for competition, otherwise they would have superseded at
least the thii-d-prize birds, which appeared to have nothing but

extraordinary size to merit notice. Turkeys, Ducks, and Geese
were generally good. The prizes in the Pigeo « classes were very
small ; the result was a very poor display, Homing Antwerps
being best both in quality and numbers.

The judging was uuexceptionaUy satisfactory, and the arrange-
ments in every way complete.

DoBKiNGS.— 1 and Cup, Henry Lingwood. Barking, Needham Market. 2 andC
e, F. Parlett, Great Baddow, Chelmslord. 8, E. \V. Soutbwood, Fakenliam. he,
J. Robmaon, Garstang.

Cochins— Biaf ur Cinnamon ~1, Cup. and 2. Henry Ling\vood. 3. S. R,
Harna. Cusgarne. e, A. A. Seaborn, Hadleigb, SutTolk. Ann other colour.— 1,
R. S. Woodgate, Pembury, Tunbridge Welia. 2, J. K. Fowler. Ayleabury. 3,
Witbbekl.

BKAHMA3.— Darfc.— 1 and Cup, T. F. Anadell, Cowley Mount, St. Helens. Z
and 3. Horace Lingwood. Creeling, Needham Maraet. lie, 3. Harvey, jun.,
Tbanington, Canterbury ; Rev. J. G. B. Knight, Danbury, Chelmsford, c, H.
Dowsett. Plesbey. CheluiKford.

BRAiiyiks.—Light.—l, Horace Lingwood. 2 and S, H. M. Maynard, Holme-
wood, Hyde. c. H. Dowsett; T. A. Dean. Marden, Hereford.

G KUF..— Black-breasted and other Redx.—\ and 3, S. Matthew, Stowmarket.
2. W. Foster, Deal, he, H. E. Martin, Fakenbam; J. W. Fitch, Romford. &
H. L. Cocksedge, Woolpit; J. U. Salter, Kelvedon.

GiMR.— £>wc«»'tnj7S and other Greys and Blues. — 1 and Cup, S. Matthew. 2,
R. Hall, Cambridge. 3, H. L. Cocksedge.

Game.— .4?ti/ other variety.— i, J. H. Salter. 2, R. Hall. 8, E. Swan, St. Ann's»
Colchester.

Spanish.— l.Nicholls Bros..Camberwfll. 2, T. Boulter. London. 3, Withheld.

French.— 1 and he, W. Dring, FaTcrsbam. 2, ,T. J. Maiden. Biggleswade. 3,
G. W. Hibbert. GoiUey, Manchester, c, Rev. T. C. Beaaley, Saffron Walden; H.
Feast. Swansea ; J. K. Fowler.

HtiiBCHGUfi.— Spangled.— I, J.Wright. Lowestoft. 2 and he, J. Robinson, c,
L. Wren, Lowestoft: \V. Groom, Ipswich. Pencilled.--}, W. K. Tickner, Ips-
wich. 2, J. Robinson, e, W. Speakman, Nantwich ; J. Robinson.

Bantams.— <Vnme.—l, W.Adams. Ipawicb. 2, W. B. .Teffries. Ipswich, fttf, G,
Garrud, London, e, J. S. Pearson, Great Milton. Any other variety.~\, T. E.
Tbirtle, Lowestoft (Black). 2 and c, G. B. Francis, Romford (Cuckoo Japanese
and Black.)

Anv OTHER Variett.— I.J.Robinson (Polands). 2, Withheld. 3, Mrs. Pattis-
son, Maldon (Black Haniburglis).

ToaKEYS. — 1, Mrs. Mayhow, Chelmsford. 2, Withheld. 3, A. P. Clear,
Maldon.

Geese.— 1, J. K. Fowler. 2. A. P. Clear. 3, S. Hanburv. Witham.

DDcKa.—JioHen.—l.F. Parlett. 2, H. Dowsett. 3. J. K. Fowier. Aylesbury. —
1 and Cup. S. R. Harris. 2. J. K. Fowler. 3, Mrs. Pattiasou.

Selling Class.— CocA: or Hen.— I, H. H. Rush, Heybridge, Maldon (Dorking).
2, Rev. S. Phillips, Castle Heiliniiham (Dark Brahmaal. S.J. H. Salter (Duck-
wing), he. H. H. Rush (Dorking) 13); K. Wilkinson, Guildford (Gold-spangled
Hamburgh); K. H. Eve, Fullbridge, Maldon (Hybrid between Bantam and
Pheasant) : J. Robinson, c. Rev. S. Philips; H Dowsett. Drake or Uuck.—l,
H. Dowsett (Rouen). 2, F. Parlett (Rouen). 3, J. Robinson.
PIGEONS.

Carriers.- 1 and 2, E. F. 'Wilson, Brighton, he, E. J. C. Gibson, Ryde, Isle
of Wight.

Pouters.- 1, J. T. Cater. Colchester. 2, F. Cowlin. Latchingdon, Maldon.

Fantails.— 1, J. F. Lovei'side. Newark. 2, Withheld.

Tumblers.— 1, H. W. Hale, Hackney. 2, A. B. Douglas, Hounslow, W. ftc,
J. T. Cater; E. G. C. Gibson.

Jacohins.— 1, E. G. C. Gibson. 2, J. T. Cater.

Trumpeters.- 1 and 2, G. P. Jay.

Antwerps,— irorfci/i^.— 1 and he, E. F, Wilson. 2, T. King, Colchester, c,
R. Hall; F. M.inlhorp, Colchester.

Ant other Vahietv.— 1. C. Norman, Westerfleld, Ipswich (Black Barbs). 2,
J. T. Cater, he and e, E. G. C. Gibaon (Jacobins and Pigmy Pouters).

Selling Class.— 1, J. T. Cater.

Judge. — Mr. W. B. Tegetmeier, Finchley, London.

Bl.vck G.iME. — I have received promises of subscriptions for
a cup for Black Game at the next London Poultry Show — viz.,
Bev. G. S. Cruwys, £1 ; C. F. Moutresor, Esq., il ; Capt. C. P.
Terry, 10s. ; Capt. W. G. Webb, lO.s. tod.; E. Kendrick, jun., 10s.
Also for a cup at Birmingham, C. F. Montrcsor, Esq., Ml ; Capt.
W. G. Webb, j£l ; E. Kendrick, jun., 10s. Fiu-ther subscriptions
should be sent at once to — E. Kendrick, ju.s., Wceford House,
near Lichfield,

SIZE OP HIVES.

As no evidence has been tendered showing that " Scotland,
as a whole, is now converted to the idea of large hives of simple
construction," I presiame none will be forthcoming. I selected
for comparison what I considered Mr. Pettigrew's medium, and
gave the medium that I regarded as suitable. Instead, therefore,
of the sizes 21, 18, and 15 inches iu width by 12 inches in depth,
as recommended in the Journal of October 28th, 1868, I ara
of opinion that the sizes 14, 12i, and 11 inches in width by
11, lO-i, and 10 inches in height are the best for skeps under the
simple swarming system, and where the practice of removal
from one district to another is not followed. The sides of the
skeps should be nearly perpendicular, and no bars or " sticks "
used for supporting the combs.

I may state, however, that I have abandoned the use of straw
skeps, and now employ only " Woodbury frame hives," which,
though inferior to difl'erent hives of different material and shape
in some particulars, are yet " as a whole " superior to all with
which I am acquainted. — K. S.

APIARY APPLIANCES.
We have from time to time published descriptions and draw-
ings of hives various iu form, but have not been able to supply
similar information relative to other things useful for the bee-
master to have at command. This information we are able to
supjily by the courtesy of Mr. Yates, Old Millgate, Manchester.
It is extracted ti-om his catalogue.

Jane 10, 1873. ]

JOUEXAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

497

Pettigeew's Hives (fig. 1). — These are made in Scotland, of
straw, bound with cane. The sides are upright, with a flat top ;
a hole, 4 inches diameter, is left in the crown, with a loose straw
lid to cover it ; a good thickness of straw is used, so as to resist
the effects of alteration of temperature. Mr. Pettigrew uses
18 and 20-inch hives for strong and very earl}- swarms, ajid a

16-inch size for the later ones. In the drawing the lid is raised
above the hive to show the hole in the crown. It is easily
secured to the top by three long nails, and can readily be re-
moved when required for supering, feeding, Sec,

Yates's Round-topped Hive (fig. 2). — These hives are from
the same maker, but diSer in having the top rounded instead of
being flat, and in having a wood crown worked with the straw.

by a few nails or wire. It may be observed that bees storing
the stock hive increase in weight faster than when filling supers,
and that, to gain the heaviest weight of honey, ekes are prefer-
able to supers. The honey thus collected, however, is not 60
accessible, nor is the comb so pure as that in supers.

Straw Supeks are neatly made of straw, with narrow laps,
very firmly sewn. Bees adopt supers made of straw more
readily than those of glass, so that if pure honeycomb is
desired, and the appearance not studied, these will be found
more economical.

Stkaw Super Covers are to protect the glass supers, and,
though quite suiBcient for their purpose, are not especially
neatly made. It will be remembered that at the honey season,
when supers are required, the internal temperature of the hive
is very gi'eat, and the moisture given off very considerable.
Now, this will condense on any cool surface, and unless the
glass super is well protected by wool, felt, or other non-conduct-
ing material, the interior surface of the glass will always be
covered with moisture, and quite unfit for the bees to attach
their combs. This, to some extent, is counteracted by the
perforated ventilator, but still the glass cannot be too well
protected.

Bell-glass Supers [fir;. 3), when filled with honeycomb, have
a very elegant appearance. They have a hole in the knob for
the insertion of a tinned perforated tube for ventilation.

Mr. Pettiorew's Glass Super [fig. i). — This is made with
a loose Ud, and will hold from 12 to 16 lbs. of honey.

Fi.-. 2.

Fig. 5.

Fig. 7.

enabling the hole for supering to be more neatly tnmed, the i The Aeingdon Super (/? 175.5,6, and 7), when filled with honey-
level^even surface of the wood holding a glass super more safely ] comb forms a very ornamental acquisition to the breakfast or

thanjWheu merely resting on the straw; the wood plug being

tea-table. It is made in three pieces (as shown in the engravings),
the body, the lid, and the stand. The glass is constructed ■n'ith
a hole at the bottom, 3 f 0 4 inches in diameter, through which the
bees enter and fill it with honeycomb. It is placed on the stand

Fig. 4.

also, perhaps, more easily managed than the straw lid. These
hives are not adapted for using as nadirs, but for all other pur-
poses are in every respect equal to those with a flat crown.

when it is removed from the hive. These supers are made in three
sizes.

Perforated Super Tubes are tinned tubes perforated through-
out. They are placed through the hole in the knob of the glass
super, forming excellent ventilators for carrying off the moisture
and keeping the glass cool, consequently not so Uable to contain
brood.

The Lakcashire Bee-peeder {fig. 8) is made of tin. It is

Fig. 9.

A Straw Eke conveniently increases the size of the hive by
adding 4 or 5 inches to its depth. It consists of four or five

rolls of straw, made like the sides of the hive, with a place left *- — — - u ,, . . , , 1 -j c ti, „. f.„„ ^

for the entrance. It is easily attached to the bottom of the hive \ by the dotted hue. Both the inside and outside of the entrance

9 inches in diameter, and will hold 6 lbs. of syrup. It is intended
to be placed on the top of the hive over the hole m the crown.
The entrance is through the centre of the feeder, as indicated

498

JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTURS AISD COTTAGE GARDENER,

[ June ID, 1873.

is lined with perforated tin, so as to present a rough surface for
the bees to climb, and the top of the entrance-tube is half an
iuc-h lower than the height of the feeder, so that when covered
with its tin lid it will allow the bees to climb over to the wood
float, which rests on the surface of the symp, and sinks as the
bees take and store it in the hive.

HoNKYcoMB Knives (Jig. 11). — These will be found useful im-
plements for cutting-out surplus honeycomb. One is constructed
for cuttiug perpendicularly, and the other horizontally, and for
lifting out the comb when cut. In the autumn it is often found
that more honey has been stored in the stock hive than the bees
will require, and that it is not desired to do away with the old
stock ; in this case the outer combs will generally be found full
of pure honey, and with the aid of a little smoke these combs
can be cut and removed as easily and safely as those from a bar-
frame hive.

Bbown-baheed Silver Dragoons. — At the last Crystal Palace
Show all the prizes and commendations were awarded to the
black-barred birds. Being an admirer and breeder of their
brown-barred brethren, I am anxious to see a class for them. I
am willing \o subscribe one guinea towards a cup and prizes for
the best single birds of the brown-barred variety at the next
Crystal Palace Show, trusting that other fanciers of the same
will follow suit. — William Bishop, The Orchard, Dorchester.

OUR LETTEB BOX.

Books [J. M.^Inxicrnrss). — Our "Rabbit Book" will suit yon. It maybe
had free by post from our office for Id.

Fowls Dying {A. Wright).— ThQ shrub has nothing to do with their doath
It is Cotoueaster microphylla.

Cochin-China Hen (.4. B. C).— Shut-up the hen with the swollen vent-
Let her have no food by her. That which ia given, (,'ivo scantily. She may.
drink throe times per day, a very little at a time. Let hor food be gniel.

Scunp ON Combs [C. 7?.).— Yon do not mention the breed ot your fowln.
Beiupt black and double-combed, wo presume they are Hambur^-hs. The
Spanish have played their part m loaking them, and will at times prove the
relationship by showing some of their beauties. To this we believe you may
attribute the white face ; not so the white comb— that is a malady, and is
often very difficult to cure. The only way is to keep the affected parts and the
spots constantly moistened with compoiuid citrnu ointment. The bare places,
where the feathers have been eaten, maybe treated in the same manner. You
need not be discouraged by some oiufile combs. They come in these breeds
as in the Sebright Bantama. Yon must never breed from them, as the single
comb becomes hereditary. Kill them when young and put them in a pudding.
They make an excellent one.

Eaklt Laying (.4.).— We are startled now and then with these early layers.
The earliest wo ever kuew was a Cochin that laid at the end of sixteen weeks.
We believe it is injurious rather than otherwise to them. They never attain
to any size, and they soon wear out. Those that are early layers In June
have bad trreat advantage in weather {query in 1673), days getting longer and
warmer throughout their lives to the laying time. There is more of ma-
turity about a pullet that attains the age of fom- mouths in June, than in one
that becomes fcix months old in March.

Nostrils Disordered (it. <?.). — The symptoms yon name are those of
severe cold or incipient roup. Spanish are not subject to this latter com-
plaint, but like all breathers they are subject to colds, and when allowed to go
unchecked it often takes a dangerous form. JuHt as a surgeon when fever is
rife, asks the state of the drains, and examiuos the sloepiug apartments of
the infected dwellings, so we should like to know rather more about the
lodging and haunts of your fowls than that they have " a stable and a yard."
Where do they roost? AVhat is the Hooring ? What is your die! ary ? Do
they get any siin ? We should advise you to give Baily's or Walton's pills,
and to give them every day fresh-pulled lettuce and sods of grass, cut with
plenty of fresh earth adhering to them.

Crkvh-Cceub Hen (FtZ/x).— Keep her with tho Creve-C<:eur cock es-
clueively.

Crooked Breasts (H.F. C). — There is no euro for crooked breasts in Ham-
burgh chickens. It is always better to leave the chickens with the mother as
long as she will care for them, aud after they are deserted to let them roost
in the rips where they have been brought up. We have chicken.s now four
months old that have never perched. It is weakuess of coostitution that in-
duces crooked breasts when the parents have it not. No fault ifl more here-
ditary ; it is detected whenever a fowl is handled, aud is a disqualitication.

Dorkings Diseased (C. M. S.).— All the fowls wasting away should bo
separated from the others. They should be treated with a copious dose (at
least a table- spoonful) of castor oil, then fed on bread and ale, bread and milk,
and have no drink but camphor julep. Separate them entirely from the hens
and pullets. Give them mutton and meat scraps chopped fiae.

Judges op Pigeon's iAa Old Southern Fa7icierl—\Ye have nothing to
say against the geuflemeu yon mention, hut it would not he quite con-ect to
publish your commendation.

Pigeon with Sore Foot, &.c. (Mrs. Lanfifon).—'Gj ynnr description wo
think that there must be a gathering in the foot, which, if opened aud kept
clean, will no doubt heal nicely. Probably tho bird has been kept in a dirty
cage at a dealer's, or experienced some injury by the prick of a nail, itc. Let the
bird have a pan of water placed in the sun to induce it to bathe every morn-
ing, as that alone may do it great good. As you are a beginner we strongly
recommend you to have a copy of Brent's " Pigeon Book " fx-om our office, free
for nineteen stamps. There you will have full details as to feeding, manage-
ment, &.C.

Sex in Jacobins (S. A. 5.).— Your Pigeons arc either two cocks or two
hens, most probably the former, as, had they been of opposite sexes, they
would have paired; or, if two hens, and being kept without a possilility of
getting a mate, they would very probably have played at pairing, have made
a nest, aud laid foiu" eggs in it, with, of cour.^e, no xesult. Theie are no par-

ticnlar marks of difference of sex in Jacobins, The cock Pigeon is usaaUy
stouter- built, has a thicker beak and a thicker neck than the hen, his coo is
longer, and he turns quite round when cooing. It requires experience to
know for certain, but if you placed a hen with one of your birds you would
know then, as her presence woiUd rouse him to much cooing and playing
i-ouud her. It is not a good plan to clip the wing, but it is better to pull out
the feathers, and by the time they have again grown the birds will have be-
come accustomed to their homo.

Removal of Ekes (li. M. B.).— We have not had much experience in the
use of, or removal of ekes from straw hives. With boxes we usually have a
moveable adapter between the stock hive and the eke, having Ruitable aper-
tures cut out for free communication; or we use shallow boxes titted with
loose bars in the ordinary way, to which the bees attach their combs, leaving
those in the original box much as they were before, rendering the removal of
ekes very simple. Perhaps Mr. Pettigrew will kindly reply to our cuiTespon-
dent's query as to how he manages with his straw hives, when removing ekes.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Square, London.

Lat. 51° 32' 40" N. ; Long. 0^ 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date.

9 A.U.

In the Day.

1873.

» cS

Hygrome-
ter.

.11

O43
a"

S 0 —

Shade Tem-
perature.

Radiation
Temperature.

•i

June.

s-^~

Dry.

Wet.

■« =

H^'-

Max.

Min.

sun.
deg.

grass

Inches ' (le-/.

deir.

dejr.

deff;

de?.

deg.

In.

We. 11

29.7U 1 59.7

55.0

W.

57 0

68.2

50.6

1(8.1

51.4

—,

Th. 12

29 567 1 61.2

55.6

S.E.

56 6

68.8

46.6

1J9.C

41.8

—

Fri. IS

29.609

62.8

64.2

N.

66.9

71.0

48.0

119.2

44 4

—

Sat. 14

29.769

69.1

5S.7

S.

Ii7.0

69 6

47.1

126.2

462

0.093

Sun. 15

S9.850

60.5

65 5

W.

67.5

69.4

61.3

117 2

50.2

—

Mo. IS

29.945

63.7

668

N.W.

57 8

72,5

52 0

127.0

49 4

Ta. 17

29.995

66.0

57.0

S.E.

68.5

75 6

47.1

1186

44.1

0.506

Means

29.777

61.9

55.4

67.3

70.7

490

119.6 1 46.6

0.599

BEMABES.

11th. — Fino all day, hut still cold and unsummerlike.

12th. — Fine morning, getting cloudy towards noon, and very stormhke about

2 P.M., when a few large drops of rain fell; from that time very fine.
13th. — Very fino morning; stormlike at noon ; thunder at 3.50 p.m., finer after,

and very pleasant evening, though a very close day.
14th. — Fine morning; beautiful at noou, soon, clouding over, began to rain

between 4 and 5 p.m., and continued more or less all the evening.
1.5th. — Fine morning ; rather cloudy iu the after-part of the day ; fine at night.
IGth. — Fine morning ; and till between 5 and 6 p.ai., when it was very dark

and stormliko in the east, but soon cleared off ; evening aud night fine.
17th. — Very hazy in (he morning, soon dispersiug, tho sun being very bright

and warm at intervals, with appearance of storm between.
Temperature a trilie above that of the preceding week. There has been very
little rain till the night of the 17th, but it has freipiently beeu dark and stonn-
like in the distance. Thunder heard on the I3th. — G. J. Symons.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— June 18.
We have no alteration to report.

Apples i sieve

Apricots doz.

Cnernes ■\:^ box

t:he3tnuts bushel

Currants i sieve

Black do.

Figs doz.

Filberts lb.

Coba lb.

Gooseberries quart

Grapes, hothouse lb.

Lemons t* 100

Melons each

Artichokes doz.

Asparaaus |*100

French

Beans, Kidney tT*- 100

lieet. Red d../.

Broccoli bundle

Cabbage duz.

Capsicums v luO

Carrots bunch

Cauliflower doz.

Celery bundle

Coleworts. . doz. bunches
Cucumbers each

idokling doz.

Kndive doz.

Fennel bunob

(iariio lb.

Herbs bun ch

Horseradish bundle

Loeka buiicli

Lettuce duz.

fl.

d.

R.

d.

3

0to5

0

2

n

3

0

2

6

4

0

11

0

0

II

0

n

11

n

1)

(1

0

0

6

0

111

n

(1

0

0

II

2

II

2

6

(1

3

11

6

6

II

12

0

6

1)

111

n

6

0

12

0

VEG

El

R

d.

s.

d.

H

0to6

II

3

n

B

0

6

0

12

0

I

6

■1

B

1

II

3

(1

(1

9

1

fi

1

II

1

B

0

n

11

11

II

6

(1

fl

3

0

6

0

r

(!

2

0

B

6

4

0

0

6

1

0

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

11

n

3

0

II

0

6

0

n

II

3

II

0

3

II

4

0

II

a

11

II

1

0

2

0

Mulberries v- b. 0

Nectarines doz. 15

Oranges ^'^ 100 4

Peaches do^. 15

Pears, kitchen noz. 1

dessert doz. 6

PineApples lb. 8

Plums i sieve 0

Quinces doz. 0

Raspberries lb. 0

Strawberries 1^ lb. G

Walnuts bufthel )5

ditto vlOO 2

d. 8. a.
OtoO 0

0
0
0
0
0 18

Onions bn&hel 4 0

pickling quart 0 6

Parsley per doz. bunches 0 0

Parsnips doz. 0 9

Peas quart 2 0

Potatoes .bushel G 0

Kidney do. 0 0

Round do. 0 0

Radishes., doz. bunches 1 0

Rhubarb bundle 0 6

Salaafy bundle 1 D

Savoys dnz. 2 0

Scorzonera bunclle 1 0

Sea-kale basket 0 0

Shallots lb. 0 3

Ppinach bushel 2 '»

Tomatoes doz. 1 0

Turnips bunch 0 3

Vestetable Harrows 0 0

d. B. d,

0to2 0

2 0

10

0

POULTRY MARKET.— June 18.
Although prices have not greatly vai-ied during tho past week, yot ther(^
arc not wanting indications that a large supply is at hand,
s. d. s. d.

Larg.> Fowl"! 6 0 to C

Sniallorditto 5 0 5 6

Chickane 4 0 4 6

Gnslings 6 0 R 6

Gre-n (ieese 0 0 0 0

Ducklings 4 0 4 6

s. d. 8. d

Pheasan's 0 OtoO 0

Partridges 0 0 0 0

Harea 0 0 0 0

Rabbi',s l 5 1 fi

Wildditto 0 9 0 10

Pigeons 0 9 1 0

Jnne 26, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

409

WEEKLY CALENDAR.

! D«y

I ol
Month

Day

of

Week.

JUNE 26— JULY 2, 1873.

Th

F

8

Son
M
To
W

Average Temoera. . Kain in Sun
tare near LonaoQ. 43 years Risea

Snn
Sets.

Spalding Horticultural Show.

Koyal Horticultural Society's Bath Show
3 Sunday afteu Trisitv. [closes.

MeetintT of Royal Asiatic Society, 3 p.m.
Grantham Horticultural Show.
Royal Horticultural Rose Show, and Coni-
[mittee Meetings.

Day

Ni|?ht.

Mean.

Days.

m.

h.

m. n, 1

74.3

49.2

(il.7

20

46«f 3 ' 19aJa 1

72.8

48.2

(iO.5

15

47

S

19 8

73.7

49.1

(!1.4

16

47

3

19 8

73.2

48.,'".

60.8

12

48

3

19 ^

73.1

48.3

(iO.7

15

18 8

74.8

50.8

62,8

20

49

18 8

73.4

S1.2

62.3

17

18 8

Moon

Moon

Moon'R

Risea.

Sets.

Age.

m. h.

m. b.

Days.

41 4

7 10

2

48 5

37 10

S9 6

59 10

10 8

16 11

1

30

0 10

a 11

7

S9 U

54 11

J

Clock Day
before of
Sun. . Year.

31 ' 177
44 178

179

180
181
182
183

From observations taken near London during forty-three years, the average day I ?n-T— atnre of the week is 73.6' ; and its night temperature
49.3^ Tho^eLlSeat wa°9y,"n the 27th:i8i6l and the lowest cold Sf, on the 28th and 3uth, 1863. The greatest fall of rain was 1.18 mch.

ORNAMENTAL PLANTING.— No. 4.

0 render these notes as comprehensive and
useful as possible, it is requisite that they
should embrace the planting of such features
of ornamental grounds as are not usually
met with, as well as those of au ordinary
character. Before proceeding to the con-
sideration of mixed borders and groups I
will, therefore, request the reader to accom-
pany me to a secluded glen or dell with
steep, high, winding banks that spring up-
wards abruptly in picturesque irregularity from each side
of a narrow, rocky, watercourse, worn and furrowed into
a thousand curious hollows and channels by the "babbling
brook " that is the glen's great charm, tiie one animated
featm-e of its still life, such as it is always desirable to
secure whenever we tiy to imitate natural scenei-y of this
description. Let not anyone suppose it possible even in
the faintest degree to imitate the wild grandeur or ma-
jestic aspect of a rocky highland glen ; every feature of
the scene that I now wish to portray is so minute and
trifling iu comparison, that the only possible similarity
■would be not in the xAysical formation, but in the plants
and trees.

Given, then, the glen, let us proceed with the considera-
tion of how it may be most advantageously planted, and
what are the best kinds for such a purpose. The ground-
work of the planting ought certainly to be arranged on
the principle of massing, and here the common HoUy
takes a leading position, so hardy is it, so tlourishing
upon the sides of the steepest hillside, and under the deep
shade and drip of umbrageous trees, and so fine is the
effect of high banks clothed with its deep, rich, glossy
foliage, that it may well form the staple of our planting.
Mingled with the Hollies, and in large masses by itself,
we place that

" Flower of the wild, whose purple glow
Adorns the dusky mouutaiu's side " —

the Heather (Calluna vulgaris), which is so beautiful when
in flower as to fully atone for its dull appearance at other
times. No trifling patches of it will serve to produce the
effect I aim at, but there must be bold, spreading, irre-
gular masses, meeting and interspersed among the ad-
joining growth of trees. Ferns, or shrubs ; for there should
be no sharply-defined lines of demarcation, no formal
angularity of outline in such a scene, but a blending of
growth and a certain air of the wild irregularity of nature.
Suitable positions will occur for groups or single plants
of other varieties of Heath ; thus, near the sides of the
path wo may place Erica Tetralix with its lovely bells of
a delicate pink hue ; its white variety is also worthy of
a prominent place. Patches of the more common Erica
cinerea, the deep-colom'ed Menziesia polifolia, and the
shrub-like Erica mediterranea merit a place, and for an
early display in spring, the bright pink Erica carnea is
unrivalled. Perns, Lichens, and Mosses should fringe
the stream, and spread their graceful forms and green
enamel among the rocks ; then, too, an occasional mossy

No. 639.— Vol XXIV., Nkw Skubi.

knoll or bank has an agreeable effect, more especially
when the cool air of the glen is sought after during: the
hot days of summer ; then, as the path winds along from
side to side, over an occasional rustic bridge, under tho
shade of overhanging branches of spreading Beech or
drooping Bh-cli, while Larch and Pinuses cluster or stand
out singly high up upon tho crests of the glen's steep
sides, each feature, each cool grot or mossy cell, is doubly
appreciated. In the hottest, driest summer, when idants
that are fully exposed to drought present a parched
and starved appearance, here all remains green and
flom-ishing. It must, however, be very apparent, that
although at such a time the contrast to most other scenes
would be more forcible and striking by its peculiar fresh-
ness and beauty, yet it continues almost equally attractive
at all seasons of the year.

The common Bracken (Pteris aquilina) is another excel-
lent plant for massing. In favourable situations it forms
a dense thicket of the most beautiful description ; the
noble fronds upwards of 9 feet high surpass all other of
our native Ferns iu dignity of aspect, excepting, perhaps,
the Osmunda. It hasa fine effect either alone or mingled
with the Holly and Heather. Berberis Aquifolium also
makes a good mass; it is very hardy, and has strong
claims upon our notice for its value as a decorative
plant; its abundant bright yellow flowers produced in
bold dense clusters are followed by gi-een berries, which
ripen into a deep purple hue, and the spreading growth
is thickly clothed with deep green glossy foliage, which
becomes purple, and often crimson, in autumn.

It does not appear desu-able to extend the list of plants
for massing in the glen. Rhododendrons might certainly
be introduced with good effect, and a bold group of Yucca
recurva upon some prominent curve or position of import-
ance would tell well ; but the Holly, I em, and Heather
harmonise so well, and large masses of them are so ad-
mirably in keeping with this scene of semi-wildness,
that they ought certainly to predominate very largely.
Ample rehef and variety may be imparted by an admix-
ture of such single specimens or small clumps as there
may be space for— of Pampas Grass and other Grasses of
a tall and stately character, such as Arundo conspioua,
Holcus saccharatus, and Erianthus Ravenna. A few
flowering shrubs, too, form an agreeable feature. Of such
I would select the single and double varieties of both
pink and white Cratasgus, as well as the newer double
crimson kind ; Laburnum ; Gueldres Rose (Viburnum
Opulus); Cytisus albus, the graceful white Broom of
Portugal ; Cytisus Scoparius, the common yellow Broom ;
the cream-coloured 0. pallidus ; and the yellow Spanish
Broom, Spartium junceum. To these may be added
Philadelphus.grand'iflorus, Pyrus Aucuparia (the Moun-
tain Ash), and of Lilacs the common white kind, and the
large, rich purple variety. Dr. Lindley. An occasional
Birch tree near the side of the stream or upon the steep
slopes makes a pleasing break. Larches, too, may be
introduced singly or in clumps. The space, however, is
usually too much restricted to admit of many tall-grow-
ing trees, which should, therefore, be introduced with
No. 1291.— Vol. XLIX., Old Sesies,

500

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Juno 26, 1873.

iiinoh caution, most of tliem beiog planted along the highest
}ininls, where the peculiar vegetation of the glen is met and
MeudA with that oi the wild underwood.

Most small natural glens do not end abruptly, but gradually
expand into a wide-spread valley, as though at some remote
age a mighty flood of water rushing through and deepening
the glen's narrow gorge had bui-st forth from the restraining
bounds of its rocky sides with accumulated force, spreading
over the softer soil beyond, wearing and conveying it away to
some distant point, that is still perchance covered by the waters
of old ocean. It is just at this junction of glen and valley
that I would form a Beech grove, planting the Beech trees
80 feet apart, and filling the intermediate spaces with Larch,
to be thinned and removed gradually as the permanent trees
might require space. The extent of the grove should depend
upon the features beyond it ; if it could advantageously be
continued to a point commanding a pleasing view, that would
he the best and safest guide for the planter. From seats at
the lower boundary there might perhaps be a pleasing vista of
the waters of a lake with the soft swell of turfy slopes, broken
by a few noble specimens of Oak, Elm, or Lime, and if in the
background a glimpse could be had through richly wooded
banlts of a lofty range of distant hills the scene would be
perfect.

liie pathway through the glen should be designed to com-
mand at different points full views of its most interesting
features. It takes no formal line, nor is it kept strictly on one
side, but following the windings and curves it leads from side
to side across rustic bridges or stepping stones. The bridges
should be made of undressed wood. Larch with the bark left
on is very suitable, or, if the span is narrow, flayed Oak wood
might be used, and Ivy trained along the sides and upon the
handrails. A good position for a bridge is below a waterfall,
not close to it, but at a httle distance down the glen, from
whence the play and dash of the water may be seen to the best
advantage. For any steep ascent very neat and durable wooden
steps can be made of circular blocks of Larch or Oak about a
foot in length, set on end side by side, and kept securely in
position by fastening slabs of Larch across the front of each
step, and by spandrils of the same material at the sides. —
EnwArc Ltjckhuest.

THE ROY.\L HORTICULTUEAL SOCIETY'S
BATH SHOW.

The ample descriptions that have already appeared in the
Journal, aided by the plans which have been published, will
have made the general aspect of the Show ground clear to any
who have taken the trouble to read and examine them. It
will be sufiicient, then, to say that of all the sites which have
been chosen for the provincial exhibitions, none can for a
moment compare with the present. Bath itself is a fair place,
and the Victoria Park is one of its fairest spots, and yet so
convenient to the very heart of the city, that a ten-minutes
walk brings one from all the principal hotels to the Show
ground ; while, should the weather prove more unfavourable
than it is at present, the sloping character of the ground will
prevent that " Slough of Despond " which Birmingham pre-
sented last year.

All those who have attended these provincial Shows are now
pretty well acquainted with their general aspect. The large
tent (GO feet longer this year than before), arranged on the
plan of which the Royal Botanic Society set the example ; the
plants placed on the ground, sloping and terraced banks, the
waterfall, and the fountain, are now what are naturally looked
for. To those who have not witnessed any of these Shows
one may say that the effect is veiy fine as looked at from
behind the waterfall, whence the eye can range over the whole
contents of the tent — sadly marrecl, however, to our mind by
the very substantial framework on which the canvas is placed";
and one sighs for a time when we shall see either iron substi-
tuted for it, or some method devised by which this defect may
be remedied. In this tent have been placed the magnificent
plants of Messrs. Baines and Cole, the exhibits of Williams,
Veitch, Bull, Bell & Thorpe, and others, the whole forming a
marvellous display of the wealth of colouring and of foliage
that the realm of Flora so lavishly displays. The same long
and too-narrow tent where the cut flowers are exhibited is
filled from end to end. In the tent for vegetables is the finest
collection of vegetables we have ever seen displayed ; while
all around are tents, horticultui-al constructions, and con-
trivances of every description.

On evei-y side one meets with well known faces ; for what a
Church Congress is to the parson, the Social Science Congress
to the political economist, the Royal Agricultural Society's
meeting to the farmer, that is this provincial Exhibition of the
lioyal Horticultural Society to the gardener of every descrip-
tion, amateur, nurseryman, or gentleman's gardener — a place
where one is sure to meet a large number of those interested
in the same pursuit, to renew former acquaintances, and to
make new ones ; and this has become now so thoroughly recog-
nised a fact, that it forms to many one of its most attractive
features. Many of us are utterly bla:e with flower shows, they
can add no new sensation ; but it is pleasant to meet with
those who are equally — well, let us say it — mad with one's
self, to exchange brotherly words of good will, to hear many
things discussed, and to be a sharer in that geniality which
ought to, and does as a rule, chai-acterise those who have to
deal with the lovely things connected with horticulture. We
lack this year the presence of Royalty ; for whatever might be
the inclination of any of our Princes to be present with us, the
Shah absorbs all their attention, and they cannot move from
their post of duty. Well, there is this to be said : If the Show
succeed it will be simply on the grounds of horticulture. Prince
Arthur, no doubt, brought crowds to Birmingham last year,
but no Prince attracts them to Bath this year; and so, what-
ever success be obtained wUl be due to the pure love of horti-
culture, and this, we know, has long characterised Bath and
its neighbourhood.

The Exhibition was opened by a procession formed at the
park gates at half-past twelve, and which proceeded to the
grand tent, and walked entirely round it, after which it came
again to the front of the building facing the city, and the
principal members of which it was composed then took a place
on the summit of the rising plot of ground on which are
staged Mr. Young's collection of trees.

The following address to the Lord Lieutenant of the cotmty
was then read : —

" My Loed, —

"At the request of the Local Committee of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society, I beg to offer the sincere thanks of the city of
Bath for your Lordship's presence and assistance on this
occasion.

" We were much gratified by the decision of the Council to
hold its annual meeting within our borders. We esteemed it a
great privilege to be allowed to see, on the largest aud most
beautiful scale, what had been done for horticulture in recent
years. We also felt assured that the Exhibition which it was
proposed to hold — so comprehensive in its objects — would be
highly beneficial to our neighbourhood, by stimulating a desu-e
for improved culture among all classes of society.

" With these feelings we gladly entered upon the various
duties assigned to us. We trust that the site of the Exhibition
will be found convenient and satisfactory to the visitors. We
are thankful to the numerous friends who have enabled us to
raise a larger amount iu prizes than has been raised on any
previous occasion. Favoured by this circumstance, by the ad-
mirable arrangement of the Council, and by great individual
skill on the part of their Superintendent, we have now a display
of plants, flowers, and structures, which will be abundantly
gratifying aud instructive. And now, my Lord, I have only to
add that among our greatest advantages is that of being able to
welcome in the Lord Lieutenant, and in the High Sheriff of
Somersetshire, the representatives of our beloved Sovereign in
the county to which we belong. We consider it a most happy
augm-y that the Exhibition is opened under such auspices ; and
we trust our ancient city will prove itself not unworthy of the
honour thus conferred upon it."

In reply to this address, Lord Cork said, " I beg sincerely to
thank you for the address you have presented to me on behaif of
the Local Committee of the Koyal Horticultural Society, and to
assure you that, connected as I am with this great county, it is
a gi'atiticatiou to me to bear a part in this day's proceedings. I
entirely concur in the hope you have expressed that the Exhibi-
tion which I have the honour tliis day of opening may be bene-
ficial to the lovers of horticulture in this neighbourhood, and I
feel sure that this has been the chief object of the promoters in
this undertakhig. In asking me, and Ukewise the High Sheriff
for the county to appear iu official costume, I recognise a desire,
on the part of this ancient citj^, to seize on every occasion of
testifying; their devoted loyalty to the throne, and their respect
for all offices of dignity and importance emanating directly from
the crown aud representing its authority. I heartily join with
you in expressing my obligation to the Council of the Royal
Horticultural Society for holding its meeting within the borders
of your city, and I trust it may prove in every way success-

Jane 36, 187S. ]

JOURNAIi OP HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

501

fnl, and fully accomplish the objects adverted to in your
address."

Accompanied by a flourish of trumpets the Lord Lieutenant
then declared the Show open.

PLA^-TS AKD FLOWERS.
Sto-i-e and Greenhouse Plants.— Of these there are nume-
rous collections, though in general the plants are not so large
as those usually exhibited at the metropolitan shows. Messrs.
E. Cole & Son have in Class 1 (collection of twenty), a very well
bloomed group, running for the most part about 2 feet in dia-
meter, and containing excellent specimens of Vinca rosea alba,
I.xora amboynensis, the white Ixora Colei, Clerodendron Bal-
fouriauum, AUamanda Hendersoni, Azalea Extrauii, Erica Can-
dolleana, Erica eximia superba, and E. ventricosa tricolor. A
first prize was awarded.

In collections of nine (Class 2), Mr. Morse, gardener to W. P.
Baker, Esq.,Brislington, Bristol, sends fine specimens of Azalea
Lateritia superba and Barciayana, Dipladenia amabilis, very
good ; a fine specimen of AUamanda Hendersoni, a large Ixora
amboynensis not yet at perfection, also a large Ixora amboyn-
ensis superba and Pimelea Hendersoni, 4 feet in diameter and
quite a mass of bloom. The last two, besides forming part of
the group, are also shown for the Veitch Memorial prize for the
best specimen stove and greenhouse plants respectively. Mr.
W. C. Drummond, Weston Road, Bath, also sends a group, in
which are good plants of Stephanotis floribunda and GenetylUs
Hookeriana; whilst from Mr. Cypher, Queen's Road Nursery,
Cbeltcuham, come Dipladenia amabilis trained on a cylindrical
wire trellis and in tine bloom, AUamanda gi'andiflora with
numbers of its yellow flowers, though these are not individually
large ; a very good Geuetyllis tulipifera well flowered, but a
forest of sticks ; an Ixora, and a good specimen of Anthurium
Scherzeriauum. Mr. Morse is first, Mr. Cypher second, and Mr.
Drummond third.

In Class S, groups of six, Mr. J. E. Marsh, gardener to J. 0.
Bacchus, Esq., Norwood House, Binswood, Leamington, has
capital specimens of AUamanda Schottii, Stephanotis floribunda,
Kalosanthes coccinea, Phtenocoma prolifera Barnesii and Clero-
dendron Balfouriauum, both weU grown and well flowered. Mr.
T. King, gardener to R. Valentine Leach, Esq., Devizes Castle,
and Mr. W. Carmichael, gardener to H. W. Tugwell, Esq.,
Crowe Hall, Bath, also send groups. From Col. Taylor comes
a group, in which we noticed the white Echites boliviensis,
well furnished with its orange-throated, white, Convolvulus-like
flowers. Mr. Marsh is first.

For the local special prize for the best specimen stove plant
Mr. Baines, gardener to H. MichoUs, Esq., Southgate, exhibits
a specimen of AUamanda cathartica, some 4 feet through.
BougaiuviUa;a glabra, clothed with its rose-coloured bracts, is
shown by Mr. Gale, who takes the first prize ; while Mr. A. Morse,
gardener to W. P. Baker, Esq., is second with an Ixora, and Mr.
J. BrickeU, gardener to J. Orred, Esq., Marshfield, Chippenham,
is third with Euphorbia splendens. An equal second prize was
awarded to Mr. Baines.

In competition for the prizes for the best specimen greenhouse
plants Mr. Baines sends a splendid plant of Phcenocoma proli-
fera, blooming to perfection, and beautifully furnished to the
base ; from Mr. Gale, gardener to W. Dobson, Esq., Oakwood,
Bath, comes a remarkably good specimen of Genetyllis Hooker-
iana ; and from Col. E. L. Taylor, Fern Lodge, Weston Road,
Bath, a good plant of Pimelea diosmsfolia. Mr. Baines is first,
Col. Taylor second, and Mr. Gale third.

The best specimen of Anthurium Scherzerianum is that of
Mr. T. Baines, gardener to H. Micholls, Esq., Southgate, which
has fifteen fuUy-expanded spathes, and three more opening.
The second best is that of T. M. Shuttleworth, Esq., which has
thx'ee more, but not nearly so fresh.

Mixed Groups or Flowering and Fine-foliaged Plants. —
These constitute the most striking feature in the great tent, the
plants shown by the two leading competitors, Messrs. Cole and
Mr. Baines, being of extraordinary size and merit. Mr. Baines
and Messrs. Cole have for several years stoutly contested at the
Society's country meetings the palm in the class for ten stove
and greenhouse plants in flower and the same number of fine-
foliaged plants, and always with honour to themselves, and often
it has been a matter of extreme difficulty for the Judges to de-
cide between their respective claims. On this occasion Messrs.
Cole have taken the lead with, of flowering plants, one of the best-
bloomed examples of Erica Massoui major we have ever seen,
and which is nearly 4 feet in diameter ; Dipladenia amabilis in
a 14-inch pot, with 120 trusses of flowers which are perfec-
tion in their freshness ; a grand plant of Genetyllis tuUpifera ;
the white-flowered Ixora Colei, 4i feet through ; Phcenocoma
prolifera Barnesii, even exceeding the last-named in size, and in
splendid bloom ; Erica CandoUeana, very fine ; Anthurium
Scherzerianum, with three dozen good spathes ; AUamanda
grandiflora ; scarlet Azalea BrUUant, 6 feet high ; Iveryana ; and
AUamanda grandiflora, in great beauty. Of flne-foUaged plants
Messrs. Cole have Cycas revolnta, 10 feet through, fruiting ;

noble specimens of Phcenicophorium seycheUarum and Ver-
pchaffeltia spleudida; a remarkably fine specimen of Cocoa
Weddeliana ; a very large specimen of the variegated New Zea-
land Flax, Croton variegatum and C.pictum; Gleichenia flabel-
lata, a magnificent specimen; and Cyathea dealbata. Among
these we recognised several of the plants which formed part of
the Manley Hall coUection. Mr. Baines took the second place
with a group which has rarely been equaUed, among which were
remarkably fine specimens of Erica Shannoniana ; Franciscea
confertiflora in magnificent bloom ; Azalea Coronata, forming a
splendid mass of rosy crimson blossom ; Ixora javauica, very fine ;
a large and very fine plant of Phcenocoma prolifera, Ixora
coccinea, Sarracenias such as are only exhibited by him, Cocos
Weddeliana, Crotons, DasyUrion acrotrichum, and Ixora javanica
especiaUy fine. Mr. Baines was awarded the Veitch Memorial
prize for the most meritorious specimen stove plant for the fine
Franciscea in this group, and he took the corresponding Veitch
prize for the Phcenocoma. Mr. Nelson, Stapleton Place and
St. Michael's Hill Nurseries, Bristol, sends a fine Alocasia
metallica and Maranta roseo-picta, and very good examples of
Livistona borbonica, Clerodendron Balfouriauum, Pimelea mi-
rabilis, ttc. In groups of six Mr. A. Johnson, gardener to the
Marquis of Ailesbury, Savernake, is first with Dipladenia ama-
bilis, AUamanda Schottii, Alocasia meta'Uca, Alocasia Lowii, and
Maranta Veitchii very good. Second comes Mi'. T. King, gar-
denet to R. V. Leach, Esq., Devizes Castle, with a very good
group ; and third, Mr. Carmichael.

Orchids. — Although there is not a very large show of these,
some of the specimens which we shaU have to notice are
altogether out of the common run, especiaUy those of Mr.
Gurney. Mr. WiUiams, of HoUoway, is in the front in the open
class for nine, with a fine Vanda tricolor; Aerides odoratum
majus; Anguloa Clowesii, not arrived at its colour; Cattleya
MossiiB superba, fine ; Oncidium Philipsiannm, with a dozen
spikes ; Trichopilia crispa, &c. Mr. BuU is second ; Messrs.
Maule & Son, are third.

The Veitch Memorial prize for the best specimen Orchid, also
the first prize for the same, went to Mr. Gurney Keele, gardener
to W. Gore Langton, Esq., Newton Park, Newton-St.-Loe,
Bristol, for Saccolabium guttatum with no less than twenty-
nine racemes of flowers, most of which are also unusuaUy fine.
Such a plant is a marvel ; such a plant we have never before
seen, and we rejoice that Mr. Keele wiU through it reap
something like a fair reward for his skill in its culture. The
second prize for the best specimen Orchid is for Odontoglossam
Insleayii leopardinum, k'om Mr. W. Ball, having sixteen flowers.
In the amateurs' class for six, Mr. Baines is first with a magni-
ficent potful of Cattleya MossIk, a beautiful specimen of Dendro-
bium densiflorum, D. Devonianum with eleven long racemes,
and a good Cypripedium barbatum. Second comes Mr. Gurney
with another specimen of Saccolabium guttatum with fourteen
racemes ; Aerides odoratum maximum, remarkably fine : Vanda
tricolor, good; and Saccolabium curvifolium, fine. Third, Mr
Perry, gardener to J. W. Miles, Esq , Shirehampton; fourth, Mr.
J. Howard, gardener to the Rev. J. G. Fussell, Frome. In
the nurserymen's class for six, Mr. B. S. WiUiams takes the
lead with a fine pan of Cypripedium barbatum superbum,
Thunia alba with nine flowers, Cattleya Mossise splendid,
Cypripedium Stonei with thirteen slippers, and a remarkably
fine Aerides Lobbi. Messrs. Maule & Sons, Bristol, are second;
and Mr. Drummond, Bath, takes a fourth prize.

Heaths are far behind those shown at the London exhibitions.
The best six in the n>;^serymen's class come from Mr. Cj'pher,
Cheltenham ; the second best from Mr. Drummond, of Bath.
Among amateurs Mr. Baines is first for six with fine specimens
of E. smula, venosa, obbata, and others. Mr. King, gardener to
E. V. Leach, Esq., Devizes Castle, is second, and Col. Taylor
third. For nine, Mr. Carmichael, gardener to H. Vf. TugwtU,
Esq., is second. The best fom- are from Mr. Keel, gardener to
Col. Landon, WeUs Road, Bath. Second comes Mr. King, gar-
dener to R. V. Leach, Esq. In the class for the best specimen
Heath, a plant of the waxy-white Erica obbata, not, however,
as yet arrived at its fuU beauty, is shown by Mr. Baines. The
second best is a smaU plant of Cavendishii from Mr. Morse,
gardener to W. P. Baker, Esq., BrisUngton.

Oenamental-foliaoed Plants. — In the class for nine fine-
foUaged plants, Mr. J. Cypher, of Cheltenham, who is first, has
a noble plant of Cycas revoluta, 8 feet in diameter, a fine
Phoenicophorium seycheUarum, Latania borbonica, and good
specimens of others. Mr. W. Drummond, Bath, is second,
showing among others a very good pyramid of Panicum varie-
gatum. For six fine-foUaged plants (amateurs) the prize went
to Mr. J. E. Marsh, gardener to J. 0. Bacchus, Esq., Binswood,
Leamington. The best specimen fine-foliaged plant is Sarraceaia
flava, one of the North American Side-saddle Plants, and one of
the finest specimens of the genus which Mr. Baines has ever
shown. Second comes Mr. Gale, gardener to W. Dobson, Esq.,
Oakwood, Bath, with a magnificent plant of Alocasia metaUica,
of which every leaf is perfect.
Pa I tns.— There are but few of these shown in the classes

5U2

JOUKNAL OF EOETICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GAKDENEB.

[ Jane 26, 1873.

specially assigned to t'jem. The best six come from Mr. Wim-
sett, Ashbiiruham Park Nursery, Chelsea. Among them are
good plants of Areca lutesceus, Astrocaryum mexicanum, and
Areca Baueri. The second prize for six goes to Mr. W. Bull, of
Chelsea, for a group in which are Areca lutescens, Kentia
Moorei, and other scarce sorts. The third prize went to Messrs.
Maule & Sons, Bristol, for larger specimens, among which is
a male Cycas revoluta, which had thrown up a cone. Mr.
Williams and Messrs. Carter & Co. also exhibit.

Dractcnas and Cordnlincs. — The best four are exhibited by
Messrs. Carter & Co., and consist of the dark olive and purple-
bronzed Macleayi, Eegiua finely coloured, Guilfoylei, and Chel-
soni vei-y fine. The second prize was awarded to Mr. B. S.
Williams, of Holloway, for a very fine plant of Dracipna Veitchii,
and others already named. Mr. Bull exhiliits D. Kegina,

D. speciosa, D. anireua, and D. splendens, all of which are \evy
handsome, and which must surely have been overlooked, as no
award was made.

Crotons. — The best specimen Croton comes from Mr. R. T.
Veitch, nurseryman, Exeter, and is a well-coloured plant of
C. variegatum, about 5 feet in diameter, and as much in height
fi'om the gi'ound. The best four new Crotons come from Messrs.
Veitch, of Chelsea, and consist of finely-coloured examples of
C. undulatum, Veitchii, Weismanni, and Johannis. The second-
prize four come from Mr. Perry, gardener to J. W. MUes, Es(i.,
Shirehamptou. Mr. Bull also has a second prize for majesticum,
undulatum, Weismanni, and spirale.

Alocasias. — In the class for the best three Alocasias, the first
position was taken by Mr. Williams, of Holloway, with A.
metallica, large specimen ; A. Sedeni, with leaves la inches by
10 wide ; and a very fine specimen of A. intermedii. Mr. Drum-
mond is second with small plants.

Begonias. — Very few are shown. The first prize goes to Mr.
Drumraond, of Bath, for small plants.

Catadiums. — As in the case of Begonias, hut few are shown.
The best six come from Mr. Marsh, gardener to J. 0. Bacchus,
Esq., Binswood, Leamington, and include good but not large
plants of Wightii, Chantini, HouUetii, and Neumanni.

Pitchee-Pl.^nts. — The best three are those from Mr. Baiaes,
and consist of fine examples of S. flava and variolaris, with
. purpurea.

Fekns. — As compared with the Exhibition at Birmingham last
year and that at ISottiugbam the year before, there is a great
falliug-off in the numbers of Ferns both exotic and British, and
especially the latter. Mr. Lowe exhibits but few, and Mr.
Mapplebeck not at all. As regards exotic Ferns also, the speci-
mens are neither so large nor so fine as those we find at the
London shows.

Exotic Ferns. — The best twelve in the amateurs' class come
from M:r. J. Brickell, gardener to J. Orred, Esq., Ashwick Hall,
Marshfield, Chippenham, and consist of good examples of
Adiantum farleyense, A. cuneatum, Lomaria gibba, and Gymno-
grammas. The second prize was taken by Mr. Howard, gardener
to the Eev. J. G. Fussell, The Chantry, Frome, who has good
plants of Dicksonia antarctica, Gleichenia .spelunc;ie, Golden
and Silver Ferns. First for nine is Mr. J. Cypher, Queen's
Koad Nursery, Cheltenham; second, Mr. W. E. Drummond,
Bath ; third, Mr. D. Wicks, gardener to the Bev. C. Kemble,
Vellore, Bath; and fourth, Messrs. Maule, of Bristol. The
best six come from Mr. A. Morse, and include good plants of
Adiantum cuneatum, Lomaria gibba, and Adiantum macro-
pbyllum. The second prize is taken by Mr. King, gardener to

E. V. Leach, Esq., Devizes Castle. The best specimen exotic
Fern (exclusive of Adiantums and Tree Ferns) is Gleichenia
rupestris, shown by Mr. Baines, measuring fully 5 feet in
diameter. T. M. Shuttleworth, Esq., is second with Gleichenia
liabellata.

Tree Ferns. — A first prize for six Tree Ferns was awarded to
Mr. Bull, of Chelsea, for Cyathea Dredgei and good plants of
Dicksonia antarctica. Another first prize goes to Mr. Williams,
of Holloway, for noble specimens of Dicksonia antarctica and
Cyatheas. The best pair are Cyathea dealbata, 8 feet from the
ground, and as much in spread of frond, shown by Mr. W. Perry.
The second prize goes to Messrs. Maule, of Bristol.

British Ferns. — For twenty distinct kinds in the nurserymen's
class, the first prize goes to a nicely arranged even group of
well-grown plants, with a large proportion of varieties of the
graceful Lady Fern ; Athyrium F.-f . pulcherrimum, very beau-
tiful, with other crested and tasselled varieties ; it is sent by Mr.
E. Pilgrim, Pitville Nursery, Cheltenham. Messrs. W. Hop-
wood & Sons, of Cheltenham, have the second prize for a
meritorious group, but the plants are small; Mr. Drummond,
Weston Road, Bath, is third. In the open class for ten Mr.
Pilgrim is again first. Here there is a grand specimen of A. F.f.
plumosum, and a glass-case full of Tricomaues radicans. Mr.
E. J. Lowe, of Nottingham, is second. In this collection is a
singular variety of Lastrea Filix-mas named angustata. 'The third
prize goes to Messrs. W. Hopwood & Son. In the amateurs'
classes the collections are very numerous, and the quality of the
plants may be best imderstood when it is stated that Mr. Lowe,

of Nottingham, holds a subordinate position. The most note-
worthy specimens are Adiantum Capillus- Veneris perfectum,
and a pretty form of the same ; a beautiful pan of Hyme-
nophyllum tunbridgense ; Athyrium F.-f. var. clarissima'from
North Devon with large fronds, but the segments are finely
divided ; and a grand box of the Killarney Fern, the fronds in
fine health. For twenty, Capt. A. M. Jones, Bingwood House,
Clifton, is first; Mr. E. J. Lowe second; Mr. J. Howard,
gardener to the Hev. J. G. C. Fussell, Frome, is third ; rnd the
fourth prize goes to T. M. Shuttleworth, Esq., of Preston.
For twelve British Ferns, E. J. Lowe, Esq., and Captain Jones
are respectively first and second. Of new British Ferns E. J.
Lowe, Esq., sends a large collection.

Trichopilia suavis (Bot. Mag.). For description see page 509.

Adiantums. — A very beautiful and well-grown group of six
from E. J. Lowe, Esq., Highfield House, Nottingham, is awarded
the first honours. It consists of A. cuneatum, A. Capillus- Ve-
neris kalon, A. farleyense very fine, A. scutum, A. Lowii, and
A. Capillus-Veneris. Mr. J. Howard, gardener to the Rev. J. G.
Fussell, Frome, is second with another excellent group. The
prizes offered for the best specimens of Adiantum farleyense go to
Mr. Bannister, gardener to G. H. Ames, Esq., Westbury-on-Trym,
Mr. Drummond, of Bath, Mr. Morse, and T. M. Shuttleworth,
Esq., each of whom has a remarkably fine specimen of this
lovely Fern. The best specimen Adiantum, not A. farleyense, is
A. cuneatum from Mr. J. Howard, nearly 4 feet in diameter.
The second best is also A. cuneatum from Mr. King, gardener to
E. V. Leach, Esq.

Lycopons. — The only six come from Messrs. BeU & Thorpe,
Paddock Nurseries, Stratford-on-Avon. There are neat, very
creditable pans of Selaginella apoda, formosa, serpens, and
Martensii.

AcuvEs, Cacti, and Succulents.' — The best coUeetion of six
distinct Agaves is that shown by Mr. Croucher, gardener to J. T.
Peacock, Esq., Sudbury House, Hammersmith, and consists of
Agave Schidigera, with its leaves beset at the edges with
shaving-Uke shreds, the glaucous, thick, lleshj'-leaved A. appla-
nata ; A. ensiforme, rare ; A. Regehi macrodontha, very fine ;

Jane 26, 1873. 1

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

503

A. filifera nigrescens, and A. viridiasima. All these are re-
markably fine specimens, and do credit to Mr. Peacocli's un-
rivalled collection. Second comes Mr. B. S. Williams, of
Holloway, who also possesses very extensive and fine collections
of these and cognate plants. A. Ghiesbreghtii obscura, A. gem-
miflora filifera, and A. Eegelii latifolia are the most remarkable.
Mr. W. C. Drummond, Bath, is third. Mr. Bull, of Chelsea,
also exhibits in this class. In the class for collections of nut
more than twenty ornamental Cacti the prizes were not awarded
on the first day. Mr. Croucher, gardener to J. T. Peacock, Esq.,
Sudbury House, Hammersmith, sends a group of remarkable
specimeus, many of the species being very rare. Mr. Dutton,
Bath, also sends a fine group, in which are Bchinopsis multi-
plex, with three beautiful pale rose-coloured flowers ; Echino-
cereus multicostatus, also in flower, and a variety of curious
forms. Two other good collections are shown. The best col-
lection of Succulents is that of Mr. Croucher, Mr. Peacock's
gajrdener. Mr. Drummond, of Bath, also sends a nice gi'oup, and
another comes from Messrs. Bell & Thorpe.

SuBTROPicu. Pl-^nts. — For a collection of those suitable for
bedding, Messrs. Bell & Thorpe take a second prize ; the
plants are small, and do not call for special remark.

Hardy and V.ariegated-leaved Plants for Bedding. — The
best collection of twenty-five comes from Messrs. Bell & Thorpe,
Stratford-on-Avon, who also send a lot of twenty, which, how-
ever, not being all variegated, are not eligible for a prize. Mr.
Drummond, of Bath, is second.

Hardy Perennials and Alpine Plants. — A fine collection of
twenty hardy variegated and alpine plants shown by Mr. J. S.
Ware of Tottenham, takes the first prize. Sedum japonicum
foliis-variegatis, and a fine variegated form of Funkia undulata.
Spiraea Ulmaria with yellow variegation, Arundo Phragmites
aurea striped with yellow and white, are the most conspicuous
For groups of not less than twenty-five alpine plants, equal first
prizes are given to Mr. T. S. Ware and Messrs. Garaway, of
Bristol ; Mr. Drummond, Bath, being third. Among these we
more especially notice Ophrys arachnites, Pentstemon acumi-
natum, Armeria alpina grandiflora with deep rose-coloured
flowers, and the pretty Bell-flower. Campanula carpatica. For
twelve hardy perennials in 12-inch pots, Mr. T. S. Ware, Hale
Farm Nursery, Tottenham, shows an excellent group, in which
we noticed very fine examples of Orchis foliosa and Funkia
ovata marginata.

Cut Flowers. — For twenty-four bunches Mr. Ware is first,
and Mr. Perkins, of Leamington, second. Mr. G. Cooling, of
Bath, takes a third prize. For twelve bunches Mr. J. Lakin,
Chipping Norton, is first, and Mr. K. Bryan, Beach Bitton, is
second. Among collections of twelve bunches of cut flowers
staged as Roses Miss M. A. Baines, Southgate, is first with the
pure white Calanthe veratrifolia, Dendrobium densiflorum,
Ixora Colei, Cattleya Mossise, &c. Second comes Mr. David
Lumsden, Bloxholm Hall, Sleaford, with a box containing
nice Heaths and Orchids. For twenty-four bunches Messrs. E.
Cole & Sons are first with a very fine lot of Ixoras, Heaths, and
some Orchids. Second comes Mr. W. Cross, Melchet Court,
Eomsey ; and third Mr. Perkins, nurseryman, Leamington.

New Plants. — Messrs. Backhouse, of York, send a new
species of Calochortus with large j'ellow flowers, blotched and
veined with dark brown at the base of each petal. For this a
first-class certificate was awarded ; Phlox glaberrima, a pretty
species with light purplish rose flowers ; Cyclobothra pulchella,
a, free-blooming species with bright yellow flowers. From
Messrs. Osborn, Fulham, comes Imantophyllum miniatum super-
bum with flowers larger and more highly coloured than in the
species. F>om Messrs. Carter A: Co. come Echeveria secunda
glauca monstrosa, a curious cockscomb-shaped form, and Begonia
Othello. Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, have the variegated
form of the Otaheite Orange, noticed in previous reports.
Messrs. Maule & Sons, of Bristol, exliibit a new hardy Crategus
or Pyrus from Japan, the flowers orange red ; and the fruit,
which is of the size of the old Golden Pippin Apple, is of a gam-
boge yellow, produced in clusters, and is highly perfumed. It
makes an excellent preserve. Grafted on the White Thorn it
succeeds in the open air in England. It was awarded a first-
class certificate by the Fruit Committee.

For twelve new plants introduced by Mr. Bull, and sent out
by him during the last three years, a series of prizes including
six silver cups is given by him in these classes. In that devoted
to amateurs Mr. T. M. Shuttleworth is first ; and running him
very closely is Mr. J. Croucher ; Mr. W. Carmichael, gardener to
H. M. Tugwell, Esq., coming in third.

In the nurserymen's class, Mr. J. W. Wimsett, Ashburnham
Park Nursery, Chelsea, is first ; his fine specimen of Pandauus
Veitchii bringing him in before Messrs. Downie, Laird & Laing,
of London and Edinburgh, who otherwise had a very even lot
of plants. Messrs. Carter & Co., of London, are third. The best
and most effective plant in all the collections is certainly Pan-
dauus Veitchii. Other fine things are Curculigo recurvata
striata, Dracaena splendens, PhyUanthus nivosus, and Dtemo-
noropB paiembanicuB, a handsome Palm.

For sis new plants (exclusive of Orchids) Mr. Bull, of Chelsea,
takes the first prize with Crotou majesticum and spirale; Dra-
Cieua imperialis and Goldieana; Pritchardia grandis, a fine Palm,
and Campsidium filicifolium. Messrs. Veitch are second with
Dipladenia insignia, a splendid rich-coloured kind. Yucca sp. nova,
Aralia elegantissima very handsome, Adiautum speciosum, Dra-
ca)ua amabilis, and Tillandsia Zahuii. Mr. Williams exhibits
-\uthurium crystallinum, Maranta Makoyana, Masdevallia
Harryana (an oversight which disqualified the collection), Aralia
Veitchii, Dracaena Fraseri, and Adiautum elegantissimum.
Messrs. Bell & Thorpe and Messrs. Carter & Co. also exhibit, the
latter likewise showing in the class for a new tender plant not
in flower Campylobotrys Ghiesbreghtii variegata, with velvety
leaves variegated with reddish cream, and as if frosted. 'The
first prize for one new Orchid in flower goes to Messrs. Veitch
for Masdevallia Harryana, with ten flowers ; the second prize to
Mr. Williams for a nice specimen of Odontoglossum Insleayi
leopardinum, with richly coloured flowers; and a third to Mr.
Bull for the same variety ; a third also to Messrs. Backhouse,
of York, w th Oncidium tigrinum.

Miscellaneous. — The misceUaueous groups are not nearly so
numerous as usual, but some of them are of high merit, espe-
cially those from Messrs. Williams, Veitch, and Bull. Messrs.
Veitch exhibit Croton Hookeri, one of the richest of the new
yellow variegated kinds ; C. Weismanni, beautifully marked;
Aralia Veitchii, and Dieflenbachia brasUiensis, beautifully
mottled. Mr. B. S. Williams has a second prize for a group of
plants, in which are many recent introductions and fine speci-
mens of Orchids, Anthurium Scherzerianium, itc. A group of
new plants is shown by Mr. Bull, of Chelsea, and includes new
Crotons and Palms, Maranta Mayokana, PhyUanthus nivosus,
and other fine-foliaged plants. Mr. R. T. Veitch, nurseryman,
Exeter, contributes a fine group of Heaths and other stove and
greenhouse plants. Mr. Ley, of Lansdowne Road, Croydon,
also sends a group of new plants. From Mr. Turner, Boyal
Nurseries, Slough, comes a collection of cut flowers of her-
baceous Paeonies. To some subjects which have been omitted,
as Messrs. Jackman's Clematises, and the trees and shrubs of
Mr. Young, of MUford Nurseries, Godalming, and Messrs.
Maule, of ISristol, we shall advert next week. We may, how-
ever, mention that Messrs. Carter & Co., of High Holborn,
London, have a grand stand of seeds, roots, gi-asses, t.tc., and
arranged with excellent taste and effect. We understand Messrs.
Sutton, of Reading, would also have exhibited, had it not been
that they are also doing so both at Vienna and at the Royal
Counties Show at Southampton.

FLORISTS' FLOWERS.

Fuchsias. — I have not seen so fine a collection of Fuchsias for
many years as that exhibited here. Some of the plants are
absolute models of perfection, fuU of bloom, and not disfigured
by formality of growth. There is one plant of Arabella exhi-
bited by Mr. Mould, of Bath, which I have never seen equalled.
It is one sheet of bloom, and with its weeping foliage com-
pletely covers the pot. Others nearly as good in this collection,
to which the first prize was awarded for nurserymen, are
Tristram Shandy, Rose of Castile, Lustre, and SchiUer. Mr.
Drummond is second with very small plants. In the class for
six (amateurs), there are three very good collections exhibited by
Mr. Lye, gardenerto the Hon. Mrs. S. Hay, Clyffe Hall, Devizes ;
Mr. King, gardener to R. Valentine Leach, Esq., Devizes Castle ;
and Mr. WUcox, Weston Villa, Weston Road, Bath. These
are all well-grown and well-flowered plants. Mr. Wilcox is
first with British Sailor, Acme, Pauhne, Marguerite, Roderick
Dhu, and Duchess of Leinster. Mr. King's (second prize), are
Starlight, Arabella, Try me, oh ! Duchess of Leinster, Excellent,
and Rose of Castile. Mr. Lye's six are Schiller, Red Rover,
Rose of Castile, Perfection, Mrs. .lane Dod, and Pauline. In
the class for four Fuchsias the plants are well bloomed and
good. Mr. Wilcox is first with Maid of Kent, Excellent, Ara-
bella, and Vainqueur de Puebla. Mr. J. A. Wilcox is second,
and Mr. King third. In all these groups there was hardly an
indifferent plant.

In specimen Fuchsias there are but two exhibits. The first
prize was gained by Mr. WUcox for a very old plant of Margue-
rite, the second by Mr. Lye with Turban.

Pelargoniums. — Fresh from the York Show, with its magni-
ficent coUections of Pelargoniums, the Exhibition, although
good, was small in comparison with the northern Show, the
plants being neither so large nor well-flowered, as this was seen
in the Show Pelargoniums. In the class for nine exception
must be made in favour of a very nice collection of plants, not
very large, but exceedingly well flowered, which is exhibited
/ by Mr. Charles Turner, consisting of Imperator, dark ; Exaniple,
beautiful soft rosy crimson ; Duchesse de Morny, very soft pink ;
Claribel, pure white ; Troubadour, salmon rose ; Sultana, dark ;
Zephyr, carmine-spotted ; Pericles, large spot ; and Madarae
Charles Keteleer, curiously-spotted French flower. Second is
Mr. Marsh, gardener to .1. Bacchus, Esq., Leamington. Mr
Brickell, gaidener to J. Orred, Esq., Ashwell HaU, near Chip

504

JOURNAL OP HOETICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ June 26, 1878.

penham, is thii'd with plants too leggy aud full of sticks. In
the class for six Fancies (nurserymen), but one collection is
exbibitetl by Mr. Turner, containing Neatness, Crystal Beauty,
Victor Hugo, aud Bast Lynn.

In the class for new Pelargoniums sent out in 1872 or 1873 but
one collection is exhibited by Mr. Charles Turner, containing
Prime Minister ; Conquest, very brilliant ; Achievement, soft
lilac rose ; Kingcraft, very dark. He has also Pompey, and
Syren, very pretty.

In the class for six Pelargoniums (amateurs), Mr. Morse, gar-
dener to W. P. Baker, Esq., Bromwell House, Brisliugton, Bris-
tol, is first with small and very compact plants. Mr. Brickell
is second with Zephyr, Star, Napoleon, Andre, Eowena, aud
Gulielma; and Mr. J. Melhuish sends some older kinds, among
■which is Magnet, which must be at least twenty-five years
old. It was a venturesome thing to set up so old a plant, though
bright. In the class for six Fancy Pelargoniums (amateurs),
the first prize is awarded to Amy Sedgwick, Couutess of Walde-
grave, Ann Page, Bridesmaid, and Jane Grey, admirably-flow-
ered small plants. Mr. J. Evans, gardener to Dr. Abercrombie,
Cheltenham, is second with very good plants, but not so dwarf
in growth ; and Mr. James Lye is third with smaller plants.

ZoN-Ui Pel^vugoniu.ms. — These are by no means good, some of
the plants, notably those staged by Messrs. Bell & Thorpe, being
greatly over-tied, and trained to a fiat table surface. In the class
for six Zonal Pelargoniums ( .mateurs), Mr. Thomas Carter,
Brooklyn Lodge, Bristol (first prize), has Blue Bell, Madame
Dufour, Rebecca, Lord Derby, Vesuvius, and White Tom Thumb.
Amongst the other collections the most remarkable are Louis
Veuillot, veiy bright, Soleil, Kose Eendatler, Gloire de Corbeny.
Bell & Thorpe took the first prize in the class for eight Pelar-
goniums with Mrs. W. Paul, Lord Derby, John Thorpe, Queen of
Beauties, Charles Dickens, aud Beaute de Suresnes. In the class
for six doubles (open), Messrs. Bell & Thorpe are first with some
nicely-bloomed plants, of which, perhaps, Madame Boutard is
best ; the others are Triomphe de Thumesnil, Madame Lemoine,
Signet, and Miss Evelyn. Mr. Marsh has six well-flowered
plants, but too much tied across, and the other collections eon-
tain nothing very remarkable.

Vaeiegated Pel.lrgomums. — In the class for six Variegated
Pelargoniums, well-coloured plants of Tricolors are exhibited
by Mr. Perry, gardener to C.J. Gould, Esq., Bamfylde Lodge,
Exeter, consisting of Sophia Dumai-esque, Mrs. Tmner, Lady
Cullum, Florence, and Countess of Craven. Mr. Lye has six
much smaller plants ; but these two collections do not come
within the term Variegated. Messis. Bell & Thorpe have six
variegated white-edged, without name, aud took the second prize.
The indefinite term " variegated " has misled some exhibitors.
In the class for Tricolors a few nice collections are staged, the
principal varieties being Mr. Eutter, Mrs. Headly, Miss Burdett
Coutts, Sir R. Napier, Peacock, Eeynolds Hole, Mrs. Eousby,
and Peter Grieve. Mr. Pestridge is first with Mr. Eutter,
Italia Unita, Achievement, Lass o' Gowrie, Mrs. Headly, and
Miss Burdett Coutts. Mr. Tiirner is second, aud Messrs. Bell
and Thorpe third. In the class for six new Zonal Pelargoniums
sent out in 187*2, the first prize goes to Messrs. Bell & Thorpe
for Virginal, Wood Nymph, Merlin, Jul ilate, etc. For one new
Zonal Pelargonium the first prize goes to Messrs. Bell & Thorpe
for Miranda, salmon ; the second to Mr. C. Turner, Slough, for
Prince Arthur, scarlet. For three Bronze Pelargoniums the first
prize goes to Messrs. Downie, Laird, & Laing for W. E. Gumble-
ton. Chieftain, and Mrs. Harrison Weir; and for single Bronze
not sent out, for Shah of Persia. In thiee Silver Tricolors, the
first prize goes to Mr. C. Turner for Miss Pond, Dolly Varden,
and Lady B. Brydges ; the second to Messrs. Bell & Thorpe ;
and for single Silver Tricolors, first prize to Mr. C. Turner for
Dolly Varden. In Golden Tricolors, the first for three goes
to Mr. Turner for MisS Morris, Mrs. H. Little, and Baroness
Burdett Coutts ; the second to Mr. Pestridge for Mrs. H. Little,
Brilliant, and Marie Stuart. For one new Golden Tricolor, the
first prize goes to Mr. C. Turner for Golden Queen, the second
and third also to Mr. Turner.

CUT FLOWEES.

Pinks. — Several very nice stands are exhibited, the best of
■which is that shown by Mr. Charles Turner, consisting of beauti-
fully laced plants of Princess of Wales, Device, Genevieve, Eev.
George Jeans, Attraction, Prince Frederick William, Mildred,
Bertram, Ernest, Lord Kirkcaldy, Nina, and Godfrey. Mr. H.
Hooper is second, and Mr. James Hooper third. Of the local
prizes for twelve, the first is given to Mr. D. Pizzie, gardener to
Sir E. Perry, Bart., Slough, for excellent blooms of Mildred, De-
Tiee, Godfrey, Eosy Gem, Genevieve, Edith, Annie Chater, Nina,
Constance, Lord Kirkcaldy, Bertram, and Prince Frederick
William. Mr. Catly, of Claverton Buildings, Bath, is second.

rELAEooNiuMS. — Two Collections of cut blooms of double
Pelargoniums are exhibited, Messrs. Carter tt Co. taking first,
and Mr. H. F. Hall, of Bath, second. The blooms in the first
are C. Glijm, M. Boutard, W'illiam Pfitzer, Marie Lemoine,
Madame Bondet, &c. There are four collections of cut blooms
of twelve varieties cf Zonals ; the first prize going to Mr. A. I

Gabriel, Vale Lodge, Bath, for Lorenzo, Beauty de SuresneSj
Grand Duke, Blue Bell, Mrs. William Paul, Pioneer, Warrior,
Gladiateur, Monster, Emeline Giisau, Eising Sun, and Mar6-
chal Vaillant. Second prize to Mr. Evans, gardener to Dr.
Abercrombie, Cheltenham; third to Mr. Thomas Carter, Brook-
lyn Lodge, Bristol.

EosEs are exhibited in great perfection. We have heard a
great deal of unfavourable weather, lateness of season, and such-
like complaints ; but no one, seeing the magnificent blooms ex-
hibited hei-e, would believe that any of these complaints were
well founded, for grander blooms than those exhibited it wotild
be impossible to conceive. In the class for forty-eight Mr.
Cranston is first with some grand blooms, comprising amongst
those least known, La Esmeralda, crimson ; Marqiiise de Gibot,
fine pink ; and Julie Touvais, very large. There are also fine
blooms of Marguerite Dombrain, Madame Sertot, Dupuy-Jamain,.
Marcchal Niel, Victor Verdier, Madame Eugenie Verdier, Jean
Cherpin, Princess Beatrice, fine ; Mons. Noman, Centifolia
rosea. Baroness Eothschild, Marquise de Mortemart, &c. Mr.
George Paul is second. The best of his Eoses are Victor
Verdier, Madame Fillion, Madame Clert, Madame Thcrese
Levet, John Hopper, Fisher HolmeSj and Elizabeth Vigneron.
Mr. C. Tui-ner is third, and Mr. Durbin, of Bath, fourth. In the
class for twenty-four Eoses (amateurs), the Eev. J. B. M.
Camm is first, and right well he deserves it ; for is it not
he whose complaints of bad soil have reached all our ears, and
of which our friend Mr. Peach says it is the very worst that
Eoses could grow in ? and yet he carries oS well the honours of
the day amongst amateurs. He has fine blooms of S^nateur
Vaisse, Clotilde EoUand, Catherine Mermet, Edward Morren,
Earon Eothschild, Dupuy-Jamain, Marguerite de St. Amand,,
Charles Lefebvre, and Madame Eugt?nie Verdier. Mr. Chard is
third, and the Rev. G. Handley fourth, with some good blooms.
I have never seen Edward Morren so well shown as Mr. Camm
exhibited it. In the class for forty-eight blooms, trebles (nursery-
men), Mr. Cranston is again first with some grand blooms, com-
prising those mentioned in the class for forty-eight. Messrs.
Paul i& Son are second. In the class for twelve (amateurs), the
first prize is taken by Mr. John Scott, Warminster, with fine
blooms ; but to my mind Mr. Camm, who is second, is really
the best. Madame Eothschild is grand, so are Souvenir d'uu
Ami and Edward Morren. Mr. J. Smith, Warminster, is third.
Amongst other Eoses there is a fine box of Cheshuut Hybrid
(Tea), exhibited by Messrs. Paul tt Son, of Cheshunt, very fine,
fully justifying all tiiat has been said oi it. In the class for six,
Mr. Camm is first with a splendid lot, notably Charles Lefebvre,
Edward Morren, La France, Baroness Eothschild, Clotilde
EoUand, Exposition de Brie. Mr. Smith is second, and Mr.
Chard third. As, however, there is to be a special Eose Show
to-day, I shall have more to say about her majesty then.

DINNEK-TABLE DECOEATIONS.

The competition in this section is not by any means so extensive
as at Birmingham, and I am glad to see that the cutting-away of
tables is abandoned by most exhibitors. Miss E. Harris,
Clarendon Park, Salisbury, is first with a table on which three
very tall and slender vases, with three small cornucopia-s half-way
up, filled with very light and graceful Grasses, Bougainvilhvas,
&c., the base of the stems being set out with j\-diantum farley-
ense and other Ferns, with spacious glasses containing Llses
and Ferns ; this table is remarkable for its simplicity. The
second goes to Miss Edith Blair ; in this two Palms have been
let into the table, and the centre is a tall slender vase, similar tO'
that shown by Miss Harris. The glass is very good, and the
whole appointments of the table are in excellent taste. The
third prize goes to Mr. Armitage ; there is a vast deal of
colour — in fact, it is overdone, although the greater number of
visitors would admire this most. The fourth prize goes to Mr.
Cypher, Cheltenham, who has a little overdone his table; his
centre stands are very handsome, but the surroundings are too-
many.

For single stands there was a very close competition. Some
very good stands are exhibited, although it is easy to find
fault with them. Thus, for instance, in the first stand it was a
great mistake to put the blooms of Anthuriums at the top, and
to make the Vase so heavy; this was awarded to Mr. Spencer J
the second is similar, with a bract of Bougaiuvillffia in the
upper ; the third is of the same character.

The bouquets are, as usual, some of them very good, but the
greater number overcrowded. Want of space prevents my
adding more, but the subject will be resumed next week. —
D-, Deal.

Fra'lT.

The show of Fruit is a remarkably good one, and, considering;
the season, the quality is good. One hears on all sides the
remark that fruit is not so good as usual, or that there is
much difficulty experienced in getting it in in time. At al!
events, this is the best show of fruit that we have seen this year.

Collections. — Only one is put up for competition, and that
is a pour one ; it comes from Mr. D. Wilson, The Gardens,

Jiihb 26, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OP HOBTICULTUilE AND COTTAGE QABDENEB.

505

Castle Hill, South Moulton, Devon, and contains two fair Queen
Pines, two dishes of Black Hamburgh Grapes, nice Royal
George and Stirling Castle Peaches, Nectarines, Cherries, and
Strawberries.

Pine Apples. — There are twenty-two staged, mostly Queens,
some of which weigh 3J lbs. For three Pine Apples, any variety,
Mr. G. Ward, gardener to T. N. Miller, Esq , Bishop Stortford,
is first with three Queens, which weighed in the aggregate 15 lbs.
<; ozs.; the fruit are even iu size and well ripened; second Mr.
G. T. Miles ; third Mr. T. Selwood, Eaton Hall, Chester. Iu
single fruit of any variety, Mr. G. Ward is first with a handsome
<3ueen, Mr. G. T. Miles second ; and Mr. T. Selwood, Eaton Hall,
Chester, is third with the same variety. A very handsome
Providence, which must weigh a dozen pounds, comes from
Mr. H. Bertram, gardener to E. T. Crawshay, Esc[., Cyfarthfa
Castle, Merthyr Tydvil.

Grapes. — Of Black Grapes, single dishes, all the exhibits are
Black Hamburgh, and of these there are some good dishes. The
fiist prize goes to Mr. W. Coleman, gardener to Earl Somers,
Eastuor Castle, Ledbui-y, for large well-ripened bunches, the
terries of fair size, and well coloured ; second, Mr. A. Johnson,
^gardener to the Marquis of Ailesbury. Saveruake Forest, Marl-
borough ; the third prize going to Mr. W. B. Upjohn, gardener
to the Earl of EUesmere, Worsley HaU, Manchester. Class 60,
White Grapes. Here Mr. J. Smith, gardener to W. Bliukhorn,
■ Esq., Waterdale, Sutton, is first with exceedingly well-ripened
Muscats, the bunches large, and berries of fair size. Second
<;ome3 Mr. A. Johnson with excellent Buckland Sweetwater,
Mr. G. Sage, gardener to Earl Brownlow, Ashridge Park, Great
Berkhampstead, is third with Muscat of Alexandria. Some very
good Bowood Muscat is exhibited in this class, but quite un-
ripe. Some excellent baskets of Black Hamburgh are exhibited,
'hut nothing can beat the basket of Muscat of Alexandria sent by
Mr. J, Smith. The second prize was awarded to Mr. W. H.
Bannister, gardener to G. H. Ames, Esq., Cole House, Westbury-
on-Trym, Bristol, with good Black Hamburgh. Mr. A. Johnson
is third, also with Black Hamburgh.

Local Special Prizes for Fruit (Vines in pots, amateurs), Mr.
D. Wicks, gardener to the Eev. C. Kemble, Vellore, Bath, has a
second prize for three pots of Eoyal Ascot, and a third prize is
awarded to Mr. H. Button, gardener to — Broadley, Esq., Barrow
Oastle, for small plants of ISlack Hamburgh.

For Grapes, three dishes distinct (open class), Mr. J. Douglas
is first with Black Hamburgh, the berries intensely black and
well finished, Muscat of Alexandria, and good Buckland Sweet-
water. A third prize is awarded to Mr. T. King, gardener to
"Valentine Leach, Esq., Devizes Castle, Wilts.

The Veitch Memorial prize for the most meritorious dish of
Black Grapes, was awarded to Mr. Coleman, gardener to Earl
Somers, Eastnor Castle. That for the most meritorious dish of
White Muscat Grapes was awarded to Mr. J. Smith, gardener to
Wm. Bliukhorn, Esq., Waterdale, St. Helens ; and that for the
anost meritorious dish of Grapes, not Muscats, was awarded to
Mr. Arthur Johnson, gardener to the Marquis of Ailesbury,
Saveruake Forest, Marlborough.

Peaches and Nectarines. — The first are very good, the fruit
well ripened, and of large size ; except in the prize dishes the
latter are not so good iu quality, and wanting in colour. The first-
prize Peaches are a very fine dish of Royal George from Mr.
Burnett, gardener to Mrs. Hope, TheDeepdeue, Dorking, Surrey.
Mr. G. T. Miles, gardener to Lord Carington, Wycombe Abbey,
High Wycombe, is second with excellent Violette Hative. Mr.
W. Scammell, gardener to the Marquis of Lansdowne, Bowood,
wots, is third with Bellegarde. The best Nectarines are from
Mr. Jack, gardener to the Duke of Cleveland, Battle Abbey,
Sussex, a nice dish of Elruge. Second, Mr. W. Coleman -with
the same variety. Mr. A. Grant, gardener to J. B. Glegg, Esq.,
Whithington HaU, Chelford, is third. In all twenty-seven
dishes are staged.

Figs. — The best is a dish of Brown Turkey from Mr. W. Cole-
man ; Mr. G. Sage is second, and Mr. J. Beck, Wimborne, Dorset,
is third.

Chebries. — Here Mr. G. T. Miles is, as usual, first with an in-
tensely black dish of Black Tartai-iau. Mr. J. Beck, Wimborne,
Dorset, is second with well-ripened Elton. The third prize goes
to Mr. D. Wilson, The Gardens, Castle HUl, South Moulton,
Devon.

STB.iWBEKBiES. — Class 65, six dishes, distinct kinds. These
are of fair average quality. The first-prize dishes come from
Mr. J. Holden, gardener, Eestbury, near Cheltenham; he has
good dishes of British Queen, President, Alice Maud, &c. Mr.
W. Fisher, gardener to Mrs. Col. Bailey, 6, Stambridge Place,
Batheaston, is second; Mr. G. Lee, Cleveden, Somerset, third.
Single dishes. — The first prize is for an excellent dish of Sir
C. Napier from Mr. J. Brickell, gardener to J. Orred, Esq., Ash-
wick Hall, Marshfleld, Chippenham. The second is awarded to
Mr. W. Coleman for a nice dish of British Queen. Mr. Douglas,
gardener to F. Whitbourn, Esq., Loxford HaU, Hford, is thu'd
with La Constante.
Melons. — In the two classes thirty fruits are staged. The

first prize iu Green-fleshed is awarded to Mr. W. Coleman, for
Victory of Bath. Mr. R. Gilbert, gardener to the Marquis of
Exeter, Burghley House, Stamford, is second, also with Victory
of Bath. The third prize goes to Mr. A. Morse, gardener to W.
G. Baker, Esq., Bromwell House, Brislington, Bristol, for Gem
of the»West. In Scarlet-fleshed, Mr. 0. Goldsmith, gardener to
Sir W. Farquhar, Polesden, Dorking, Surrey, is first ; Mr. J.
Read, Arley Hall Gardens, North.wich, Cheshire, is second, both
exhibitors showing Scarlet Gem. Mr. W. Coleman is third with
Mounsden's Moreton HaU.

Miscellaneous. — For fruits not mentioned in the schedule,
equal first prizes are awarded to Mr. J. BrickeU, Ashwick Hall,
Marshfleld, Chippenham ; and Mr. A. Morse, gardener to W. P.
Baker, Esq., Bromwell House, BrisUngton, Bristol. The former
has two nice dishes of Apples, and the latter a dish of Cap •
sicums, an exact miniature counterpart of the old Scotch blue
bonnet.

YEGETABLTiS.
Of these there is ai immense display ; the whole extent of
tabUng extending to 100 yards, being well fiUedwith most meri-
torious productions. Cucumbers, Peas, Potatoes, Tomatoes,
and Cauliflowers are very flne.

Collections. — For these, limited to noblemen's and gentle-
men's gardeners in Somersetshire, Gloucestershire, and Wilt-
shire, and hmited also to certain sorts — an amount of limita-
tion which caused only three collections to be put up; and
one of them, a very good one, was disqualifled because it
did not contain a couple of Vegetable Marrows — the flrst
prize was awarded to Mr. Carkell, gardener to A. J. Skinner,
Esq. ; it contains a handsome brace of Dreadnought Cucum-
ber, excellent Cauliflower, WiUiam I. and Laxton's Supreme
Peas, Alma and Ashleaf Kidney Potatoes, and other good
things. The second goes to Mr. J. W. Chard, Clarendon
Park, Salisbury, Wilts. In Class 178, coUection of fiftee
dishes, to include not more than four dishes of Potatoes, dif-
ferent varieties, twelve of each — here the competition was very
close, and no less than eleven competitors contested for the
prizes. The first was deservedly awarded to Mr. James Holder,
gardener, Eestbury, Cheltenham. It contains a dozen fine
specimens of Dreadnought Cucumber, the same number of fine
Cauliflowers, Harrison's Glory Pea, Short Horn Carrots, Giant
Asparagus, Nonpareil Cabbage, Dutch Turnips, Tomatoes, Bed
Celery, very fine Onions, and Alma Kidney Potatoes, a very
fine dish of Mushrooms, Globe Artichokes, and Dwarf Kidney
Beans. The second is also a good collection and contains a very
similar assortment. The Peas are Multum-in-parvo. It comes
from Mr. J. Turk, Railway Cottage, Tewkesbury Eoad, Chelten-
ham. Mr. G. T. Miles is third ; he has Laxton's Superlative
Pea, large iu pod but not well filled, an excellent bundle of
Asparagus, &c. Some of the other collections are well worthy
of notice, but want of space prevents. In Class 179, half peck of
Peas, there are fifteen good dishes staged. Mr. J. Turk has the
first prize for WiUiam I. Mr. W. Cross, gardener to J. B.
Lousada, Esq., Sidmouth, Devon, is second with Alpha, and
Mr. G. Brown, Fawley Court, Henley-on-Thames, is third with
Supreme.

AsP-VEAGUs, hundred heads. — Mr. G. T. Hasell, Barlow HUI,
Bristol, is first with an excellent sample. Mr. G. T. Miles is
second; and Mr. T. Braj', gardener to W. A. Sanford, Esq.,
Nynehead Court, Wellington, Somerset, is third. The next
class is for the new Couover's Colossal Asparagus. Mr. G. Ti
Hasell is again first with an excellent bundle ; it may be
different from the old sort, but neither in this nor in the other
exhibits is the difference apparent. Mr. E. Smith, Bentham
Gardens, Alston, Cheltenham, is second, and Mr. Bray third.

Potatoes, dish of twelve Kidney. — Mr. G. Burridge, gardener
to T. Butler, Esq., Combe Hay Park, Bath, i.^ first with very
fine specimens of Mona's Pride. Sir. W. Willis, 5, Windsor
Terrace, Bathwick HaU, is second with Myatt's Ashleaf; Mr.
E. Rooker, gardeuer-to Major J. Gretton, Cotton HaU, Sudbury,
Derby, third. Mr. J. Mattock, Headington, Oxford, is first for
three dishes; Mr. Rooker second; and Mr. J. Garland, KUler-
ton, third. Mr. Eooker also exhibits the best round Potatoes.

Onions, twelve. — Mr. G. T. Miles has very fine White Naples,
and has the first prize awarded for them ; Mr. Carkell is second,
and Mr. E. Smith third.

Tomatoes, dish of twelve. — Mr. W. Cox, gardener to Earl
Beauchamp, Madresfield Court, Great Malvern, is first with ex-
ceUent fruit of the Large Bed ; Mr. W. Coleman is second ; and
Mr. Douglas third; both of them show the Orangefield Dwarf
ProUfic.

Lettuce, collection of twelve sorts. — The prizetakers are Mr.
P. Turk and Mr. E. Smith.

CucujiEEBS. — There are twenty-two brace of these. Mr. J.
Holder is first with Dreadnought and Little Gem, varieties
similar to each other, both white-spined. Mr. J. Douglas is
second with a nice brace of Blue Gown and a brace of a very fine
smooth variety. Mr. E. Smith is third with Harrison's ■RTiite
Spine, and another brace of the same sort, misnamed Blue Gown.
The fourth prize went to Mr. T. Hobbs, Lower Easton, Bristol.

50G

JOUKNAIi OF HOBTICULTUKE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ June 2G, 187S.

In this class the judging was bad. The schedule says " distinct
sorts," and in the first and third prizes the difference was not
apparent, and the fourth prize was wrongly awarded. Mr. D.
Pizzey, pardener to Sir E. Perry, Fulmer, Slough, certainly ought
to have had a prize.

Collections of Swket and Pot Hebbs. — This is a very
nice exhibition. Mr. W. Cross has a collection in a box very
neatly set up — it contains over fifty sorts. Mr. G. Cooling,
nurseryman, Bath, is second.

Miscellaneous. — Messrs. Carter again offered prizes for a
collection of twenty-four dishes of vegetables, amongst them
certain sorts sent out by them. The first prize, a challenge
cup value fifty guineas, and a first prize of £6, goes to Mr. W.
Cox. He has a fine brace of Little Heath Melon ; Marquis of Lome
and Telegraph Cucumbers; Laxtou's Alpha, G. F. Wilson,
Carter's White Gem, Hundredfold, and Supreme Peas, &c. Mr.
J). Lumsden, Bloxholm Hall, Sleaford, is second ; there are
three more collections, to one of which, unnamed, a third prize
is awarded. For fifty pods each of any three varieties of Mr.
Laxton's new Peas sent out by Messrs. Hurst, the prizes awarded
by them : Mr. E. Gilbert, gardener to the Marquis of Exeter, is
first with Superlative, William L, and Popular; second, Mr.
Pragnell, gardener, Sherborne Castle, Dorset; Messrs. Cross,
Garland, and Brown are the remaining prizetakers.
COTTAGEBS' PRIZES.

The flowers, fruits, and vegetables in this section are highly
meritorious. The best window plant is a beautiful pink-flowered
Ivy-leaf Geranium, from Mr. F. Ford, Primrose Hill, Weston.
Cut flowers are very fine. Mr. J. Knight, Pulteney Road, Bath,
has the first prize ; but the arrangement of Mr. Ford's box is the
best. Roses, baskets of vegetables, Cauliflowers, Potatoes, and
Peas ; and amongst fruits. Strawberries are very fine. We are
sorry we cannot give a list of all the awards, as they all deserve
notice.

PEOPAGATION OF LAPAGEEIA EOSEA, &c.,
AT CHATSWOETH.

When on a visit for a few days to Mr. Speed, at Chatsworth,
in February last, I was much struck with many things well
out of the "old rut." In a Camellia house, where a path
leads along the back wall, a narrow bed of Lapageria was
growing in strong loam. The shoots were growing as freely
almost as a Passiflora ; many of these were pegged down or
covered with some of the loam, and sending out shoots white
and strong as quills. Mr. Speed pulled up a handful of these
rooted layers with no more concern than as if they were so
many weeds. Loam is not generally used for growing Lapa-
geria, but here nothing could be more satisfactory. Loam,
" pure and simple," seems to be the favourite soil with Mr.
Speed for many things which are generally grown in lighter
stuff.

In this same house Camellias are grown entirely in loam,
and right well they thrive in it ; probably no finer plants are
to be found in Britain. We some time ago read of Camellias
being so fine that they would " hide a bullock " in their
centres ! I would hardly venture to say that these Chatsworth
bushes would hide such large quadrupeds, hut I maintain they
' would give shelter to a small flock of sheep. The leaves were
as large as Laurel leaves, and the plants were loaded with
flowers, open and in bud. In a corridor I took note of Reti-
culata alba plena with over a thousand blooms coming out ;
this was a trained plant. The Oranges which we saw a few
years ago in a sad plight are now fine healthy specimens. —
M. Temi'le (in The Gardener.)

EOYAL JEESEY AGEICULTUEAL
AND HOETICULTUEAL SOCIETY'S SHOW.

HOKTICULTUK.iL DEPARTMENT.
[Froin a Correspondent.)

The annual Show of Roses, plants, fruit, and vegetables was
held in the beautiful grounds of the Imperii.! Hotel, on Wed-
nesday, June 11th. The plants were exhibited in a large tent
erected on the lawn in front of the Hotel.

Show Pelargoniums were not first-rate. The Fancy class was
better represented ; the first prize was awarded to Mr. C. P.
Le Cornu ; second prize, Capt. .Jackson, R.N. The last-named
gentleman was also first in the class for six double Pelargoniums
with immense-sized plants. Mr. P. F. Le Sueur was first for
six Tricolor Pelargoniums with good plants in first-rate colour
of Miss Pond, Mrs. Headly, Mrs. Turner, Achievement, Peter
Grieve, and Lass o' Gowrie. The same exhibitor also was first
in the class for three. Greenhouse plants were very indifl'erently
shown, with the exception of the class for one specimen, the
first piize being taken by Mr. C. P. Charleton with an admir-
ably-flowered Azalea. Messrs. Markland and Le Suenr divided

the honours in the class for one specimen hothouse plant, the
first-named with a specimen of Clerodendron Balfouri, the
second mth Anthurium Scherzerianum. Mr. Le Sueur was
also first for six fiue-foliage plants with small specimens of Dra-
c;ona regina, ferrea, and Guilfoylei, Crotons maximum and
variegatum, and Cissus discolor. The second prize was awarded
to Mr. J. DeslandeB. In the class for three Mr. J. Brayn, jun.,
outdistanced the other competitors with magnificent plants of
Pandanus utilis, Ficus elastica, and Maranta zebrina. The
same exhibitor was first in the class for one specimen with a
large plant of Cissus discolor, trained on a pyramidal wire
trellis. Prizes were offered for six flowering Begonias, also for
three fine-foliage Begonias. Major-General KnatchbuU was the
only exhibitor in the first-named class, but was awarded a se-
cond prize only, the plants being evidently past their best. The
prizetakers in the last-named class were Messrs. J. Brayn, jun.,
J. Deslandes, and Le Sueur in the order in which the names
are placed. Ferns were well shown by Mr. Cutlan, of the
Channel Islands' Fernery, who was first for twelve, Mr. Mac-
kellar being first for six. Lieut. -Col. Le Gros was first for eight
Fuchsias, and Major-General KnatchbuU second. The same
exhibitors competed in the class for one specimen. These were
all IjeautifuUy grown and flowered ; if they had a fault it was
that of excessive tallness. Stands of stove and greenhouse
plants, also of greenhouse plants only, were arranged down the
centre of the tent, and contributed largely to the beauty of the
Show. The prizetakers were Major-General KnatchbuU, Mr.
J. Deslandes, Mr. F. Bertr,^m, and Mr. HeUeur. Gloxinias
were admirably shown by Mr. J. Deslandes and the Misses
Ainge. Major-General KnatchbuU also exhibited a smaU spe-
cimen of Tricolor-leaved Fuchsia Sunray. The leaves are
blended with crimson, white, and green ; the plant is of good
habit, and no doubt will be useful as a decorative plant. Cut
Roses were a special feature, but, undoubtedly, the Show was
held a fortnight too early, in consequence of which there were
very few first-class Roses in the different stands. Mr. De Faye
was the only exhibitor of forty-eight, and was awarded the first
prize. There was a good competition in the class for twenty-
four; Messrs. Souzel, Le Sueur, and Major-General Knatchbull
were the prizetakers. All the other classes for Roses were weU
filled, and in many cases the competition was most keen. Table
bouquets were good, but the hand bouquets were scarcely up to
the mark, being in most cases too large.

Fruit was not plentiful. The first prize for Black Hamburgh
Grapes was awarded to Mr. E. Neel, jun., for three very fine
bunches. Strawberries were first-rate. First, Mr. Taylor;
second, Mr. C. W. Robin ; third, Mr. Drieu. An extra prize was
awarded to Mr. J. Brayn, jun., for a dish of splendid Peaches
and two dishes of Nectarines ; the same gentleman was also
highly commended for one Melon.

Vegetables were shown in quantity, and were of excellent
quality. The prizes offered for baskets of eight sorts were well
contested ; the first prize was awarded to Mr. F. Bertram, and
the second to Mr. G. Bashford. For baskets of four sorts Mr.
G. De Faye was first, and Mr. F. Bertram second. Potatoes
were good. The first prize for four different varieties was
awarded to Lieut. -Col. Le Gros, who had some large, clean, and
handsome tubers ; the Misses Ainge and Mr. J. Deslandes were
second and third. For single dishes of Kidney varieties Mr. D.
De Faye first, and Sir John Le Couteur second ; and for Round
varieties Mr. .J. Deslandes, and Lieut-Col. Le Gros were the prize-
takers. Mr. De Faye staged some enormous stalks of Rhubarb,
for which he was awarded a first prize. The various arrange-
ments were tastefully carried out by the Committee, and un-
remitting was the courtesy of Major HoweU, the Secretary.

THE POTATO DISEASE.

On diggiug-up our early Potatoes in the orchard-honse
borders about the middle of April we were surprised to find
one-tenth diseased, a matter which had never previously
occurred. The haulm was perfectly healthy, and the tubers
fine, planted in two separate houses. It is difficult to assign
a cause for this, as Potatoes under such conditions are appa-
rently removed from electrical disturbances, from abrupt at-
mospherical changes, from currents laden with poisonous germs,
and from excessive moisture ; some of which, especially if in
combination, are held by observers as predisposing causes to
disease.

At first it seemed probable that the disease might be latent
in the seed itself, which, however, came from a good house,
and had been one season planted here with very little, if any,
disease ; but I finally remembered that a new garden walk of
some extent having been made, some of the soil was added to
the two orchard-house borders, and this soil had previously
borne crops of Potatoes : therefore, I am led to think that the
thorough extirpation of every vestige of a diseased tuber is of
importance at the time of digging-up, and that this is not

Jnne 26, 1873. ]

JOUENAL OP HORTICULTDEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

307

sufficiently attemled to ; otherwise the germs of the disease
may be supposed to be latent iu the tubor, and, if so, might
not be deeper thau the sliin or eye, for which somo remedy.

such as more thorough greeniug or washing in some solution,
might be effective ; but in the present case the soil seems to
have held the cause of evil. — T. C. Bhehaut.

The plants of the genus Corynostylis are stove shrubs of the
Violet family, of climbing habit, and natives of Tropical
America. C. Hybantlms was introduced by Mr. Linden from
Para, through Mr. Wallis, and was figured by Dr. Hooker in

CORYNOSTYLIS HYBANTHUS ALBIFLORA.

the " Botanical Magazine," ^, o'.HiO, where it is remarked :
" Though belonging to the same natural order as the Violet,
and closely connecied with that genus, its habit and the form
of its flower more resemble those of the racemose Indian

Covynostylifl Hybauthus albifloia.

Balsams. The curious twist of the spur has been observed by
Martius alone iu his careful description of this plant. It is a
most variable species, and I believe that all the so-called
species the genus contains, and which are hitherto described,
are referable to one, which extends from the Amazon (which
it ascends to tlie junction of the Bio Negro), to Venezuela,
Columbia, Guatemala, and St. Vincent ; but which, curiously
enough, has not been detected in Trinidad."

C. Hybanthue exhibits many forms differing considerably
from each other in leaf and flower ; that which we have now
the opportunity of presenting to our readers through the

courtesy of Mr. Bull, of Cliolsen, with whom it flowered last
year is the C. albitiora of Mr. Moore, who describes it as being
of half-climbing habit, and having ovate elliptic leaves of
moderate size, with white flowers of curious form, dangling
gracefully on long thread-like stalks. The flowers, which are
borne on long slender stalks, are freely produced, about
2 inches long, furnished with a large horn like spur, white, and
sweet-scented. Ur. Hooker considers it to bo not specitically
distinct from the plant which he figured, and it must therefore
be classed as a mere variety.

THE ROYAL VINEYARD GRAPE-FERTILISING THE BLOSSOMS OF VINES.

It is now some years since this Grape was sent out from that
nursery from which it takes its name ; it was then spoken of as
a first-class late white Grape, but somehow lately we neither
hear nor see much of it, yet it is a really good white Grape in
all respects. It is of a vigorous constitution, and a more
prolific bearer cannot be. It may well be designated a perpetual
bearer, for it usually produces two and three bunches on a shoot

at first, and then continually produces throughout the season
bunches on the laterals. Finer bunches or better-flavoured
berries are not needed. But does it set freely ? will be the
question. Well, I say most decidedly under certain conditions.
Plenty of heat, an extraordinarily dry burning atmosphere,
drawing the hand down over the bunches, shaking the Vine,
using camel's-hair brush, &c. — all of these performances have

508

JOUENAIi OF HORTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE QABDENEB,

[ Jane 26, 1873.

been gone tlirough, yet no Grapes, or but few, have been the
result. The Vme is here growing in an outside border in a
clayey soO that would make good bricks. The bed when first
made was just put down level with the surface, but I brought
it up above it ; this improved matters considerably. The Eoyal
Viueyai-d is growing in a house with Lady Dowue's, Buckland
Sweetwater, Black Hamburgh, and Muscadine, the house being
kept full of plants which require to be abundantly supplied
withwater, nevertheless the Eoyal Vineyard has set well for
the last two or three years under the most simple agent ; and
here it is — the taU of a rabbit. Nothing can equal that for aiding
the setting of Grapes.

My practice is to have the plants watered the first thing in
the morning, and as the temperature rises to admit plenty of
air. By two o'clock all will be ready for operation ; the Vine-
yard Grape being late in flowering, all but Lady Dowue's are
out of bloom. The rabbit's taU is gently passed over the surface
of those bunches that are in the best condition. Immediately
pass it or gently tap it on all parts of the bunches of the Vine-
yard Vine, and so continue day after day as long as these
little crystal-like spots appear on the bunches ; you will then
have them set to your liking. Lady Downe's is not one of the
best of Grapes to set in a cold house, but by taking its pollen
to fertUise others it also assists itself. I beUeve it is seldom
that the poUen of the Eoyal Vineyard under cold treatment —
perhaps in heat too — comes to perfection ; it therefore needs to
be fertilised with that of other varieties, and then a better
Grape never grew. — J. T., Macsgwynne, South Vales.

P.S. — Keep two or three rabbits' tails on hand, for if one
becomes wet it is of no fm-ther use, as tlie pollen adheres to
it. It can of course be dried again, and will then be as good
as ever. — J. T.

GLADIOLUS CULTUKE — EESTRICTIONS
IMPOSED BY SHOW COMMITTEES.

We are generally agreed as to the reasonableness of the
custom of praising the bridge that carries us safe towards the
end of our journey. Now, in the growing Gladioh, all perhaps
more or less have had difficulties, or what I may be allowed
to term " streams," to contend with. Some may have had
BoU both poor and naturally of a cankerous nature to contend
with ; whilst others, like myself, have had it of the more virgin
type, and just waiting the hand of the industrious cultivator
to mould and improve it into the containing any quantity of
good properties that the most fastidious could wish. As
regards the presence of wireworm, no question but the old
pasture newly cultivated, without artificial means being used
for their destruction, is one of their most favourite resorts.

Tour correspondent's lot — and with which he is quite satis-
fied— has been to spend his leisure hours in a plot of ground
that five years ago formed a portion of an old pasture field, in
nature friable, with sand bottom, rather inclined to the sun ;
its more unfavourable characteristics being lack of protection,
and more than usually subject to white frosts when we have
a north-east wind, or off the river Wear. With my present
garden five years ago I commenced to grow the Gladiolus, and,
with a gradual improvement, may be said to have been mode-
rately successful. BIy first bed of some sixty bulbs was my
especial care ; yet, notwithstanding, they were unmistakeably
turning to a disheartening yehow, when one day a nursery
traveller gave a look-in,- and advised me to give my pets a dose
of nitrate of soda. A week or ten days later a marked im-
provement was discernible hj the most casual observer, and I
at once drew attention to the remedy in this Journal. Since
then I have tried other improvements, but my faith is still
Btrong in this original prescription, to which I attribute my
freedom from attack by that garden pest, the almost-indestruc-
tible wheworm.

I am an especial admirer of this grand autumn flower — in
fact, I believe it to be one of the finest grown, and my object
has always been to give encouragement to others, in order that
they may experience the same pleasures as I have done.

Taking it for granted that I am the person alluded to by
" D." of Deal, I have only to say that I recommended your
readers to use new soil, but at the same time I beg to remind
them that I apprise them of a " bridge '' in the shape of nitrate
of soda, by which they would be able to tide over a portion of
their difficulties. I still beUeve, if you place a Gladiolus and
this pest together in a pot, that the latter will make its exit
first, and that in an open bed its instmct will teach it to keep
at a respectable distance. As to prospects of the approaching

tristing time, considering that I plant early in the open ground,
and the rather serious frosts that we have had here in tho
north, on the whole I am satisfied. Some look extremely
well, whilst a minor portion — perhaps fifteen per cent. — look
sickly ; and in taking some of the latter up I find that the
roots are decayed at the ends, with a yellow tinge in various
parts between the end and the bulb ; and in a bed where I had
put a few small bulbs and had neglected them, I found two
wireworms, which had eaten through the heart of the spike.
I at once gave each, good and bad, a good dose of nitrate, and
will closely watch the result. Contrary to former experience,
this year the bulbs of my own saving have spikes quite equal
to a fine lot of French ones. This latter fact is very satisfac-
tory, as the most disheartening thing to contend with in the
Gladiolus is its liability to degeneration, though it would be
more correct to describe it quantity rather than in quaUty. I
should like to make this Journal a medium of the bringing the
test of this all-important criterion.

In my own village we cannot boast of a floral reunion, but
at a short distance, and weU adapted for railway communi-
cation, we have the show of a portion of the East Durham
workmen, held under the shadow of that fine old ancient baro-
nial pile, Lumley Castle, on the 17th of August — a suitable
time for south-country growers ; and on the 29th of the same
month we have the exhibition at the Crystal Palace, and also
on the 3rd of September is the International at Manchester.
Now the proposition I wish to make is this : If there be an
amateur in England who will give satisfaction as to his exhi-
biting his own produce, who wiU meet with twelve or eighteen
spikes at the former place, I wUl return him tho compliment
and meet him at either of the latter places, and then we with
more authority shall be able to talk over the pros and cons of
the cultivation anent old versus new soil ; and, moreover, I
shall bind myself at such competition to have one-half or more
of my stand composed of Mr. Banks's seedlings.

Now as regards rules to be complied with. My own con-
viction is that rules once made ought to be abided by. Making
rules " for a check " is all nonsense. They simply check the
conscientious. At Alnwick we have a piece of absurdity in the
shape of dimensions of stands, even to the thickness of the
deal they are made of, and the distance of every hole. Of
course no one notices such things. At Bishop Auckland last
year, in tho open Gladiolus competition, after being placed
next to the Eev. Lord Hawke, and Mr. Thompson, nurseryman,
of Newcastle, Ihh'd, the latter detected some sprigs of Aspara-
gus stuck into tho tube, and straightway he appealed — I under-
stand to Mr. Downie, of Edinburgh, and who, without taking
the trouble to read the same rule right thi-ough, whereby he
would have found that none of the first three were set up
according to conditions, he at once disquahfied my stand and
awarded 7s. 6d., consolation, well knowing that every stand
there had cost as many pounds. Of course, I objected to the
others, and the farce ended with all getting the place first
awarded. This year I see our pets are condemned to stand
"in a box;" and, moreover, to stand amid moss, "whether
you can get it or no," and, as I understand, what is to be taken
advantage of, " amateurs are disqualified from showing in this
class." Now, I do think that the man who buys and grows
Gladioli ought to have some latitude for taste in the setting
of them up ; and I do further think it a pity that a committee
which has shown such commendable spirit as has the latter,
should have made such a mistake as to have dntied the rules
with such contemptible conditions. I see at Manchester there
is no restriction, and each rule is reasonable and easy to bo
understood ; and when that body wUl frame a rule for universal
appUcation, they will confer a boon to many, and frustrate the
whims of habitual grumblers, and likewise give peace of mmd
to those who at present at best are but perplexed exhibitors.
— Joseph Wiiheespoon, Chester-le-Strcet, Durham.

MARECHAL KIEL EOSE.

A FINE standard plant of this magnificent Rose is at present
in bloom in Aldersey HaU Gardens, Cheshu-e. It was planted
in the Idtchen garden three years ago, being trained as a
climber. I took the trouble to measure it, and found its cir-
cumference 15 feet, and diameter 5 feet. At the time of writing
this it has more than one hundred blooms on it. It is one of
the finest specimen plants I ever saw, and to a lover of Eoses
a sight worth going a long way to sec. Mr. Herd, the gardener,
states that some scores of blooms had been cut from it in May,
which shows that with good culture Maicchal Kiel can at times

Jane 2G, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OP HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

509

rival the never.failing Gloii'e de Dijou in earliness of bloom
and profusion of flowers. Let those who have been unsuccess-
ful in its culture try again. Most people think that without a
south wall or glass houses to grow it the hopes of ever seeing
this Kose in flower would only be doomed to disappointment. X
am quite sure there are as many successful cultivators of this
beautiful Hose as there are unsuoceesful ones, and if a few of
them would state their experience in growing it, it would be
the means of adding fresh recruits to the Rose-loving army of
Margchal Niel. — T. J. Hamhson, Famdon, Cheshire.

PLANTS IN SLEEPING-KOOMS.

A GKEAT deal of nonsense originates with people who think
but do not observe. They take hold of what is really true,
and imagine a great deal more, by means of which they build
up a tolerable " bugaboo," at which people who trust to the
learning of the builders get very much frightened. Thus it is
known that plants give off carbonic acid gas at night, and
straightway arises a commotion as to the danger of having
them in sleeping-rooms at that time.

The quantity which they give out is so small that it does
not compare in a slight degree with what human beings give
out. We venture to say that a sleeping infant would exhale
more carbonic acid in one night than a hundred pot plants ;
yet who ever suggested that the health of a mother was seriously
affected by the baby resting in her arms '? As to the injury
from vegetation, those of us who have had to sleep at various
times in woods, with but green branches for a pillow, and the
sweet wild green grass instead of a feathered bed, know well
after a few days of such experience, that it is the most health-
giving of all luxuries, notwithstanding the " awful " amount
of carbonic acid so much vegetation must give out every night.
Surely if this is so injurious it ought to affect the lungs more
especially than any other part of the system, yet the experience
of army life is abundant that many a person who, with lung
disease, supposed he might as well " die for his country " in
the woods and fields as " on a feather bed," and went into the
war of the rebellion, was, if not wholly cured, much ameliorated
by thus sleeping out amidst the carbonic acid of open-air vege-
tation.

Still facts and figures please most people. Governor Holt
addressed a letter to Prof. Kedzie, of the Michigan Agricultural
College, recently, on the subject. The Professor replies at length.
We make the following extract : —

" Not to leave -this matter in the condition of mere conjec-
ture, I have gathered and analysed specimens of air from a
room w-here the influence of growing plants would be exhibited
in a greatly exaggerated form. Thus, instead of taking the air
from a room containing a few plants, I gathered it from the
College greenhouse, where more than six thousand plants are
growing. I gathered the air before sunrise on the mornings of
April ICth and 17th ; the room had been closed for more than
twelve hours, and if the plants exhaled carbonic acid to an in-
jm-ious extent, the anslysis of air from such a room would
certainly disclose this fact. The three specimens of air
gathered on the morning of AprU IGth, from different parts of
the room, gave i.ll, 4.00 parts of carbonic acid in ten thousand
of air, or an average of 4.03 in ten thousand. The two speci-
mens of air gathered AprU 17th gave 3.80 and 3.80 parts of
carbonic acid in ten thousand, or an average on the whole of
3.94 parts of carbonic acid in ten thousand of air ; while the
out-door air contains four parts in ten thousand. It will thus
be seen that the air in the greenhouse was better than ' pure
countrj' air.' This deficiency of carbonic acid was doubtless
due to the absorption of carbonic acid and consequent accumu-
lation of oxygen during dayUght, since the windows of the
greenhouse were closed day and night on account of the cool
weather.

" To ascertain whether the air of the greenhouse had more
carbonic acid by night than by day, I gathered two specimens
of air in different parts of the house, at two o'clock r.ji.,
April 17th. These gave 1.40 and 1.38 parts of carbonic acid in
ten thousand, or an average of 1.39 parts, showing that the
night air contained more carbonic acid than did the air of day.

" Now, if a room in which were more than six thousand
plants, while containing more carbonic acid by night than by
day, contains less carbonic acid than any sleeping-room on
this continent, we may safely conclude that one or two dozen
plants in a room wUl not exhale enough carbonic acid by night
to injure the sleepers.

" It is so easy to be deceived by a name ! I lately saw an

article showing the beneficial and curative influence of flowers
in the sick room. Instances were related where persons were
cured by the sight and smell of flowers, and without question
their influence is good. Yet flowers exhale this same carbonic
acid both by day and by night ! The flowers, by their agree-
able odour and delicate perfume, impart an air of cheerfulness
to the sick chamber which will assist in the recovery from
lingering disease, notwithstanding the small amount of car-
bonic acid which they constantly exhale. — R. G. Kedzie." —
{American Qardener's Monthly.)

A CENTURY OF OBCHIDS FOR AMATEUR
GROWERS.— No. 11.

TRICnOPILIA.

A GENUS comprising but few species. All of them are dwarf
in habit, the majority producing gaily-coloured flowers. The
pseudo-bulbs are compressed, and bear a single leaf on the
top. Peat and sphagnum in about equal parts form the Boil
they thrive best in.

T. BUAvis. — This is tho only species which I shall include
in this enumeration, but it is a truly beautiful one. There
are many varieties of this plant, and therefore the amateur
should endeavour to secure a good one. The pseudo-bulbs are
somewhat ovate, bearing a large solitary leaf ; the flowers (seo
page -502), are large, produced in great abundance, and de-
liciously sweet ; the sepals and petals white ; the lip white,
spotted and blotched with crimson, and stained at the base
with bright orange. Native of Costa Rica.

SOPHEONITIS.

The plants comprised in this genus are all small and beauti-
fully coloured. They are best grown upon a block of wood or
in small baskets ; in the latter case it should be half filled
with pieces of charcoal and covered with sphagnum moss.

S. GKANDiFLORA. — This Uttlo gem should be grown in quan-
tities by everyone ; the whole plant does not exceed 3 inches
in height. The flowers are large, thick and fleshy in sub-
stance, and rich crimson-scarlet in colour. Blooming as it
does in November and December, it produces a cheerful effect
within-doors when all without-doors is dull and dreary. Native
of the Organ Mountains. — Expeeto Cbede.

LETTERS FROM JAPAN.— No. 3.

Tokio, November, 14th, 1872.

According to promise I will continue my description of
Su-mae-Yah. On entering the gateway of oue of the gardens you
generally come on a pretty little winding path leading up to the
gardener's house, which is usually situated near the centre of
the garden. On both sides of the walk specimens of the hardy
ornamental trees of the country are planted, many of which
are dwarfed or clipped into round table forms. The Yew
(Taxus cuspidata) is one of the principal ; but there are dif-
ferent species of Thujas, Retinosporas, and Pines duly repre-
sented. Plants cultivated in pots are usually placed near the
gardener's house, or put under a shed of bamboo work. He
protects his tender plants in rooms, which are fitted with
shelves, in the winter months. Glass houses have not yet
been built. Among these plants you will find the Cacti, Aloes,
Fuchsias, &c.

Dwarf plants are greatly esteemed by the Japanese, and they
are wonderfully clever in making miniature gardens. I have
seen a porcelain flower pot, 7 inches square by 3 inches in
length, in which were actually growing two Fir trees, a fruit
tree, and a Bamboo. The trees and plants generally chosen
for dwarfing are Bamboos, Plums, Cherries, Pines, Junipers,
and Thujas.

I will endeavour to give your readers a description of the art
of dwarfing trees, which I have learnt. It is one I always had
a great interest in when iu England ; and finding the Japanese
plan quite different from our English one, it will no doubt con-
cern your readers. In the East the art of dwarfing trees is
based upon one of the commonest principles of vegetable
physiology. Their practice is perfectly correct, and would
astonish some of our cleverest horticulturists. If they can, by
the means they adopt, check or retard the flow of the sap in
the trees, they prove that the formation of wood and leaves is
likewise retarded. This they do by confining the roots in a
small pot, withholding water, and training the branches into
any design they wish. They generally bend tho main stem
into a zigzag form, which checks the flow of the sap, and forces

510

JOURNAL OF HCRT1C0LTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

( Juae 28, 1873.

the eiJe branches out of the stem, where they are most re-
quired. The pots in which they are planted are narrow and
shallow, holding a very small quantity of soil, and only suffi-
cient water is given to keep the plant alive. When the new
branches shoot they aro tied down in various ways, and twisted
into any design the gardener wishes. AU the strong ones are
cut off, and every means is adopted to discourage any young
shoots possessing any degree of vigour. Nature, as a conse-
quence, struggles against this mode of treatment for a time,
untU she quietly yields to the power of the gardener. Care is
taken to prevent the roots getting through the pot into the
ground, and also the supply of too much moisture, as, if it re-
ceived moisture, the plant would recover its original vigour,
and the endeavour of the gardener be frustrated. Plum trees
generally flower iiuickly by this treatment. I have in my draw-
ing-room two specimens of Orange trees, with at least forty
Oranges on, although neither of them are above 2 feet high. —
J. Tasker Fostek. — {Dii favour of the Jl'riter's fatlirr, Editor
of the Yorkshire Gazette.)

EFFECT OF STRANGE POLLEN ON THE FKUIT.

At a meeting of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Phila-
delphia, Mr. Thomas Meehau said he had the pleasure of
offering to the Academy some facts in regard to the fertilisation
of flowers, which confirmed the popular view that poUeu of
one variety bad an immediate influence on the structure of
the fruit of another variety as well as on the progeny, and
also, he thought, furnishing some entirely new facts in regard
to the ability of a seod-germ to receive impregnation from two
distinct sources. He had presented to the Academy last year
fruit gathered from a Pear tree, which, the members would
remember, had the regular seeds and carpels of a Pear, but the
flesh was fibrous and not granular as in the Pear, and the
external membrane or rind was that of an Apple. An Apple
tree had its branches interwoven with that of the Pear, and it
had been assumed that the poUen of the Apple had so influenced
the fruit of the Pear as to produce an immediate effect in the
way presented.

But it had been urged in some quarters that this assumption
was open to objection. It was now fully proved that changes
of form occurred through what is now known as bud- variations,
and independent of any seminal action ; and it was contended
this might have been the case in the Pear-Apple referred to.
That there are these changes is well known. The Peach is
beUeved to be a development of this character from the Al-
mond ; at any rate the Nectarine is positively known to have
sprung from a bud, not from the seed, of a Peach. But in
case it might still be argued that in some way there was a latent
germinal influence in the cells of plants the results of cross-
breeding many generations past — in other words, that the
new appearance was simply a reversion and not a new crea-
tion, there had been some evidence in regard to the Sweet
Potato offered to the Academy a few years ago, proving bud-
variation quite independent of any supposed reversionary cha-
racter derived from seminal influence. There are no closely-
allied species to the Sweet Potatoes grown. Moreover, it does
not flower in these northern regions ; yet rootstocks had been
exhibited here with tubers of two varieties distinct in colour,
form, and other characters, growing on the same plant.

But the gentleman who sent the Apples to the Academy,
Mr. Arnold, of Paris, Canada, determined to observe the effect
of cross-fertilisation on Indian Corn. He procured a very
peculiar variety, of which Mr. Meehan exhibited an ear, not
known in the vicinity — a brown variety, with a circular dent
on the apex, and raised one jilant from it. The first set of
flowers were permitted to be fertilised by their own pollen, in
order to test whether there was any reversionary tendency in
the plant, or the pollen of any other variety in the vicinity.
The ear now produced was the result, every grain being like
its parent. The Corn plant produces two ears on each stalk.
As soon as the " silk " (the pistils of this second year) appeared,
the pollen, in a " tassel," of the common yellow Flint Corn
was procured, set iu a bottle of water tied near the developing
ear, the plant's own tassel having been cut away some time
previous. After a short time this set of male flowers was re-
moved, and a panicle of male flowers from a white variety
was introduced to the same bottle, in order to aft'ord it the
opportunity of operating on the same female flowers. The
result was the ear now presented. The base of each grain
was of the j-ellow Flint Corn, but the upper half of the white
yariety.

Those who opposed the facts of evolution by continually
cautioning its advocates against giving way to " imagination"
and " brilliant speculations," he thought might be profitably
benefited by their own suggestions. There was comparatively
little to sustain the idea of reversion but fancied resemblance
^and this resemblance not the result of a comparison of two
facts side by side ; but a fact on one hand compared with
memory, and often the distant and vague memory of another
long in the past. At any rate, iu these experiments of Mr.
Arnold, there was the test applied to guard against any ob-
jection of either reversion or evolution, which, though not
absolutely perfect, was as near so as the vast mass of human
experience was ; and the result was, he thought, no escape from
the conclusion, not only that there was an immediate influence
on the seed and the whole fruit-structure by the application of
strange pollen, but the BtUl more important fact, hardly before
more than suspected, that one ovule could receive and be
affected by the pollen of two distinct parents, and this, too,
after some time had elapsed between the first and second
impregnation.

ESCALLONIA MACKANTHA.

This pretty but slow-growing evergreen, introduced by Messrs.
Veitch's ontei-prising collector, Mr. WiUiam Lobb, from the
Andes of Peru, is not half so much grown as it ought to be.
Few flowers are really more handsome, while its rich-coloured

Escallonia macrontlia.
foliage of the deepest green looks at aU times clean, and in fact
newly varnished, exhibiting a shiny appearance. It is as densely
clothed with leaves as a Box tree, but they are almost as large
as those of the Beech. It may be urged against the plant, of
which the accompanying is a representation, that it is of slow
growth, but in a suitable position it is not so, and it well de-
serves one of the best of sites. We have here a plant of it
upwards of 10 feet high growing against a waU, and it would
have been higher if the wall had been so likewise ; but it is not
necessary to train it to a wall at all times, for it will succeed
V3ry well by the side of a mound, or in some other sheltered
position whore it can lie upon the ground. Although it well
deserves a wall, and thrives on one, I imagine that the habit
of the plant is to be nearer the surfaco, fnr we sometimes see
the upper part of a plant trained against a wall become sickly,
its foliage turning yellow, and portions dying off, while at the
bottom all is right. It will succeed, however, in the full sun,
and its neat spikes of scarlet flowers look well nestling amongst
foliage of the richest and densest character. Its flowers, also,
liki< those of the Magnolia, are spread over a much longer
period than in the case of most other evergreen trees and
shrubs, no that there is always something to admire.

June 20, 1873. 1

JOURNAL OF HOETIODLTDRE AND COTTACiE GARDENER.

511

Those having a sheltered corner on the south siJe of a wall
cannot do better than plant this shrub ; but they should not
attempt to nail it iu too closely, rather let it asfsuino the
character of a shrub growing against a wall and not nailed to
it, and it will be found to do much better. — J. Rodson.

INDIAN AND EASTERN TIMBER AND FANCY
WOODS.

Cedar is a oomuieroial term given to the woods of several
distinct kinds of forest trees, the timbers of which are distin-
gaished as Red and White Cedar, Barbadoes and Bermuda
Cedar, Cedar of Lebanon, Pencil Cedar, Bastard Cedar, and
some of those grow iu America, some in Europe, and some in
Asia. The lofty IJeodar, a native of the Himalaya, with fra-
grant and almost imperishable wood, and often called the Indian
Cedar, is sometimes referred to the genus Pinus, and some-
times to Cedrus or Larix, with the specific name of " Deodara."
But Dr. Hooker is of opinion that the Deodar and the Cedar
of Lebanon are identical. The woods of several of the Conifenc
are called Cedars. But iu India the term Bastard Cedar is
applied to the Guazuma tomentosa, while iu New South Wales
the term White Cedar is applied to Melia Azederach, and Red
Cedar to that of Flinder&ia anstralis, and the name is also
given to the woods of the Cedrela Toona and Chicrassia
tabularis.

In China a kind of Cedar, probably a Cypress, called Nan
Mah, or Southern Wood, which resists time and insects, is
considered particularly valuable, and is especially reserved for
imperial use and buildings, and the Cedar wood of Japan,
according to Thunberg, is a species of Cypre,ss. The Cedar uf
Cxuiana is the wood of Icica altissima. The 'Wliitewood or
White Cedar of Jamaica is Bignonia Leucoxylon. The word
" Cedar," in the United States, is applied to various genera of
the Pine family. The Virginian Red Cedar, a Juniper, is
called Red or Pencil Cedar ; the White Cedar of the southern
fwamps is a Cypness. Under the term Cedar, Col. Frith
describes a reddish-coloured wood of Palghat, specific gravity
0.507, as a large tree, wood aromatic, and used for furniture;
and under the name of Cedar Root, a very aromatic wood, used
for ornamental furniture in Palghat.

Specimens of the wood of the Indian Cedar (Cedrus Deodara),
and of the Cypress from the Himalayas, were shown by Dr.
Boyle at the Exhibition of lw.51. The former has been intro-
duced into England as a beautiful ornamental tree, and appears
to promise well as a useful timber tree, as the wood works
well and freely.

The Toona (Cedrela Toona) is a large and valuable tree,
which grows in varying abundance at the foot of the Hima-
layas, also iu the north-eastern provinces, and to the south in
Bengal, and in both peninsulas of India. It is rare in the
central provinces. In the Punjaub it grows up to 25UO to
4800 feet, and is 7 to 12 feet in girth. Its growth there is rapid ;
its darkish wood is not subject to worm or warp, it looks well
when properly polished, and is there a favourite for cabinet
work. Mr. R. Thompson says it grows to a large size in the
outer moist valleys of Kumaon and Ghurwal, and hill-men
will not sell their trees. In Kumaon, trees with girths of 12 to
10 feet yield planks up to 3 feet broad, but 2 feet is the average.
In Coimbatore it is a valuable timber tree of large size, and its
reddish-coloured wood is used for cabinet-making purposes.
It is not a common tree in the Bombay forests, but is found in
some of the greenwood jungles about the ghats, and also in
the hill range abutting on the Rajpooree Creek to the south.
The wood is a choice one for cabinet-makers' purposes, but it
is not used for any others, except for house beams, when it is
procurable in sufficient quantities. A tree is also found, Dr.
Brandis teUs us, on the hills and plains of British Burmah,
plentiful in some districts, and if not identical with the Toon
of Bengal, certainly nearly related to it. A cubic foot of the
Burmah wood weighs 28 lbs. In a full-grown tree, on good
soil, the average length of the trunk to the first branch is
40 feet, and the average girth, measured at 6 feet from the
ground, is 8 feet. It sells iu Burmah at 8 annas per cubic foot.

The lofty Deodara (Cedrus Deodara) is a native of the
Himalayas, and has an almost imperishable wood. Dr. Hooker
is of opinion that it is identical with the Cedar of Lebanon,
and this view is generally concurred in. It grows at 4000 to
10,000 feet in many parts of the Himalayas, from the Ganges
to beyond the Indus at Safed Kob, and the mountains north
of Jellalabad. It is a very handsome tree, with a yellow-

coloured, easy-worked, straight-grained, and durable wood,
and pillars of it in the great mosque are said to be of the
year 804 Hejira, but those in tiio Hindoo temples there are
said to be six hundred or eight hundred years old. Insects do
not attack it. It is strong and elastic, and not too heavy. It
is used for knees of boats, and for all building purposes. A
tree takes from .SO to 120 years to roach (J feet of girth, attains
a height of 100 feet, 120 feet, even over 200 feet, and girths of
from 2.5 to 42 feet. It is the best of all the coniferous timbers,
and yields a valuable cmpyreumatic oil.

With reference to the central province forests. Major Pear-
son gives some very valuable information. At the present
time the only forests in which teak of good size is procurable
are, first, the forests of Borce, at the foot of the Puchmureo
or Mahedeo hills, and those of Sowleeghurh and Jamgurh in
liaitool ; second, the forests around the Bormeyr River iu
Mundla; third, the forests of Lahora, KonkeLr, and Pana-
barras, of which the latter is the centre, between Raepore and
Chandah ; and fourth, the forests of Aheree on the Godavery,
between Seroncha and Chandah. The last two named belong
to zemindars, the first two only are Government property.
There is also teak found of large size iu the Gurjat States,
120 to 150 mQes south-east of Raepore; but it is so remote
that it can hardly be considered as belonging to the available
resources of the country. It is believed, however, not to exist
in any extraordinarily large quantity ; indeed, Lieut. Forsyth's
report on the Xuvriar forest represents twelve thousand trees
in all. In Boree, including the Baitool forests (which latter,
however, are practically worked out), there may be ten thousand
available timber trees. In Mundla there are about half that
quantity remaining. In the forests of which Parnabarrag is
the centre, there is still practically a perpetual supply, if they
are only worked with care, as a vast supply of trees are there
found in every stage of growth. About Dorwa in Pamabarras
alone he calculated there were ten thousand trees available for
felUng, and thirty thousand more from 2 to 2ifeet in girth, all
fine promising young trees. From the distance of the forests,
and excessive weight of the timber, Saul does not come into
much use. There is, however, a fine forest (a solitary patch)
in the Daniwah Valley at the foot of the Puchmarreo hills,
which is now being worked, and the executive engineers at
Jubbulpore and Saugor supply themselves with this timber
from the Rewah State, fifty or sixty miles east of Jubbulpore,
and from the Government forests in Beejoragogurh. Of all
other timbers — good, bad, and indifferent, and many of them
bad, the demand for sleepers for both branches of the Great
Indian Peninsula Railway, east of Bosawul, has almost cleared
the forests within fifty miles of the railway lines of every tree
that would yield a sleeper ; nor has the supply of them done
much good, as a very few years will have to elapse before all
have to be replaced. This is being done partly by Saul, in a
very small degree by Teak, but chiefiy by iron-girt sleepers.

Western Mysore produces valuahle timber trees, useful for
building and cabinet-making, such as Boghy, for furniture,
strong and tough ; Soojhal, useful for all purposes, iu colour
a light brown, long grain, and rather open ; Hoonsay, with
red and black-streaked heartwood, close-grained and knotty,
which makes excellent naves of wheels, oil-mills, mallets, &c.,
and is valuable for brick and tile burning ; Biti, an open-
grained timber, something like rosewood, which makes up into
good furniture of all descriptions ; Honagul, a building timber,
also used for furniture ; Wulla Honay, a light-coloured, open-
grained timber, a very excellent description of wood suitable
for house-building and furniture; Nundee, of which substantial
bridges are built ; Nellee, of a dark flesh colour, smooth, very
close grained, compact.and tough, making fine veneers, does not
decay under water, and is well adapted for turning ; Novoladdi,
a greenish-brown, dull, close-grained timber, which polishes
well, and is much liked by builders and others ; and Handiga,
useful for furniture and for the turner, &c.

These are but a few of the forest products of India, but will
serve to show the vast and, comparatively speaking, still un-
developed timber resources of that country. — (Building News.)

Cn.iNGiNC, THE CoLOUKS OF Flowehs. — The Gazette des Cam-
pagii'-s states that M. Huoghe has succeeded in changing tho
common Cowslip from its natural yellow to an intense purplo
by merely transplanting it into richer earth. The colour of
plants can he readily varied by mi.xiug certain substances with
the soil. Wood charcoal will darken the hue of Dahlias, Pe-
tunias, and Hyacinths. Carbonate of soda turns the last-

512

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Jnne 2G, 187S.

mentioned flowers red, and pbospUate of soda altera greatly
the shades of many plants.

GEAND YORKSHIRE GALA.

If I was last week astouiahed at the excellence of the Leeds
Show, I was still more so at that of the gi-eat Show held at
York, and which I had now for the first time the privilege of
faeeing ; and I think if some of those gentlemen who seem to
imagine that the poor horticulturists who live in country parts
must be a long way behindhand, could only have seen what I
did, they would have considerably modified their opinion. When
I say that a large round tent was filled with plants which Mr.
Baines would find it a ditlicult matter to excel, and that to this
were added two tents of 300 feet iu length filled from end to
end with plants and flowers, they will readily imagine that there
■was something to see. Nay, more : I may add that excellence
was the chai'acteristic of the exhibits, and that in some parts
these northern growers are in advance far of us southerners.

I could not have been present on a more auspicious occasion,
for Mr. Stewart, who has for thirty years or more been an en-
thusiastic grower of florists' flowers. Auriculas, Carnations, &c.,
and also for a number of years President of the Yorkshire So-
ciety, was this year Lord Mayor of York, and the occasion was
signalised by two events : our friend, Mr. Williams, of Holloway,
gave, in honour of it, a very handsome silver cup in addition to
the first prize of ,i'25 given by the Society, for the best collec-
tion of stove and greenhouse plants, which was gallantly won
by Mr. Cole, of Manchester, with some magnificent plants, com-
prising Hedaroma tulipifera, Cycas revoluta in flower, Ixora
Colei, and others ; and a number of the Lord Mayor's friends
had seized the opportunity of presenting him with a very hand-
some silver epergne for flowers, in recognition of their esteem.
This was gracefully presented by Mr. Dean in the name of the
subscribers at the luncheon and acknowledged in fitting terms
by the Lord Mayor.

It may give some idea of the extent of the Exhibition when
I say that in the class for six Tricolor Pelargoniums there
were ten entries, and twelve for sis Bronze, that there were
in all eighty-four entries for Pelargoniums, and that the diffi-
culty was not so much to decide what were the best, as to
determine which were to be rejected. I know that my excel-
lent friend Mr. Peach and myself can bear witness that we never
had a harder task than the one we had to fulfil at this Show. I
was particularly struck with the good colour of the fohage of the
variegated Pelargoniums, for one often sees them so defective in
this respect, and the season has been so unfavourable in its
absence of sunlight, that the exhibitors deserved great credit for
the manner in which they had brought their plants up to the
mark. One exhibitor had trained his plants so as to make small
pyramids of them, and exceedingly effective they were. I have
only to add that as at Leeds there was a warmth and heartiness
about the whole thing that contrasted most favourably with our
slowness in the south. The indefatigable Secretary, Mr. Wilson,
worked most assiduously, the Committee ably seconding him.

It is unpleasant to notice any drawback, but there was one,
which was commented upon in strong terms by Mr. Williams.
A cultivator at Derby had given notice of his intention to ex-
hibit one hundred plants, many of them of large size. Not only
did he not appear, but had not even the courtesy to send a
message, and it was only through a friend on the morning of the
show day that the Secretary had any notice of the fact. This
I cannot but designate as unpardonable, or as Mr. WilUams said
"cruel," disarranging as it did the plans made, and but for the
excellence of the Show it would have been more serious still. —
D., Deal.

FRAME POTATOES.

We have a vast array of names of sorts of Potatoes that are
said to be good for frame cultivation, many of which have, no
doubt, merits ; whilst a great many, and I may say a majority,
have no claim from any merit they possess, to be honoured
with a position under glass.

The first desirability of a frame Potato is, that it has a
stiff short haulm ; Sud, That it gives, at a short a time as
possible after planting, tubers of a useable size ; 3rd, That
they be even-sized — in fact, large with a very small quantity of
small ; and 4th, Early attains a mealy state of the tuber, and
not watery waxy lumps, which are neither wholesome, nor,
as a rule, come up to the standard of a forcing or frame
Potato in other respects.

It is not my intention to pass in review all the kinds of
Potatoes that are used for, or, at least, put forward as suitable
for, frame culture, suffice will be to .allude to those that I have
found the best. The first that I shall mention is Mona's
Pride, wliich has a stiff sturdy liaului, is not given to havo
more than one or two strong growths, and these give largo,

even-sized tubers, that early attain maturity. It is a short,
thick, kidney-shaped tuber, and is a desirable forcing Potato.

Hyatt's Prolific Ashleaf fully deserves its name of Prolific,
for it gives fully twice as many tubers as Mona's Pride, but
they are individually much smaller. Taking the whole pro-
duce it is not more than Mona's Pride, weight for weight ; and
as there are small in the produce of the Myatt's, but nono
or few in that of Mona's Pride, I must pronounce iu favour of
the latter. I have so long had Myatt's Prolific good — in fact,
considered it the best of all for frame work and pots, that I
am loath to proclaim Mona's Pride its superior. Small Potatoes
may not be of much account in out-door culture, the loss is
not so much felt or noticed ; but it is very different with those
in pots or frames, as the small are of no account.

■Veitch's Improved Ashleaf with me has a very short stiff
haulm, gives a number of large, fine, clear-skinned tubers,
even-sized, attains ripeness early, and with very few small. It
produced the tubers on a rather long string, and therefore at
some distance from the root-stem, unlike either Mona'a
Prido or Myatt's Prolific, which have them close to the stem.
I had some of Veitch's iu pots which had the tubers right at
the bottom of the pots (1'2-inch), some under the large crocks
used for drtiinage. I find the produce of a three-light frame
planted iu November to be in April 2i lbs., whilst a three-
light frame of Myatt's Prolific planted also in November and
taken up in May, yielded 18 lbs. Here, then, wo have a nett
g.ain of G lbs. from a piece of ground 1'2 feet by (i feet, or on
8 square y.ards a gain of nearly 1 lb. per yard. It is only right
to say, that both the kinds planted together were fit for use
early in AprU, only not beiug wanted they were not taken up.

I have no experience of the round kinds of recent date, and
what I have leads me to the conclusion that they must be of
a very different typo to what I have grown, or tliey are from
giving more small than large, and much longer in attaining
firmness than kidney sorts, of very little value as frame Po-
tatoes. I shall be only glad to learn I havo formed erroneous
impressions of the round sorts.

I now come to what may not concern me as a cultivator — I
allude to the identity of Veitsh's Ashleaf Kidney Potato. I
find iu B.arr & Sugden's catalogue, 1873, page 66, that Glou-
cestershire Kidney, Bivers's Royal Ashleaf, and Veitch's Im-
proved Ashle.af are described as " First-class Potatoes, but
resembling each other so closely that it has been asserted that
the best authorities fail to distinguish the one from the other."
At reading this I must confess I was taken aback, for Pavers's
Royal Ashleaf is later by ten days to a fortnight than the old
Ashleaf, and Gloucestershire Kidney has not, so far as I know,
been put forward as a kind equaUing the Ashleaf in earliness,
but as a kind to succeed the Ashleaf. I should not care much
as to what name a really good thing was known by, but to
know that it is called by three is, to siiy the least, perplexing ;
and, notwithstanding that we have it " asserted that the best
authorities " agree in the three being one, it would be very
annoying to order a supply of sets to plant to come iu at a
certain time, and, assured that Gloucestershire Kidney or
Rivers's Royal Ashleaf are the same as Veitch's Ashleaf, take
one of the two former in place of the latter, assured that they
are the same, only to find, however, that they are not fit for
use ten days to a fortnight after the time they are wanted, or
the time Veitch's Ashleaf, supplied true, would come in. It is
with me the earliest of all the forms of Ashleaf, both in pots,
iu frames, and out-doors, and the most prolific. Planted iu
pots November 20th, 1872, we had the first dish February 24th,
1873 ; the last iu a frame, planted March 5th, were taken up
June 5th, dry and floury when cooked. — G. Abbey.

NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

There are two points in the Stkuctube op the Heakts-
BASE (Viola tricolor) which are not mentioned iu Mr. Bennett's
interesting article on its fertilisation, but which, I think, deserve
notice. The first of these is the lip of the stigma, which closes
the entrance to the spur and must be pushed back by an insect
trying to reach the nectary, thereby bending down the head of
the stigma, so as to sweep any pollen that may bo adhering to
those parts of the insect which come into contact with it iuto
its receptacle ; while, iu withdrawing, the insect necessarily
presses agaiust the lower side of the lip, and raises up the
whole stigma, thus rendering self-impregnation impossible, or
at least highly improbable. Modifications of the same contriv-
ance may be seen in many other flowers — e.g., I'inguicnla,
Iris, <SiQ. ; it reaches, perhaps, its greatest perfection iu Mimulus

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JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

513

and Bignonia, where, to tlio usual mechanical disposition of
the parts, there is added irritability of the stigmatic lobes
whici close together spontaneously when touched, expanding
again after a while, if not already poUenated. The second
point to which I have alluded is the close hairy lining of the
fore part of the spur, forming a narrow groove at the base of
the lowest iretal. This groove generally contains a quantity
of pollen that has fallen from the overhanging anthers. There
is also a small tuft of hairs at the base of each of the lateral
petals, arching over the essential organs, and forcing an insect
to approach the nectary from below. These lateral tufts are
present, 1 believe, in all the Violets, but V. tricolor (including
therein several sub-species) is the only British species which
has the spur lined with hairs, as well as the only one not
known to bear self-fertile cleistogeuous flowers. Although the
flowers of the wild Heartsease are quite scentless to our bluut
organs, does it follow that they are necessarily so to an insect's
far more delicate sense ? (The flowers of V. palustris, which
are nearly unicolorous with a few dark lines pointing to the
nectary, are apparently scentless ; but after standing for a
short time in water in a warm room, they become quite sweet.)
Some of the cultivated Pansies are very sweet, and I am not
aware that this quality has ever been made an object for selec-
tion by florists. These large garden Pansies are much fre-
quented by Bombus muscorum, which may be watched while
performing the act of pollenation, as described by Professor
Hildobrand. — W. E. Hakt, Kildernj, Co. Donerial- — {^^ature.)

Me. T. Meehan last year called the attention of the

Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia to the fact that in
some Scrophulariaceous plants, such as Toreuia and Mimnlus,
tho biloliod-flattened stigmas closed when touched, as does the
leaf of Dionsea muscipula.

The largest Viuo in the world is to be found near S.anta

Barbara, California, and certainly, from the account given of
it by the New York Herald, it seems to put the famous Hampton
Court Vine to the blush. The trunk of the Santa Barbara
Vine is nearly i feet in circumference where it leaves the
ground, and continues the same size for 8 feet up, where it
branches out very regularly, and, although kept well trimmed
back it covers a surface of some iOOO square feet. Eight thou-
sand bunches of Grapes, weighing 12,000 lbs., or (i tons, were
picked from it last year. It is owned by an old Spanish
woman who cannot speak a word of EngUsh, but who knows
very well how to calculate correctly the amount due to her for
a drink of wine made from the Grapes of the " big Vine,"
which everyone is expected to drink who visits it. The age of
this Vine is variously estimated at from thirty-five to fifty
years, and romance has woven the tale that tho original cut-
ting was given to a Spanish girl by her lover as a riding whip,
and that she planted it as a memento of their engagement.
Tho appearance, however, of the Spanish lady who now owns it
is such to lead visitors to the conclusion that she never could
have had a matrimonial engagement, or that if any such con-
tract was ever entered into, her lover was perfectly justified in
forgetting it.

GARDENING IN THE WEST.— No. 3.

VISIT-WOBTHY PLACES NEAR BATH.

Leaving Bath by the Great Western Company's line to Wey-
mouth we reach Trowbridge, at one time one of the decayed
towns of the West of Eugland cloth districts, but now one of
tho most prosperous, and nothing indicates its prosperity more
than the encouragement of horticulture and the extent to
which it is practised in the neighbourhood. During the last
thirty years there has sprung up at Hilperton, only a mile
distant from the town, a considerable nursery of general
slock through the energy of Mr. S. Walters, who is now well
kuown in the West of England as one of the most successful
of plant-growers. With some of the fine old-fashioned speci-
mens, such as Heaths, Chorozemas, Rhododendron Gibsoni,
Ilogoria gratissima, Statice Holfordi, and others we saw there,
he appears to excel. On the road to Hilperton we pass two
villa residences, The Prospect and Highfield, which are models
worth imitating for tho skillfuluess with which they are
designed and the neatness with which they are kept. We
could not but indulge the thought that the owners of both
were readers of The Journal or Horticulture, and devoured
its pages with avidity.

ROOD ASHTON.

But the great place in the neighbourhood of Trowbridge is
Rood Ashton, the splendid domain of Walter Long, Esq.,
whose family has been settled here for many centuries ; yet we

have sought, but without success, for a history of this resi-
dence, because, having a slight knowledge of .\uglo-Saxon, wo
concluded that tho original name was Rowd ^Escdun, " the
sweet quiet hill of tho Ash trees." The park is of immense
extent — we do not know how many acres, but it makes a very
distinct appearance on the Ordnance map. The entrance to
the park is about a milo distant from the town of Trowbridge,
and on approaching it one is reminded of the remark of
Ivepton, that the entrance to a place of importance should
novjr bo at right angles to the public road, but branch from
it, and be so much wider than the road as to diminish its im-
portance and give greater importance to the approach. This
has been well managed at Rood Ashton, for the turnpike road
is dwarfed to the dimensions of a lane, and the entrance to
the approach appears really to be a continuation of tho turn-
pUiO road. From the lodge to the mansion is a distance of
upwards of two miles. The direction is that of a curve, and
tho road is flanked on either side by a double line of Scotch
Firs, at present small, perhaps not more than twelve or four-
teen years old, but which, when they have attained greater
dimensions, will have an excellent effect, and when seventy or
eighty years old will become one of the finest avenues in
England. Here the Scotch Fir succeeds to perfection, judging
from specimens we observed in the park, and when the trees
forming this avenue attain such dimensions as these the effect
will be grand and imposing. It is surprising that this stately
and picturesque tree is not more planted for this purpose.
With the exception of the Lime and the Oak there is a great
poverty of good avenue trees in Eugland. The English Elm
and Horse Chestnut cannot be said to be good avenue trees ;
the former, when it attains its full growth and greatest beauty,
being so liable to suddenly lose its branches and become a dis-
abled, dismantled, and dangerous object; while the Horse
Chestnut is comparatively a short-lived, and, when cut down,
a worthless tree, and it very early loses its foliage in autumn.
Behind this avenue of young Scotch Firs there are solid
masses of plantation, which for some distance give the ap-
proach an enclosed appearance ; but after proceeding some dis-
tance the park opens up, and then the road passes through
what appears to be a piece of ancient forest, consisting of old
pollard and coppice Oak. On emerging from this the park ex-
pands in all its beauty, and the house is seen in the distance.
The trees in the park consist almost entirely of English Elms,
which luxuriate in this part of the country, and which for size
and beauty will vie with any in England. Our only objection
to them is that they are too crowded, and really spoil the fine
effect which the park would otherwise have if the single trees
were removed and the groups only were left. The place may
be said to be all park, which reaches close to the house (see
accompanying engraving), there being a flower garden on the
south side only, and a rather extensive lawn to the east ; but
of dressed grounds there are scarcely any. But Mr. Long has
recently enclosed a small portion beyond tho lawn, which has
been well planted, and which in time will add to the beauty of
the place.

Before we visited Rood Ashton we were warned not to expect
to see anything in the way of gardening. This was said in
general terms, and we went, as we were told, merely to see tho
park. Now it depends very much on what people mean by
gardening. Gardening of late years has, unfortunately, become
to mean flower-bedding, and unless a place can exhibit a great
expanse of varied colours on lawns and terraces, it, in the
minds of some, is not a place for gardening. We at once tell
the people who hold these views that Rood Ashton is no place
for them, and yet there is good gardening there — high garden-
ing, it you like, which is not often surpassed. There are fruit-
gardening and kitchen-gardening, under the direction of Mr.
George, which are well worth seeing ; a profusion of every-
thing, and no stint. There are 100 yards of Peach houses,
40 yards of vineries, 95 feet of Pine pits, and 90 feet of other
pits. The Vines were hanging as thick of bunches of fruit as
it was prudent to permit them, and are in the rudest health.
The earliest vinery was still well supplied with fruit of fine
Hamburghs, to tho excellence of the flavour of which we can
testify through Mr. George's kindness. Tho house of Muscats
is splendidly set, and there will not bo an imperfect bunch or
berry in it. The way by which Mr. George insures this result
is by going over tho bunches when they are in bloom, and
brushing them over with one of those long-bristled brushes
used by painters, and called a duster. This not only distri-
butes the pollen, but removes the globule of moisture secreted
on the stigma, and which prevents the pollen fertilising tho

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[ Saai 26, 1873.

Jniie 26, 1873. ]

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

515

pistil. " I give them a good ilusting," said Mr. George, " you
can't hurt them."

The groat rango of Peach houses is a sight worth seeing, the
trees being in the greatest hixuriance and Htorally studded
with fruit. Mr. George's experience of Early York as a forcing
I'each is that it grows well and sets well, hut goes off in
stoning, and that Early Grosse Mignonne is far superior to
it for this purpose. Here is something new — a new mode of
setting Peaches. Mr. George says, " I have not time to fiddle
about with camel's-hair penchs fertilising the Peach blossoms,
and so whenever the first house is ready I bring in a hive of
bees, and feed them well on sugar and water (no beer). When

they have remained as long as is necessary I pass them on to
the next house, and then on to the next, and they do the woik
far better than I can, while my time is saved, and I am able to
be engaged on other matters." The result proves the excel-
lence of the practice, for we never saw finer crops, and the
trees were thinned (our times.

We left Kood Ashtou wiser than we went, and charmed with
a visit which at first promised to be so unproductive. We
must caution those who, after reading these lines, may deter-
mine on visiting this splendid domain, that it is not a " show
place," and whatever gardening is done is with a view to
domestic use and utility.

PLANT PROTECTORS— ABSURD NAMES.

One of the follies of the tradesmen of the present day is the
absurd application of names to their articles — names totally
un-understandable or even rememberahle by the vast majority
even of the educated. I inquired recently of a friend, a first-
rate gardener though an amateur, which ho considered the

best glazed shelter for wall fruit, and he replied—" The Cry-
moboethus." " What, in common language, is that ?" and he
acknowledged tliat ho did not know, but that it is a glazed
shelter which allowed plants, seedlings, and other things to be
grown under its shelter, whilst it protected the wall treef.

WALL-TREK AND PLANT paOTECTOE,

Now, can you tell me where this foolishly-named shelter is to
be obtained, why it is so named, and whether you consider it
efficient ? — An Amateur Gaehenkr.

[We entirely agree with yoir as to the absurdity of such
names — it extends even to the ready-made-clothes dealers, for
we saw in Oxford Street that " Idoneous trousers " were there
to be had ! However, as we once heard a patent-medicine man
say, "I'm cursed with the name of Snooks, but that's nothing
to do with my medicine," and the Crymoboethus is a good
protector from frost (which is a literal interpretation of the

name). We now publish an engraving of it, which we have
obtained from the maker, Mr. E. Lloyd, Horticultural Works,
Grantham. The sashes, made either of iron or wood, project
2 or 3 feet from the wall, supported on iron brackets. They
are so constructed that if desired one or more sashes can be
projected inclining to the ground at different angles. The
sashes are hung on hooks, and in summer could be all re-
moved, or each alternate sash could be made to open for
ventilation, and netting be fixed over the opening at a very
small cost.]

GOLDEN CHAMPION GRAPE.

Golden CnAiinoN has done exceedingly well with us this
season as a pot Vine. A thoroughly- ripened one-year-old cane
of it, which was gently started in a successional Pine stove in
December, has perfected some of the finest examples I ever
remember seeing. The heaviest bunch when cut weighed
'2i lbs., with berries as large as those produced on any planted-

out established Vine. So perfect were they as to resemble a
very large-berried highly-finished bunch of Muscats. .\nd
what about the spot? Simply this, no spot or blemish was
ever perceptible — the result of precisely the same treatment as
that given to Hamburghs, Muscadines, Erontignans, ttc. ;
10-inch pots are the size used. Large pots for Vines, like

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JODENAIi OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ Jane 23, 1873.

large pots for Pines, are fast becoming a thing of the past.
As an eminent Vine-grower sagaciously remarked to me the
other day, that it is a pot full of roots, and not a pot full of
soil, that is wanted to produce fruit ; and how portable and
cheap in transit compared with those KJ and 18-inch ones !
The one-year-old canes are preferred before the cut-backs,
which are consequently two years old. Labour and space
awarded the latter I regard as entirely misapplied when fruit
equal in quantity and quality can and is had from those one
year old. I do not write this brief notice of the Champion
with the view of advocating its extensive planting. Like Mr.
Pearson, of Chilwell, I take the Duke of Buccleuch to be
superior in every respect, only the Champion can be grown to
that state of perfection which originally gave it just celebrity.
— J. M. C, GahislUels.

ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S MEETING.

The June meeting of this Society was held on the 2ud iust.
Sir Sidney S. Saunders, Vice-President, in the chair. Various
donations to the library announced, and thanks voted to the
donors. A certificate in favourof C. W. Dale, Esq., of Glanville
Wootton, Sherborne, Dorsetshire, was read for the first time.

Mr. Bond brought to the Meeting some seeds of Gleditschia
sinensis which had been sent to him from Japan, but which
were all destroyed by a species of Bruchus, of which he exhibited
several live specimens. Mr. Miiller exhibited a remarkable
Psyche case which had been sent by Mr. Kothuey from Calcutta.
It was composed of thorns of equal length (about IJ inch),
arranged with the points all in one direction, so as effectually to
bar the entrance against an enemy. Sir Sidney Saunders ex-
hibited a collection of Briar stems from Epirus, which, on being
split open, exposed numerous specimens of the larvfe of several
species of bees, all of whicli were alive. He also exhibited a
number of the perfect insects which he had re.ared from larvas.
Amongst them were Raphiglossa eumenoides, Psiliglossa ody-
neroides, Trypoxylon albipes, Odynerus exirpes, Prosopis
rubicola, and three species of burrowing bees (Osmia sp.)

Mr. Miiller communicated some notes on tlie discovery by
Dr. Joly of Toulouse, of a nymph belonging to the genus Oli-
goneuria, the immature stages of which had been hitherto un-
known. Drawings of the upper and under sides of the nymph
accompanied the notes.

Mr. WaUaston communicated a valuable paper on the genera
of the Cossouidio. It comprised (1), a catalogue of the several
groups, arranged systematically and tabulated; (2), full generic
diagnoses, taken seriatim; (3), observations (diagnostic and
geographical) on each separate genus ; (4), brief characters of
139 species not hitherto recorded ; and (5), a complete list of the
particular members of the family (amounting in all to 253), the
structural and specific char.acter of which the author had ex-
amined with the greatest care, being the material from which
the paper has been compiled.

The Secretary read a letter he had received from Mr. Roland
Trimeu, of Cape Town, containing remarks on the Rev. R. P.
Murray's notes " On some Variations of Neuration observed in
certain Papilionidie," published in the Proceedings of the So-
ciety of November last, and referring some exceptional cases of
neuration to reversion to ancestral characters, pointing to a re-
mote community or origin between PapiUonidje and the higher
Heterocera.

Part 2 of the Transactions for 1873 was on the table.

WORK FOR THE "WEEK.

KITCHEN O.UIDEN.

Advantage must be taken of the first good shower of rain to
get out the main crops of Brussels Sprouts, Broocolis, Savoys,
&c. ; until then they had better remain where they are.
Recently-transplanted plants must be constantly kept watered,
and the ground about them occasionally stirred. Where the Cape
varieties of Broccoli have been sown in drills, thin them out to
one plant every 2 feet, and immediately afterwards water those
left. As soon as the weather will permit, plant out the main
spring crops. A little more Carrot seed may be sown to pro-
duce a late crop for drawing young. Loosen the earth between
the main crops where it is baked-down hard. Some of the late
sowing of Cauliflowers should bo transplanted as early as the
weather will permit ; if the planting of them can no longer
be postponed, they must be kept watered until they make fresh
roots. No culinary vegetable that wo are aware of demands
larger supplies of water at this season than Celery. The first
crops run in a short time if not kept moist, and the hatter ones
are very much checked ; the earth should be loosened about the
plants whenever it appears crusted. The Cueumhcr plants on
the ridges will be greatly benefited by being mulched with short
grass or litter of any kind ; they should bo previously watered,
which may be done generally early in the morning. Where the

seed of Lettuce has been sown In drills, thin the plants to 1 foot
apart. This is a good time to make Mushrooin spawn for
winter and spring use. After the bricks are made and partially
di-ied they may be placed in layers in an open shed, witfi a thin
layer of spawn from the old beds which have done bearing
between each course ; the whole should afterwards be covered
with dung sufficient to keep it moist and warmer. Keep up a
succession of Small Salad by repeated sowings in the open
ground in a shady spot. It is nece3S.ary to sow Spinach once a
fortnight, let the weather be what it may, as it soon runsto
seed; keep it watered during dry weather. Keep Tomatocn
trained to the wall and well supplied with water, or but very
little fruit can be expected.

FRUIT G.UIDEN.

Continue to pay every attention to wall trees ; water those
that require it, or they will drop their fruit. Pears, Plums, and
Cherries should have their summer pruning. Lay the runners
of Strawberries into GO-sized pots, this being the best method
of procuring good strong plants for forcing. Protect fruit from
birds.

FLOWER GARDEN.

Propagation of stock for next season must soon receive con-
sideration, so as to have strong well-established plants before
winter, and without the necessity of keeping them so close or
warm as to induce weakly and watery growth. It cannot be too
often repeated that to bo able to winter bedding stock safely with
ordinary care, the cuttings should be put in suttioiently early in
the autumn to allow of having them well-established, and lit
to be exposed to the open air by the middle of September.
Begin with those which are found most tedious to propag.ate.
Hollyhocks are general favourites, but they do not afford cuttings
freely, and in general are not over -plentiful about most places.
These should therefore be examined often in search of any
cuttings which they may afford, as those rooted early will afford
strong plants for next season. Attend to the tying-up of these
and Dahlias, and go over the masses of Verbenas, and frequently
for the purpose of regulating the growth, so as to keep it neat
and orderly. Continue to X)rick-out seedling Auriculas in pans
or boxes, shading them from the sun. Polyanthuses, if we con-
tinue to have showers, may be parted to advantage now, renew-
ing the bed with decayed cow manure and leaf soil. Some
growers shorten the leaves ; it is most advisable not to do so.
The general collection of Tulips may now be taken up, provided
the foliage has assumed a yellow hue. Shake the soil clean from
the roots, but do not yet remove the fibres or outer skin from
the bulbs; place them iu their respective compartments in tho
boxes, or wrap them in very thin paper called " cap paper,"
writing the name on each. The late dry weather has been
seriously against the Ranunculuses. Any roots, tho foliage of
which has begun to decay, must immediately be taken up, or
rainy weather will cause them to start again, to the certain
destruction of the root. In sunny weather dust the capsules
with farina of the best-formed semi-doubles you can obtain.
Follow the directions given for Carnations, by pinching off the
lateriils, disbudding, tying, keeping free from aphis if possible,
&c. Put in pipings as recommended for the Pink, marking each
lot of cuttings, so that when the layers bloom from which they
were taken if they should chance to be run or full of colour,
the pipings from each foul flower may be destroyed. Carefully
stake Dahlias, &c.

GREENHOUSE AND CONSEBV.ITORY.

Attention must soon be paid to late-growing plants in borders,
for while in active growth they require a good deal of water,
and insects are more troublesome than in the case of plants at
rest. Give Luculias especially plenty of water at the root, and
an occasional supply of clear weak manure water to old plants
that may be growing freely until they have made sufficient wood
to insure a good display of flower. As has been previously
stated, however, manure water must not be given to young
specimens in vigorous growth, as in that case it would only
induce too gross a growth, a condition in which they seldom
flower profusely. In order to secure fine heads of bloom from
this plant, it should be allowed a few weeks of comparative rest
after, say, about the middle of next month, keeping the roots
rather dry, and exposing the plants as freely to air as can bo
done without injury to the foliage or the healtli of their neigh-
bours. Brugmausia sanguinea is also a useful plant for winter
and early spring flowering, when managed so as to have it
pruned and rested about this time. See that large specimens
of Camellias are not allowed to get too dry at tho root after tliey
have set their buds, for shedding of the latter is often duo to
this cause. Young and vigorous plants, however, frequently
require to be watered rather sparingly to prevent their making
a second growth. Cinerarias for late flowering should now bo
growing freely, and should be shifted when necessary; for if
they are to form large specimens for flowering late in autumn
or early winter, they must not be permitted to sustain any
check. Get cuttings of favourite Roses rooted and pushed
forward, so as to have them sufficiently strong and established
to stand the winter. Common i'elargoniums are now being

Jane 26, 1873. ]

JOUBNAIi OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

517

struck from cuttings in the open ground round London in mul-
titudes. The old plants might be shaken out of their pots and
planted in the open ground to be taken up early in the autumn,
so as to get well-established in the pots before winter ; they
w^ould make excellent plants for forcing next spring. The mid-
summer cuttings will make strong plants by next October, and
if they are well encouraged early iu the spring they will make
beautiful floweriug plants this time next year. .\11 the best
varieties of the Chinese Primrose should now be divided and
plauted-out in a shady situation in very rotten leaf mould, to
be taken up next September for winter flowering. Seedlings of
them should also be planted-out now in spare pits well shaded,
there to remain until they all flower, when the inferior sorts may
be thrown away.

PIT.S.

Prepare to make a large plantation of your choice dwarf and
young plants in these useful structures, turned out of the pots
for two or three months iu suitable composts. One who has not
seen the good effects of this plan can hardly conceive the im-
provement it makes iu the plants, particularly on Heaths,
Epacrises, and other delicate plants which are diflicult to manage
in dry hot seasons under the ordinary pot culture. — W. Keane.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.
Since writing last week's doings we have heard of the rain
falling in torrents around us. We did not miss it all. It rained
one morning for six hours, during which a little over half an
inch fell, fur which we are thankful, as the drooping plants
requii'e it very much. There seems to be considerable at-
traction for the rains to the north and south of us — on the one
hand the Thames valley, and on the other Eppiug Forest. "We
have often been anxiously looking for rain when there has been
a sound of abundance ; but the heavy clouds rising in the west
have divided, watering the gardens and fields of our neighbours
and leaving us dry.

KITCHEN OiBDEN.

As there is now plenty of Green Peas we have discontinued
cutting the Asparagus. The ground had got full of weeds and
young plants from seif-sown Asparagus seeds. We had to pick
out all between the plants in the rows, running the hoe over
afterwards. Had we more beds of Asjjaragus to make we would
plant in the same way as we did these. The plants are 18 inches
apart, and 2 feet G iuches between the rows. The plants are
yet young and the crowns are near the surface, so as a winter
dressing some rotted manure is spread evenly over the whole
quarter, and over this some fine loam. When the crowns are
buried sufliciently deep it will have a good dressing of rotted
manure only, which will be lightly forkedin between the rows.
The dressing should be put on in November, and forked-in some
time in February when the weather is fine.

What splendid crisp Lettuce vre are cutting this year I The
sort is Hicks's Hardy White Cos. No other sort is grown with us
now, except this and Paris White. We have planted-out a few
trenches of Celery, and as the early Cabbage is cleared-oS the
ground is thrown up in trenches for succession crops. .

Hoeing and sticking succession crops of Peas. Another season
■we will grow more of the dwarf Peas. Blue Peter on a south
border just coming in is a splendid crop ; they have just a few
short sticks placed to them to keep the pods off the ground.

The Strawberry beds are now requiring attention. The fruit
ought to be thinned, hundreds are set on every plant. We w'ill
place a few sprays of Elm, Beech, and Hornbeam round each
plant ; the fruit will then hang over the clefts and be kept clear
above the ground. It will ripen and colour so much better in this
way, and be out of the way of slugs and other crawling vermin.
We first tried a few rows in this way, placing clean straw over
the other part of the bed, and the produce from the rows sup-
ported with sticks was much better iu quality, and double the
weight of fruit was obtained.

Clouds of Ijlai-k aphis attacked the wall Cherries and other
plants. The fecundity of this pest is amazing. We left off
working amongst the bush and pyi'amid trees, and attacked the
aphis with water in which soft soap and tobacco was dissolved.
We either dipped the shoots in the water or washed them with
a sponge. We have finished cutting-back the shoots on the Pear
trees; it is quite early enough if the Apples are done in a week
hence.

TKUIT AND POECIKG HODSEa.

In the pineries there is little attention required, except water-
ing the plants, airing and damping the houses. Many persons
have an idea that Pines are difficult to manage, and that their
culture is attended with great labour and expense. The Pine is
as easily grown as any other fruit, but in many instances the
plants are checked by having the roots injiired by being plunged
in fermenting material when it is too hot. We seldom renew
our Pino beds more than twice a year, a sufficiently high tem-
perature being maintained in the beds from the hot-water pipes.
The best time to renew the beds is when the plants have been

repotted, the higher temperature caused thereby causes a more
active root-growth. The house where the fruit is ripening should
be aired freely, and, if the weather is dull and cold, the heating
apparatus should be moderately warm.

Vineries. — In the early houses, where the Grapes are quite
ripe no artificial heat is required. We now leave the ventilators
fully open night and day, unless it is a high wind or rain ; the
wind blowing through the house shakes the leaves about, and
in many instances they rub the bloom of the Grapes ; this ought
iu all cases to be avoided.

We are always anxious to get rid of the fruit as soon as we
can after it is ripe, as, notwithstanding all precautions, our de-
sperate enemy »-e(Z spider wi\l appear, and nothing can be dona
with it when ripe fruit is hanging in the house. As soon as the
Grapes are all cut the loaves can be thoroughly syringed once
in two days until every vestige of the spider is removed. The
leaves should be kept healthy as long as possible, but all young
growths should be pinched-off as fast as they are made. In the
late houses there is little to bo done except stopping-back any
young growths, airing, and watering, as recommended last
week.

CUCUMBER AND MELON HOUSES.

Little more has been done here, except the details given last
week. The earliest house of Melons will soon be cleared of the
plants, and were we called upon to supply a succession of fruit,
a fresh batch of young plauts would now be ready to plant-out,
and would have fruit ou them ready to cut iu August. The
houses will be filled at once with Azaleas, which are put iu to
make their growth and set their flower-buds for next year.

ORCHAKD HOUSE.

We are now clearing away the Strawberry plants which have
borne fruit; they are now being placed out of doors. If they
were planted-out now an excellent crop could be gathered ; but
many plants that wo have given away to amateiii-s and others iu
previous years have not succeeded with them, the reason was
that the plauts perished for lack of water at the roots. Tho
plants were turned-out of the pots, and planted in the loose light
soil common in tlie neighbourhood, the result being that all
the water given to the plants passed down the sides of the ball
of earth without wetting the centre. In all cases, when such
plauts are planted-out at this season, the outsides of the ball of
roots should be pricked round with a pointed stick, the iilants
should also be placed deeper in the ground than usual, and tho
earth trod-in very firmly, leaving a shallow depression round
the plant, so that in watering the essential element will find its
way exactly where it is most required. We have done nothing
to the fruit trees, except to water freely and syringe twice
a-day.

CONSEUVATOr.Y AND PLANT STOVE.

Such hot weather as we have experienced the last few days
has caused us to be very careful in the use of artificial heat. Wo
will cease firing altogether if the present fineweathercontinues.
It is necessary to shut up early in the afternoon the stove where
plants are making their growth, and to maintain a moist atmo-
sphere. The earliest-flowering plants of Dendrobium nobile have
been removed to the early vinery where they have plenty of air
night and day ; after a while, if the weather is favourable, tho
plauts will be removed out of doors against a south wall. Wo
have also been washing Stephanotis, Ixoras, Gardenias, itc,
where mealy bug had appeared. Where such plants as Croton
angustifolium and others liable to the attacks of red spider had
not beeu syringed daily this jjest had appeared, and was spread-
ing rapidly. Laying the plants on their sides and thoroiighly
syringing them cleared them pretty well ; future attention to
syringing will keep them in good health. In the conservatory
many of the hardwooded plants have been removed out of doors.
The house is very gay yet with Azaleas, Calceolarias, late Koses
in pots, &c.

FLOWER G.UIDEN. /

Placing sticks to C.arnations and Picotees and thinning out
tlie flower buds. We only grow a few of the hardiest sorts in tho
borders, the finer varieties ynue away and die if planted out in
our light soil. We manage them very well, three plants in a
10-inch pot. A suitable soil for them under such circumstances
is good turfy loam of a clayey nature, to which is added a sixth
part of rotted stable manure, and the same quantity of leaf mould
well incorporated together. Hoeing the flower beds so that all
weeds may be destroyed and the ground loosened, after which if
no more rain fall we will give a good soaking with water. Many
thanks to the raiser of those two fine Zonal Pelargoniums,
Wellington and lanthe. What a vast improvement they have
made in our flower garden ! The colour of both is most brilliant ;
the coloured drawings of lanthe give not the least conception of
the colour of the flowers. We have another very pretty margin
to a small bed iu two dense rows of Avalanche, white-Howered
silver-variegated Zonal Pelargonium, with an edging of Lobelia
pnmila. Cutting the lawn, looking over the herbaceous border
to see that no choice Alpine plants are smothered with their moro
dense-growing neighbours.— J. Douglas.

518

JOURKAtj OP liORTIOtliTtJllE AKD dOTTAGK GAEbEi^EIi.

I Juue 26. 1873.

TRADE CATALOGUE RECEIVED.

J. Van der Veldt, Florist, Wagenwefr, 302, Haarlem, Ilollaiicl.
cc Current of Flower Roots and Bulbs.

-Pri

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until nest
week.

HoRTicuLTURAT, Siiows {T. Z-cc.)— Wo cau only know of them by their
committees advettiulD^' them.

Grubs in Pottino Soil. {Wm. A., jun.). — We ehnnid turn the soil over a
few timoB before using it, ami pick out all the grubs we could see, sprinkling
with BOot each layer of soil as turned over, using juet enough auot to make
the soil appear black, say to every 2 or 3-inch luytr of soil a dusting of the
soot. It may not destroy them, but usually drives them away, and is a good
manure.

Gas Tin to Young Tree Stems (Idcvi). — It is decidedly injurious, es-
pecially to youne trees, and is a pi'Or preventive of the attacks of rabbits.
We had Fevftral Laburnums that wore coated with gas tar, and all of them
hav« died. It seems to affect trees with a smooth bark the most. Those
that swell considerably in a year from the annual growth do not appear to
Buffer much from the gas tar. We should not repeat the application.

Burnet Rose (J. O.). — The petals were all ehed. A^ far as we can judge
we see no departure from the noi-mal form, except stunted growth.

Pelarooniums 'and GERANiitMS (L/iiovaiuus) —The difference is very
pmall. What are commonly called Geraniums are not Geraniums at all, but
Pelargoniums. There is un doubt that there is a -.'reat difference between the
Stork&bill and Cranesbill— they cnustitutb two different genera; but there ia
no very great difference between what are commonly called the Geraniume
used for bedding purposes and the Pelargoniums used for in-door dowerings
Both ore Pelargoniums. Pelargonium is characterised by having usually
seven stemens, and unequal-sized petals; Geranium by having ten stamens,
and equal-Kizcd petals; and Krodiura, by having live fertile anthers usually.
The three genera aie nearly allied.

Seeds of Perennials (J?. Muir.) — Any of Ihe leading seedsmen who ad-
vertise in our columns could either supply them out of their own stock or
procure them for you.

Skeletonising Leaves (An Old Sub.^crihir).—V^e know of but one book on
the subject with the veiy attractive title of "The Phuntom Bouquet." Its
author is Mr. Parish, and it was published at Philadelphia. We have a copy,
and it is a vei-y beautiful little volume. You might obtain it through Messrs.
Sampson, Low, & Co., Booksellers, Fleet Street.

Double Petunia iMiUi<ja>t ti- Karl— Vie think very highly of your seed-
ling double Petunia, so far as we can judge from the two blooms you sent us.
Send a potted plant to the Floral Committee of the Eojal Horticultural
Society.

Vine Shoots Diseased {Ivquirer).~Hail the two Vine shoots been re-
ceived they would have been noticed, but we do not remember them. Send
other specimens.

Glendinninr Fund.— We have received 5^. from " C. L. W.," and £i from
Lady Harriett Lindsay and N. A. Lindsay, Esq.

Cauliflowers and Broccolis Dyinq-off (7i. D.l.— The grubs at the roots
of your plants are probably ambury or club root. The remedy is a difficult
one. Gas lime at the rate of twelve bushels per acre is, perhaps, the best
preventive, sprinkling it on the surface, and pointing it in with a fork before
planting. At planting, the root-stems should he examined, and if they have
an excrescence or knot on them, that should be opened with the thumb nail,
and a giub will be found. The root-stems of the plants before planting should
be dipped in a puddle farmed of equal jtarts lime, soot, and cow dung brought
to the consistency of mortar, thoroughly coating the roots and stems with it,
and then planting. The disease is most prevalent on ground that has long
been in cultivation and often ciopped wi(h the Cabbage tiibe.

Cyclamens after Flowering (J. iV. S.).— Plant them out in a cold franie
in light soil on au east border, and allow them to remain with abundance of
air day and night, using ihe lights only to save the plants or soil from being
drenched by heavy rains, wheu, though the lights are to be kept over the
plants, they should ho tilted at the back. Early in August take up the pltints,
remove from the ball the soil not occupied with roots, and reptit in a size of
pot that will hold the roots comfortably. Set the pots on a&hes in a cold
frame, admit air freely, and water so its to keep the soil moist, sprinkling the
plants overhead every evening.

Propagating Roses and Convolvulus mauritanicus {A, G.).— Tho
Roses succeed best budded on the Manetti stock. Budding may be dom-
Boon after the flowering is over. They strike freely from cuttings taken oft'
after the (lowers are shed, and inserted singly in pots in handy soil. Place
them in a cold frame, keep them close and f^haded from sun, sprinkle the cut-
tings overhead evei-y morning lightly, but replace the lights immediately.
After they begin to grow, or in about six weeks, admit air freely, gradually at
first, expope fully by the end of another six weeks, and ehift them into loi-ger
pots in September. Winter them in a frame, the pots plunged in ashes,
and with protection over the lights in severe weather. Convolvulus mauri-
tanicus is increased by cuttings of the young growths inserted in sandy soil
burfaced with sand, and placed in gentle heat shaded from bright sun. Eock
Cifitus is propagated by cuttings of the haU-rJpened shoots put in now in
sandy soil in a sheltered shady border and covered with a hand-glass.

Vine Border Making (X(/(hi)-— The border should bo well drained, and
the drains should have a proper fall and outlet. The depth of the border
should heS feet 9 inches, and the bottom should be covered with brickbats,
stones, &c., to the depth of 9 inches, the roughest at the bottom and the
smallest at the top, and on this a layer of sods, grass side downwards. The
border to be filled 9 inches higher than the intended level with a compost of
turf cut tl inches tliick where the soil is a good light loam and chopped up
moderately small, say in pieces 2 or 3 inches squaie. Use of this eight parts,
old mortar rubbish from an old building one pait, chaixoal halt part, and half
part crushed bones. The whole should be well mixed. If the soil is rather
Ktroug add two pojts freestone broken up as for making a road. The border
should be the width of the house.

Improving Asfaiiacus Beds (Tf?cnil.— You would do well to sow seeds n^w
in the hods you have planted and which aie growing weakly. Sow the seed in

drills a foot apart, and Ihin out to 6 inches apart in the rows. The Martchal
Niel Rose which you have in a pot is not healthy at the routs. It succeeds
much better planted out. Could you not plant it out and train the shoots
near tlie glass ? It would give more satisfai^tion. If yon keep it in the pot,
repot in turfy loam with a fourth of well-rotted manure added.

Dark Climbing Roses (Amateur, Circncster). — There are no really good
dark clirabiug Roses to train on walls to match Marechal Niel or Gloire de
Dij^m. Crimson Boursault is only a summer bloomer, doe.<i not last long, and
but an indifFerent Rose after all. Such Roses as G'-nOral Jacqueminot, John
Hopper, MadantG Clemence Joigneanx, and a few others of the strong-growing
Hybrid Perpetuals will with cai-e grow some height. As a pink, Blairii No. 2
is well worth growing, but it is not a second bloomer.

Shortening Gooseberry Shoots {A Ni-ic Subscriber). — The young shoots
from the spurs of last year may be cut back to within two or three leaves of
thoir base early in July. It admits light and air- to the spurs, and favoora
their ripening.

Thinning Grapes (Q. Q.). — Your Vines with from eighteen to twenty-four
hunches on a 12-feet rod phould not be allowed to caiTy more than one bunch
per foot, or twelve bunches each, and to that number we should reduce them
at once. If the bunches aie largo we should not leave more than eight bunches
to each Vine. They will have a better finish than a hea\iercrop. Very heavy
crops are seldom satisfactory.

CuflRANT Tree Shoots Withering (Nottingham).— It you had split the
shoots down theii- centres you would have found the pith consumed, the tube
where it had been blackened, and nothing remainiug but the excrements of a
cateiiullar, which may also be caught at his work of destruction if the exajni-
nation is made so soon as the branch first shows symptoms of withering.
Ibis catei-pillar ia fleshy, whitish, with four yellowish brown spots near its
head. It is the larva of the Currant Sphinx tTrochilum lipuliforme and the
Sphinx lipulifoimis, Sesia, or .Egeria, or Bombecia tipul:folmi^', and Bern-
becia tipuliforme of others i. The parent moth ia beautilul, and may bo seen
at the end of May and early in June during hot sunshine, either settled on
the leaves of the Currant, or flying ai'ound the flowers of the Syringa and
Lilac. It is about three-quarters of an inch across the wings when these are
quite opened. The prevailing colour is bluish black, with various parts yellow;
the antennte black ; the breast with a yellow line on each side ; the abdomen.

or lower part of the body, has three yellow liugs round it in the females, and
four in the males ; the tore wings arfl hoiTed and veined with black ; it has a
brush of fine scales at the end of its abdomen, which fan it can expand as it
pleases. The Red, White, and Black Currant, and, we tliiuk, the Goosebem',
are nil liable to itu attacks. It lays its eggs at this time in openings of the
bark of a young shoot, and the caterpillar immediately it is hatched pene-
trates to its pith, and eats its way down this until it reaches the pith of the
main branch. The only securitive measures are to kill the moth whenever
seen, and to split open the withered branches and Eervu the caterpillars
similarly.

Gardener's EMPLOVirENT (F. W.). — We really must decline to enter into
particulars on such cases; there are circumstances, appliances, and needs we
know not. But wo may say that we have known some such places done by the
gardener and an assistant, and again by an assistant and a boy, but we have
known double that amount of labour required. Besides, you gave us no
sulficient data as to flower garden; we presume that is on the grass, and a
thousand plants is nothiug in thoao days. Then, where are the fruit trees ?
Ai'e they contained iu a quarter of an acre of a kitchen garden ? If so, and
if from what is left you have to find ^c■getabk■s all the year- round for a family
of twelve persons, all weha,ve to say is that they must be easily sex-ved. With
a constant demand for vegetables wo do not see how it can bo done.

Strawberries Bliciited (J. L.). — There is little doubt but that the
white floury substance on your Strawberries is mildew. The chief causes of
mildew are a close atmosphere and a want of reciprocal action between tlio
roots and the leaves and fruit. For instauce, if the roots ai'e rather dry, and
the atmosphere is close, and warm, and moist, it will have a tendency to pro-
duce mildew. On the other hand, if the roots are kept extra clogged with
moisture, such as a careless everyday waterer might supply them with, and
more especially if the pots stood in saucers, and water was left iu the saucers,
and there were several dull sunless days in succession, and consequently little
demand made on the leaves and fruit, there would be a tendency to a diseased
dropsical condition, such as some of the fungi, and mildew among the rest,
delight to flom-ish. As to the remedy, a slight dusting of sulphur over loavoa
and fruit when it first appeal's is the best; but that will be valueless, so far
as the fruit is concerned, if not applied as soon as the first speck of the dust
appears, for if delayed longer the remedy will be as bad as the disease, as the
fruit will he too blotched to be fit for going to table, though it might come in
as a constituent for creams, ices, &,c. That is the chief mechanical remedy
after the evil apjtears ; liut we have more faith in prevention in such cases
than cure, and the chief preventives are gi-cat cluauliness in the houees,
washing the wolls with sulphur and Lime, placing sulphur and lime on the
heating medium, provided that is not above 160'"^ in temperature, and giving
air to the houses iu good time, so that the atmosphere shall not be contined.
In fact, but for the coal heap we would leave a little air on houses all night
at the highest part. As soon as the warm weather seta in we uniformly do
so. Kvcn from half an inch to on inch along the top of a house all night
preventt) all scalding and burning, is a great bugbcai' to that little enemy red
spider, and does much to keep off mildew by preventing that close atmo-
sphere in which it generally delights.

June 26, 1873. ]

JOUBNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAFPENER.

519

Bark of Rose Tree Eaten (H. li. C.).— It is difficult to know what
iueect has injured yourRofie shoots; (rom all aiipeiiranco we should thiuk it
Borao large buetle. Examine the tree at uinht. Must probably, as the injury
is somewhat local, there is harbour for the iasccts near.

Zonal Pelargoniums {Lh-in). — You do not say what time yoa want the
Zonal Polar^ouimun to bloom. If in spring, Bolect strong and healthy ynuns
plants in autumn ; cut them back in September, and grow-on, giving thorn
all the light you can ia the winter. If for summer, the ordinary treatment
lor Geraniums will answer, being careful to pinch ba'^k strong shooto, so ha
not to allow the coarser shoots to take all the strength of the plants. If for
autumn blooming, cut back in spring, and keep potting as occasion may
require. Lot the plants grow neur the glass witu plenty of light and air, but
slight ehaie from extreme sua. If wo know the especial object fnr which you
require them we could give a much more dehnite answer. Avoid too many
sticks and tying-out.

Twenty-four Show Pelargouiums (P.). —Black Prince, dark upper
petals; lower, crimson ; white eye. Imperator, darkllowcr; rich dark upper
petals; lower, carmine with dark spot; fine. Dnko of Edinburgh, crimson
and maroon; black tup petaU. Exemplar, lower petals rose, white eye, upper
petals dork. Holker, top petals dark ; lower, oraoue maroon. Charles Turner,
verj' bright shaded scarlet, small white eye. Heirloom, shaded dark upper
petal; lower, orange rose. Contrres-s, maroon upper, lower rose, white eye.
Corsair, upper, purplish black ; lower, hRhter ; white eye. Sultana, top petals
purple; lower, rosy purple. Lilacina, lilac maroon spot; white eye. John
Hoyle, orange red; lino form. Mary Hoyle. very warm soft rose; upper petals
darker. Pompey, maroon top, orange lower; white eye. Basha, top, crimson
and black ; lower, orange crimson ; Brigand, orange pink ; dark spot on upper
petals. Pretender, hery crimson and black. Claubul, white, with slight spot.
Woman-in- white, white upper petal, dark spot. Charlemagne, salmon pink ;
dark spot upper petals; William Hoyle, tine scarlet crimson; upper, blacK.
Gold Button, white and red. Achievement, large light variety ; lilac rose,
upper petals maroon. Prelate, dark upper petals ; lower, purple maroon.

Hair-like "Worms (Dornoch Firth).— These thread-like and intricately-
twisting worms occur abundantly after rains following hot weather. They
are the Gordiuit aqunticux. It belongs, like the leech, to the class Suctoria,
or suckers, scarcely exhibits any marks of articulation on its body, and has

„ no distinct respira-
tory organs. Its co-
lour is pale brown,
and being found in
such a twisted form,
as already noticed,
suggested its name
after the inventor of
the Gordiau knot.
The mouth is a simple pore at the fore extremity of the body, which is conical ;
but the tail being forked, as represented at a, has often been mistaken for its
mouth. Its habits are little known, but we are inclined to think it one of the
friends of the gardener, for two parties observed one escape lately from the
body of a beetle, which they found writhing on the ground.

Pea Rows Sown North and South, or East and West {S. C).— We
have not noticed any diEference in the earliness of the crops, but we find that
the Peas grow most to the sun side of rows sown east and west, and on that
side the pods are fit to gather sooner, and are more numerous on the south
than north side of the row. Sown with tho ends north and south the haulm
is equally disposed on both sides, and there is no perceptible difference in the
earliness, quahty, or quantity of the produce. On this account we prefer tho
rows pointing north and south. There is, however, no great difference ; and
for the very reason you assign we sow them, except on sheltered borders,
with ends east and west, convinced that they aie more secure against east
and west winds.

Mignonette Failing {Unsucce3s/ul).~Vf6 have no knowledge of the small
black insects that attack the Mignonette; but we apprehend they are, as you
employed ducks last year and soot this season, slugs, the small black sort
which as you say are very destnictive. We should give the ground a good
dressing of quicklime and point it in with a fork, or if you have any plants
left we should sprinkle it on the surface, and after rain when they will be near
the surface, and best in the evening. If no plants are left give a good liming
now, and again before sowing next year, pointing it in each time with a fork,
Whtn the plants appear dust them occasionally with the lime, especiaUy ia
moist weather. You should have abuudauce another season.

Potatoes Diseased. — " I send yoi- a top of American Early Rose. About
five per cent, of the plants are thus affected. In a few days the tops die down
to the ground. I have seen half a dozen similar cases in Suffolk and Cam
briilgoshire, and in every instance only the American Early Rose are thua
affected. — St. Edmund."

[The leaves are very severely ulcerated, and we fear you will find the
tubers similarly decayed. We cannot assign a cause any more than we can
for the genuine " Potato murrain," of which we incline to think your Potatoes
are suffering ; but if so, it is a very early development. Examine the tubers
of some of the plants, and inform us if they are ulcerated. If not, then we think
your Potatoes are attacked by the " curl,"]

Vines Unproductive (jR. 7^. S.).— We have won excellent crops from a
Bimilar soil and subsoil. You had better have been content with the
18 inches of surface soil, and not have excavated tho chalk subsoil. Manure
the surface to the depth of 9 inches, mulch tho surface, and water once
a-week with weak hquid manure. Cutoff all the yellow-leaved terminations
of the laterals. Next year you will have Grapes.

WooDLicE IN Mushroom Bed {J. C. H.).— If you can get at the walls and
■without wetting the bed much, place a little hay all round at the foot of the
wall next the bed, and pour boiling wafer down the walls and on the hay. It
will kill all it touches, alHo all the J^Iushrooms it comes into contact with ;
therefore avoid pouring it on the bed. If that be impracticable, boil eoruo
potatoes, wrap them in a little liay loosely, aud place at the bottom of small
tiower-pots and lay them on their sides, which examine every day, and shake
out the vermin into a bucket of boiling water.

Names of Plants (G. ^.).— We cannot identify plants from leaves only
(Piter). — We cannot name florists' varieties ; it is one of then- Pyrethrums.
tA. G.). — 1, Pyrus Ai'ia ; 2, Siphocampylus sp., perhaps S. longipedunculatus,
Pohl ; 3, we do not recognise. ( H^.).— The Orchid was too far gone when we
receivedit. (J. (7.1. — 2, Onychium japonicum; ;:}aud4, Blechnum occidentoJe ;
5, Dicksonia davallioides ; G, Asplenium flaccidum ; 7, Doodia, probably
aspera; 8, Goniophlebium appendiculatum. (.If. ii.).— 1, Aspidium acrostich-
oides; 2, Indeterminable; .S, Asplenium lucidum. (E, C. L.).~l, Sedum

anglicura ; 4, S. angliciim var. (?); 2. S. rupostre , (i, S. pp.; H, Saxifraga
elatior; 5, S. Aizoon. (I.F.). — Escallonia sp. ( W.G. C). — 1, Korria japonica;
2, Pyrus sp. ; if, Ruscusaculeatu^; 4 and 5, leaves nniy ; f>, Kuonymus ouro-
piEMis. (T. IS. It'.). — 1, Apparently a Geum ; 2, Hemerocallis flava. (C. H.).—
We believe, but cannot bo certain, that it is that most enduring of Ferns for
a plant case, Ptoris serrulata.

POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON OHRONIOLE.

EXHIBITING SINGLE BIRDS.

In your Journal of May 22ati, ** Impartial " advocates the
Bia^le-bird Byatem, and in his letter of the I2th inst., upon the
limitinf; system, he says that he is somewhat disappointed in
not seeing any farther remarks upon the subject.

Halifax was both father and mother of the single-bird system,
as at that town was hekl the first exhibition where the birds ia
the whole of the classes were shown singly. In 180U, thirteen
years ago, Halifax held its third exhibition, and issued a prize list
with forty classes, birds to be shown singly, there being separate
classes for cocks and separate classes for hens ; the total num-
ber of entries was 504. Carriers headed the list with 5li entries ;
Pouters had 75 entries ; Almond Tumblers, 25 ; Jacobins, 30 ;
Turbits, 32; Barbs, 20; Owls, 45; FantaUs,45; Dragoons, 25; and
Trumpeters, 20. Such entries as these will give some idea of
the result of the single-bird system. This was in the days of
Peter Eden, of Salford, who exhibited twenty-six pens and ob-
tained six fi.rst aud two second prizes, ten high commendations,
and three commendations. There was a sweepstakes for Pouters,
which was won by I'eter Eden. There were also extra prizes
in the Almond classes, in addition to the class prizes. The first
and extra prizes for Almond cocks was carried oS by Mr.
Esquilant, of London. The first honours and extra prize for
Almond, hens were won by Mr. Harry Wandle " f ra cannie
Newcassel." The Jiidges were Mr. Harrison Weir and Mr. P.
H. Jones.

The following year Halifax held its fourth and last exhi-
bition. Why this exhibition was aUowed to fall to the ground I
have never been able to ascertain.

From that time I never saw or heard of an exhibition upon
tho single-bird system until Bedlington tried it in 1871 ; then
Durham, Birmingham, and Newcastle-upon-Tyne tried it, and
all found it a success. The last-named town had a success such
as I should say was never before known. Now, I am glad to see
that at many other shows the same principle is adopted, and I
advise those who have not yet done so to try it, and they will
be sure of success. I quite agree with *' Impartial " upon the
single-bird system, but shall always set my foot upon any prin-
ciple of limiting the prices of birds for exliibition, as there
ought not to be any difference made between the dealer and the
amateur. — Tyneside,

HANTS AND BERKS AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY'S
POULTRY SHOW.

"Rolling stones gather no moss," so says the proverb; but
it is not true of shows. That of which we write would have
died of ennui had it remained at home ; but it w^ent out to
seek its fortune, and found it. Now, like a beauty conscious of
having deserved the admiration that follows her, it skips from
town to town, basks in tho patronage of Royalty, is honoured by
municipalities, opened in state by sound of trumpet, and re-
juices in a goodly balauce.

Instead of an ordinary field, with here and there a tent, now
and then a post to which a quadruped was tied, and sundry
common hurdles containing here sheep and there pigs, com-
modious substantial pens cover fifteen acres. All things are to
be had — carriages of every description, so light they would
almost go alone ; a child could draw one if it liked. A small
machine, price l-s. fj'/., with which the salesman said he would
undertake to spoil the best knife in the company; he would rub
it edge downwards till it was as round as a ruler. Would a
gentleman lend him one? The public did not seem anxious,
but a boy lent him one, aud when he was asked to feel it ho
certainly looked glum. Then it was rubbed two or three times,
and it certainly became sharp as a razor. Washing machines,
printing machines, sewing machines; every application of steam;
electric telegraph brought on to the ground ; shepherd's houses
made of galvanised iron ; cooking apparatus which did so much
with sixpeunyworth of wood, that the fortunate purchaser of
one of them became as indifferent to the i^rice of coals as far-
mers' boys are to the iucrease or decrease of income tax ; por-
table machines so certain in their execution, that but for the
ill-temper of the insurance otfices who would, perhaps, refuse to
pay damages, you might play at setting your house on tire, and
stop it at will. Sutton's seed establishment was an exhibition
of itself. These weU-settled shows have drawn all trades round
them, aud remind us, though on a smaller scale, of some of the
continental fairs. Vendors of all things seem to find their ac-

520

JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ June 26, 1873.

count iu cominjr, and it is hard to encounter a sudden want that

will not immediately be remedied for a consideration. The

grand stand used at the races was here utilised, and a payment
of Gd. enabled visitors to go where the country was seen like a
panoroma, and where the view was really charming. The ex-
cellent military band was discoursing sweet music; in close
neighbourhood there was shelter from the sun ; refreshments
at moderate price, and a cou}} cVccil such as is seldom enjoyed.

The spot was admirably chosen on what is called *' The Com-
mon," but which is such scenery as we meet with in the ancient
chases, or read of as the glades iu which Robin Hood and his
foresters caroused. The magnificent timber is worthy of any
foreign landscape, affording shade and shelter in all directions,
and reminding one of spots where the knight of the rueful
countenance and his Sancho rested from their exploits. All
this tract, and it is large, was occupied. Beer shops, toy and
cake stalls, hot and cold provisions, dancing-booths, spari-ing-
tents — all paraded their attractions. Luxurious swings were
improvised on the stroug limbs of the huge oaks ; and as we
looked we could not help asking ourselves whether, in the days
of Sir Bevis and his fellow knight, men had not swung from the
boughs less to their satisfaction. Pic-nicing seemed in many
parts the order of the day, and Watteau-like groups were lying
on the grass ; but as evening and dusk came on there were men
and women collected round fires, who looked more like a work
of Salvator Rosa. It was a truly pleasant meeting.

The Show was opened by the Corporation of Southampton.
Many well-appointed carriages containing or carrying Mace-
bearers, the Mayor, red-robed Aldermen, Town-Councillors in
their Gober-coloured gowns ; these were preceded by poHce and
a military band. Judging from appearances, the appointment
as Mace-bearer is conducive to longevity, and none attain to
eminence in the Council till they reach a certain age.

Dorkings are always, or should be always, numerous at an
agricultural meeting. There were here fourteen pens of good
birds. The Cochins presented an extraordinary feature, inas-
much as in a class for all coloiirs the first was taken by the
"Whites. The Game are always good at this Show, and the
present was no exception. Folands were good, but not nume-
rous, and we think the Committee will be wise if they reduce
the number of classes. The Sjmnish were well represented in
numbers and quality. It is here as elsewhere with Hamburghs,
they do not improve. The Light BraJnnas iormed one of the
best classes in tbe Show, and produced wonderful birds. We
cannot say as much for the Dark class ; they were neither as
numerous nor as good as usual. Ga.me Ban taitis were very good,
and with a class for Any other variety of Bantam, fornied a
considerable entry. There were many excellent birds ; but we
must say to owners of Game Bantams, they must show them in
their proper class, as they are only disqualified if they are
shown as varieties. The next is a rising class at every show —
we allude to French fowls. There were three prizes to award,
and more might have been worthily bestowed. The next was a
large class for Varieties ; there were good Malays, Andalusians,
and Black Hamburghs.

There were some good Aylesbury and Bouen Ducks, and in
the Various class was shown a pair of very tame Shovellers in
beautiful condition. Although not very scarce birds, yet those
only who have kept them can speak of the difliculty of keeping
them in condition. Turkeys and Geese were good, but not
numerous.

The Pigeons formed a good and most attractive class. Carriers
and Fautails were very good. The Trumpeters were good, but
not up to the new standard; it was worthy of note, none but
black birds were shown. The Homing Pigeons were a new and
interesting class. Eleven pens competed, and we shall bo
curious to learn the result of their llight. The various Pigeons
and llahhits closed this enjoyable and successful Show. Mr.
Downes was, as usual, urbane, energetic, and ubiquitous.

DoBKiNog.— 1. E. Hooper, Calne. 2. T. C. EurDell, Michehlever. 3, O. E.
CresBwell, Early Wood. BaRshot. he, G. F. Horiaon, Nurth Petherton. Bridge-
water: Lieut, -Col. H.B. Lant-, Bracknell, c, G. Mears, Thorohill, Biiterno ;
Mi8B J. Milward, Newtun bt. Loe, Bristol.

Cochin.— 1, R. S. S. WoodRate, Pcmbury, Tonbridpe Wella. 2, Miaa J: Mil-
witrd, 3, Mrs. J Simmonde, ArborlieKl. he, E. De La SimmondB, Winchester.
C.J. Chismon, Kownhame, aouthanipton.

Ga'!>if..— Black-breasted andothcr Iieds.—l,W. H. Stagp, Netlifravon. 2. C.
H. Amea. Hcnley-nn-ThaniLB. c, H. E, Martin. ScuUhorjie, Fakenliani. Any
other variity.—l, Capt C. F. Terry. Waltoii-on-TbameB. 2, P. WarrLn, South-
ampton, he, BlisB M. Blacbniore, Alresford.

PoLANDS— GoWc7i.— 1, T. P. Edwards. LyndhnrBt, Sih^er.—l, J. L. Hinton,
Warminster. 2, T. P. Edwards. Black ivith White Crcsts.—i and 2, T. P.
Edwards.

Spanish.— 1, R. S. SamwayB, Southampton. 2. J. Watts, Kinc'a Heath, Eir-
minBham. c, R. S. Samwflys, Soutbamiitnn; F. James, Pcckhaiii Kye.

HAhiuvRGBS.—Gold-]H?ici(lfd.~l, O. E. Cresswc-ll. fiilveT-2)cncUUd.—l, H.
Feasl. Swan&ea. 2, !•. W. Arnold, Newport, lele of Wipht.

BifiihVRGUS.— Gold-spcnwlid.—l, Miss C. E. Palmer, Odiham. 2, O. Cull,
Ringwood. Sitvir-yimn(ibd. — 1, II. Feawt, Swansea. 2, T. Cbiiniberlam,
Windsor, he, J. rileatHcr. he:ulinp.

Brahma 'PooitiA..—Linht.~l and 2. Mrs. T. Turner, Avon, Ringwood. 3, J.
Pares, Postford, GuibUurd. he, Ktv. N. J. Kidloy, Newbury; Mrs. T. Tiiraer ;
H, M. Majnard, Holuiewood, Ryde, Isle of Wight. Vark—i, J. Chieman,
Rownhams, .Southampton. 2, Lieut.-Col. H. B. Lane, Bracknell. 3. Horace
Ling^vood, Creetjng, Ncedham Market.

Bantams.— Gnm^.—l, R. Donper. jun., Parhstone, Poole. 2. T. W. Anne,
Clapham. he, R. S. Samwaya, Soutbampton ; 0. Niclioh.un, Portsmoutii. Any

other variety.— l and 2, G. F. Hodson, North Petherton, Bridffewater. he, J,
Pares ; J. Watts ; Mrs. E. St. John, Basingstoke.

FRESCB.—Crtvi'-C<vur, La Flcche. or Houdana. —I, W. Bring-, Fnvereham.
2, J. Chisman. 3, H. Feast, he, Rev N. J. Ridley ; J. K. Fowler, c, W. Bring :
H. Feast.

Anv other Variety.— 1. J. L. Hinton, W'arminstor (Malaya). 2,— Wildcy,
Cosham (Andalusians). S, H. Feast, he, A. Alderton, Heraham, Walton-on-
Thames.

DrcKa.~Iiouen.—l, J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury. 2, J. Pares. Aylesbury —l, J.
K. Fowler. 2, H. D. Hoare, Hrownton, Bitterne, Southampton. Any other
variety.— 1. R. Wilkinson, GuUdford (Shovelera). 2, R. F. Soffe, Hama, East-
leiifh, Southampton (Muacovys).

Geese.- t, J. K. Fowler. 2. A. White, Greywell, Odiham.

Turkeys.— 1, Rev. N. J. Ridfley, Newbury. 2, M. Kew, Market Overton,
Rutland.

PIGEONS.

Carriers.— 1, H. M. Maynard. 2. E. S. Carew-Gib9on, Kyde, Isle of Wight.

Tumblers. — 1, H. Yardley, Birmingham. 2, E. S. Carew-Gibaon.

Fantailb.- 1, H. M. Maynard. 2,3. F. Loveridge, Newark, he, J. D. Black-
man, Southampton.

Trumperers.— 1, G. Packhatn, Exeter. 2,0. Norman, Weaterfield, Ipawich.
he, H. Yardley.

Magpies. — 1, A. P. Maurice, Herriard Grange. 9, H. Yardley.

Homiso.— 1, J. D. Blackman, Southampton. 2, J. W. Barker, Eeadiog. 5, C.
H. Buckland, Reading.

Any other Vakibty.— 2, G. Packham. he, H. M. MajTiard; C. H. Buckland
(Black Dragoons).

RABBITS.

Longest Ears,— 1 .ind 2. F. Banks, London, he, G. Palmer. Southampton.

Foreign.— 1, J. Ellis, Reigato. 2. E. S- Carew-Gibaon. he, T. P. Broad,
Brichton ; C. Palmer, Southampton, e, Master F. A. Wallia, Coombehurat,
Basingstoke: C. Palmer.

For Variety.— To include all Points.~l, J. Ellis, Reigate. 2, F. Banks,

Judge. — Mr. John Baily, 113, Mount Street, Groavenor
Square, London.

THORNE POULTRY SHOW.
Tirrs was held on the 13th inst. in the Park of Mr. Durham, of
Thorne Hall, and as will be seen by the following statement of
the entries in the present as compared with the past year, there
was a very marked increase in the number of entries — almost
double in the poultry classes, and no falling-ofE iu those of
Pigeons and Babbits, the numbers being —

1872. 1873.

Poultry 165 276

Pigeons 130 120

Kabbits 72 75

The following is the prize list : —

Dorkings.- Cocfc.— 1, J. White, Warlaby. 2, Mrs. Arkwright. 8, T. Whit-
ing, he, W. Roe; J. Robinson, Garstang. Hen.—l. R. W. Richardson. 2, W. H.
Kin?. 3, O. E. Cresswell, Early Wood, he, W. Roe ; J. White; J. RobiDson:
J. W.-ttts, Kins's Heath.

Spanish.— Cocfc. — 1, J. Powell. Bradford. 2. J. Leemin^, Eroughton. 3, R.
Newbitt, Epwortb. he, J. Boulton, Bristol; E. Brown, Sheffield ; R. Newbitt.
H<*;i.— Cup, J. Powell. 2, J. Leemin;^. 3, R. Smith, jun., Norton, ^(r, J.Buulton;
E. Brown ; J. Thresh, Brailford.

Cochins. — Cinnamon or Bu^'.—Cock.—l. D. & J. Ibetson. Whitbv. 2. W. J.
Peace. Dnflield. 3, H. E. & W. J. Mason, Drighlin^jton. Hcn.—i, W- Mitchell.
2, T. F. Ansdell, St. Helen's. 3, H. Tomlinaon, Birmingham, he, J. Watta ; G.
Speedy.

Cocwss.—AJiy other variety.— Cock.—l, W. Whitcley, Clouirh. 2, A. Bam-
ford, Middleton (Partridge). 3. H L. Saunders, Apperley (White). Heit.~l,
Rev. R. Story, Wenslcy. 2, A. Darby (Black). 3, R. S. S. Woodgate, Pemhury
(W^hite).

Brahma.— PaT/; or Light.— Coek.—Cup and 2, J. F. Ansdell. 3. W. Swann,
Bedlington. he, Mrs. Arkwright ; W. \i. Garner, Uyke Bourn, ifcn.— 1 and a,
J. F. Ansdell. 3, Dr. Holmes, he, J. T. Smith : W. Swann.

Gaqie.— i>'/acfc Bed.—Coek.—l and 3, C. Chaioner, Wbitwell. 2, W. Tell, Ad-
walton. Hen.— I, C. Chaioner. 2, J. Mason, Worcester. 3, Sales & Bentloy,
Crowlc.

G&TdK.— Broun licd.^Cock.—l, W. Perrin, Nantwich. 2. C. Chaioner. 3.
Sales & Bentley. Hen.— I, W. Perrin. 2. Sales & Bentley. 3, C. Chaloaer.
he, H. Butler ; U. W. Brierley. c, C. W. Brierley.

GAViE.-Duckiiinrj or otlurr Grey or Blue— Cock.— I, Sales & Bentley. 2, C.
Chaioner. 3. J. Mason. Hen.—l, C. Travis, Thurgoland. 2, T. Dyson, Halifax,
8, Kales ti Bentley.

GitjLe..— White, Pile, or any other variety.— Coek.—Cxip and 2, R. Walker,
Gomersal (Pile). 3, J. C. Coupe (PU^). he. Sales & Bentley, c. C. W. Brif^rley.
£(•(!.— 1, Sales & Bentley. 2, K. W.alker (Hie). 3. H. E. i W. J. Mason (Pile),

Hamborghs.- fioW or Bilverspanglcd.— Cock.—l and 2, J. Rolinson. Hen.—
1 and 2, J. Robinson.

Hambcrghs —Gold orSilver-pencillcd.—Cock.—l and 3, J. Robinson. 2, Rev.
G. Skipworth, Oakham. Hen.—l and a, J. Robinson.

Fkench.— Coc/l.— I, Mrs. B. Frank. 2. Mrs. Cross, Appleby. 3. H. Feast,
Swansea, he, G. W. Hibbert. Godley, Hyde e, J. H. Fieldeu, Todmorden.
Hen —1. G. W. Uibbert. 2. Mrs. Cross. 3, H. Feast

Any othrr Variety. — t'ock.—l. W. R. Patrick, West Winch (Poland). 2, J.
S. Rooth, Cbesterheld (Malay). 3, J. Robmsuu. Hcn.—l, W. R. Patrick (Po-
land). 2, J. Robinson.

Game BANTAiis.— BMcfc lied.— Cock.— 1 and 3. W. F. Addi^, Preston. 2, F.
Steel, Halifax, he, W. F. Entwisle, Westtield ; W. Adams, Beverlev ; F. Steel ;
S. Smith. Northowram. H<'n.—l. E. Newbitt. 2.W.F.Addie, 3, W. F. Entwisle.
lie. W. Adams ; E. Newbitt ; J. & G. Tonpe. f , S. Smith.

Game Bantams.— -4Hy other variety.— Cock.— 1 and 2, F. Steel {EHlo and
Duckwine). 3, S. Bei^'hton, Farnf field, lie, W. Adams: C. Chaioner; E. New-
bitt. c, W. F. Entwisle (Pile). Ec7i.—l, W. F. Eutwisle (Pile). 2, W. F. Addio
(Duckwine). 3, F. Steel (Dnckwing). ?tc, W. Adama; E. ^ewbitt; F. Stctl
(UuckwinR): S. Beipbton.

Bantams.— ^/i}/ variety not Game.— Cock.— I, .7. Waddinpton. Guiselov. 2, H.
B. Smith, Broolilands. 3. Mrs. R. Frew, he, J. Watts ; K. H. Ashton, Mottram.
c, Mrs- Cross ; -I. Earnshaw, Kotheiham. Hen.—l, H.B.Sroitb. 2, .1. Waddinj*.
ton. 3, S. Smith, he, R. Frew; R. U. Abhton. c, G. Simpson (Golilen Se-
bright).

T)vcKs.—Ayle!ihur3/ or Souen. — l, J. Robinson (Aylesbury). 2, J. Rotiowell
(Avltisbury). Any other variety.— I and 3, H. B. Smilh. 2 ana he, W. M. Biuns,
Piid&ey.

Gfkse.— 1. J. E. Ilepworth. 2, C. Haycroft, Thome.

Two GiDs.— 1, C. Haycroft. 2, J. Staules, Soutu DufBeld. 3 and he, Mrs. J.
FurLiss, Cmwle Wharf.

Sri.i.ino Class.— 1, J. Powell. 2, R. W. Richardson. 3, J. Leeming. he, W.
Wing. Sbarrow Vale (Spauish) ; J. Johnson, Newark (Buff Cochin); W. Swann
(Black Spabish). c, J. Robinson.

PIGEONS.

CkHKiKns.— Cock.— 1 and S, E. Horner, Harcwood. 2, H. Yardley, Eirmin (?-
ham. Ht-n.—l and 2, E. Homer.

Jnno 26, 1873. ;

JOURNAL OP HOETICULTURE AMD COTTAGE GAEDENEB.

S21

pnuTERS.— Ct)c/:.— 1 and S. E, Homer. 2, R. Ashton, Huntinedon. he, J. Kil-
patrick, Whitby ; A. Spencer, DrifiRehi. Bcn.—l and he, E. Horner. 2, L. Wat-
kin. 3, H. Yardley.

Tdmblebs.— 1, W. Adams. 2, E. Homer. 8, H. Yardley. be, W. Adams ; E.
Homer (2).

Jacobins.— 1, E. Homer. 2, O. E. CreHBwell. 8. J. H. Watkins. ftc, R. G.
Sauuders. Leven. Beverley.

jjuNs.— 1 and 'J, E. Horner. 3, J. Watts.

Trdmpeters.— 1 and 2, E. Horner. 8, C. N. Lytbe. Cottingham.

TrRBiTS— 1 and ^, C. N. Lythe. 2, J, Watts, kc. E. Horner; J. E. Crorts (2).

Fantails.— 1, J. F. Loversidge, Newark. 2 and he, J. Walker, Newark. 3, *..
Horner.

Barbs.— 1 and 2, E. Horner. 8, J. Kilpatrick. he, H. Yardley; C. G. Cave,
Spill dint,'.

Dkaguons— 1, T. Chambers, jun., Northampton, 9, Croote & Packbam. 8,

E. Horner, he, C. N. Lytho.

Antw'erps.— 1, E. Homer. 2, J. CrosslanJ. 8, H. Yardley. he, Mrs. Ark-
wripht.

Magpees— J, E. Horner. 2, J. Kilpatrick, 8, Miss J. M. Frew, he, C. N.
Lythe ; J. E. Crofts.

Any otser Variktt.— 1, C. Dcnnison. Halifax (Foreifm Owl). 2, H. Yardley.
3. E. Homer. }ie, W. H. Lee, Nantwich (Owl); E. Horner; J. E. Crofts; J.
Tbrt;ah.

Selling Class.— 1, C. G. Cave (Barb). 2, T. Chamber, jnn. (Carrier). 8. R.
W.Richardson (Pouter). hc,h. Waikin {White Pouterj ; W. Nottage, North-
ampton (Black Barb) ; J. E. Crofts.

RABBITS.

Lop-eared.— .^/i Properties.— Buck.— 1, F. Banks, London. 3, W. Boden,
West Hartlepool. 3. Shaw & Allison. Sheffield, kc. A. H. Hasten, Hull, c, J.
Quick, London; F. Luveband, London. Dor.— I, A. H. Fasten. 2, F. Banks.
S. C. KiDfT. London, he. Sbaw i Ailiaou. c, W. Buden ; A. H. Easten ; J. Quick ;

F. Lovebnnd; S. G, Hudson, Hull.

Angora.— 1, W. Wbitwmth. jun., Longeigbt. 2, C. Auton, York. 3 and he, G.
C. Hutton, Bradford, c. A. H. Easten.

HnuLAyAN.— 1, S. G. Hudson. 2, G. C. Hutton. 3 and he, S. Ball, Bradford.
C, J. Hallas, Huddersfiold; G. Bowler; S. JI. Peace ; F. Sabbajro. Nortbamr.tnn.

Silver-grey.— 1 and he, S. Ball. 2. A. H. Easten. 3, R. H. Glew, WaUebeld.
C, R. D. Dawson, jnn. ; J. H. Brand. Barton-on-Humber.

DuTcn.— 1. W. Whitworth, jun. 2, F. Banks. 3, F. Sabbage. he, S.Bali, c,
F. Banks: S. G. Hudson.

Any other VAiiiETv.- 1. W. Whitworth, jun. (Belpian). 2, C Kinc (Bel^an).

Selling Class.— 1, T. W«od, Y'ork (Lop-eared). 2. C.Kintc. 3, J. Quick (Lop-
rared). he, A. H. Easten (Lop-ear). c,J, G, A. Hillyard, York (Lop); S. G.
Hudson (Silver-Grey) ; C. Auton.

Judges. — PouUrij : Mr. R.Teebay,Fulwood, Preston. Pigeons:
Mr. T. J. Charlton, 23, Blenheim Road, Manningham, Bradford.
Uahhits : Mr. C. Bayson, Ivy Lodge, Didsbury, Manchester.

BUKTON-ON-TRENT POULTKY SHOW.

The second annual Exhibition held in connection with the
Flower Show, tool: place on Wednesday the ISth inst. This being
in the midst of the breeding season, the entries were not so
numerous as the prize list led the Committee to expect. How-
ever, some good birds were exhibited, especially the first-prize
birds in the Clear Yellow and Buff Norwich classes. In the
Silver Lizard class a bird exhibited by Mr. Bunting, of Derby,
was disqualified, being deficient in tail feathers; upon examina-
tion it was found that a white feather had been cut out, the
stumi) remaining, and two feathers besides were missing. There
was a general opinion expressed that it would be highly desir-
able to hold the exhibition of Canaries at the August Flower
Show, as the alteration in the time would give breeders a better
opportimity of sending their birds.

GoBKisGS.— Coloured or Silver-Grey.— 1, J. White, Warlaby, Northallerton.
2, W. Harvey, Sheffield.

Spanish.— 1 and he, H. F. Cooper, Walsall. 2, Bnrch lS: Boulter, Sheffield.
c, .1. Cooper, Hanley.

CocniNB.— 1,T. F. Ansdell, Cowley Mount, St. Helen's 2, H. TomlinBon, Bir-
mingham, he, Rev. R. L. Story, Wensiey, Bedale ; W. Harvey ; W. Jones,
WalsaU.

Brahma-Pootiu.— Darfr.— 1, T. F. Ansdell. 2. W. Whiteley, Clonph, Sheffield.
he. W. H. Crewe. Etwali; J. Watts, Birmingham. L(p/i( — i,MiaB M. E.liyton,
Wellington, Salop. 2. C. Graves, Eoythorpe, Cbesterlield.

Polish.— 1. W. Harvey. 2, W. Jones, he. H. Feast, Swansea.

French.— 1, G. W. Hi\)bert, Godlt-y, Manchestei. 2, H. Feast.

Game. — Blaek or Browti-breasted Etds^l, R. Aebley, Nantwich. Cheshire.
2 E Bell.Burton-on-Trent. ftc, E. Clavey. Burton-on-Trent. Any other variety.
—1, R. Aahley. 2. J- Hood. TatenhiU, Hiirtou-iiU-Trent.

Uamburchs.— Go/if or Silver-s2Jungled.—\. J. Robinson, Garstang, Blanches-
ter. 2, W. Driver, KLighley. he, S. W. Hallam, Wbitwick, Leicester. Golden,
or Silver-pencilled.— 1, W. Driver. 2, W. topcahman, Doddington Park, Nant-
wich. he, E. BeU.

Any other ViHiETV.— 1, J. Robinson (Black Hambnrghs). 2, C. J. Winaey,
Stapcnhill.

Bantams.— 1, E. Bell. 2, R. Ashley, he, W. T. Everard.

l)vcKs.—Eouen.—l and 2, E, Kendrick, Lichfield. White Aylesbury.— I, "E..
Kcndrick. 2, W. H. Crewe.

TuBitEVS.— 1, E. Kendrick. 2, T, Belfield, Burton.

PIGEONS.
Caeriers.- 1 and 2, H. Yardley. Kitra 2, J. Peace, BnrtoD'On-Tront.
Pouters.— 1, W. Harvey. 2, H. Yardley.
Tumblers.- 1, J. Peace . 2, W. Harvey, he, H. Yardley.
Hkagoons. — 1, H. Yardley. 2, J. I'eaco.
ANTwasps.— 1 and 2, H. Yardley.
Any othbe Vaeietv.— 1, J. Peace. 2, W. Harvey.

CAGE BIRDS.

NoRTiVTcn.— Cifrtr Yellow. — I, Lamploagh & Besson, Derby. 2, O. Pratt,
W'nbhill. Barlun-on-Trcut. Clear Blip.— I. Bunting &, Hodgkinaon, Derby.
2, E. Hjde, Melbourne, r/tc, T. Bates, nurton-on-Trent.

iioHVficu.— Marked Yellow.— i, Curtis & Mann, Burton-on-Trent. 2, Bunting
and Hodgkinflon. Marked Bujf.—i, Buuting & Hodgkinson. 2, A. Uptun,
Derby.

'H uKfncn.— Even-marked or Variegated iJu^.—l, R. Heath, Burton-on-Trent,
2, A. F. Parker, Buriou-on-Trent.

Crestf.d Nouwicii.- I't'iioju or Buff. — 1, Lamplough and BeiBon. 2,3. Goode,
Brauustone Gate, Leicester.

Gheen Norwich. — Yellow or Buff.— I, T. Newbjld, Enrton.

Belgians.- C'itcr or Marked Xellotr.—l, T. Cockerton, Ulverston. 2, T.
Nowbold. Clear or Marked Buff.—l and 2, R. Heath.

l.iZAiiDS.— Qolden-spangled.— i, Bunting & Hodgkinson, 2, W. J.ickson,
Burton-on-Trent. Hilver'Spangled.—l, J, Goodc.

GoLDFiNcnES.— 1, Bunting and Hodgkinson. 2, T. Cockerton, Ulverston.
vhe, Curtis & Mann.
pARituT.— 1, J. Harris, Licbfield. 2, T. Pegg, Burton, vhe. G. Webster.

JunoES. — Poultry : Mr. W. J. Drewry; Mr. A. O. Worthington;
Mr. ii. Lowe. Canaries : Messrs. Bemrose & Orme, Derby.

BELFAST POULTRY SHOW.

This Show was held on the 19th and 20th inst., and is in con-
nection with the North- Kast (Ireland) Agricultural Association.
A challenge cup value i'lU (to be won three times in succession
by the same exhibitor), having been twice gained by Mr. Mul-
ligau, that gentleman seemed to have made great efforts to secure
the coveted prize, and the result was that it was won with
eighty-three points against sixteen of the nest on the list. The
entries were not so large as at the last Show, which was, no
doubt, on account of the challenge cups being given for points ;
and it is our opinion that if three cups of three guineas each
were offered, the result would be much more satisfactory to all
concerned, and also in point of entries to the treasury of the
Society. The quality of the winners was mostly good, but there
were some poor specimens sho\\Ti.

Dorkings were a fair class, the first Dark and the second
Silver-Greys ; but in chickens of this year only the first-prize
pair were noteworthy, and these were Silver-Greys. Both old
and young Spaiiish were very good, the chickens being particu-
larly promising ; and the Cochins and Bralnnas also of fair
quality, but failing in plumage. Only two birds in the Spangled
Hamburgh classes were tit for the show pen, these being the
Silver cock and hen in the first-prize pen ; but in both classes
of Pencils the first-i^rize birds were good and in nice plumage.
In Game Brown Reds were first and Duckwings second, and in
Bantams Black Reds and Piles won respectively. There were
three classes for Fulands but only one entry, which were "White-
crested Blacks. Turkeys and Gccsc were large and good in both
classes; and in all the four classes of Ducks there were some
excellent birds shown, although there was only one pen of Roueu
ducklings.

The birds were placed in excellent pens in permanent sheds,
the arrangements being good and the fowls well attended to,

Dorkings.— 1, W. G. Mulligan, Springfield. 2 and c, G. Martin. Glcnvicw,
Castlereacb. 3, W. Charley, Seymour Hill, Dunmurry. Chickens.-l, W. G.
Mulligan. 2 and K, 6. Martin. Chickens suitable for the Table.— I, G. Martin.

SPANISH.— Cup, 1, and 3, W. G. Mulligan. 2, J. Pollock. Dundonald. c, S. W.
M'Bridc, Lurgan. Chieki:ns.—1 and 2, W. G. Mulligan. 3. J. Pollock.

Cocbin-China.— 1 and 2. W. G. MuUifran. S. K. Long. Belfast, he, F. Robert*
son, Oldpark. Belfast, e, J. S. Brown, Edmderry, Belfast.

Brahma Pootra.— Cup, 1, and 2, W. G. Mulligan. 3, W. Gregg, Wiliowbank,
Belfast, he. S. W. M-Bride : R. Long.

Scutch-Greys.— 1 and 2, W. G. Mulligan. 3, R. Long.

liA.:iiBVRGUB.—Silver-fipangtca.— Medal, 1, and 2, W. J. Davison, Belmont,
Belfast. Siivcr})encilkU.—i,'W. G Mulligan. GoldeJi-$}mniiled.~l and 2, W.
J. Davison. Gol<.lenpcncilled.—l,W.G. Mulligan. 2, U. Fleming, Whitehouse,
Belfast. 3, C. E. M'Llintock, Glendaragh, Crumlin.

Game.— 1. Medal, and 2, W. G. Mulligan. 3, C. E. M'CIintock.

Bantams.— 1 and 2, W. G. JluUigan.

Voi.iaH.— White-crested Black.— i, W- G. Mulligan.

TrjBKEYS.— I, G. Martin. 2, J. M'Cormick, Newtonbreda. 3, W. Mullan,
WillowtiL-ld, Belfast, he, Marquis of Downsbirc, Hillsborough ; J, Dickey,
Kilroot, Cai'rickfergua.

Geese.— 1, W. G. Mulligiin. 2, Marquis of Downshire. 3, W. Mullan.

livcKs.— Aylesbury —1 and 8. W. G. Mulligan. 2, W, Charley, Dunmurry.
Boucn.—\, 2, and 3, W. G. Mulbgan,

l)T}CKi,iHGS.^Aylesbury.—lauil'i,'W. G. Mulligan. TioHt-n.— Medal. G.Martin.

The Judges were Messrs. J. Dixon, Bradford; A. Patcrson,
Airdrie; and E. Hutton, Leeds.

YORKSHIRE GALA BIRD SHOW.

In connection with the horticultural show, reported in another
column, there was a bird show, at which Mr. Bamesby, of Derby,
and Mr. Clark, of Scarborough, oliiciatiug as Judges, made the
following awards : —

Norwich.— C?(?ar Yelloir.—l. Ma.rtin & GrifBn, Northampton. 2.— Calvert,
York. 3, <^uinn ii Son, York. Clear Buff.—l, J. & G. Mackley, Norwich. 2,
tj'ainn & Son. 3. Martin A Grilfln. Even-marked Yellow.— 2, — Thompson,
Yuik-. 3, J.& G. Mackley. Even-marked Buff.—l, — Burton, York. 2,— Gay ton,
Northampton. S, — Cbampley, Scarborough.

Belgian —C/c(ir Yclloio or Bu^.~l and 3, — Forth, Pocklington. 2, — Haw-
man, Middlesborough.

Yorkshirb,- C^car Yellow.— 1, — Johnson, Carlton. 2, Cowl & Simpson.
3, — Batc'belor, Whitby. Clear Buff.—l, — Belk, Dewsbury. Even-marked
Ycilo:r or 2j»if —1 and 2, —Belk. 3, — Mackley.

Any Breed —Char Crested Yellow or Buff.— 1,—BeT^. 2, T. Tomes, North-
ampton. S, — Mackley.

Norwich —Crested, Yellorv or Buff,iritk Green, Grey or Grizzled Crest— \,

— Arnold, Winchester. 2. — Garbutt, Great Brougliton. 3. — Barwell, North-
ampton. Clear Crested. Evenrviarkcd Yellow, or Buff Crested.— 1, —Arnold,
2,— Maikley. 3. T. Tomes.

Cinnamon —Jonque.—\. — Barwell. 2. G. Stevens, Middlesborough. 3, G.
Brown, Nortbamplun. Buff. — 1, H. Simpson. 2 and 3, G- Brown

Ij1Z&.ud— Gulden spaiiijled.—l, J. Stepbens. 2, — Barwell. 3, Rev. T. Ward,
Hvthe SUver-spau'jlcd.-l, — Bell. 2, — Calvert. 3, — Jlackley.

GoLnFiNcn Mule —Even-marked Yelloiv or Buff.—l, — Hawman. 2, — Bur-
ton. 3, — Tenniswood, North Ackiam. Dark.—i and 2, G. Cox, horthampton,
8, — Bell.

Any Variety.— 1, — Bell. 2, Cowl & Simpson. 8, — Garbutt.

Collection OF British or Foebign Birds.— land 2,— Calvert. 8,— Lister,
Malton.

Parrot. — T, — Wilkinson, York. 2, — Calvert. S, Barnett. Special 3,

— Hotham, York ; Miss Inj^bs, York.

Goldfinch.- MoH/fcrf.— 1, Mrs. Jones, York. 2, — Stephens ; 3, — Harland.
Bdllfinch —1, — Harland. 2, T. Tomes. 3, — Arnold.
Linnet.— ilfowiffrf.— I, — StepbenB. 2, — Lieter. 8,— Forth.

522

JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER.

[ June 26, 1873.

YOUNG BIRDS.

NoRwlcn.—rtfnow.— 1, — Calvert. 2, — Hai-laad. 3. —Tlorlerian, Leicester.
i?it:r.-l, — Barton. 2. — Barwell. 3, J. Fo-iter. Ei'^n-markt^d Yelt<iw.—\. ti.
G. VVaitWdll. Yor^. 2. — Dossor. li. — Browu. EocnrUixrhed Buff.~\, Miaa
Barton. 2, Mdrtin & Griffln. 3. — Culvert.

Norwich,— Dfir/j Crested Yelloiii or ButT.— l, — Trifflt, York. 2, Misa Burton.
S, J. Green. Clear Crrsted Yellow or Buff.—'l, R. Reed. 1 and 3. not awarded.

Yellow. — I, — Hoderiae. 2, Cowl & Simpaon 3,— DickenHon, Whitby.

Buff.— iVMf.— 1. — Harland. a, W. Oariiutt. 3. — Reed.

Crested.— .V(^.i(.— I, .1. J. Ttiompaon. 2. — Tr'ffln. 3, — Garnctt.

Cage ov Six Canaries, in varibtv.— 1, — Calvert. 2, — Smitll. 3, — Burton.

Consumption of E'Ms.— Wo wonder, and reasonably wonder,
at the enormous and auuniUy increasin'^ amount of egj^,-j itn-
pDttedinto England; bat wherever the population Roes on in-
creasinf^ far beyond the local power to supply food to that
population, thither food of every kind will be attracted. Tlius
we read in an Araorican piper that a Bowmanville ectg-dealer
hag this Beaton shipped some .')0,000 dozen of es^gs to New York.
But this inevitable result of demand and supply does not excuse
our agricultural labouring population for not xiniversally attend-
ing to poultry culture. Anyone who traverses the bye-roads and
lanes of Sussex, and sees how they are fringed with hen-coops
belonging to the cottagers, learus a beneficial lesson, and would
impress it as we do upon all our cottage friends.

DouBLE-CuicKED Eoo. — Respecting the occurrence of double-
chicked eggs, I may state that a few years ago I had a Turkey's
egg, in which two chicks grew and developed up to the point of
hatching, but did not hatch. They were ijuite distinct from one
another. — N. B. C, Siirgeoyi.

OUR LETTER BOX.

Books M. B. C). — Payne's" Boo-keepiuj,'." You caa havo it free by post
from our office for five postage atampa if seat with your address.

DoUKiNG Pullets Droopinq (E. B.). — Your Dorkings show weakness, and
would indicate the want of fresh blood. It may be that your food U too
stimulating, but unless meat is very liberally dispensed in your establish-
ment, the scraps should not be sufficient to disagree with a number of fowls.
Wo have little doubt they are too fat. Feed them with slaked ground oats in
the morniny, the harue iu the evening. Give them a spare meal of whole
barley at midday. Withhr.ld the scraps for a time, and discontinue Indian-
meal. A little fastiug will do no harm.

Testing iNCUH.VTiNCi Eggs {M. R. S.).— We have never said that an egg
that sank should be destroyed. Wo have said that an egg that showed
no sign of life when it felt the influence of warm wa';er, was always viewed
with Buspiciou by u^, and generally couderaued. We are seldom wrong in
our judgment. The egg that simply floats is generally rotten. Eggs will not
display theii- full vitality in warm water till they are within three days of
hatching. When you found that every ogg sank and on breaking one found
it to contain a live chicken, you should have broken no more, but have re-
placed them under the hen. In eggs that have never bseu ea*^. upon, the gnod
^■^•ii'i go to the bottom, and lie then quieUy on one side. Those sat upun,
although they sink to the bottom, stand-up on end ; those that have been
developed au-l h'lve perished beome full uf gas aud float. We speak from
many years' experience. We have followed that which we describe, and do so
still with unvarying success.

Comh.s Crooked in Gerjiim Bar Hive (C. L. TI'.).— The bee3 having
worked their combs across the frames instead of within each frame, would
render the hive useless for the purposes for which moveable frames are in-
tended. Your only plan is to open the sides or euds of the box, and cut out
the combs iu the bast way you can; prune them if tooloug, straighten them if
necessary, and tit them into the frames, se'riring them temporarily by string,
wire, zinc clips, or thin slips of wood tacked to the sides of the frame. Place
the frames so filled in position, return the bees, and leave them for one or
two days; then take out each frame, remove the temporary supports for the
cimb, and pare a.vay any pnijectiu,' portions. In future attach piece* of
worker-comb to the uppor bars, or run a ridge of melted was along tho centre
of their lower sides. Tho moment you soo a comb going wrong remove and
rectify it. The German frame-hives ai-e very inferior to the Laugstroth, or to
the English modification of that principle.

Drones Sl^ughteurd (2i. S. H.l.— Your bees seem to be thriving fairly
enough, but why the one stock killed its drones we cannot tell without moro
precise information. Bjo.i will often get rid uf the drones after cold or wot
weather of somo duration, b'sca'ue thny aio wiso onough to foresee the poswi-
bitity of Btarvatiou if they keep on a set of u^yle^is and hungry fellows abmt
the hive. You need nut l)o alarmed abiut that. Perhaps by the time you
real this all will be change 1. and your bees will be cullecting honey fast
enough. It is a late year, so that we think it likely h -noy will ht harvested
chiody in July, as tho white clover is only beginning to bloom. But all depends
upin weather. Wo should advise you not to allow yourself to be discouraged.
If swarms come, place thetu whore the parent hive stood, and so diminish your
chances of too many swarnn; this will increase your prospect of honey.
Give plenty of room iu supers. As soon as one begins to fill, slip another
between the first super and the parent hive. You must not expect to make
your fortune with bees until yuu liavo won yuur experience like everybuly
"else. Write again if you have any further dilliculty. We shall be glad to
help you to success.

Artificial Sw.iitMS (.4 N'-w Suhscrihcv).—Xo\\ do not say how you treated
your " forced" swarms. Did you put them on separate stands, or iu plai:o nf
the old stocks? Anyhow, we cannot imagine why there was nu piping of the
young queens. If you put the swarms uu new stauis they ought to havy
bwarmed again — that is to sav, supposing tho stocks to have been fairly strong
and the weather suitable. We ha-u often ftirced swarms, and never rec^jlleet.
an absence of piping. You could lurce a second swarm from each of them if.
as you say, they are very strong aud working well ; but time is short now, and
you will probably have to feed them through the autumn and spring. We
Lava no experience of " scraped war " as a help to bees in comb-making.

PoucuvsiNG Bee5 (L. M. H".).— 3warnn of common bees will cost now

from 10/;. to 2').?. Tho most popular bees are the Italians, whether pure or
hybrid, which cofjt more. It is, undoubtedly, a profitable speculation to keep
hens if you mana;je them properly. Tney will pay more than lOU per cent.,
taking thoavera^o of years. Get from our office " Bee-keeping for tho Many,"
to be had for five stamps. There you w.-ll find all particulars about hives.
Now is a very good time to establish an apiary. Write to the Rev. P. V. M,
i'illeul, Biddisham Rectory, Weston-super-Mare.

Woodbury Hives (C. M.). — Write to any of the hive-miker.^ who advertise
in oiu* columns,

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,

Camden Square, London.

Lat. 5r 32' 40" N. ; Loa^. 0= 8' 0" W. ; Altitude 111 feet.

Date.

1

0 A.M.

Ik the Day.

1873.

,11

HyKrome-
ler.

II

is"

Shade Tem-
perature.

Ra'liatlon
Temyeraturo.

i

In

Oil

|S»«

Dry.

Wet.

13 =

eU-'^-

Max.

Min.

Ban.

grass

Inches

det,'. 1 cleg.

dest.

des.

deg.

deg.

deg.

In.

We. 13

30.012

56.0

66 2

N.

58 8

715

5).l

99.3

60.3

0.070

Th. la

30.11 L

MS

50 0

N.W.

68.4

71.2

51.6

115.8

■)«.7

U.013

Fri. 20

31) I.',?

60.2

56,3

W.

5S.7

72.8

56.9

121.3

56.1

—

Sat. 21

31.24:)

06.3

63.0

s.w.

59 5

7S.2

52.1

131.8

50.7

—

Sim, 21

30. lOi

ca.o

61.S

S.E.

61.6

70.2

6!.5

126.0

511 2

0030

Mo. 23

30.071)

61.0

561

N.W.

62.5

62.1

51.0

~

Meaoa { { 1

1

REMARKS.
iHth. — liain in the morning; fine in the middle of tha day ; rain in the even-
ing, but fine night.
19th. — Fine morning; rain at noon, and showery all the after part of the day.
2'Jth. — Dull morning ; fine afternoon aud evening.
21at. — A most beautiful day throughout, the finest as well as the longest wa

have had this summer.
22nd. — Fine and warm in morning aud till between 7 and 8 P.ai., when it
clouded over ; sharp shower at 8 p.m. ; fine afterwoi'ds.
Owing to the early period as which it is necessary to send this to press, it
has not been possible to insert all the data for June 23rd. The complete data
for that day and the subsequent one will be given in oui- next, ai well as lh.e
mean values for the week ending June 21:th. In the interim it maybe well to
call attention to the considerable rise of temperature, and especially to tha
high temperature in the sunshine. — G. J. SvaiONS. «

COVENT G.VRDEN MARKET.— Jo.ve 35.
Business continues steady, and a good supply is maintained, out-door
Strawberries becoming plentiful, and a good promise of an abundant eeason.
Hothouse fruit ample to meet all demands at last week's quotations. Pines,
however, are lower, in consequence of the West ludia ones havin;,' mido their
appearance.

FRUIT.

Apples .
Apricots..

Ties.,

, 1 sieve
.. doz.

lr> bos 2

d. s, d.
Oto5 u

Chestnuts bushel 0 0

<Jurrants i sieve 0

Black do. 0

Figa doz. 6

Filberts lb. 0

Cobs lb. 2

Gooseberries quart 0

Grapes, hothouse lb. 4

Lemons. ?»'100 6

MelonB each 5

0

4 0

0 0

0 0

11 0

0 10 0

0 0 0

0 2 6

3 U 6

0 10 0

0 I'l 0

0 8 0

d. B. d.
OtoO 0
0 3) 0
0 10

Peaches doz. 15 d 30

3
18

Mulberries -^ b. 0

Nectarines doz. 15

Oranges '^ 100

Pears, kitchen aoz.

dessert doz

PineApplea lb. 6 0 10

Plums. J sieve 0 0 0

Quinces doz. 0 0 0

Raspberries lb. 0 0 0

Strawberries *v lb. 4 0 6

Walnuts bu-hel 15 0 30

ditto it-lOJ 2 0 a

VEaETABLES.

Artichokes doz.

Asparai;us ^100

French

Beans, Kidney ^100

Beet. Red doa

Brocculi bundle

Cabbage d<»z.

CapsiLMiins T^ 1"0

Cirrots bunnh

Cauliflower (li'z.

Celery bundb;

ColewiirtH . doz. bUUiilM^s
Cucumbers uach

picltlmg doz.

EndivLi doz.

Fennel bunch

Garlic lb.

Herbs bunch

Horseradish bundle

Leoks biinch

Lettuce doz.

1 o

0 0

0 6
3 (I

1 (1

2 fi
0 G
0 0

2 0
0 3
0 6
n 3

3 0

0 'I

1 0

fl.

i\.

6

0

6

0

2

0

a

6

H

0

1

6

1

(i

(1

0

()

(J

6

0

2

0

4

(1

1

0

0

0

0

I)

()

0

0

(1

0

0

4

II

I)

II

2

0

Mushroom? potUe

Mastard & Cress. .pannet
Unions bushel

pickling quart

Parsley per doz. bundles

Parsnips loz.

Peas quart

Potatoes bushel

Kidney do.

Round do.

Radishes., doz. bunches

Rhubarb bundle

Salsafy ,' bunrlle

S.ivoys di'Z. 2

Seorzonera bundle 1

Sea-Uiile basket 0

Shallots lb. 0

Spinach bushel 2

Tomatoes doz. 2

Turuips -.. bunch o

Vegetable Harrows 0

d. 8. d.

0 to 2 0

a 0 0

0 111 0
6 0 0

0 0

0 9

2 0

6 0

0 0

0 0

1 0

0 6

1 0

2 0
1 0
» 0

0 (I

0 0

H 0

8 0

POULTRY MAREET.— JONE 25.
Oou^ boc.5me? a Cuckoo note, wo are looking for a better supply. To thi**
tnue it is a sort ol poultry, " .\nne, sister Anno, do you see anything coming ?"
But as all things happen to him who can wait for them, we shall be right at
last, but not uow.

s d. 8. A.

Large FowU 6 0 to 6 6

Suialler ditto 5 0 5 6

Chickens 8 6 4 0

Goslings 7 0 7 6

Gre-n Geese 0 0 0 0

Ducklings 3 0 4 0

B. d. s. d

Pheasan 3 o 0 to o 0

Partridges 0 0 0 0

Hares 0 0 0 0

Eabbi-.s 15 IB

Wildditto 0 9 "10

Pigeons 0 9 0 10

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